Early planning with an agronomist can help growers manage risk and improve crop decisions
As growers prepare for a new growing season, they face challenges such as market volatility, changing weather patterns, and rapidly advancing technology. These factors increase decision pressure and reduce room for error, making early planning more important than ever. Working closely with an agronomist is now seen as a key risk-management strategy rather than an optional step.
Early discussions between growers and agronomists help establish clear budgets, crop choices, and financing options well before planting begins. Planning ahead gives farmers more flexibility in selecting seeds, managing input costs, and adjusting to market trends. When decisions are delayed, options may become limited, which can negatively impact profitability.
Another important advantage of early collaboration is the ability to build flexible plans. Weather uncertainty, supply chain issues, and changing regulations have shown that fixed strategies often fail during the season. Agronomists help growers create a primary plan while also preparing backup options. This approach allows farms to adjust quickly when unexpected conditions arise.
Agronomists also provide valuable industry knowledge. Through participation in meetings, research events, and educational programs, they gather information about new technologies, market signals, and agronomic practices. This wider perspective helps growers make informed decisions and reduce risks throughout the growing season.
"The planning piece with your agronomist definitely needs to start early," said Andy Neeb, Branded Technologies Field Manager for Wilbur-Ellis. "It helps set budgets early, offering insight into which crops might be the best option based on input cost, current pricing, insight into financing options and what the economists are saying the trends are going to be."
Managing a farm as a complete system is another key focus. Decisions related to fertility, crop protection, and crop rotation influence long-term soil health and future planting choices. Agronomists who understand a farm’s history can identify challenges such as nutrient limitations, pest pressure, or emerging diseases. Addressing these root issues helps improve efficiency and support stronger returns on investment.
At the same time, growers are encouraged to balance proven practices with new innovations. Biological products, plant health technologies, and advanced tools can offer benefits, but they must be carefully evaluated. A trusted agronomist helps growers adopt new ideas while maintaining practices that already deliver results.
Overall, early planning, flexibility, and system-based management allow growers to better handle uncertainty. By building strong partnerships with agronomists and making informed decisions, farms can reduce risk and improve long-term profitability.
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