Use harvest insights to choose profitable seed for every acre
Harvest is more than the end of a growing season. It is also the starting point for making better seed decisions for the year ahead.
Many growers look at seed prices first when planning future crops. However, experts suggest that matching the right seed to the right field is often more important than choosing the lowest-cost option. Soil conditions, drainage, fertility, and disease pressure all affect how a variety performs.
"One of the worst things you can do is immediately consider price before you look at the acre fit of that product," said Mark Menke, Wilbur-Ellis Lead Agronomist and Corn Product Manager. "Every product has its place and has a reason for it. But if you have the wrong seed variety on the wrong acre, you're likely to get a bad result."
Reviewing harvest results can help growers identify which products consistently delivered strong performance. Yield monitor data, field observations, and seasonal weather conditions provide valuable information when evaluating varieties. Looking at several years of data rather than a single season can offer a clearer picture of long-term performance.
Seed quality should remain a priority. A strong plant stand is essential for maximizing yield potential. Lower-priced seed may not always provide the best return if quality and field fit are compromised.
Growers should also focus on stability across different environments. A variety that performs well during wet, dry, or stressful conditions can help reduce production risk. Comparing local field results with regional trial data can provide additional confidence in seed selection decisions.
Profitability is influenced by more than yield alone. Agronomic traits such as standability, disease tolerance, stalk strength, and stress resistance can protect harvestable bushels and improve overall returns. These characteristics may help minimize losses caused by weather events or challenging growing conditions.
Trait selection is also important. Farmers should choose products that align with their weed control, insect management, and crop protection strategies. The right combination of genetics and traits can support both productivity and farm profitability.
Before ordering seed, growers should ask key questions about performance history, field suitability, agronomic strengths, trait compatibility, and risk tolerance. Taking the time to evaluate these factors can lead to more informed decisions.
By using harvest observations and performance data, growers can build a stronger seed plan and improve confidence in next season’s crop.
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