2022 has been a mixed bag. From inconsistent planting dates to widespread disease pressure and a variety of weather impacts, farmers have had to look into the eye of the storm during a challenging year. Alexie Schroeder, retail product agronomist for Brevant^® seeds in western Indiana, said farmers should stay focused on how to make the most of what the season has served up.   

“The focus now shifts to what potential is there with the crop and noting that a lot of the things that happened this year are a product of environment,” Schroeder said.

Schroeder suggested looking at the areas in need of change to make a contingency plan for the next year. This could include positioning a more defensive hybrid in drought-prone fields or proactively planning an insect protection trait on susceptible acres. Either way, farmers can use learnings from this year to be prepared for the 2023 season.

Here are three things to think about this fall for better results next season.

1. Use harvest insights to select seed.

Seed selection can make or break a good season. There are countless factors to consider when deciding on the products that will perform best on an operation, which is why it’s important for farmers to work with their trusted retailer to make these choices. As Schroeder puts it, retailers are the best people to ask for suggestions because they know your farm and can provide advice for the whole acre.

“The retailer is practically a part of the farm,” Schroeder said. “They are invested in your success and in my role with Brevant seeds, we rely heavily on ag retailers.”

Before the business of spring ensues and choices dwindle, Schroeder said, farmers should use time during harvest to think about seed selection. A few topics to keep in mind include farm fertility, input usage and availability, and disease resistance. After assessing those important pieces, it’s time to check out which hybrids and varieties fit in the area by evaluating plot data.

Schroeder suggested farmers wanting more-detailed data evaluations sign up to be first to know through emails from Brevant seeds.

“The first-to-know email series sends plot data from your area as yield numbers come in,” Schroeder said. “Yield data means a lot more when it’s coming from the county you live in than it does if you’re seeing national numbers from three states away.”

2. Consider early maturing products.

In shorter seasons, early maturing products can set farms up for more success. In fact, early maturing products often provide relief during tough years like 2022. When planting is delayed, farmers have less time to get the crop in the ground, but there is plenty of opportunity to maximize yield potential with high-performance early maturity products.

“We have a 107-day product that is yielding extremely well in high-performing environments,” Schroeder said. “Farmers should ask their local retailer about which Brevant brand products will add the most value to their operation.”

3. Plan inputs ahead of time.   

Schroeder also recommended deciding on a crop protection program sooner rather than later. As a guide, farmers should consider the inputs that will be available to them and what genetic platform they want to use. To avoid setbacks this spring, farmers should get a game plan together now.

“A lot of farm goals and input decisions are going to rely on chemical options,” Schroeder said. “Instead of waiting, talk to your retailer now at harvest. That way, you have a clear picture of what is going to be best practice and most realistic for your farm.”

To start making a seed and crop protection game plan for 2023, contact a local ag retailer and visit Brevant.com/retail. Farmers also can evaluate the latest yield data in their area at Brevant.com/Yield.

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