Growers know that planting season comes with many variables: timing, changing weather patterns, varying soil conditions, equipment failures, insects and more. In uncertain environments, seed treatments give control back to the growers so they can better protect their seed during its most vulnerable time — from germination to emergence.
More and more farmers are planting earlier in the season since soybeans respond well to early planting — if soil conditions and weather patterns are optimal — and because they want to achieve maximum yield. Researchers from Nebraska determined that soybean yield declines about 1/4 to 5/8 bushel per acre for each day planting is delayed after May 1. While recommended planting dates for soybeans may vary from region to region, one thing is certain — growers are and will continue to plant early.
Growers who are planting soybeans early need to proceed with caution. Late spring temperature swings can leave soil cold and wet. As growers know, wet or water-logged fields leave seed and seedlings vulnerable to molds and infection from Phytophthora, Pythium, Rhizoctonia or Fusarium. Cool soil also delays germination, providing insects with more time to wreak havoc on seed and seedlings.
One way growers can ensure they’re maximizing the performance of their seed is by using fungicide and insecticide seed treatments. Researchers in Wisconsin found that seed treatments containing combinations of fungicide, insecticide and nematicide increased plant stands up to 10 percent. Over an eight-year period, fungicide seed treatments showed an average yield increase of 2.5 bushels per acre, according to Kansas State University Research and Extension.
Soybean growers have taken notice. In fact, the soybean industry estimates that up to 70 percent of seed planted in 2014 was treated. In 2008, only about 30 percent of seed was treated and even less — 8 percent of seed — was treated in 1996.
If you haven’t planted soybeans yet, there’s still time for seed treatments. Consider these scenarios to determine if seed treatments are right for your field.
- Planting early. When spring weather conditions are cool and wet, fungicide seed treatments are an effective tool to stave off fungus and other infections. Insecticide treatments also help protect seeds and seedlings that are slow to grow in cool temperatures.
- Poorly drained or no-tilled fields. If your fields have a pattern of damping off and are more susceptible to root rot, seed treatments are a must. According to The Ohio State University Extension, farmers with poorly drained or no-till fields are most likely to see added benefits from using fungicide seed treatments.
- Replanting. Lack of stand establishment during germination is a sign of seedling disease. If you need to replant your fields, seed treatment is insurance for a good stand. Some farmers are valuing seed treatments as just as important as seeding rate, according to the University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension.
Stine has seed treatments that combine fungicides, insecticides and nematicides. Our selection of treatments will protect your seeds, seedlings and — ultimately — your bottom line. Learn more about Stine seed treatments at StineSeed.com.