In pursuit of maximum yields trials showing results

Last spring, I wrote about a program launched with our FS member cooperatives called “In Pursuit of Maximum Yields.”

This program is designed to work with our growers to approach the market differently and explore new ideas on how to raise yields.

This means taking the lead in recommending and positioning the right hybrids and varieties and looking at new and better ways to manage nutrients and weeds, and protect the crop with fungicides, insecticides, nematicides, and biologicals.

We will look at anything that may limit yields, ranging from looking nutrient management systems to changes in tillage. We refer to this as the “Law of the Minimum” -- certain environmental conditions, cultural practices, and nutrient concentrations are necessary to maximize harvest yield.

Each can individually limit the potential yield of what comes out of the bag, regardless if all other conditions, cultural practices, and/or nutrient levels promote maximum yield.

It’s all about unlocking the genetic potential of what is planted.

Results of these “Maximum Yield” plots are coming in and they are exciting. One such trial, reported by Illini FS, showed the “Pursuit of Maximum Yield” treatment having a 41-bushel-per-acre advantage over the farmer’s normal practices.

Apparently, the genetic potential was more fully realized on that farm in that field with the additional inputs and/or practices. Just imagine what else could be done to gain more yield.

We have trials that have pushed plant populations, used fungicides, different seed treatments, split N applications, and even seed enhancements, and these trials consistently out-yield the “normal” grower practices.

Is this economical? We don’t know. What we are looking for is maximum yield without input or practice limitations.

Once maximum yield is found, we can, by omission, try to eliminate the less effective treatments and/or practices to discover the optimum economic yield.

I encourage you to ask your crop specialist about the “In Pursuit of Maximum Yield” trials that were conducted in your area.
--
Matt Hynes is FS Seed sales and marketing manager. His e-mail address is mhynes@growmark.com.