2015 Brandt Plot Book

2015 RESULTS

BRANDT RESEARCH AND

DEVELOPMENT

FARMS 1

Illinois Precipitation Data: June 2015 BRANDT is proud to present the 2015 results from our Illinois Research and Development farms in Pleasant Plains and Lexington. This marks the eleventh year at

June 2015 Rainfall Percent of Normal 600% + 400% to 600%

Pleasant Plains and the fourth year at Lexington.

BRANDT Total Acre® Corn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

On both research farms, the BRANDT team examines

Hybrid Performance Trials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

farming practices and products in a real-world farm set-

Nitrogen Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

ting. Over the course of the past 11 years over 10,000 trials have been conducted.

300% to 400% 200% to 300% 150% to 200% 125% to 150% 110% to 125%

75% to 90% 50% to 75% 25% to 50%

Strobilurin Fungicide on Corn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 search. Rather, we look for the best combinations of seed

0% to 5%

Stress Mitigation & Stimulants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

genetics, plant nutrition and crop protection products. Our

Population Studies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

research is also focused on practices such as row width,

Allelopathic Effects of Cover Crops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

plant density, tillage, cover crops and nutrient placement.

Evolution of Best Management Practices . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 The results from these trials have been implemented by

BRANDT Total Acre® Soybeans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

our BRANDT locations to assist our customers in maximizing production and profitability. In 2016, we will expand

Variety Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

our research to deal with transient nutrient deficiencies

Strobilurin Fungicide on Soybeans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

and allelopathy.

10% to 25% 5% to 10%

Starter Performance Trials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

As a retailer, BRANDT is not limited by product specific re-

100% to 110% 90% to 100%

Contents

You must have good “local information” to create good “local strategies.” New products and practices emerge every year from industry companies. BRANDT will continue

Seed Treatment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Stress Mitigation & Stimulants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Soybean Plant Nutrition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

to monitor and validate these products and practices to

Cover Crops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

reduce grower risk and improve ROI.

Pipeline Research . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Ed Corrigan, Technical Agronomist Dan Froelich, Technical Agronomist Jack Hardwick, Technical Agronomist

2014 Trial Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 2014 Grower Observations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Precipitation data from NWS AHPS http://water.weather.gov/precip

2015 was a challenging year, especially when compared to 2014. As you can see in the map (left), most of our market area saw 200+% above normal rainfall in June. This played a major factor in plant health, compaction, nutrient distribution, germination and even in some cases just trying to finish planting.

As your BRANDT trusted advisor, we like a challenge. And, we like to help you mitigate these challenges in your operation.

That is our job.

2

3

Brandt Research Farms PLEASANT PLAINS

9

200 TRIALS

30” Soybean

30“ corn Cover Crops Strip till vs conventional till 4 Hybrids NH3 fall/spring, broadcast 28% Band vs Broadcast Fungicide 42,000 Population 9 and 11 yr corn

Plant Stimulant and Stress Mitigation Trials

10

1

30” DEKALB® Hybrid Performance Continuous corn

3

Starter

Population 34, 38, 42, 48

Cover crops

Cover crops

13

4

Fusarium Light Interception N rate

14

5

15

6

7

2

30” Strip till

30” Soybean Seed Treatment Trials ASGROW® Soybean Variety Trials

8

30” DEKALB® Hybrid Performance Trials 1 yr corn

34, 38, 42

BRANDT TOTAL ACRE Row width, Fertility, Fungicides, Population Continuous corn

Starter

16

Strip till

20” BRANDT TOTAL ACRE

Fungicide

Cover crops

Sulfur

30” BRANDT TOTAL ACRE

Corn V5 Stimulant Trials

Fungicide

Tillage

Cover crops

12

30” BRANDT® Hybrid Performance Continuous corn

1 yr corn Hybrid Trials

Fungicide

Tillage

11

2

Plant Stimulant

30” Soybean P&K Response

30” BRANDT Hybrid Performance Trials 1 yr corn Strip till

In furrow Pipeline 4

LEXING TO N

Soybean Stress Mitigation

Soybean Seed Treatment

Starter

Corn Stress Mitigation

Nitrogen

High Yield Soybeans

1 3

4

Variability seemed to be the one word that described the 2015 season. It was no different on our Pleasant Plains and Lexington Research Farms. Spring rains had a major effect on planting dates and conditions. Planting date alone made it difficult to conduct some of the trials we had planned prior to planting. That said, we are very pleased with the overall 2015 results from the Research Farms.

Our first corn planting date was April 1, with the majority of corn planting taking place on April 14-21. Soybean planting occurred April 28 — May 2. Near record rainfall took place in June with over 11” total, which carried over into the early part of July. This resulted in over-saturated soils, challenging sidedress applications and post foliar nutrient application trials, collectively adding stress to the plant.

Despite the challenges 2015 threw our way, we extracted some excellent data. As foreshadowed in the 2014 plot book, we added extra emphasis on the 4R management practices in 2015. Right rate, right placement, right timing, right source of nutrients is key to productive crops and nutrient sustainability.

Our goal in producing this book is to provide you with local data to assist with decisions on your farm. Please review the data to draw your own conclusions. For economic analysis and return/acre we used the 2015 fall crop insurance price of $3.83/bu for corn and $8.91/bu for soybeans.

5

B R A N D T T O TA L A C R E C O R N O N C O R N T R I A L E V I D E N C E

Brandt Total Acre

ROI calculated using $3.83 bu corn

PLEASANT PLAINS TOTAL ACRE POLE POSITIONS

BRANDT TOTAL ACRE® is an omission style trial system that is focused on exposing the difference between hybrids. The “omission design” is based on providing all the treatments and then removing one to see what value each practice has on yield of that hybrid.

This creates an environment where yield responses are reflective of the total high management system rather than a limited response due to a lack of some or all the parts of the system.

Total Acre Yield Pole Positions BU/AC

2

2012

2013

2014

2015

5 YR AVERAGE

5 YR ROI

1. Planting date

n/a

67.6

99.6

94.2

41.8

75.8

$$$

2. Hybrid variance

56.2

39.3

18.1

11.5

47.1

34.4

$$$

3. Nitrogen rate

18.3

16.3

47.8

36.1

35.7

30.8

$2.6

4. Population rate

13.9

3.7

32.5

27.3

40.4

23.6

$2.0

5. Strobilurin response

14.1

51.7

13.4

14.3

21.2

22.9

$2.8

6. BRANDT SMART TRIO®

15.9

22.0

22.1

34.1

17.5

22.3

$21.4

7. P&K rate

27.4

23.3

10.7

16.7

10.1

17.6

$1.2

8. Tillage system

n/a

n/a

n/a

19.7

15.0

17.4

$3.7

9. Banding nitrogen

Lexington

1

2011

28.3

Nitrogen Rate

n/a

n/a

13.0

15.4

22.9

17.1

$$$

10. Nitrogen timing

n/a

n/a

23.0

20.5

7.6

17.0

$$$

11. Soil insecticide

20.6

12.3

8.1

11.5

n/a

13.1

$2.4

12. Zinc (1qt/ac)

10.9

8.1

4.6

20.7

5.0

9.9

$6.0

13. Starter (28% sulfur at plant)

4.5

4.0

11.1

13.6

13.6

9.4

$2.4

14. MANNI-PLEX® B MOLY at tassel

7.0

4.0

n/a

9.3

5.9

6.6

$6.3

27.2

Hybrid Variance

The chart above reflects the yield loss when a treatment is omitted from the system.

3

Strobilurin Fungicide

4

P&K Rate

18.0

5

Population Rate

17.6

13.1

6

7

8

6

9.8

8.9

21.8

Soil Insecticide

Sequestar 9% Zn

Starter (25-0-0-8S at plant)

Increased acreage at Pleasant Plains has permitted an expanded field of management factors increasing the pole positions this year to 14. Of course, all management factors hinge on the number one unpredictable variable of weather. Pole positions are ranked by the five year yield response to remove the weather variability as much as possible. Yield is an important metric to judge the value of a practice and goes hand in hand with the five year average of return on investment (ROI). The ROI listed is calculated using the 2015 fall crop insurance price of $3.83 per bushel times the yield response per acre minus the cost of a practice. For every dollar invested per acre in a practice, the ROI factor is how many dollars you get in return. We used a symbol of $$$ for practices that had no measurable cost per acre. Practices with $$$ symbol offer the best ROI and lead the field closely followed by the 21.4 ranking ROI of BRANDT SMART TRIO®.

The Lexington omission plot pole position graph (page 6) identified 8 pole positions over the last 4 years, providing guidance on yield improving treatments that are significant for high yield corn production. Due to the limited space at the Lexington plots, not all practices have been tested. It is interesting that the yield responses from both locations reflect similar results of the practices tested.

This year’s top pole yield leaders are the same “usual suspects” that create the foundation for attaining high corn yields every year.

Matching the optimum planting date to the strongest hybrid and population with the proper nitrogen rate has been table stakes for a good harvest. It is the remaining 10 pole positions that become significant factors for getting to the winning yield circle.

7

PERFORMANCE TRIAL EVIDENCE

Hybrid Performance Trials $

First yr corn

$

Corn on corn

$1400

$1200

This year’s corn trials highlighted those hybrids that emerged well, established a good rooting footprint, and exhibited excellent foliar plant health. As farmers well know, the weather and growing environment can change drastically from year to year. That is why it is always important to build a balanced hybrid profile when making seed decisions and placing those hybrids on fields where they have the highest chance of success.

$1000

296.4

293.8

2010

2011

209.8

243.4

307.1

250.5

286.8

2015

Pleasant Plains

212.6

201.9

224.9

The 2015 crop year provided a growing environment conducive to exposing hybrid weaknesses. Emergence, stand establishment, and early season vigor were challenged due to cooler, wet weather that endured in the month of May. Excessive June rainfall strained hybrid root development, caused nitrogen to be depleted from the soil, and provided humid conditions perfect for fungal disease infections. Warmer, dry weather in late July and August then shortened grain fill from reaching maximum potential.

213.1

225.9

219.8

215.1

221.2

$0

2014

-8 7 64 DK C

14 17 P

P

12

57

0 66 -4 DK C

64 -8 7

1 -7 63 DK C

DK C

60 DK C

-7 62 DK C

63 -

7

4 DK C

61

-5

67 60 DK C

58 -0 6 DK C

-8

7

158.1

BU/AC 64 DK C

8

202.7

64

-8

7

Producing continuous corn is a topic that has been heavily debated over the years, with few consistent theories to success amongst agronomists and universities. One of the factors that can be influential to successful corn on corn is residue breakdown. Early harvest followed by warmer soil temperatures allow soil microbes to break down and decompose some of the residue in the fall, rather than while the crop is actively growing. The biggest yield gaps between rotation and continuous corn generally occur during the years following late harvests with cold soil temperatures.

DK C

14 P

57 12 P

-4 66 DK C

17

89.5 0

7 DK C

64

-8

-7 63 DK C

DK C

63

-6

1

0

7 62 DK C

-5 61 DK C

-7

4

7 DK C

60

-6

6 DK C

58

-0

7 -8 64 DK C

Strip till is a practice that has gained in popularity over the last several years. The soil in bare strips warms as quickly as conventional tillage while crop residue remains in-between the rows to conserve moisture. With crop rotation and better soil moisture conservation, some of the stresses that corn on corn endured were removed allowing for higher yields. Hybrids were able to mature naturally allowing the ears to reach full potential.

2013

$200

DEKALB® Continuous Corn Hybrid Performance Conventional Tillage

Pleasant Plains

Pleasant Plains

256.8

2012

Hybrid Response Yield vs Gross Revenue

DEKALB® Hybrid Performance First Yr 34K Population Strip Till

130

140.3

146

222.3

152.7

256.3

241

2009

212.1

2008

210.1

2007

261.8

260.6

267.2

250.6

253.6

BU/AC

202.7

222.8

244.1

236.1

252.4

266.3

272.1

$600

$400

BU/AC

263.1

281.5

$800

9

PERFORMANCE TRIAL EVIDENCE

The BRANDT/CROPLAN corn on corn hybrid study exhibited many similarities to the observations and results made in the DEKALB study. The heavy residue left over from the 2014 crop provided challenges for successful emergence and streamlined stand establishment. Seeds emerged over a five day period leading to more interplant competition. When a plant falls a leaf behind its neighbor, 7-10% of the yield is lost from that specific plant. When it falls two leaves behind, close to 50% of the yield is taken away.

238.3

218.3

194.0 10

233.0 197.9

208.2

208.2

42,000 RO UG 611 BO HN 0 S RD EC S ER K

36,000

33,000 RO UG 611 HN 0 EC SS K

RO UG 611 HN 0 EC SS K

39,000

45,000

42,000

42,000

42,000

PA CE 65 SE 94 TT SS ER 70 8 GE 7 V NE T2 RA P L RO UG 611 HN 0 EC SS K RO 6 UG 11 HN 0 EC SS K

6 ST 265 RI S KE S R

42,000

42,000

42,000

42,000

RO UG 611 BO HN 0 S RD EC S ER K RO UG 611 HN 0 EC SS K AM 55 BA 70 SS V AD T2 OR P CO 52 M 22 M V AN T DE 2P R

Crop standability and lodging are usually referenced in the same discussion as harvestability. Yield losses can sometimes be hard to quantify. In this study, some of the hybrids root lodged during a June windstorm that exceeded 60mph. Those hybrids worked harder to stand back up and failed to build an adequate root system resulting in significant yield loss. While walking these trials before harvest, the yield loss was not hard to quantify.

Where plants did not root lodge, beautiful mature ears were present. Where heavy lodging occurred, ear size diminished greatly.

The roots of a hybrid are extremely important when making seed selections.

BU/AC

Pleasant Plains

194.6

164.7

204.1

208.9

183.6

BRANDT速 Hybrid Performance First Yr 42K Population Strip Till

213.7

222.0

RO 61 UG 10 HN ST EC X K

70 8 GE 7 V NE T2 RA P L

PA CE 65 SE 94 TT SS ER

6 ST 265 RI S KE S R

CO 52 M 22 M V AN T DE 2P R

AM 55 BA 70 SS V AD T2 OR P

RO 61 UG 10 HN ST EC X K

RO 61 UG 10 HN ST EC X K

Embedded inside this specific trial was a population study on ROUGHNECK 6110. Planting populations of 36,000 plants/ac provided the highest ROI, while 45,000 plants/ac resulted in the lowest yields and ROI. As plant populations increase, having plants emerge in the same 12-24 hour window becomes more important due to this plant to plant competition.

202.3

231.4

245.1

Pleasant Plains

BU/AC

236.1

251.9

267.3

BRANDT速 Hybrid Performance Conventional Tillage

11

NITROGEN TRIAL EVIDENCE

Nitrogen Study

30” Corn 2 hybrids Nitrogen post rate Timing Spring AMS/28% thiosulfate NH3 fall/spring Sidedress Foliar broadcast/band Starters Corn/corn Strip till vs conventional till Soil insecticide 30,000 - 80,000 population

28% Broadcast at plant

Spring NH3 fb* Band 28% at plant

28% Band at plant

Fall NH3 fb* Broadcast 28% at plant

Spring NH3 fb* Broadcast 28% at plant

Fall NH3 fb* Band 28% at plant

Broadcast

Band

Broadcast

Band

Broadcast

Band

Broadcast

Band

Broadcast

Band

Broadcast

Band

25-0-0-8S Band vs Broadcast at plant

Corn on Corn Nitrogen Management Pleasant Plains

249.3

239.4

235.7

224.6

210.4

237.4

245.5

243.9

225.9

227.6

213.5

114.3 BU/AC

A fall ammonia application with inhibitor followed by banding 28% nitrogen and sulfur in the spring at planting time provided the most efficient nitrogen program in all tillage systems. The same rate of ammonia with inhibitor applied in the spring resulted in a 3% yield reduction when averaged over all tillage systems.

Winter cover crop - Cereal rye

12

We strive to bring you science-based information to increase your farming operation’s return on investment through maximizing nutrient utilization and minimizing environmental impact. Our nitrogen study for 2015 incorporates customary nitrogen products, rates of nitrogen, placement methods, and timing of applications.

Tillage practices and the use of a winter cover crop of cereal rye grass were also incorporated into the nitrogen trials to further evaluate each nitrogen practice.

Getting nitrogen right to meet the needs of the corn plant was a challenge in 2015 due to the wettest June on record at Pleasant Plains. As the yield graph and photograph demonstrates, this 192 trial comparison of the 4 R’s of nitrogen management point to some attractive practices that improve ROI and efficiency.

141.5

206.3

219.5 185.6

170.6

210.2

* followed by

Strip-No till

Grower Insight As you would expect, tillage and cover crops had an effect on yield, but more importantly the yield increase from nitrogen timing and placement played a significant role across all forms of tillage and no-till/cover crop. Nitrogen management is key for plant nutrient utilization and environmental stewardship.

28% nitrogen as the primary nitrogen source provided the lowest average yield in comparison to ammonia, although banding 28% at plant significantly improved the efficiency. 28% nitrogen efficiency was reduced drastically as tillage was removed. Corn residue and cover crop allelopathy (the chemical inhibition of one plant or other organism by another, due to the release into the environment of substances acting as germination or growth inhibitors) reduced the corn emergence and growth in the no till system used with 28% application. (Read more about allelopathy on page 25.)

Averaging 249 bu/ac, fall ammonia in combination with 25-0-0-8S banded at plant scored a very efficient “.86” N.U.E. (nitrogen unit efficiency). The long standing university guideline for N.U.E. has been 1.2 units of N per bushel of corn.

Conventional tillage

13

NITROGEN TRIAL EVIDENCE

Total Nitrogen on Corn Lexington

Corn following soybeans

278.5

Corn on corn

Lexington

249.1

243.8

225.8

BU/AC

257.7

Placement of nitrogen is important to maximize uptake and pairing it with timing and nitrogen source becomes an even more efficient way to expand nitrogen management. 360 Yield CenterŽ has developed the 360 Y-Drop™ system to apply nitrogen post emergence all the way up to tassel. This is the first of a multiyear trial to look at the effects of nitrogen timing, placement and rate using the Y-Drop system and recommendations based off various data sources and imagery.

249.9

274.4

Y-Drop on Corn

279.2

Mineralization was a key factor in our total nitrogen and crop rotation trial at the Lexington Research Farm. In a typical year we tend to see the maximum yield level out around 220-240 total lbs of nitrogen, but given the mineralization that occurred and the 2015 growing climate, it was reduced closer to 180 lbs. As you would expect, more nitrogen is required in corn on corn management, which is reflected in the graph below.

125 lbs N

180 lbs N

240 lbs N

260 lbs N

Nitrogen Timing on Corn Lexington

Y drop Climate Pro recommendation/225 total units N

279.6

282.9

50% fall 25% spring 25% sidedress N

25% spring 75% sidedress N

279.8

100% fall 240 lbs N 14

277.8

Y drop 360 recommendation/285 total units N

280.3

277.9

Y drop same time and rate/240 total units N

276.8

277.8

applications by applying multiple times during the growing season. Again this year, fall application followed by side dress, gave the best yield by reducing nutrient loss and improving nutrient utilization.

BU/AC

Standard sidedress/240 total units N

279.8

BU/AC

277.9

281.5

As we try to improve nitrogen utilization we continue to study best practices for nitrogen applications. As an industry, we need to reduce nitrogen loss in the near future to meet the Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy. One way to accomplish that is to split

100% spring 240 lbs N

100% sidedress 240 lbs N

50% fall 50% sidedress N

50% fall 50% sidedress N

15

S TA R T E R T R I A L E V I D E N C E

Starter Performance Trials UNITS OF TOTAL NITROGEN Starter fertilizer use in corn production is playing a larger role in high yield, high management environments. Over the past few years, these products have become more sophisticated. We continue to see starter fertilizers outperform older technologies and we are now working on rates and placement to maximize production. Handling and application of newer starter products can provide more flexibility by improving flowability and utilization of nutrients.

0 300

0

300 250 200 100

STARTER

24.3

Hybrid Yield Response to Pro-Germinator® 9-24-3 in Furrow

253.5

253.4

255.7

262.2 253.9

Steric S 3 gal/ac in furrow

BRANDT 2/10 oz Ryzup® UPTAKE® STARTER in furrow 1 qt/ac in furrow

4 gal/ac 10-34-0 + 1 qt/ac zinc in furrow

Starter Side by Side Trials

65-94 Pacesetter

Average

7.0

9.6

13.6

15 lbs N 2X0

13.4

5 gal ATS 2X0

The yield response to an in-furrow starter treatment ranged from a low of 7 bu/ac to a high of 24 bu/ac in our corn on corn trials.

Hybrids that had quick emergence and an early flowering date tended to get the most out of the starter treatment. Hybrids that had a slower start after emergence and a later flowering date did not get as big a benefit from the in-furrow treatment.

BU/AC

Pleasant Plains

247.1

250.8

100

NO STARTER

BU/AC No starter

250 200

DKC 62-77

DKC 63-33

62-65 Striker

Pleasant Plains

16

Border

BRANDT REACTION® P + Zn in furrow

BRANDT Pro-Germinator® REACTION® P + Zn in furrow in furrow

EXP 20 Zn in furrow

279.0 267.0

269.0

265.0

270.0

BU/AC

In furrow treatments have very low amounts of salt and tend to have a higher cost per pound of nutrition. 2x0 placements are used when the product contains higher amounts of salts or can release ammonia nitrogen and interfere with germination. Placement of ATS (ammonium thiosulfate) added to 28% nitrogen in the 2x0 band has been the leading treatment the last three years of trials.

287.0

When following the guidelines of the 4R’s, we look at product placement, rate, and timing of nutrient applications. In the above graph, a comparison of 2x0 placement versus in-furrow treatment of starters suggest both placement methods have merit. The 2x0 placement has been tested the last 3 years in both BRANDT plot systems. 2x0 refers to placing a band of nutrient behind the press wheel two inches from the center of the seed furrow and on the surface of the soil or at zero depth.

288.0

Lexington

308.0

Pro-Germinator® starter was a clear winner with this fast growing DEKALB® 63-72 hybrid. The standard grower practice of 25-00-8S produced a comparable yield to Pro Germinator®, however, placement of 2X0 and 10 gal/ac is more than most growers will carry while planting. 9% Zinc applied at 1 qt/ac continued to add bushels and ROI to each of the tested starter treatments.

Corn Starter Response

Ryzup® + Zn in furrow

25-0-0-8S no Zn 2X0

Border

17

STROBILURIN TRIAL EVIDENCE

BU/AC

BU/AC YIELD INCREASE

Strobilurin on Corn Multi-Year Average

21.6

10 yr average Check

Pleasant Plains The 2015 yield response to a strobilurin plus boron application at tassel matched the ten year average of 21 bu/ac. The 20 plus inches of rain in June reduced nutrient levels in plant at the same time that disease was beginning to spread though the canopy.

Tassel applications paid nearly three dollars in yield for every dollar invested in our trials this year in Pleasant Plains.

16 oz BRANDT Exp Boron

Pleasant Plains

14.3

2014

13.4

51.7

Lexington

14.2

2011

35.0

2010

2009

18.9

The yield response to a strobilurin fungicide application at tassel stage continues to be one of the foundation management practices used at BRANDT to maximize nutrient utilization and photosynthesis. Plant trauma from nutrient imbalances, weather events, insect feeding as well as disease outbreaks are all factors responsible for the positive ROI of strobilurin fungicide applications at tassel.

A rising syndrome found “around the world” in today’s corn production can also be dealt with at strobilurin application time. Corn plants are now creating long silks before the tassel pushes up and begins to shed pollen. Sex in the corn field is changing. There may be more than one reason. This is a new twist that has many in the grey beard era scratching their head. Pollen shed usually begins two to three days prior to silk emergence and continues for five to eight days with peak shed on the third day. What has changed?

Higher yields, plant densities, and insect traits have all contributed to the Delayed Tassel Syndrome (DTS).

253.5

30” row width 20” row width

2008

BU/AC

255.5

32 oz N-Boron®

Boron Yield Response at Tassel

2012

In Lexington, the 30” rows averaged a yield increase of 15.7 bu/ac over 3 years. 20” rows showed an average increase of 20.6 bu/ac. This also backs up our research that shows the more we push for higher yields through increased populations, management of nutrients both major and micro, as well as disease, become increasingly important!

32 oz 10% Boron

21.2

2015

2013

Strobilurin on Corn at Tassel Stage

224.0

218.1

Strobilurins, one of the most important classes of agricultural fungicides, are used for protection from disease and must be applied before the disease has spread heavily through the crop. These fungicides are responsible for reducing stress by decreasing ethylene gas in the plant (sometimes referred to as plant health). The reduction of ethylene slows the maturity of the plant allowing for increased nutrient efficiency in the plant. When plants are heavily stressed from weather, disease, etc., the amount of ethylene in the plant rises and speeds up maturity, reducing yields.

222.0

241.0

Strobilurin Fungicide on Corn

Strobilurin/Boron at tassel stage

239.4

238.5

2007

No fungicide/Boron

2006

Since 2004, when the first corn plants displayed this DTS phenomenon, it has been documented that a boron foliar treatment created a very positive ROI. Is it possible that the two are somehow linked? We all know that boron is necessary for:

10.2

8.8

28.3

■

Tassel and silk formation

■

Pollen germination

■

Pollen tube growth and seed formation

■

Cell strength

■

Stimulation of root and shoot formation

■

Movement of sugars from leaves to ears

■

Better water use efficiency and drought tolerance

Clearly the mounting evidence is pointing toward the need for the addition of boron to minimize DTS. Is there a difference in boron products and how efficient they are in the plant?

As the graph above demonstrates, the amount of actual boron contained within a formulation is not the factor that equates to yield. We all know that boron in the soil is very mobile and subject to leaching and tie up to other nutrients like calcium. Getting the boron on the leaf and into the leaf is the easy part as a foliar.

The hard part is to get the boron to move “to” the new tissue and reproductive areas of the plant. The yield response to the product trials in the graph is a direct correlation to the plant’s ability to move the boron from the leaf tissue to the reproductive tissue. At BRANDT, we have focused on working with the plant to maximize the boron movement. The experimental Smart Boron product moves boron more rapidly from the leaf to the new tissue improving plant function and efficiency.

So the next time you witness DTS in your field, remember the solution to the syndrome: Smart Boron!

18

19

S T R E S S M I T I G AT I O N T R I A L E V I D E N C E

Stress Mitigation & Stimulants 49.3 Additional yield with 1 qt BRANDT SMART TRIO®

BRANDT SMART TRIO® provides sulfur, zinc, manganese and boron to stimulate plant growth and increase metabolism of post applied herbicides. BRANDT SMART SYSTEM® technology protects the nutrition and herbicide efficacy, allowing for improved plant utilization.

Check Glyphosate only

142.0

BU/AC

2009

2010

2011

246.7

228.4

276.9

259.4

326.5

292.4

290.0

Glyphosate plus 32 oz/ac BRANDT SMART TRIO®

2008 20

This is the eighth year we have evaluated the ability of BRANDT SMART TRIO® at Pleasant Plains to alleviate plant trauma by increasing photosynthesis and assisting the plant to metabolize the post herbicide. The graph below exposes the wide range of plot yields attained over the last 8 years when adding BRANDT SMART TRIO® to the post herbicide. The yield response peaks as the stress level at application is amplified. Stress from weather, insects, disease and post herbicides can be reduced appreciably by the addition of a foliar beginning at the 3 leaf stage.

Glyphosate at 32 oz/ac

Grower Insight BRANDT SMART TRIO® at the time of herbicide applications continues to perform year after year. During periods of high stress like we saw in 2015 or ideal condition like we experienced in 2014, additional nutrition during this growth stage can pay dividends come harvest time.

Pleasant Plains

136.0

A one quart rate of BRANDT SMART TRIO® added 17.5 bu/ac.

Higher rates of BRANDT SMART TRIO® did not produce any additional yield. The grower standard treatment of 32 oz/ac of glyphosate was used in all trials and applied at the V4 stage of growth.

DEKALB® 63-72 was chosen for this continuous corn trial and planted at 42,000 plants per acre to maximize yield potential.

114.0

A two quart rate per acre of BRANDT SMART TRIO® provided a 6.7 bushel per acre yield increase this year when added to our post herbicide program. Lexington plots have averaged 8.3 bushels per acre during the last three years of side by side trials. Plot results vary in yield response depending on plant stress at the time of application, but in all trials an immediate and visual plant response is noted. BRANDT SMART TRIO® has been the most consistent foliar that can be mixed with all modes of action crop protection products.

255.1

Pleasant Plains

239.1

Lexington

165.0

BRANDT SMART TRIO® Rates

233.3

BRANDT SMART TRIO® Rates

264.4

1 qt BRANDT SMART TRIO®

257.3

2 qt BRANDT SMART TRIO®

BRANDT SMART TRIO® 8 Year Results

312.1

272.9

276.9

Yield response to the addition of one quart of BRANDT SMART TRIO® to each treatment varied significantly in this year’s trials.

Herbicide resistance management treatments contain an additional mode of action which was added to the grower standard of 32 oz/ac glyphosate in each trial. The addition of BRANDT SMART TRIO® to Callisto® at 3 oz/32 oz glyphosate provided 49 bu/ac more yield through enhanced photosynthesis. Emerging university trial results demonstrate the role micronutrients play in plant stress reduction, especially when applied with the herbicide. The mitigated yield response decreases each day that the application of micronutrients is delayed after herbicides are applied.

237.7

3 qt BRANDT SMART TRIO®

32 oz Glyphosate 3 oz Callisto®

Pleasant Plains

259.4 Herbicide A +2 qts BRANDT SMART TRIO®

32 oz Glyphosate 5 oz Spirit®

Multiple Modes of Action Yield Response

BU/AC

275.7 Herbicide A +1 qt BRANDT SMART TRIO®

5.2 32 oz/ac Glyphosate

280.8 274.5

274.1

BU/AC

Herbicide A only

17.5

BU/AC

Nature greatly influences corn growth and yield. However, the corn producer can manipulate the environment with managerial operations including hybrid selection, soil tillage, crop rotation, soil fertilization and pest control. Foliar nutrition is a relatively new tool which can significantly reduce plant stress. Stress from weather, insects, disease and post herbicides can be reduced appreciably by the addition of a foliar beginning at the 3 leaf stage. Nutrition is nature’s best medicine for trauma by stimulating root development, photosynthesis and enzyme production.

2012

2013

2014

2015

8 year average 21

P O P U L AT I O N T R I A L E V I D E N C E

Population Studies Plant population refers to the final stand density in plants per acre. The final stand takes into account seed and plant mortality.

The goal of stand density is to produce an economically optimum yield (yield vs. cost). The importance of population ranked fourth in our total acre pole position yield chart. Optimal plant population across all hybrids is related to many factors, including root type, stress tolerance, stress levels and the timing of trauma relative to the crop development cycle.

280

275 DEKALB 64-87 270

Corn Population 260

Lexington

DEKALB 62-71

The data from the Lexington plots below is an example of how matching a balanced fertility system can influence the yield response to population. The balanced NPK nutrition added six to one ROI by increasing population from 36,000 to 39,000 plants/ac. As plant population increases, the root system shrinks and the corn plant puts more energy into growth above ground to improve light interception. The combination of a smaller root system and increased yield opportunity results in the need to boost non mobile soil nutrients such as potassium, zinc and phosphorous. As non mobile nutrient needs are met by plants, the efficiency of soil mobile nutrients like nitrogen, sulfur and

255

250

245

DEKALB 62-77

240 36,000

39,000

42,000

46,000

boron are all enhanced within the plant. The nutritional balance is most important for hybrids that are very responsive to increased populations.

The effects of the tillage system used can also influence the amount of mineralization or immobilization in the soil. Mineralization is defined as release of nutrients from the soil organic fraction by microbial activity. Immobilization is the opposite of mineralization. Immobilization of mobile nutrients by residue can play a crucial role when trying to maintain a balanced fertility system and choosing the correct population.

Balanced NPK Nutrition

241.8

36,000

236.6

238.3

239.1

When comparing 30,000 to 40,000 plants/ac population, the five year Nebraska high yield corn study* found that one third the fertility response was lost without a population increase.

This calculates to over a 2.5 ROI in today’s prices and costs.

252.9

The response to population differs greatly from one hybrid to the next. In the graph above, the dotted line provides a linear (average) of the yields plotted on each hybrid. The hybrids above varied from a 9% increase to a 2% decrease in yield as population increased to 46,000 plants/ac from the grower standard of 36,000 plants/ac. Population guides for each hybrid give a good range of the ability of the hybrid to respond to increased population.

What other criteria play a role? Selecting the correct population to maximize yield or ROI of each hybrid involves understanding how each field will be managed for row width, tillage, nutrition, weed control, seed placement, etc.

257.5

Traditional Nutrition

248.6

Lexington

259.1

Corn Population

BU/AC

BU/AC

265

39,000

42,000

46,000

* Dobermann, Achim R.; Arkebauer, Timothy J.; Cassman, Kenneth G.; Lindquist, J; Specht, James E.; Walters, Daniel T.; and Yang,Haishun, “Understanding and Managing Corn Yield Potential�

(2002). Agronomy & Horticulture -- Faculty Publications. Paper 340. http://digitalcommons.unl. edu/agronomyfacpub/340

22

23

A L L E L O P AT H Y T R I A L E V I D E N C E

Allelopathic Effects of Cover Crops Allelopathy refers to the beneficial or harmful effects of one plant on another plant, both crop and weed species, from the release of biochemicals, known as allelochemicals, from plant parts by leaching, root exudation, volatilization, residue decomposition, and other processes in both natural and agricultural systems.

Cover crops is one of the practices recommended by the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy to improve water quality at home and downstream by reducing nitrogen and phosphorus levels in our lakes, and rivers. different types ofLoss plants Cover crops arestreams, recommended

by Many the Illinois Nutrient fall under the cover crop umbrella water such asquality ryegrass, Reduction Strategy to improve at brassicas, home and legumes, sudan, winter peas, etc. and phosphorus levels in our downstream by reducing nitrogen lakes, streams and rivers. Many different types of plants fall under the cover crop umbrella such as ryegrass, brassicas, legumes, sudan, winter peas, etc.

Grower Insight

When it came time to pick a winter cover crop for our trial system at Pleasant Plains, we turned to the most widely used cover crop in our area – cereal rye. Cereal rye can be seeded later in fall than other cover crops and still provide considerable dry matter, an

extensive soil-holding root system, significant reduction of nitrate leaching and exceptional weed suppression. A good stand is critical for a successful cover crop, making cereal rye an easy choice for local producers.

Plot seeding began after corn harvest on October 1, 2014. The cereal rye received a half inch rain that night for an excellent germination for our 2015 trials. Trials were established to compare conventional tillage to strip till versus strip till with a cover crop of cereal rye. Four hybrids with varying phenotypic characteristics were tested to provide an array of hybrid responses.

The 192 continuous corn trials revealed nutrition was not the primary roadblock to high yield corn production when using cereal rye as a winter cover crop. A toxin is released by the cereal rye which inhibits germination and early plant growth (allelopathy).

Rye allelopathy obstructed corn development for a 45 day window. At-plant nutrition had no influence on plant response to the toxin. Investigating the pattern of corn growth indicated tillage was responsible for neutralizing the toxin. Aggressive tillage strips created from the ammonia application displayed no toxic effects on the corn plants. As the depth and width of the tillage was reduced, the effect of the toxin amplified. When a no tillage system was introduced with 28% nitrogen trials, the toxin peaked, reducing yields 31 bu/ac. Corn plant stunting can be seen in the photo on page 24. The form of nitrogen didn’t matter; the tillage was the answer to the toxin.

We expected nutrition to provide the primary solution for profitable cover crop management. Thus, extensive nutrient treatments were added to tillage/cover crop trials to study the yield significance of nutrient product, placement and timing of each practice.

Nitrate soil tests were performed to evaluate cover crops’ role of sequestering unused nitrogen remaining or mineralized after harvest. Spring tests did reveal the nitrate levels in the soil were cut in half when evaluating the use of a cover crop in a no till system. Thus, cover crops may assist with improving water quality as predicted.

Response to Tillage and Cover Crop on Corn

Conventional tillage TOXICITY

24

MED

LOW

HIGH

Strip till no till

186.0

AGGRESSIVE STRIP TILL

217.3

NO TILL

BU/AC

AGGRESSIVE STRIP TILL

232.3

REDUCED STRIP TILL

Strip till

Cover Crops no till

Cover crop trials using rye exposed that successful corn production must contain a method of tillage to detoxify the rye exudates.

Once tillage neutralized the toxin, nutrition placement in a band was critical to rejuvenate soil levels of nitrogen, sulfur and zinc.

Our cover crop trials indicated banding the nutrition versus broadcast. This practice increased corn yield 15% or 30 bu/ac.

Pleasant Plains

TILLAGE

Conventional till

A June 11 satellite image (above) from Climate Corporation documents visually the amount of vegetation in each of the tillage systems. Dark green depicts high yield potential with red being the lowest yield potential. Today’s technology may have a fit as a valuable management practice in the future.

Cereal rye cover crops

LOW

25

FA R M I N G P R A C T I C E S T I M E L I N E

Evolution of Best Management Practices When we look back at our historical data, we see patterns or trends in practices that have brought us to the production levels we see today. Environmental factors are always a key element in the outcome of a successful harvest, but unpredictable.

IDENTIFIED PRACTICES

ENVIRONMENT

The established trials combined with environmental pressures result in practices we identify as noteworthy, allowing us to implement new practices in the next growing season. Below is a timeline of how our best management practices have evolved over the last 8 growing seasons.

2008

2009

2010

A cool/damp spring evolved into a wet summer and fall.

Damp conditions delayed planting in the no till corn on corn due to the residue. Damp conditions minimized nutrient mineralization and tightened soils.

A repeat of 2008 - cool/damp spring that evolved into a wet summer and fall. Delayed planting in no till. Minimized nutrient mineralization and tightened soils. Insects at silking caused Diplodia. Too wet for fall tillage.

Collapsed soils from the wet winter immobilized nitrogen into the residue. Soil mineralization was shut down.

The summer nights were hot and humid. Drying trend for harvest. Tillage used to reduce residue/soil density layers.

Light rains during April and May combined with a warming trend into summer. Timely rains with a hot summer produced high heat unit numbers and sped up crop progress. Drying trend for fall harvest.

Early plant growth was hampered by micronutrient deficiencies.

Residue begins to create plant health issues.

Sulfur, zinc, manganese, boron deficiencies.

Planting date affected corn yields in corn on corn.

Maturity vs fungicide and insecticide response.

Nitrogen immobilized by residue

Split timing of nitrogen and banding near planting.

Yield response to micronutrients vs nitrogen rate.

Higher P&K rates needed to maximize higher populations.

Foliar insects attack soybeans at flowering.

Hybrid phenotype response to NPK rate and population.

Applying the fungicide at the correct time improved performance.

Japanese beetles attacked the soybeans and a foliar insecticide was applied to manage feeding.

ADVANCING PRACTICES

As plant density is increased the value of picket fence stands are noted.

Ear worm and Japanese beetles attacking silks and husk cause Diplodia.

Hybrid rooting response to damp/tight soils.

Soybeans respond to total management system.

Potash applications responsible for standability at harvest.

2011

Narrow rows compliment shorter hybrids and lower N rates.

Applying 210 units of nitrogen/acre maximized yields.

2012

2013

2014

Record warm temperatures and dry spring creating perfect soil conditions. Light frost April 9. The warm and dry spring led into a very dry and hot summer. An early dry harvest!

A moderately cool and moist winter led to a cool and wet spring. Light rains in April and late May with cloudy conditions. A cloudy summer was warm with ample moisture slowing crop maturity. Warm and dry harvest conditions through the fall.

A cold winter led to an early spring with warm temperatures and dry soils. A rainy May and June turned into a moderate temperature summer and ample moisture. The fall began dry and quickly moved into a cold and rainy late harvest.

Early planting maximized yields except for scattered frosted fields.

Fall applied nitrogen moved deeper into the second foot of soils.

Corn tasseling followed potash applications.

Crops suffered from transient nutrient deficiencies until June.

Fungicides applied at VT slowed plant metabolism and drought stress Sulfur applications with zinc maximized yields.

Foliar insecticides improved yields and reduced “green stem syndrome”

At plant applications of nitrogen, sulfur, and zinc were valuable.

Early growth stage applications of nutrients and stimulants added yield.

Late applied side dress nitrogen had no effect on yield.

A moderately cool/moist winter led to a cool/dry spring.

Light rains fell in April and May making good planting conditions with slow corn emergence due to the cold.

June was unusually wet with more than 20” for the month.

July and August were dry and cooler than normal.

Banding beats broadcast nitrogen applications at plant.

Even emergence fields were critical for top yields.

Late side dress nitrogen applications did not perform well.

Banded nitrogen at planting time improved nitrogen efficiency.

Higher plant densities and narrow rows maximized the nutrition.

Hybrids with early plant vigor maximized yields.

Sulfur is needed on corn and soybeans.

Insect damage was minimal in 2015 due to the wet June.

Hormone applications need adequate nutrition to perform.

Cover crops improved soybean yields.

Higher populations

BRANDT SMART TRIO

Nitrogen immobilization

Zinc at planting

Apply sulfur

Hormones assist plants

Banding at plant

Even corn emergence

Longer maturities

RR2Y Trait

Soybean fungicides

Soybean maturity

Fungicides reduce stress

Apply sulfur

Early foliar applications

Band nitrogen at plant

Traits

Strobilurin at tassel

Split nitrogen applications

Potash applications

Potash reduces stress

Split apply nitrogen

Votivo treated seed

Cover crop allelopathy did not effect soybeans

Picket fence stands

Residue management

Narrow rows

Omission plots

Early flowering

Higher populations

High populations

Phenotype vs nutrient interactions

Soybean seed treatments

Short hybrids with narrow rows

Lower pH of foliar insecticides

Apply sidedress nitrogen early

Strip till provided better plant health

Narrow row shading improves yields

Long maturity soybeans

Sulfur “at plant” on soybeans

Late nitrogen applications worked

Allelopathy in corn was stopped by strip tillage Amplified boron deficiency

Plant soybeans early Narrower rows to maximize rooting

Strobilurins stopped frost damage Cover crops absorb unused nutrition 26

2015

Seed treatments Foliar applications mitigate transient nutrient deficiencies

Crown rot controlled with potash

Zinc at plant continues to improve yields.

Plant soybeans by the end of April to maximize yields

27 27

B R A N D T T O TA L A C R E S O Y B E A N T R I A L E V I D E N C E

Brandt Total Acre

®

PLEASANT PLAINS TOTAL ACRE POLE POSITIONS

BRANDT TOTAL ACRE® is an omission style trial system that is focused on exposing the difference between varieties. The “omission design” is based on providing all the treatments and then removing one to see what value each practice has on yield of that variety.

This creates an environment where yield responses are reflective of the total high management system rather than a limited response due to a lack of some or all the parts of the system.

Soybean Planting Dates Pleasant Plains

78.5 75.8

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

5 YR AVERAGE

5 YR ROI

1. Variety

25.6

14.6

19.3

17.5

7.0

16.8

$$$

2. Planting date

n/a

6.8

8.3

13.6

11.0

11.0

$$$

3. Maturity

17.0

10.2

13.0

8.5

0

9.7

$$$

4. Cover crop

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

9.5

9.5

$2.7

5. Seed treatment

6.1

11.9

7.4

5.5

8.5

8.5

$5.3

6. Sulfur (ATS at plant)

n/a

n/a

3.8

4.8

4.8

4.5

$8.9

7. Foliar insecticide

3.5

5.7

4.9

3.4

n/a

4.4

$6.5

8. MANNI-PLEX® B MOLY at R3-R4

n/a

n/a

1.0

7.4

n/a

4.2

$9.3

9. Strobilurin

n/a

4.0

3.1

6.5

3.2

3.8

$2.25

10. P&K rate

1.6

3.5

4.0

5.2

n/a

3.6

$0.64

11. BRANDT SMART TRIO®

3.2

3.9

3.4

3.3

n/a

3.5

$7.9

12. Population

2.5

2.8

3.6

0

n/a

2.2

$1.96

BU/AC

72.7

65.4

April 1

63.3

April 15

May 1

May 15

June 3

The graph above clearly indicates soybean yield potential was maximized by planting the last week of April to the first week of May in 2015. This time period has been the high water mark in our trials over the last four years. Prior to today’s new technology of seed treatments that guard against early insect and disease attack, a planting date earlier than May 15 could have been risky.

Today’s technology provides the opportunity to not only plant earlier; it allows us to plant at a lower population with a longer maturity soybean to capitalize on the late summer grain fill.

It makes sense to start planting corn first, but soybean planting should begin as soon as possible after that. There’s little danger in planting soybeans as early as mid-April, as long as the soil is in good shape to plant.

Grower Insight Planting date played a significant role in yield response in 2015. Soybean variety, seed treatments and current production practices allow for an earlier date as management of soybeans has increased. It’s important to pay attention to the soil and long-term weather patterns rather than calendar dates.

28

ROI calculated using $8.91 bu soybeans

The chart above reflects the yield loss when a treatment is omitted from the system.

Wet weather conditions during mid vegetative growth stage until the R4 growth stage of soybeans hindered foliar soybean treatment trials at Pleasant Plains in 2015. A symbol of N/A is placed in the column to designate where a treatment was abandoned.

All management factors hinge on the number one unpredictable variable of “weather.” Pole positions are ranked by the five year yield response to remove the weather variability as much as possible. Yield is an important metric to judge the value of a practice and goes hand in hand with the five year average of return on investment (ROI). ROI listed is calculated using the 2015 fall crop insurance price of $8.91 per bushel times the yield response per acre minus the cost of a practice. For every dollar invested per acre in a practice, the ROI factor is how many dollars you get in return.

We used a symbol of $$$ for practices that had no measurable cost per acre. Practices with $$$ symbol offer the best ROI and lead the field closely followed by the 9.3 ranking ROI of MANNIPLEX® B MOLY. The winning five pole positions account for 66% of the total 5 year yield response. Four of these practices (variety, maturity, seed treatment and cover crop) are management choices that can be completed prior to putting the first soybean in the ground.

2015 was the first year that maturity did not have an impact on yield at the Pleasant Plains Total Acre trials. Trials in the four previous years followed maturity closely. Extending maturity permitted soybeans to add extra yield at the end of the growing season.

29

VA R I E T Y P E R F O R M A N C E T R I A L E V I D E N C E

Variety Performance Soybean variety selection is continually one of the most important decisions in soybean production. With any crop, matching the variety to your soil type and production management practice is most important. Planting date, seed treatment, crop protection and nutrition management will see it through to a successful harvest. In 2016 we will be taking a stronger look at high yield soybean management to push the envelope to achieve a maximum ROI during these low grain markets.

$692

2014

2015

77.7

73.3

61.0

68.7

$587

60.9

77.7 76.0

$457

$881

79.5

84.0

80.0

79.0

79.0 76.8

76.0

77.0

78.0

78.0

80.0

80.0 BU/AC

$687

$1020

84.6

$816

$977

AG E

46.4 2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

AV ER

36 43 AG

PA K

2008

Soybean Variety Performance

Multi-Year Plot Average Yield

Pleasant Plains

Pleasant Plains

Variety selection and maturity have been at the top pole positions of the BRANDT TOTAL ACRE® trials in years past. This season did not seem to favor either as much as previously due to several factors. A common misconception is that timely soybean planting is not as important as timely corn planting. Growers typically avoid planting soybeans early due to fear of cold soils, frost, seedling diseases, bean leaf beetles and risk of sudden death syndrome (SDS). Very few of these fears came to fruition in 2015.

A comparison of the last nine years of soybean yield and gross dollars at Pleasant Plains provides some very interesting insights.

This data comes from the average variety trial yield and the price per bushel of soybeans calculated using each year’s fall crop insurance price. Soybean insurance fall price was $8.91/bu in 2015.

Growers took advantage of good weather and field conditions during the last week of April and the first week of May and planted a large percentage of the soybean crop, which turned out to be the “sweet spot” for planting windows. This allowed all maturities and varieties to flower early, take advantage of a long reproductive cycle, and keep plant biomass at a minimum. With the absence of many diseases and pests, varieties were able to mature naturally and experience extended pod and grain fill.

30

2007

40

00

PR 00 37

PR

PA K

7R 39 P

T5 35 P

T6

8R

36 43 AG

35 41 AG

36 39 AG

32 38 AG

36 35 AG

34 33 AG

AG

28

36

73.0

BU/AC

$742

As you can see from the graph above, 2015 soybeans yields continued to be strong at the Pleasant Plains plots. Soybean gross dollars dropped to $692/ac to nearly match corn which grossed $709/ac in our comparisons for 2015.

31

F U N G I C I D E O N S OY B E A N S T R I AL E V I D E N C E

Strobilurin Fungicide on Soybeans Strobilurins, one of the most important classes of agricultural fungicides, are used for protection from disease and must be applied before the disease has spread heavily through the crop. These fungicides are responsible for reducing stress by increasing photosynthesis and decreasing ethylene gas in the plant. The reduction of ethylene slows the maturity of the plant allowing for increased nutrient efficiency in the plant. When plants are heavily stressed from weather, disease, etc., the amount of ethylene in the plant rises and speeds up maturity, reducing yields.

No fungicide No Strobilurin

Fungicide + BRANDT SMART TRIO® + MANNI-PLEX® B MOLY

R2C3822

R2C3922

R2C4000 PR PAK

R2C4114

AG 4336

AVERAGE

2013

67.1

71.7 59.2

45.5

64.7

67.5

70.5

78.0

86.0

2014

60.0

71.4

74.5

75.5

81.9

62.3 2015

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

AVERAGE

8 Year Yield Response to Strobilurin and Boron Averaged 4.6 bu/ac

Pleasant Plains

32

BU/AC

49.5 AG 4336

Strobilurin Fungicide Treatments Quadris Top® was chosen as the fungicide that would provide the strobilurin necessary for enhanced photosynthesis and ethylene gas reduction. Strobilurin trials were applied at R4 stage and contained 1 pint of BRANDT SMART TRIO® and 1 pint of MANNIPLEX® B MOLY per acre. Cloudy conditions during July and August coupled with boron deficiency from the wet June set the stage for good yield responses from the treatments. Once again, predicted yield response to a fungicide application followed the maturity of the variety. Longer maturing varieties were able to get extra yield out of the application in comparison to shorter maturing varieties.

80.0

84.0 84.0 80.8

80.1

77.8

80.6

78.3

78.8

76.3

BU/AC

79.6

84.6

85.1

87.5

89.2

90.8

Strobilurin + Boron

MANNI-PLEX® B MOLY was used to supply foliar boron to the soybean fungicide treatments. Soybean plants struggled to flower and pod this year due to the limited soil availability of boron. Boron is crucial for flowering, seed formation and movement of sugars from leaves to pods. Calcium uptake and metabolism by the soybean plant is also directly influenced by the concentration of boron.

Pleasant Plains Strobilurin and boron over the last eight years have become one of the foundations used to increase the average yield level at Pleasant Plains. This practice is maximized by planting early, protecting plants from insects and using longer maturity soybeans. Green stem syndrome was once blamed on the use of a fungicide; however we now know insects are the cause agent. Iowa State University, during the 2012 drought, identified insects chewing action on leaves induced soybean plants to change the protein produced to fight off the insect onslaught. When insects are present, a foliar insecticide should be added to the fungicide treatment to reduce green stem syndrome.

33

S O Y B E A N S E E D T R E AT M E N T T R I A L E V I D E N C E

Seed Treatment

PONCHO®/VOTiVO®

Clariva®

Cruiser Maxx®

74.20

78.60

Acceleron®

76.30

78.70

BU/AC

95.40

86.40

84.20

86.90

82.60

81.90 71.70

66.60

64.40

60.70

73.90

69.80

68.60

54.90

52.30

PONCHO®/VOTiVO® ILeVO®

79.50

BU/AC

45.20

68.20

70.90

67.50

62.30

Seed treatments have become an effective way to control pests (disease and insects) and also start off the growing season with a more vigorous crop. In today’s high yielding environments containing large amounts of surface residue, it’s very important to keep up with the latest information on what’s available and how seed treatments are performing.

Untreated

Soybean Seed Treatment Pleasant Plains

2011

2012

2013

2014

5 Year Soybean Seed Treatment

Untreated

Lexington

Acceleron®

Our research farm at Lexington continues to support the use of seed treatments over the past 5 years of trials. PONCHO®/VOTiVO® has been in the winning circle each year since its release. The plant health and growth of PONCHO®/VOTiVO® treated soybeans are noticeable from emergence to senescence. Control of above ground insect feeding as well as reduced nematode attacks allows you to get the most from your genetics.

2015

Acceleron® + PONCHO®/VOTiVO® Acceleron® + PONCHO®/VOTiVO® + Inoculant Acceleron® + PONCHO®/VOTiVO® + Inoculant + ILeVO®

Grower Insight In a year where some were challenged to even get all of their beans planted, many were able to achieve optimum yields through high management practices. Seed treatments are a big part of achieving high yield results.

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The addition of ILeVO® to PONCHO®/VOTiVO® seed treatment provided the highest yield with a 21.2 bu/ac yield increase over untreated soybeans. This was the first year that ILeVO® seed treatment was available commercially. ILeVO® is the first and only seed treatment for Sudden Death Syndrome (SDS) which also provides seed zone activity against soybean cyst nematode (SCN).

These are two of the most yield robbing pests in soybean production today. By adding the combination of PONCHO®/VOTiVO® and ILeVO® to your pest management strategy, you may plant soybeans as early as you want with protection against early season SDS infection. If a field does not have visual SDS symptoms does not mean the syndrome isn’t present. SDS can be active below the soil surface where visual symptoms cannot be seen. This is why some years it is more apparent than others. Treating seed with ILeVO is a perfect complement to the overall treatment package.

Seed treatment trials were also in combination with ammonium thiosulfate at planting to provide sulfur to the soybean during early growth stages. 5 gallon (13 units) of sulfur were applied in a band 2 inches to the side of the row on the soil surface. Besides providing sulfur to the plant, it also stimulates microbial action for residue breakdown and improved nutrient mineralization. The addition of sulfur at plant has been one practice which compliments treated soybeans in the last 3 years of our trials.

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S T R E S S M I T I G AT I O N T R I A L E V I D E N C E

Stress Mitigation & Stimulants Weather, insects, disease and herbicides create short term stress sometimes referred to as transient stress. Emerging university trial results demonstrate the role micronutrients play to assist plants through transient stress periods. BRANDT SMART TRIO provides sulfur, zinc, manganese and boron to stimulate plant growth and increase metabolism of post applied herbicides. BRANDT SMART technology protects the nutrition and herbicide efficacy, allowing for improved plant utilization.

3.3

3.75

24 oz Ultra Blazer® + 1 qt BRANDT SMART TRIO® + 1 qt MANNI-PLEX® B MOLY

3.4

3.9 3.2 24 oz Ultra Blazer® + 1 qt BRANDT SMART QUATRO®

2013

2014

Average

2.4

88.4 24 oz Ultra Blazer® + 1 qt BRANDT SMART TRIO®

BU/AC

87.4 24 oz Ultra Blazer®

BU/AC

The addition of micronutrients to a post herbicide provided additional yield as well as reduced visual crop response to Ultra Blazer®. To provide acceptable weed control, leaf burn is usually a good sign when it comes to using a Diphenylether mode of action herbicide and isn’t likely to do permanent damage to soybeans.

Weed control was maintained by adding BRANDT SMART SYSTEM® products and the transient stress was reduced in these trials.

The addition of MANNI-PLEX® B MOLY to BRANDT SMART TRIO® provided additional boron for flowering which improved yields.

BRANDT SMART QUATRO® is a new formulation that is being tested for future use with emerging traits and looks very promising.

90.0

Lexington

6.3

90.6

Stress Mitigation on Soybeans

2009

2010

2011

2012

BRANDT SMART TRIO® 6 Year Yield Response Pleasant Plains

Check 36

Pleasant Plains

81.3

82.1

Foliar Stimulants at R4

78.3

BU/AC

82.4

87.6

Consistent is a term that best describes the yield response that BRANDT SMART TRIO® has provided through the last six years of trials. Post herbicide “yellow flash” has been almost a thing of the past since we began using the BRANDT SMART SYSTEM® to minimize plant trauma. Fewer traumas mean consistent return on investment with no need to change your current herbicide program. This has driven it be the leader in the foliar market.

EXP B-01

EXP B-20

Ascend®

Plant stimulants continue to be evaluated at the BRANDT research farms during seed fill with some interesting results this year.

All trials had a positive yield effect from the R4 application timing indicating plant metabolism of nutrition was improved. The two new experimental products lead the field this year, which means BRANDT will expand trials in 2016 to further understand their role in increasing yield.

N-Boost® 37

S OY B E A N P L A NT N U T R I T I O N T R I AL E V I D E N C E

Soybean Plant Nutrition

83.1 78.3

BU/AC

83.1

86.3

Research suggests that soybeans will be a stronger player in coming years. Therefore, more attention on high yielding production methods will come into play. We are looking at nutrient applications from corn production in the soybean environment. Ammonia applications, nitrogen and sulfur at planting, and foliar nutrition all play a role in assuring plant nutrition is not the limiting factor in producing a soybean crop. We will continue to focus on soybean plant nutrition in 2016.

EXP B-01

EXP B-20

Check

5 gal Thiosulfate 2X0

Soybean at Plant Nutrition

High Yield Soybeans Lexington High yield soybeans have been one of our ongoing trials at the Lexington Research Farm and many of the practices and products have made their way into production. In this particular trial, we look at different combinations to achieve successful soybean yields. It’s an effort to look at seed treatments, crop protection and plant nutrient application individually and collectively. Please note that the nutrient applications listed are in addition to seed treatment products.

BU/AC Untreated

76.2

4 oz Priaxor®

Acceleron® + PONCHO®/VOTiVO®

Acceleron®

81.2

81.9

83.1

Pleasant Plains In this first year trial, we tested in-furrow product applications compared to a 2 x 0 thiosulfate application and a check. The results are positive and with one particular application 3.3 bushels above the others. Our thought is the in-furrow application will assist with even and timely germination and emergence. We look to continue this trial in 2016 to validate the results and its potential ROI.

Acceleron® + PONCHO®/VOTiVO® + ILeVO® + Inoculant

R3 fungicide + insecticide

80.0

83.2

88.0

15# N + 14# S at plant

87.2

K-ROW 23®

Grower Insight Getting the soybean crop off to a good start is important for yield. Nutrition during the early stages of development when the plant is most vulnerable will assist in correct plant development and overall plant health. A setback early in the growth cycle can carry through the entire season and be observed in yield.

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84.3

Nutriplant® SD

140# N fall NH3

85.0

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COVE R C RO P S O N S OY B E A N S T R I AL E V I D E N C E

Cover Crops

86.5

A cover crop is a crop planted primarily to manage soil erosion, soil fertility, soil quality, water, weeds, pests, diseases, biodiversity and wildlife. Cover crops are of interest in sustainable agriculture as many of them improve the soil system and may also indirectly improve qualities of neighboring natural ecosystems. Farmers choose to grow and manage specific cover crops based on their own needs and goals, influenced by other biological, environmental, social, cultural and economic factors.

Response to Tillage and Cover Crops on Soybeans Pleasant Plains

77.0

BU/AC

80.0

The conventional tillage soybeans out-yielded the no-till beans for two primary reasons. Conventional tillage provided a warmer seedbed for faster emergence and minimized corn stalk residue contact with the soybean.

Conventional tillage

Cereal rye was chosen to be the cover crop used in our trial system. Cereal rye can be seeded later in fall than other cover crops and still provide considerable dry matter, an extensive soil-holding root system, significant reduction of nitrate leaching and exceptional weed suppression. A good stand is critical for a successful cover crop, making cereal rye an easy choice for local producers.

Plot seeding began after corn harvest on October 1, 2014. The cereal rye received a half inch rain that night for an excellent germination for our 2015 trials. Trials were established to compare conventional tillage to no till versus no till with a cover crop of cereal rye.

Roundup at 32 oz/ac was applied on April 1 with 20 gallons of water per acre to provide good coverage. The rate in combination with 50 degree air temperatures and sun gave us an excellent kill on the 12 inch tall rye.

Nitrate soil tests were performed to evaluate cover crops’ role sequestering unused nitrogen. Spring tests did reveal nitrate

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levels in the soil were cut in half by using a cover crop in a no till system. Thus, cover crops may assist with improving water quality as predicted.

Soybean planting began on April 28 in excellent soil conditions with warming temperatures in the near forecast. We applied a pre emergent herbicide to all trials three days after planting to provide for a weed free emergence.

No till

No till cover crop

The trials that contained a cover crop provided the highest yield.

Not only did they overcome the three bushel no-till corn stalk residue penalty but they also added another 6.5 bu/ac over the conventional tillage system. The cover crop provided nutrition to the soybean during pod fill that had been absorbed over the winter and early spring before it was terminated with Roundup.

An additional cover crop benefit with soybeans was noted during these trials. The allelopathic effect from the cereal rye, which crippled the corn growth during the early spring, also provided some weed control until the first week of June as long as the soil was not disturbed with tillage. As mentioned earlier, the soybeans had no effect from the toxin remaining in the soil from the cereal rye.

Cover crop trials will be tested again in 2016 to provide local information for our growers on the practices necessary using cover crops. We will also be pulling nutrient soil tests to validate the nutrient sequestering of the cover crops.

The soybeans in all trials emerged evenly, with a one day delay in the no till beans. We guessed the soil temperature was a little higher in the conventional tillage which sped up the germination.

The cereal rye cover crop did not interfere with the soybean stand or growth as it did with the emerging corn plants. The soybeans had no allelopathic effect from the cereal rye; however we did note that where the emerging soybeans came into contact with corn stalk residue they were stunted and chlorotic. Stalk residue contact is why we believe the no-till beans did not yield as well as the conventional tillage beans.

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PIPELINE RESEARCH TRIAL EVIDENCE

Pipeline Research

In Furrow Treatments

5 gal/ac 10-34-0 + 1 qt Zinc + 1 qt BRANDT UPTAKE®

276.3

5 gal/ac 10-34-0 + 1 qt Sequestar® Zn + 1 pt Biomate®

5 gal 10-34-0 +32 oz Sequestar® Zn

Lexington

Starter fertilizers combined with zinc are becoming an area where more sophisticated products are hitting the market. Understanding the need for additional nutrition at this critical growth stage is the driving force behind it. In 2015, we looked at some of these more sophisticated products, both BRANDT proprietary and partnered brands, and the results have been very exciting. We will continue to develop and expand the research in this area.

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Pleasant Plains

Competitor 2

Competitor 3

BU/AC

230.4

Competitor 1

230.4

240.0

237.4

BU/AC

249.1

Foliar nutrition is a major component of plant health and we continually measure ourselves against competing products to make sure we stay on the leading edge of foliar nutrition. BRANDT SMART TRIO® has played an integral role and changed the way growers and retailers look at foliar nutrition applications.

BRANDT SMART TRIO®

2.5 gal Pro-Germinator® +32 oz Sequestar® Zn

Lexington

Pleasant Plains

Check

2.5 gal BRANDT REACTION® P LS +32 oz Sequestar® Zn

Corn Starter Trials

Corn V5 Foliar Treatments

We added a trial in Lexington to look at in furrow treatments that may become commonplace in the future. With the advent of bulk fill planters with liquid insecticides, many growers have the ability to increase yield by applying these products along with their insecticide. These products include hormone treatments, biological treatments, as well as micro and macro nutrients in different forms. Some are planter box treatments, others could be mixed with liquid insecticides to apply in furrow. As you can see in the graph above, we can pick up 8-10 bu/ac with a healthy ROI.

266.7

BU/AC

272.9

267.2 5 gal/ac 10-34-0 + 1 qt Sequestar® Zn + 1 pt IH-0-6 EXP

5 gal 10-34-0 2.5 gal Pro-Germinator® +32 oz Sequestar® Zn +32 oz Sequestar® Zn

244.0

5 gal/ac 10-34-0 + 1 qt Sequestar® Zn

231.3

Pro-Germinator®

231.5

Nutriplant® AG + APSA-80

226.3

BRANDT REACTION® P

264.8

266.7

271.5

272.9

272.1 BU/AC 2/10 oz Ryzup®

SOYBEAN TRIALS Planting Date Pipeline Trials Experimental Trials

CORN TRIALS Planting Date Pipeline Trials

276.3

276.8

The BRANDT Pipeline are designated areas of both research farms dedicated to researching and supporting our own proprietary products from BRANDT® Specialty Formulations. Products like BRANDT SMART TRIO®, MANNI-PLEX® B MOLY, Sequester® Zn and many others have been tested here and are now standard practice for growers around the world. We are very excited about some of the experimental products and look forward to those coming to market in the near future.

2.5 gal BRANDT REACTION® P LS +32 oz Sequestar® Zn

2.5 gal BRANDT EXP +32 oz Sequestar® Zn

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Trial Parameters Trial Parameters

T R I A L PA R A M E TE R S

In any research farm there are applications that are standards and variables. Through this year’s results book we brought attention to the products or practices that were being trialed in the specific blocks. The information highlighted in the graphs points directly to the information we were seeking. In addition to the variables tested were “grower standard” applications to grow a successful crop, but also give a real-life picture of how the different variables effect the overall outcome. Below and on the next page are detailed charts outlining the variables and grower standards throughout the BRANDT Research Farms. Our farms are so extensive that it’s difficult to describe each trial in great detail, so please consult your BRANDT representative for further details or clarification.

Pleasant Plains

Fall 2014 NH3 Fall 2014 other NPK Spring 2015 NH3

Total Nutrition Planting Date Planting Population Harvest Date Herbicide/Nutrition Applications

Fungicide/Insecticide/ Nutrition Application

CORN

Spring 2015 other NPK

STRESS MIT. STIMULANTS

CROP ROTATION & VARIETY

VARIETY & MATURITY

CORN

CORN

CORN & BEANS

CORN & BEANS

CORN & BEANS

CORN

CORN

STRIP TILL

CONVENTIONAL STRIP TILL NO TILL

CONVENTIONAL STRIP TILL

CONVENTIONAL STRIP TILL

CONVENTIONAL

CONVENTIONAL

CONVENTIONAL NO TILL COVER CROP

NONE

150 UNITS NH3 WITH N-SERVE

150 UNITS NH3 WITH N-SERVE

150 UNITS NH3 WITH N-SERVE

150 UNITS NH3 WITH N-SERVE

NONE

NONE

NONE

VARIOUS

30-92-150

30-92-150

30-92-150

20-60-120

20-60-120

VARIOUS RATE NH3

150 UNITS NH3 WITH N-SERVE

NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

TRIALED

230-92-150-8S

230-92-150-8S

230-92-150-8S

230-92-150-8S

4/14/15

4/14/15

4/14/15

4/14/15

4/14/15

42,000

42,000

42,000

42,000

34/38/42,000

STRESS MITIGATION

NONE

NONE

20-60-120

20-60-120

4/28/15

4/28/15

140,000

140,000

9/1/15

9/2/15

9/2/15

9/1/15

9/1/15

9/28/15

9/28/15

PREEMERGENT: BRASH & LEXAR POST APPLIED: GLYPHOSATE BRANDT SMART TRIO® MANNI-PLEX® B-MOLY

PREEMERGENT: BRASH & LEXAR POST APPLIED: GLYPHOSATE BRANDT SMART TRIO® MANNI-PLEX® B-MOLY

PREEMERGENT: BRASH & LEXAR POST APPLIED: GLYPHOSATE BRANDT SMART TRIO® MANNI-PLEX® B-MOLY

VARIOUS TRIALS

PREEMERGENT: BRASH & LEXAR POST APPLIED: GLYPHOSATE BRANDT SMART TRIO® MANNI-PLEX® B-MOLY

PREEMERGENT: BRASH & ANTHEM POST APPLIED: GLYPHOSATE BRANDT SMART TRIO® MANNI-PLEX® B-MOLY

PREEMERGENT: BRASH & ANTHEM POST APPLIED: GLYPHOSATE BRANDT SMART TRIO® MANNI-PLEX® B-MOLY

HEADLINE® HERO® MANNI-PLEX® B-MOLY

HEADLINE® HERO® MANNI-PLEX® B-MOLY

HEADLINE® HERO® MANNI-PLEX® B-MOLY

HEADLINE® HERO® MANNI-PLEX® B-MOLY

HEADLINE® HERO® MANNI-PLEX® B-MOLY

QUADRIS TOP® HERO® MANNI-PLEX® B-MOLY

QUADRIS TOP® HERO® MANNI-PLEX® B-MOLY

Lexington TRIAL 2014 Crop

ROW WIDTH

STRESS MIT. NITROGEN

IN FURROW & PIPELINE

STARTER

SEED TREATMENT

HIGH YIELD SOYBEANS

CORN

CORN

BEANS

BEANS

CORN

CORN

CORN

Tillage

CONVENTIONAL

CONVENTIONAL

CONVENTIONAL

CONVENTIONAL

CONVENTIONAL

CONVENTIONAL

CONVENTIONAL

Fall 2014 NH3

140 UNITS NH3 WITH N-SERVE

140 UNITS NH3 WITH N-SERVE

140 UNITS NH3 WITH N-SERVE

140 UNITS NH3 WITH N-SERVE

140 UNITS NH3 WITH N-SERVE

N/A

N/A

VARIOUS

VARIOUS

VARIOUS

VARIOUS

VARIOUS

20-60-120

20-60-120 NONE

Fall 2014 other NPK Spring 2015 NH3

NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

Spring 2015 other NPK

NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

NONE

240-92-50

240-92-50

240-92-50

240-92-50

240-92-50

20-60-120

20-60-120

4/21/15

4/21/15

4/20/15

4/18/15

4/20/15

36/39/42/46,000

36/39/42/46,000

38,000

38,000

38,000

Total Nutrition Planting Date Planting Population Harvest Date

44

BRANDT TOTAL ACRE & FUNG.

SOYBEANS

Tillage

STROBILURIN FUNGICIDE

CORN

2014 Crop

BRANDT TOTAL ACRE

SOYBEANS

NITROGEN STUDY

TRIAL

5/2/15

5/2/15

140,000

140,000

9/28/15

9/28/15

9/28/15

9/28/15

9/28/15

10/7/15

10/7/15

Herbicide/Nutrition Applications

PREEMERGENT: LEXAR EZ POST APPLIED: GLYPHOSATE BRANDT SMART TRIO®

PREEMERGENT: LEXAR EZ POST APPLIED: GLYPHOSATE BRANDT SMART TRIO®

PREEMERGENT: LEXAR EZ POST APPLIED: GLYPHOSATE BRANDT SMART TRIO®

PREEMERGENT: LEXAR EZ POST APPLIED: GLYPHOSATE BRANDT SMART TRIO®

PREEMERGENT: LEXAR EZ POST APPLIED: GLYPHOSATE BRANDT SMART TRIO®

PREEMERGENT: BOUNDARY POST APPLIED: GLYPHOSATE BRANDT SMART TRIO®

PREEMERGENT: BOUNDARY POST APPLIED: GLYPHOSATE BRANDT SMART TRIO®

Fungicide/Insecticide/ Nutrition Application

QUILT XL® HERO® MANNI-PLEX® N-BORON®

QUILT XL® HERO® MANNI-PLEX® N-BORON®

QUILT XL® HERO® MANNI-PLEX® N-BORON®

QUILT XL® HERO® MANNI-PLEX® N-BORON®

QUILT XL® HERO® MANNI-PLEX® N-BORON®

PRIAXOR® HERO® MANNI-PLEX® B-MOLY

PRIAXOR® HERO® MANNI-PLEX® B-MOLY

45

Grower Observations Summary BRANDT is proud of this 2015 Research Farm data from our farms in Pleasant Plains and Lexington, Illinois. We hope you enjoyed it and gained some insights.

Bob Dylan wrote, “The times they are a changing”, that lyric certainly fit central Illinois agriculture in 2015. We saw some fundamental shifts in the commodity markets and in many parts of BRANDT’s trade area we had the wettest June on record. Dan Froelich e-mailed this photo and caption (left). I think he was pulling my leg, but it was wet!

In August BRANDT held very well attended Agronomy Days at both farms. Randy Dowdy, Georgia NCGA yield winner spoke on high yield corn. He demonstrated the importance of precision depth control during corn planting, with significant differences observed when plants emerged just a few hours apart. Tune up the planters.

Jean Payne, IFCA President, presented the current status of the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy and its implications for local growers. We will all have to get on board with this and the Research Farms can help you. The expanded Pleasant Plains farm allows us to conduct larger N trials. Look for us to double down New pest found in soybeans resistant to most herbicides.

on this in 2016.

BRANDT and our customers are in the business for the long term. You need long term solutions. That is why we emphasize the multiyear data we have derived: fungicide use in corn – 10 years of data – all conditions - +21.6 bushels per acre/ BRANDT Smart Trio – 8 years of positive data in corn and soybeans/Total Acre Omission trials – a 5 year roadmap to success. If you missed or overlooked this information please go back and check it again.

®

Ed Corrigan organizes and implements the Pleasant Plains farm. It is quite an undertaking and this year he was joined by Jack Hardwick who brings great value to

2015 Corn Grower Observations to Increasing Yields

2015 Soybean Grower Observations to Increasing Yields

■

■

Longer RM varieties yield best

■

Planting date dictated plant performance and yield, but was regulated by weather

Through cooperation between our Divisions we bring global insights to our local

Seed treatment is an easy value add product to increase yield

Mainly, we hope we do a good job of communicating this information to you, our

Nutrient placement, specifically nitrogen banding, was significant

■

Split and/or multiple nitrogen applications proved best results

■

Variety and population to match soil and management was key with 2015 weather pattern

■

BRANDT SMART TRIO® still best ROI product matched with herbicide application

■

BRANDT SMART TRIO® helped plants rebound from stress

■

High yield soybean management responded to nitrogen and sulfur

■

■

■

46

Strobilurin fungicide treatments performed better than anticipated and it showed in yield Data, imagery and technology playing a larger role in production decisions

■

Late season strobilurin fungicide application with MANNI-PLEX® B MOLY increased yield

the BRANDT Agronomy Team. Steve Clement is our main man for technology. Dan Froelich plans and leads the Lexington farm effort. This year they were joined by a talented team of both Retail and Specialty Formulations employees.

We believe we have the best agronomy development program in the business. customers and local insights to our global customers. It’s a powerful combination.

valued customer. The Farms and the data are only as good as the results it helps you to achieve. Please give us your feedback and let us know how we can improve.

On behalf of all of us here at BRANDT, thank you for your business and here’s to farming for success and profit in 2016.

Tim McArdle General Manager The marks BRANDT, Brandt Smart Quatro, Brandt Smart System, Brandt Smart Trio, Manni-Plex, N-Boron, Sequestar, and Total Acre are registered trademarks of Brandt Consolidated, Inc. All other trademarks, product names and company names that appear on this document are the property of their respective owners or licensees, who may or may not be affiliated with, connected to, or sponsored

by Brandt Consolidated, Inc.

47

BRANDT RETAIL LOCATIONS Ashland Auburn Cooksville Cropsey Curran Fairbury Fisher Franklin Galesville Greenview Gridley Lexington Lincoln Mt. Auburn New Berlin Niantic Oakford Pleasant Plains Raymond Towanda Virginia Waverly Williamsville

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BRANDT Consolidated, Inc. 2935 South Koke Mill Road Springfield, Illinois 62711 USA www.brandt.co 217 547 5800

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2016-01