Producers Blog

Jerry Mathis (Sales Agronomist, Region 1 – South Dakota)

After an extended planting period this spring, we are having the same thing this harvest season.  Harvest started well with some exceptional yields. Then, a snowstorm hit western South Dakota and rain showers fell on the east side of the state, which caused delays.  Harvest is now winding down and a lot of fall fertilizer is going out.

There have been some phenomenal yields for both corn and soybeans this year in South Dakota. Field averages close to 60 bu/ac on dryland beans is not unheard of this year.  Our soybean lineup appears to be very strong with 1202NR2, 1409NR2 and 1601NR2 leading the way on the early side.  The 1900NR2 and 2408R2 are yielding very well for later beans. There were some differences in planting dates where the earlier maturities moved south better than normal.  That is, if you can call this a normal year.

Corn yields have been exceptional with several products consistently coming to the top of the test plots.  Our new 85-day appears to be doing quite well on the early side, and there is strong performance on a number of products from 91 to 104-day. One of the most impressive plots had yields over 220 bu/ac with 5784VT3PRIB and 6108STXRIB with a population of 20,500 near Platte, SD.  It goes to show what timely rain and outstanding genetics are capable of!  Be sure to check out the Producers Hybrids website for yield results for test plots near you.

I would like to thank all of the cooperators who had a test plot this year.  There is more yield data to look at to help fine tune the capabilities of our hybrids and allow for better placement.  This also shows the advantage of a 3-4 hybrid approach. Adding diversity and spreading out flowering times will help minimize extreme weather events. For additional information please contact your local District Sales Manager.  Plots are continuing to be updated as information comes in, so be sure to check the yield results for new information. Be safe and good luck selling!