A new, independent study confirms the benefits of soybean seed treatments showing an average yield increase of 3.5 bushels per acre in treated soybeans versus untreated test plots.
Conducted by Direct Enterprises Inc., an independent provider of agricultural products and services, the study compared tests of seed treatments with insecticide and fungicide across 10 Midwestern states.
Across the 10-state region, the study’s top two seed treatment packages were CruiserMaxx + Apron XL, which averaged 59.3 bushels per acre and Rancona + MetaStart + Macho 600 ST which averaged 58.6 bushel per acre versus the untreated test average of 53.3 bushels per acre.
Other seed protection packages tested in the study include: ApronMaxx RFC + Apron XL, Rancona + MetaStar ST, Trilex 2000 + Allegiance FL and Trilex 2000 + Allegiance FL + Gaucho 600 ST.
“We have conducted variety testing for a number of years and we decided to expand our research to include several major brand seed treatments,” said Greg St. Amour, manager of genetics and field trials with Direct Enterprises.
“Our goal was to supply our customers with credible, useful data on a variety of treatment options. The results show there are significant differences among treatments and locations.”
The study was conducted at 35 sites throughout Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin allowing for the testing of varieties ranging from Group 1 to Group 4 maturity. The same variety was used within each maturity group to increase statistical accuracy. Testing was conducted in a randomized block with 3 separate replications. The planting, spraying and harvesting of the test plots were conducted by an independent third party. All products were tested at the manufacturer’s recommended application rates.
“Unlike other companies, we’re not suggesting a single solution for every farmer,” said St. Amour. “We commissioned this study to understand which products meet the demands of our customers. The study shows seed treatments provide excellent value. It pays to protect soybeans, especially with current commodity prices. These results demonstrate a number of viable options farmers have to increase yields and profit in their fields.”
For a copy of the complete report, call Direct Enterprises at 1-888-895-7333.
Direct Enterprises Inc. was founded in 1996 by Dennis Tauchen and Bill Haubner. Through its dedicated staff and the relationships it has cultivated with vendors, Direct Enterprises offers quality products and services to the agricultural industry.
