At FS Construction Services, we’ve noticed just how rapidly the use of seed treatment has increased over the years. In fact, we recently dedicated an entire three-month series to seed treatment and its general benefits. However, we thought it might be helpful to focus a little more specifically on how seed treatment can benefit corn and soybeans.
By coating the actual seed with micronutrients, insecticides, or fungicides, the issues that come along with erosion and dust off are largely avoided. In a recent article published in Farm Progress, a grower with 40+ years experience noted, “I can plant earlier, cold or wet soils, and I’m protected. I get higher yields and by planting earlier in the spring and I have drier corn in the fall… I don’t have to broadcast pesticides anymore. Seed treatments have changed my management practices.”
Similarly, in another Farm Progress article on the benefits of seed treatment on soybeans, the author states, “One very tangible benefit to a complete seed treatment package occurred this year when many growers were able to plant their bean crops two to three weeks earlier than normal.”
Of course, it’s not just about planting early, and any new or additional technology added to the process increases upfront investment, but the growers we’ve spoken with agree that the payoff is way greater than the investment. The general consensus on seed treatment for corn and soybeans is that seed treatment creates better crops at a higher yield. Referencing the above article again, “We’ve used seed treatments on soybeans for five years, and did side-by-side tests the first two years… We’ve seen a consistent yield increase of between 2 and 5 bu./acre.”
Now we understand that there are no magic wands in this business, but the technological advances of agriculture in recent years are pretty remarkable. As for seed treatment, it will only continue to get more precise and more efficient as time goes on. Better and newer software makes consistent results easily achievable, and there is more equipment than ever to find the right match for you.
If you have any questions on seed treatment, or you would like to look at one of the many seed treaters our partners have available, please let Gateway FS Construction Services know. Give us a call at 866-551-3454, and let our specialists help you find exactly what you are looking for. We look forward to providing you the best customer service experience.