- Growers can avoid weak stalks by selecting hybrids that are rated high for stalk strength
- To preserve stalk integrity from the start, seek extra protection against insects such as corn rootworm
Stalk rots, high disease pressure and below-ground insects took a toll on stalk integrity for many growers in Minnesota and Wisconsin in 2015. To minimize weak stalks and downed crops in 2016, Syngenta agronomists in the region are recommending that growers plant corn hybrids rated high for stalk strength and plan now for in-season disease and insect control.
“The danger in weak stalks are corn plants that can lean or blow over, making harvest more difficult and compromising yield potential,” said Walker Techau, product development agronomist at Syngenta. Beyond checking for stalk strength ratings during seed selection, growers should consider seeking out hybrids that offer protection from insects such as corn rootworm and corn borer that can damage the plant’s root tissue.
“Syngenta research scientists rate each hybrid for stalk and root strength. We recommend consulting with your local Syngenta Seed Advisor™ to select hybrids that fit your farm and provide late-season standability,” Techau said.
Syngenta offers a range of Golden Harvest® Corn hybrids that have demonstrated excellent stalk health and standability. Some key hybrids for area growers to consider in 2016 include:
- G94B95-5222 E-Z Refuge® brand: Offering strong yield with excellent grain quality and a heavy test weight, G94B95-5222 E-Z Refuge brand has very good drought tolerance, stalk strength and root strength for easy harvestability. The hybrid contains the Agrisure Duracade® 5222 trait stack with a unique mode of action for best- in-class corn rootworm control.1
- G01P52-3122A brand: An Agrisure Artesian® hybrid, G01P52-3122A brand helps growers manage the unpredictability of weather by converting water to grain more effectively than other hybrids.
- G02W74-3000GT brand: With the Agrisure® 3000GT trait stack providing protection against corn borer and corn rootworm, G02W74-3000GT brand is recommended for good root and stalk strength.
With Golden Harvest Corn, we aim to help growers achieve high yields by placing hybrids matched to their fields,” said Tim O’Brien, Ph.D., Golden Harvest Corn product manager at Syngenta. “By using a unique pool of corn genetics – and adding breakthrough traits and technologies – the diverse Syngenta portfolio of hybrids provides growers options to unleash the potential of each field and finish with strong yields year in and year out.”
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