2020 wheat results - beck's hybrids · 2020. 7. 30. · price volatility makes it difficult to...
TRANSCRIPT
2020 WHEAT RESULTSThe Practical Farm Research (PFR)® wheat results
contain research from the following PFR sites:
Effingham, Illinois Henderson, Kentucky London, Ohio
PRICING You will notice that for some of our research plots we calculate net return and/or return on investment (ROI). Market price volatility makes it difficult to figure net return and ROI for the wheat plots included in this book, while at the same time, making it relevant to every farmer. To calculate the 2020 wheat commodity price, we averaged the Friday Chicago Board of Trade closing futures prices from August 30, 2019 through June 12, 2020. You may need to re-figure your own return per acre for prices that you expect to receive, if they differ significantly from the commodity and product prices we used.
WHEAT COMMODITY
PRICE
$5.29
CALCULATIONS The following equations reflect how we figured the net return and ROI for wheat plots in this publication. Please note, for ROI calculations we use commodity prices and product costs only. Feel free to factor in additional charges such as application costs in order to calculate your own ROI. Using this Practical Farm Research book as a resource is a good first step. However, the real power lies in applying a study on your own operation that helps you become more profitable.
TEST WEIGHT & BU./A. Corrected to 13.5% moisture
NET RETURN Gross income (Bu./A. x $5.29/Bu.) minus product cost
RETURN ON INVESTMENT Bu./A. difference x $5.29/Bu. minus product cost
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PRODUCT – If a product has been tested in PFR and found to provide yield gains each year and averages a positive ROI over a minimum of three years, that product will earn the status of PFR Proven™. These products should be something to consider trying on your farm.
PFR PROVEN™ PRODUCTS
PRODUCTS CARAMBA® PROSAR0® 421 SC NEXICOR™ PALISADE® EC
ROI ($/A.)
$20.73 $15.40 $9.69 $15.31
YIELD ADVANTAGE
6.7 Bu./A.
5.6Bu./A
4.3Bu./A.
6.3Bu./A.
APPLICATION 13.5 oz. at Feekes 10.5.1
6.5 oz. at Feekes 10.5.1
7 oz. at Feekes 8
12 oz. at Feekes 5
MODES OF ACTION Triazole Triazole Strobilurin, Triazole,
SDHI N/A
YEARS TESTED 7 5 3 3
COMPANY BASF Bayer BASF Syngenta
CARAMBA®
FUNGICIDE
Caramba is a highly effective fungicide containing the active ingredient metconazole, which offers significant yield protection and reduction of deoxynivalenol (DON) levels in grain.
PROSARO® 421 SCFUNGICIDE
Prosaro is a highly effective fungicide that provides broad-spectrum disease protection, including excellent head scab control, which contributes to increased grain quality and yield.
NEXICOR™
FUNGICIDE
Nexicor fungicide is engineered with the cereal grower in mind. It is powered by three active ingredients that delivers plant health benefits and long-lasting preventative and post-infection disease control.
PALISADE® ECPLANT GROWTH
REGULATOR
Palisade EC is a plant growth regulator (PGR) that helps mitigate lodging challenges caused by adverse weather or high nitrogen fertilization levels.
MULTI-YEAR YIELD ADVANTAGE
WHEAT PROVEN PRODUCTS PRODUCT INFORMATION
WHEAT PROVEN PRODUCTS YIELD ADVANTAGE
CARAMBA®
PROSARO® 421 SC
NEXICOR™
PALISADE® EC
+7.8+5.0 +5.6 +5.2
+13.4
+5.2 +4.5+6.7
2009 2010 2011 2012 2014 2015 2016 7-Year Avg.
+3.6+6.1 +6.0
+4.5
+7.9+5.6
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 5-Year Avg.
+1.5
+5.3 +6.0 +4.3
2018 2019 2020 3-Year Avg.
+6.4
+2.3
+10.1
+6.3
2015 2016 2017 3-Year Avg.
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SPLIT APPLICATIONS OF UAN
2.8 Bu./A. and $17.24/A. advantage over a single application*6-year, multi-location average
SPLIT APPLICATIONS OF UREA
3.5 Bu./A. and $22.13/A. advantage over a single application*6-year, multi-location average
*Extra application costs are not included. Application timing: Feekes 3 and Feekes 5
PFR PROVEN™ PRACTICES
Split applying nitrogen (N) decreases your risk of N loss from various mechanisms. Ensuring an adequate supply at key growth stages is critical, which is why Beck’s PFR recommends split applications of N. Consult with your local Beck’s representative for the best N management plan for your conditions.
1. Test soil to determine fertility of field.
2. Apply P, K, and lime according to soil test.
3. Select several high-yielding, disease-resistant, winter-hardy wheat varieties.
4. Calibrate the drill or other seeding equipment.
5. For conventional till, prepare a good seedbed.
6. For no-till, use a contact herbicide.
7. Use 30 units/A. nitrogen in fall as residual or applied.
8. Plant between October 10 and October 30.
9. Plant in 4 to 8 in. row spacings. Tramlines may be established at this time for subsequent applications.
10. Plant 35 seeds/sq. ft. (up to 40 for no-till) of high quality viable seed.
11. Apply insecticide as needed for insect control (fall and spring).
12. Check stand density near mid-February when winter survival can be rated.
a. If stand is adequate (25 plants/sq. ft. or more), apply 30 to 40 units of nitrogen mid-to-late February.
b. If stand is thin (less than 25 plants/sq. ft.), apply 40 to 50 units of nitrogen mid-to-late February.
13. Apply an additional 50 to 60 units nitrogen at Feekes 5.
14. Use proper weed control measures (fall and spring).
15. Apply fungicides as needed for disease control during the growing season.
16. Harvest on time at optimum grain moisture (13 to 15%).
17. Provide and prepare adequate, safe storage space.
18. Market wisely for optimum profits.
Feekes and wheat yield information used with permission from the Cooperative Extension Service, University of Kentucky College of Agriculture publication: A Comprehensive Guide to Wheat Management in Kentucky, ID-125. Original publication date: 2009.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 10.1 10.5 11
One Shoot
Tillering Begins
Tillers Formed
Leaf Sheaths
Lengthen
Leaf Sheaths Strongly Erected
First Node of Stem Visible
Second Node Visible
Last Leaf Just
Visible
Ligule of Last
Leaf Just Visible
In “Boot”Head
VisibleFlowering (Wheat) Ripening
Tillering Stem Extension Heading
THE FEEKES SCALE OF WHEAT DEVELOPMENT
WHEAT GROWTH AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
18 STEPS FOR MAXIMUM WINTER WHEAT YIELDS
Please use this chart to better understand the Feekes growth stages utilized in the PFR studies on the following pages.
WHEAT PROVEN PRACTICES RETURN ON INVESTMENT
PRACTICE – If a practice has been tested in PFR and found to be the most profitable over a minimum of three years, then that practice will earn the status of PFR Proven™. However, these practices should be considered as starting points. Consult your local Beck’s representative for best management practices for your area.
$9.52$16.90
$11.88
$38.29
$7.24
$19.60 $17.24
2009 2011 2012 2013 2015 2016 6-Year Avg.
$12.38$19.50
$13.20
$45.30
$29.67
$12.74$22.13
2009 2011 2012 2013 2015 2016 6-Year Avg.
KENTUCKYCENTRAL IL
SOUTHERN ILOHIO
IOWA
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WHEAT STUDIES
MULTI-LOCATIONPlanting Depth Study ............................................................................................................................. 7Row Width and Population Study ........................................................................................................... 8Fungicide Study - Foliar ......................................................................................................................... 9Sugar Study - Foliar ............................................................................................................................. 10Sulfur Study ......................................................................................................................................... 11
KENTUCKY
Planting Depth Study ........................................................................................................................... 12Row Width and Population Study ......................................................................................................... 13Fungicide Study - Foliar ....................................................................................................................... 14Sugar Study - Foliar ............................................................................................................................. 15Sulfur Study ......................................................................................................................................... 16
SOUTHERN ILLINOIS
Planting Depth Study ........................................................................................................................... 17Closing Wheel Study ............................................................................................................................ 18Sugar Study - Foliar ............................................................................................................................. 19Sulfur Study ......................................................................................................................................... 20
OHIO
Planting Date Study ............................................................................................................................. 21Row Width and Population Study ......................................................................................................... 22Fungicide Study - Foliar ....................................................................................................................... 23
2020 RESULTS
PLAN
TING
DE
PTH
(IN.
)
PERC
ENT
MOI
STUR
E
BU./
A.
BU./
A.
DIFF
EREN
CE
0.5 15.1 95.2 -4.1
Control: 1.0 15.1 99.3 --
1.5 14.8 96.7 -2.6
2.0 15.2 94.3 -5.0
These results are based on the disclosed study parameters and participating sites.
PLANTING DEPTH STUDY
PARTICIPATING SITES
KY S. IL OH
PURPOSE
To examine how planting depth impacts plant population, emergence, and yield.
At both the SIL and KY PFR sites, we experienced dry conditions at the time of planting. The impact of those seedbed conditions was a huge factor in the 2020 data. The 1 in. planting depth rose to the top in these conditions by maximizing soil moisture. With wheat being a small seed, deeper is not typically better, and the combined data reflects that. Two-year data from both locations reiterates that the sweet spot seems to be 1 in. followed by 1.5 in., which falls in line with traditional agronomic recommendations.
Jonathan Perkins | PFR Agronomist & Location Lead
3-YEAR MULTI-LOCATION PLANTING DEPTH YIELD AVERAGE
!
94.9 96.8 95.2 94.6
0.5 in. Control: 1.0 in. 1.5 in. 2.0 in.
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2020 RESULTS
ROW
WID
TH
PLAN
TED
POPU
LATI
ON
(SEE
DS/A
.)
SEED
S/FT
. OF
ROW
PERC
ENT
MOI
STUR
E
BU./
A.
SEED
CO
ST/A
.
NET
RETU
RN
7.5 in. Drill
1,050,000 15 16.4 79.6 $40.14 $380.94
1,400,000 20 16.7 81.1 $53.51 $375.51
1,750,000 25 16.2 80.9 $66.89 $361.07
2,100,000 30 16.6 81.1 $80.27 $348.75
15 in. Planter
525,000 15 17.0 71.5 $20.07 $358.17
700,000 20 16.8 72.7 $26.76 $357.82
875,000 25 16.8 74.1 $33.45 $358.54
1,050,000 30 16.8 72.3 $40.14 $342.33
Wheat $5.29/Bu. BECK 120brand $23.89/unit. These results are based on the disclosed study parameters and participating sites.
ROW WIDTH AND POPULATION STUDY
PURPOSE
To evaluate various row spacings and populations to determine which system provides the highest return on investment per acre.
When comparing seeds/ft. of row, the drilled treatments had an advantage in yield. Another interesting conclusion is that in the drilled wheat, final yields were consistent from the lowest to the highest populations tested and the lower seed costs associated with the 1,050,000 seeds/A. produced the highest net return. Typical recommendations for drilled wheat are from 1 to 1.5 million seeds/A., and this data supports that recommendation.
Jared Chester | PFR Location Lead
PARTICIPATING SITES
KY S. IL OH
2-YEAR MULTI-LOCATION ROW WIDTH & POPULATION NET RETURN
$423 $419 $409 $401 $402 $401 $400 $392
1,050,000 1,400,000 1,750,000 2,100,000 525,000 700,000 875,000 1,050,000
7.5 in. Rows 15 in. Rows
2020 RESULTS
TREA
TMEN
TS
PERC
ENT
MOI
STUR
E
BU./
A.
BU./
A.
DIFF
EREN
CE
RETU
RN O
N IN
VEST
MEN
T
Control: No Fungicide 17.4 85.6 -- --13.7 oz. Miravis® Ace @ Feekes 10.3 19.3 94.0 +8.4 +$24.29
13.7 oz. Miravis® Ace @ Feekes 10.5.1 19.2 94.0 +8.4 +$24.297 oz. Nexicor™ @ Feekes 8 17.4 91.6 +6.0 +$19.59
3 oz. Topguard® EQ @ Feekes 8 17.3 88.7 +3.1 +$7.10
Wheat $5.29/Bu. Nexicor™ $222.26/gal. Miravis® Ace $188.23/gal. Topguard® EQ $396.64/gal. These results are based on the disclosed study parameters and participating sites.
FUNGICIDE STUDYFOLIAR
PURPOSE
To evaluate the use of different fungicides, applied at different growth stages, and their effects on yield and profitability.
Fungicides that do not contain a strobilurin component such as Miravis® Ace, applied during pollination, provide two distinct benefits: protection of the foliar leaf tissue and a reduced risk of fusarium head blight. One key feature of Miravis® Ace is the wider application window. Other fungicide products targeting head scab such as Prosaro® and Caramba® ideally need to be applied during pollination, which lasts four to six days. Miravis® Ace can be applied at 50% head emergence, which in many seasons, doubles the application timeframe.
Luke Schulte | Field Agronomist
2-YEAR MULTI-LOCATION MIRAVIS® ACE (FEEKES 10.5.1) ROI
PARTICIPATING SITES
KY S. IL OH
3-YEAR MULTI-LOCATION NEXICOR™ (FEEKES 8) ROI
!
$26.36 $24.29 $25.33
2019 2020 2-Year Average
-$5.26
$14.73$19.59
$9.69
2018 2019 2020 3-Year Average
!
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2020 RESULTSTR
EATM
ENTS
PERC
ENT
MOI
STUR
E
BU./
A.
BU./
A.
DIFF
EREN
CE
RETU
RN O
N IN
VEST
MEN
T
Control 15.0 98.1 -- --
4 lb. Feed Grade Dextrose @ Feekes 5 15.2 99.3 +1.2 +$4.19
4 lb. Feed Grade Dextrose @ Feekes 8 14.9 99.1 +1.0 +$3.13
4 lb. Feed Grade Dextrose @ Feekes 5 + 4 lb. Feed Grade Dextrose @ Feekes 8 14.7 98.8 +0.7 -$0.62
Wheat $5.29/Bu. Feed Grade Dextrose $0.54/lb. These results are based on the disclosed study parameters and participating sites.
SUGAR STUDYFOLIAR
PURPOSE
To evaluate the use of feed grade dextrose, applied at two different growth stages, and its effect on yield and profitability.
The 2020 season showed us that making single applications at Feekes 5 and Feekes 8 were profitable, but the combination of the applications at those timings did not produce enough yield to pay for the investment. That said, the two-year data shows a positive return on investment across the board for sugar applications, with Feekes 5 leading the charge. As a cheap addition, sugar is closing in on becoming a PFR Proven™ product in wheat!
Jonathan Perkins | PFR Agronomist & Location Lead
PARTICIPATING SITES
KY S. IL OH
SULFUR STUDY
2020 RESULTS
TREA
TMEN
TS
PERC
ENT
MOI
STUR
E
BU./
A.
BU./
A.
DIFF
EREN
CE
RETU
RN O
N IN
VEST
MEN
T
Control 14.6 93.0 -- --
4 gal. Thio-Sul® (12-0-0-26S) @ Feekes 3 14.3 93.0 +0.0 -$7.24
4 gal. Thio-Sul® (12-0-0-26S) @ Feekes 5 14.4 95.1 +2.1 +$3.87
2 gal. Thio-Sul® (12-0-0-26S) @ Feekes 3 + 2 gal. Thio-Sul®
(12-0-0-26S) @ Feekes 514.5 94.0 +1.0 -$1.95
Wheat $5.29/Bu. Thio-Sul® (12-0-0-26S) $1.81/gal. These results are based on the disclosed study parameters and participating sites.
PURPOSE
To evaluate the use of sulfur, applied at different growth stages, and its effect on yield and profitability.
Sulfur has been studied on corn for several years in PFR with great results, which is likely because of the amount of atmospheric sulfur on the decline. Sulfur can also make nitrogen (N) more efficient, which is why the application timings in this study were done when the typical N applications would be made. The Feekes 3 growth stage (tillering) produced a positive return on investment and may have helped the N uptake during a critical time in the wheat plant. More studies should be done in the future to see if this practice should be incorporated into common wheat practices.
Camille Lambert | Field Agronomist
PARTICIPATING SITES
KY S. IL OH
!
$4.59$3.29
$0.85
Feekes 5 Feekes 8 Feekes 5 + Feekes 8
2-YEAR MULTI-LOCATION SUGAR RETURN ON INVESTMENT
!
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2020 RESULTS
PLAN
TING
DE
PTH
(IN.
)
PERC
ENT
MOI
STUR
E
BU./
A.
BU./
A.
DIFF
EREN
CE
0.5 17.5 81.1 -2.6
Control: 1.0 17.4 83.7 --
1.5 17.6 78.5 -5.2
2.0 17.8 77.0 -6.7
These results are based on the disclosed study parameters and participating sites.
PLANTING DEPTH STUDY
STUDY INFORMATION | Planted 10/14/2019 | Harvested 6/17/2020 | Population 1,000,000 Seeds/A. | Row Width 15 in. | Previous Crop Corn | Tillage Vertical-Till/Disc | Herbicides Feekes 6: 0.9 oz. Harmony® Extra SG | Insecticides Feekes 6: 4 oz. Mustang® Maxx, Feekes 10.5.1: 4 oz. Mustang® Maxx, Escalate® | Total Nitrogen 100 units as UAN | Brand 730 | Soil Type Dekoven & Wakeland- Patton (Silt Loam) | Soil Test Values pH 6.6, O.M. % 2.3, CEC 10.4 | Percent Base Saturation Ca 76.2, Mg 10, K 2.3, H 11.5 | Parts Per Million P 28, K 93, S 5, Zn 3.5, Mn 40, B 0.4
PURPOSE
To examine how planting depth impacts plant population, emergence, and yield.
Planting depth has been studied for many years; however, what considerations need to be taken when deciding at what depth to plant is often forgotten about. As the ground freezes and thaws throughout the winter, it is essential that the growing point remains below the soil surface. The Kentucky PFR site experienced a rather mild winter, which is why the 1 in. planting depth may have beat last year’s winner of 2 in.
2020 RESULTS
ROW
WID
TH
PLAN
TED
POPU
LATI
ON
(SEE
DS/A
.)
SEED
S/FT
. OF
ROW
PERC
ENT
MOI
STUR
E
BU./
A.
SEED
CO
ST/A
.
NET
RETU
RN
7.5 in. Drill
1,050,000 15 19.0 70.2 $40.14 $331.221,400,000 20 19.5 70.5 $53.51 $319.441,750,000 25 19.4 69.9 $66.89 $302.882,100,000 30 19.6 68.7 $80.27 $283.15
15 in. Planter
525,000 15 19.7 69.1 $20.07 $345.47700,000 20 19.8 67.7 $26.76 $331.37875,000 25 19.8 67.3 $33.45 $322.57
1,050,000 30 19.7 63.2 $40.14 $294.19
Wheat $5.29/Bu. BECK 120brand $23.89/unit. These results are based on the disclosed study parameters and participating sites.
ROW WIDTH AND POPULATION STUDY
STUDY INFORMATION | Planted 10/14/2019 | Harvested 6/17/2020 | Population Various | Row Width Various | Previous Crop Corn | Tillage Vertical-Till/Disc | Herbicides Feekes 6: 0.9 oz. Harmony® Extra SG | Insecticides Feekes 6: 4 oz. Mustang® Maxx, Feekes 10.5.1: 4 oz. Mustang® Maxx, Escalate® | Total Nitrogen 100 units as UAN | Brand 120 | Soil Type Wakeland- Patton & Henshaw (Silt Loam) | Soil Test Values pH 6, O.M. % 2.1, CEC 8.1 | Percent Base Saturation Ca 71.5, Mg 10.8, K 2.8, H 14.8 | Parts Per Million P 45, K 89, S 6, Zn 3.5, Mn 44, B 0.4
PURPOSE
To evaluate various row spacings and populations to determine which system provides the highest return on investment per acre.
!
2-YEAR PLANTING DEPTH YIELD AVERAGE
!
2-YEAR ROW WIDTH & POPULATION NET RETURN
$444 $439$418
$402
$446 $439 $427$407
1,050,000 1,400,000 1,750,000 2,100,000 525,000 700,000 875,000 1,050,000
7.5 in. Rows 15 in. Rows
For years, industry and Universities have recommended at least 25 seeds/ft. of row when seeding wheat. PFR decided to put not only population, but also row spacing to the test. Over the last two years, the Kentucky PFR data has shown that on both 7.5 in. and 15 in. row spacings, the lowest amount of seeds/ft. of row tested (15 seeds/ft. of row) actually showed the highest return on investment. This increased our yield with more room for the plants to grow and take in water and nutrients.
89.3 90.5 88.8 88.1
0.5 in. Control: 1.0 in. 1.5 in. 2.0 in.
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FUNGICIDE STUDYFOLIAR
STUDY INFORMATION | Planted 10/14/2019 | Harvested 6/17/2020 | Population 1,500,000 Seeds/A. | Row Width 7.5 in. | Previous Crop Corn | Tillage Vertical-Till/Disc | Herbicides Feekes 6: 0.9 oz. Harmony® Extra SG | Insecticides Feekes 6: 3.4 oz. Mustang® Maxx, Escalate® | Total Nitrogen 100 units as UAN | Brand 721 | Soil Type Dekoven (Silt Loam) | Soil Test Values pH 5.7, O.M. % 2, CEC 11.8 | Percent Base Saturation Ca 56.1, Mg 11.3, K 2.2, H 30.4 | Parts Per Million P 34, K 101, S 6, Zn 3.1, Mn 38, B 0.3
PURPOSE
To evaluate the use of different fungicides, applied at different growth stages, and their effects on yield and profitability.
Some newer fungicides have a wider application timing window, and it can be confusing to not only choose a product, but to then figure out when the best time to apply the product is. Our Kentucky PFR location had very low disease pressure throughout the season and although all treatments did have a positive yield increase from a fungicide application, it was not enough to see a positive return on investment. It was noticed, however, that growth stages Feekes 10 and 10.5.1 showed the greatest yield increase.
2020 RESULTS
TREA
TMEN
TS
PERC
ENT
MOI
STUR
E
BU./
A.
BU./
A.
DIFF
EREN
CE
RETU
RN O
N IN
VEST
MEN
T
Control: No Fungicide 18.6 81.2 -- --
3 oz. Topguard® EQ @ Feekes 8 19.3 83.0 +1.8 +$0.22
13.7 oz. Miravis® Ace @ Feekes 10.5.1 19.8 85.0 +3.8 -$0.05
13.7 oz. Miravis® Ace @ Feekes 10 20.1 85.0 +3.8 -$0.05
7 oz. Nexicor™ @ Feekes 8 18.7 82.3 +1.1 -$6.33
Wheat $5.29/Bu. Nexicor™ $222.26/gal. Miravis® Ace $188.23/gal. Topguard® EQ $396.64/gal. These results are based on the disclosed study parameters and participating sites.
2020 RESULTS
TREA
TMEN
TS
PERC
ENT
MOI
STUR
E
BU./
A.
BU./
A.
DIFF
EREN
CE
RETU
RN O
N IN
VEST
MEN
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Control 18.8 88.4 -- --
4 lb. Feed Grade Dextrose @ Feekes 5 18.5 89.5 +1.1 +$3.66
4 lb. Feed Grade Dextrose @ Feekes 8 18.5 88.2 -0.2 -$3.22
4 lb. Feed Grade Dextrose @ Feekes 5 + 4 lb. Feed Grade Dextrose @ Feekes 8 18.4 86.5 -1.9 -$14.37
Wheat $5.29/Bu. Feed Grade Dextrose $0.54/lb. These results are based on the disclosed study parameters and participating sites.
SUGAR STUDYFOLIAR
STUDY INFORMATION | Planted 10/14/2019 | Harvested 6/17/2020 | Population 1,500,000 Seeds/A. | Row Width 7.5 in. | Previous Crop Corn | Tillage Vertical-Till/Disc | Herbicides Feekes 7: 0.9 oz. Harmony® Extra SG | Insecticides Feekes 6: 4 oz. Mustang® Maxx, Feekes 10.5.1: 4 oz. Mustang® Maxx, Escalate® | Total Nitrogen 100 units as UAN | Brand 730 | Soil Type Dekoven (Silt Loam) | Soil Test Values pH 6.1, O.M. % 2.4, CEC 11.7 | Percent Base Saturation Ca 67.2, Mg 9.9, K 2.5, H 20.5 | Parts Per Million P 35, K 112, S 6, Zn 3.4, Mn 35, B 0.3
PURPOSE
To evaluate the use of feed grade dextrose, applied at two different growth stages, and its effect on yield and profitability.
Over the last several years, sugar has been a hot topic due to its low input cost and positive results in corn and soybean research. Both last year and this year, adding sugar into the tank during the herbicide application at the Feekes 5 growth stage has shown to be profitable. At this timing the plant is going through stem elongation and rapid vegetative growth; therefore, the addition of sugar is thought to provide the plant with extra energy.
!
2-YEAR FUNGICIDE RETURN ON INVESTMENT
$9.33$6.50
13.7 oz. Miravis® Ace @ Feekes 10.5.1 7 oz. Nexicor™ @ Feekes 8
!
2-YEAR SUGAR RETURN ON INVESTMENT
$4.58
-$6.26 -$7.05Feekes 5 Feekes 8 Feekes 5 + Feekes 8
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2020 Beck’s Practical Farm Research | 17
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RN IL
OHIO
IOW
ACO
OPER
ATOR
INDE
XM
ULTI
INDI
ANA
KENT
UCKY
16 | 2020 Beck’s Practical Farm Research
2020 RESULTS
TREA
TMEN
TS
PERC
ENT
MOI
STUR
E
BU./
A.
BU./
A.
DIFF
EREN
CE
RETU
RN O
N IN
VEST
MEN
T
Control 17.3 87.1 -- --
4 gal. Thio-Sul® (12-0-0-26S) @ Feekes 3 17.1 82.4 -4.7 -$32.10
4 gal. Thio-Sul® (12-0-0-26S) @ Feekes 5 17.1 84.6 -2.5 -$20.47
2 gal. Thio-Sul® (12-0-0-26S) @ Feekes 3 + 2 gal. Thio-Sul®
(12-0-0-26S) @ Feekes 517.4 84.5 -2.6 -$20.99
Wheat $5.29/Bu. Thio-Sul® (12-0-0-26S) $1.81/gal. These results are based on the disclosed study parameters and participating sites.
SULFUR STUDY
STUDY INFORMATION | Planted 10/14/2019 | Harvested 6/17/2020 | Population 1,500,000 Seeds/A. | Row Width 7.5 in. | Previous Crop Corn | Tillage Vertical-Till/Disc | Herbicides Feekes 6: 0.9 oz. Harmony® Extra SG | Insecticides Feekes 6: 4 oz. Mustang® Maxx, Feekes 10.5.1: 4 oz. Mustang® Maxx, Escalate® | Total Nitrogen 100 units as UAN | Brand 726 | Soil Type Dekoven & Wakeland- Patton (Silt Loam) | Soil Test Values pH 6.2, O.M. % 2.3, CEC 11.1 | Percent Base Saturation Ca 75.6, Mg 11, K 2.5, H 10.8 | Parts Per Million P 36, K 110, S 6, Zn 3, Mn 38, B 0.4
PURPOSE
To evaluate the use of sulfur, applied at different growth stages, and its effect on yield and profitability.
Our PFR research shows that sulfur (S) applications can help nitrogen (N) be more efficient, and there is an increasing need to apply with the amount of atmospheric S on the decline. This was the first year testing S on wheat, at both the Feekes 3 and Feekes 5 growth stages, which is when a typical N application would be made. Although positive results were not seen this year at our Kentucky PFR location, the Feekes 3 growth stage (tillering) did see positive results over multi-locations; therefore, more studies may be done in the future to see if this can be a profitable practice.
2020 RESULTS
PLAN
TING
DE
PTH
(IN.
)
PERC
ENT
MOI
STUR
E
BU./
A.
BU./
A.
DIFF
EREN
CE
0.5 12.7 109.2 -5.7
Control: 1.0 12.7 115.0 --
1.5 11.9 114.9 -0.1
2.0 12.5 111.5 -3.4
These results are based on the disclosed study parameters and participating sites.
PLANTING DEPTH STUDY
STUDY INFORMATION | Planted 10/5/2019 | Harvested 6/26/2020 | Population 1,500,000 Seeds/A. | Row Width 15 in. | Previous Crop Soybeans | Tillage Vertical-Till | Herbicides Feekes 5: 0.9 oz. Harmony® Extra SG | Insecticides Feekes 10.5: 4 oz. Mustang® Maxx, Escalate® | Total Nitrogen 100 units as UAN | Brand 721 | Soil Type Cisne (Silt Loam) | Soil Test Values pH 5.7, O.M. % 3.3, CEC 8.9 | Percent Base Saturation Ca 53.6, Mg 17.4, K 1.9, H 27.1 | Parts Per Million P 31, K 67, S 8, Zn 6.3, Mn 38, B 0.4
PURPOSE
To examine how planting depth impacts plant population, emergence, and yield.
The fall of 2019 brought on dry conditions at the time of planting at the SIL PFR site. With that in mind, planting depth showed some larger swings than in past years at the 0.5 in. depth. What stood out the most was the fact that the wheat took nearly three weeks to emerge across all depths and the 0.5 in. depth struggled the most due to having the least amount of moisture in the soil profile. Three-year data now shows us the 1 in. depth has maximized our yields at the SIL PFR site!
3-YEAR PLANTING DEPTH YIELD AVERAGE
!!
103.2 104.4 102.8 101.9
0.5 in. Control: 1.0 in. 1.5 in. 2.0 in.
KENT
UCKY
KENTUCKYCE
NTRA
L IL
OHIO
IOW
ACO
OPER
ATOR
INDE
XCENTRAL IL
OHIOIOW
ACOOPERATOR
INDEXM
ULTIMUL
TIIN
DIAN
A INDIANASO
UTHE
RN IL
SOUTHERN IL
18 | 2020 Beck’s Practical Farm Research 2020 Beck’s Practical Farm Research | 19
2020 RESULTS
CLOS
ING
WHE
ELS
OPTI
MUM
PR
ESSU
RE
SETT
ING
PERC
ENT
MOI
STUR
E
BU./
A.
BU./
A.
DIFF
EREN
CE
Control: 2 Solid Rubbers 2nd Notch 13.7 92.4 --
2 Yetter Poly Twisters 1st Notch 13.6 96.8 +4.4
2 Schaffert Zipper™ 1st Notch 14.1 95.2 +2.8
2 SI Distributing Finger-Till 1st Notch 13.2 92.8 +0.4
These results are based on the disclosed study parameters and participating sites.
CLOSING WHEEL STUDY
STUDY INFORMATION | Planted 10/14/2019 | Harvested 6/26/2020 | Population 1,000,000 Seeds/A. | Row Width 15 in. | Previous Crop Soybeans | Tillage Vertical-Till | Herbicides Feekes 5: 0.9 oz. Harmony® Extra SG | Insecticides Feekes 10.5: 4 oz. Mustang® Maxx, Escalate® | Total Nitrogen 100 units as UAN | Brand 702 | Soil Type Newberry (Silt Loam) | Soil Test Values pH 6.8, O.M. % 2, CEC 6.3 | Percent Base Saturation Ca 71.3, Mg 23.1, K 2.6, H 3 | Parts Per Million P 31, K 64, S 8, Zn 1.7, Mn 42, B 0.3
PURPOSE
To evaluate the use of different closing wheels and their effects on emergence and yield.
It is no surprise that after-market closing wheels have shown an advantage compared to standard rubber wheels. We have mentioned over the years the benefits seen by utilizing them and once again, the yields have reflected the agronomics with the Yetter Poly Twister wheels leading the pack. The simple switch of closing wheels is becoming a no brainer in wheat!
2020 RESULTS
TREA
TMEN
TS
PERC
ENT
MOI
STUR
E
BU./
A.
BU./
A.
DIFF
EREN
CE
RETU
RN O
N IN
VEST
MEN
T
Control 11.3 107.9 -- --
4 lb. Feed Grade Dextrose @ Feekes 5 12.0 109.1 +1.2 +$4.19
4 lb. Feed Grade Dextrose @ Feekes 8 11.4 109.9 +2.0 +$8.42
4 lb. Feed Grade Dextrose @ Feekes 5 + 4 lb. Feed Grade Dextrose @ Feekes 8 11.0 111.2 +3.3 +$13.14
Wheat $5.29/Bu. Feed Grade Dextrose $0.54/lb. These results are based on the disclosed study parameters and participating sites.
SUGAR STUDYFOLIAR
STUDY INFORMATION | Planted 10/5/2019 | Harvested 6/26/2020 | Population 1,500,000 Seeds/A. | Row Width 7.5 in. | Previous Crop Soybeans | Tillage Vertical-Till | Herbicides Feekes 5: 0.9 oz. Harmony® Extra SG | Insecticides Feekes 10.5: 4 oz. Mustang® Maxx, Escalate® | Total Nitrogen 100 units as UAN | Brand 730 | Soil Type Newberry (Silt Loam) | Soil Test Values pH 6.6, O.M. % 2.1, CEC 4.5 | Percent Base Saturation Ca 71.7, Mg 24.8, K 3.5, H 0 | Parts Per Million P 31, K 62, S 6, Zn 1.5, Mn 38, B 0.3
PURPOSE
To evaluate the use of feed grade dextrose, applied at two different growth stages, and its effect on yield and profitability.
Prior sugar research has shown positive gains in both corn and soybeans at SIL PFR. With 2019 being the first season of sugar applications in wheat, results were also positive, but now another year of data indicates that sweetening the mix up is not only beneficial to yield, but also to return on investment. The two-year data indicates that throwing low cost sugar in the tank can definitely add to the bottom line.
!
2-YEAR CLOSING WHEEL YIELD AVERAGE
4.2
1.7 1.4
2 Yetter Poly Twisters 2 Schaffert Zipper™ 2 SI Distributing Finger-Till
!
2-YEAR SUGAR RETURN ON INVESTMENT
$4.59
$12.31$8.75
Feekes 5 Feekes 8 Feekes 5 + Feekes 8
SOUTHERN ILKENTUCKY
CENTRAL ILIOW
ACOOPERATOR
INDEXM
ULTIINDIANA
OHIO
2020 Beck’s Practical Farm Research | 21
KENT
UCKY
CENT
RAL
ILOH
IOIO
WA
COOP
ERAT
ORIN
DEX
MUL
TIIN
DIAN
ASO
UTHE
RN IL
20 | 2020 Beck’s Practical Farm Research
2020 RESULTS
TREA
TMEN
TS
PERC
ENT
MOI
STUR
E
BU./
A.
BU./
A.
DIFF
EREN
CE
RETU
RN O
N IN
VEST
MEN
T
Control 11.8 98.9 -- --
4 gal. Thio-Sul® (12-0-0-26S) @ Feekes 3 11.4 103.5 +4.6 +$17.10
4 gal. Thio-Sul® (12-0-0-26S) @ Feekes 5 11.6 105.6 +6.7 +$28.20
2 gal. Thio-Sul® (12-0-0-26S) @ Feekes 3 + 2 gal. Thio-Sul®
(12-0-0-26S) @ Feekes 511.7 103.5 +4.6 +$17.10
Wheat $5.29/Bu. Thio-Sul® (12-0-0-26S) $1.81/gal. These results are based on the disclosed study parameters and participating sites.
SULFUR STUDY
STUDY INFORMATION | Planted 10/5/2019 | Harvested 6/26/2020 | Population 1,500,000 Seeds/A. | Row Width 7.5 in. | Previous Crop Soybeans | Tillage Vertical-Till | Herbicides Feekes 5: 0.9 oz. Harmony® Extra SG | Insecticides Feekes 10.5: 4 oz. Mustang® Maxx, Escalate® | Total Nitrogen 100 units as UAN | Brand 726 | Soil Type Newberry (Silt Loam) | Soil Test Values pH 6.6, O.M. % 2.1, CEC 4.5 | Percent Base Saturation Ca 71.7, Mg 24.8, K 3.5, H 0 | Parts Per Million P 31, K 62, S 6, Zn 1.5, Mn 38, B 0.3
PURPOSE
To evaluate the use of sulfur, applied at different growth stages, and its effect on yield and profitability.
History has produced mixed results for sulfur (S) applications in wheat at the SIL PFR site. Products such as AMS have been used but have not shown an advantage. This year, we may have found the right product to make S applications profitable. Initial results show that regardless of the application rate or timing, the addition of Thio-Sul® was a smart investment for 2020!
2020 RESULTS
PLAN
TING
DA
TE
PERC
ENT
MOI
STUR
E
BU./
A.
September 27 15.0 93.3
October 9 15.8 93.9
October 18 15.6 91.2
These results are based on the disclosed study parameters and participating sites.
PLANTING DATE STUDY
STUDY INFORMATION | Planted Various | Harvested 7/2/2020 | Population 1,500,000 Seeds/A. | Row Width 7.5 in. | Previous Crop Soybeans | Tillage No-Till | Herbicides None | Insecticides Escalate® | Total Nitrogen 90 units as UAN | Brand 702 | Soil Type Crosby-Lewisburg (Silt Loam) | Soil Test Values pH 6.5, O.M. % 2.4, CEC 11 | Percent Base Saturation Ca 56.8, Mg 28.8, K 3.5, H 10.9 | Parts Per Million P 45, K 148, S 6, Zn 2, Mn 53, B 0.3
PURPOSE
To determine the optimum planting date window by planting on multiple dates throughout the growing season.
Large visual differences were observed in growth before winter dormancy, yet yields were very similar between all three planting dates tested. The exceptionally mild winter experienced at the OH PFR site resulted in no winter heaving or stand loss and likely contributed to the minimal yield differences.
3-YEAR PLANTING DATE YIELD AVERAGE
! !
92.389.4
82.8
September 27 - October 4 October 5 - 17 October 18 - 31
SOUT
HERN
ILSOUTHERN IL
KENT
UCKY
KENTUCKYCE
NTRA
L IL
IOW
ACO
OPER
ATOR
INDE
XCENTRAL IL
IOWA
COOPERATORINDEX
MULTIM
ULTI
INDI
ANA INDIANA
OHIO
OHIO
22 | 2020 Beck’s Practical Farm Research 2020 Beck’s Practical Farm Research | 23
2020 RESULTS
ROW
WID
TH
PLAN
TED
POPU
LATI
ON
(SEE
DS/A
.)
SEED
S/FT
. OF
ROW
PERC
ENT
MOI
STUR
E
BU./
A.
SEED
CO
ST/A
.
NET
RETU
RN
7.5 in. Drill
1,050,000 15 13.7 89.1 $40.14 $431.20
1,400,000 20 13.8 91.6 $53.51 $431.05
1,750,000 25 13.0 92.0 $66.89 $419.79
2,100,000 30 13.7 93.4 $80.27 $413.82
15 in. Planter
525,000 15 14.2 73.9 $20.07 $370.86
700,000 20 13.8 77.8 $26.76 $384.80
875,000 25 13.8 80.8 $33.45 $393.98
1,050,000 30 13.8 81.5 $40.14 $391.00
Wheat $5.29/Bu. BECK 120brand $23.89/unit. These results are based on the disclosed study parameters and participating sites.
ROW WIDTH AND POPULATION STUDY
STUDY INFORMATION | Planted 10/2/2019 | Harvested 7/2/2020 | Population Various | Row Width Various | Previous Crop Soybeans | Tillage No-Till | Herbicides None | Insecticides Escalate® | Total Nitrogen 90 units as UAN | Brand 120 | Soil Type Crosby-Lewisburg (Silt Loam) | Soil Test Values pH 5.6, O.M. % 2.1, CEC 7.6 | Percent Base Saturation Ca 43, Mg 21.5, K 3.7, H 31.8 | Parts Per Million P 41, K 109, S 7, Zn 1.7, Mn 46, B 0.2
PURPOSE
To evaluate various row spacings and populations to determine which system provides the highest return on investment per acre.
The narrower row spacing proved to be beneficial with yields consistently favoring the 7.5 in. drilled entries. Although the planter gives an advantage in depth control and seed placement, being able to push planting populations with narrow rows proved more beneficial. It’s worth noting that in the drilled treatments, the population that resulted in the highest yield also resulted in the lowest net return once seed costs were factored in.
2-YEAR MIRAVIS® ACE (FEEKES 10.5.1) ROI
2020 RESULTS
TREA
TMEN
TS
PERC
ENT
MOI
STUR
E
BU./
A.
BU./
A.
DIFF
EREN
CE
RETU
RN O
N IN
VEST
MEN
T
Control: No Fungicide 16.1 89.9 -- --
13.7 oz. Miravis® Ace @ Feekes 10.3 18.5 103.0 +13.1 +$49.15
13.7 oz. Miravis® Ace @ Feekes 10.5.1 18.6 102.9 +13.0 +$48.62
7 oz. Nexicor™ @ Feekes 8 16.1 100.9 +11.0 +$46.04
3 oz. Topguard® EQ @ Feekes 8 15.3 94.3 +4.4 +$13.98
Wheat $5.29/Bu. Nexicor™ $222.26/gal. Miravis® Ace $188.23/gal. Topguard® EQ $396.64/gal. These results are based on the disclosed study parameters and participating sites.
FUNGICIDE STUDYFOLIAR
STUDY INFORMATION | Planted 10/1/2019 | Harvested 7/2/2020 | Population 1,500,000 Seeds/A. | Row Width 7.5 in. | Previous Crop Soybeans | Tillage No-Till | Herbicides None | Insecticides Escalate® | Total Nitrogen 90 units as UAN | Brand 730 | Soil Type Crosby-Lewisburg (Silt Loam) | Soil Test Values pH 6.4, O.M. % 3.5, CEC 16 | Percent Base Saturation Ca 56.3, Mg 25.8, K 2.9, H 15 | Parts Per Million P 48, K 183, S 5, Zn 2.1, Mn 34, B 0.5
PURPOSE
To evaluate the use of different fungicides, applied at different growth stages, and their effects on yield and profitability.
Typically in Ohio, a fungicide application made during early flowering (Feekes 10.5.1) will provide the most consistent return on investment. However, this year some fungicides targeting flag leaf emergence (Feekes 8) also provided an equally consistent benefit. This was in large part due to an atypical hot and dry grain fill period. Earlier fungicide applications made at Feekes 8 were able to sustain disease suppression until the environment was no longer favorable for significant disease development.
!$42.17
$48.62 $45.40
2019 2020 2-Year Average
3-YEAR NEXICOR™ (FEEKES 8) ROI
$1.49
$24.93
$46.04
$24.15
2018 2019 2020 3-Year Average
!
$448 $443$427 $424
$395$412 $420 $421
1,050,000 1,400,000 1,750,000 2,100,000 525,000 700,000 875,000 1,050,000
7.5 in. Rows 15 in. Rows
2-YEAR ROW WIDTH & POPULATION NET RETURN
Caramba® and Nexicor™ are trademarks of BASF. Prosaro® is a registered trademark of Bayer. Escalate®, the Escalate logo, Practical Farm Research (PFR)®, and PFR Proven™ are trademarks of Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. Harmony® is a registered trademark of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. Mustang® and Topguard® are registered trademarks of FMC Corporation. Finger-Till closing wheels are distributed by S.I. Distributing, Inc. Zipper™ is a trademark of Schaffert Mfg. Co., Inc. Miravis® and Palisade® are registered trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company. Thio-Sul® is a registered trademark of Tessenderlo Kerley, Inc. Yetter Poly Twisters are manufactured by Yetter Manufacturing Company, Inc.