The 2024 growing season has officially arrived. Farmers across the Corn Belt are either in the field or raring to go, and they all have something in common: plans for a successful season.

Farming is an unpredictable lifestyle, but farmers are excellent pupils who learn from experience. The 2023 growing season threw us all some curveballs, but we learned a thing or two in the process.

Taking what worked in 2023 and applying those lessons to the upcoming season can provide us with a blueprint for a successful season as the planters start rolling out.

What exactly did we learn, and how can we utilize that knowledge to guide us this year? Here are a few thoughts from our team:

Risk Mitigation Works

It may be “the basics” from your farm management class, but managing risk is a fundamental aspect of any great farming operation. Spreading out your risk usually results in a more successful season overall. 

In 2023, we learned it’s best not to put all your eggs into one basket.

For grain farmers, that means planting more hybrids. The more unique hybrids you have on the farm, the better chance you have of hitting the number one yield at harvest time. Plus, by utilizing multiple hybrids, you mitigate disease and weather-related risks. If a specific disease becomes prevalent across your entire farm, having multiple hybrids on board lessens the risk that the disease will negatively affect all your acres.

Planting multiple hybrids also hedges your farm against unpredictable weather conditions. According to extension experts with the University of Minnesota, planting multiple hybrids “reduces the probability that an entire crop will experience hot and dry conditions during the critical pollination period.

It’s basic, but essential. According to Mark Licht with Iowa State University, “It’s better to ensure you have a broad-based trait portfolio.” Risk mitigation starts with more hybrids. 

Genetics are Your Friend

We all love farming in our comfort zone. There’s that one hybrid that just seems to consistently knock it out of the park. Sure, it may not perform well on every acre or in every season, but we’re used to it, and it usually does the job.

“Old Faithful” is probably a great hybrid. But the “new kid” on the block might be exactly what your farm needs. 

Genetics are designed to solve problems. Researchers and breeders spend years specifically developing hybrids to help farmers in times of need. The capabilities of modern genetics are outstanding, and these hybrids deliver that extra punch farmers need to face today’s unique challenges.

Go into this season open-minded. Question the norm. What worked well for your farm last year? What didn’t work well? What pressures will your acres face this year? Figure out what challenges you need solutions for, and the right genetics you need are there waiting in the bag.

It’s time to get uncomfortable. Meet your challenges head-on this season with the appropriate genetics.

Take The Holistic Approach

Holistic: it may be a trendy word, but it’s also a surefire method to move you toward a successful season. 

When choosing hybrids for each unique acre, you need to take a holistic approach. The right soil, the right fertilizer, the right planting date, the right treatments and the right methods all factor into selecting the right hybrid. 

What’s unique about this field? What hybrid will work best? What support does that hybrid need?

That holistic approach worked for farmers in 2023, and it will help make 2024 successful too.

Increase Your Odds of Winning

Planting an assortment of hybrids. Trusting the genetics. Holistically selecting the best hybrids. 

All of these will help you nail down a successful season — but the key is knowing who to turn to for advice.

A great working relationship with your agronomist is vital for success in 2024. They’ll have insight into the best genetics. They’ll help you balance the needs of your acres with the right hybrids, fertilizers and protection products. They’ll offer advice on how to mitigate risk throughout the growing season.

They’re a friend. A partner. Someone in your corner who can increase your odds of winning this season. Working together, the two of you can draw up your personalized blueprints for a successful 2024.