Across the corn belt depending on time of year | Actually, the different seed companies are not opposing biocontrol nematodes which is a big win. They realize that it makes their products look better. Biocontrol nematodes were never to replace traits, but to enhance their activity and improve trait durability against a really tough insect. Unofficially, several seed companies are encouraging farmers with failures to seriously consider biocontrol nematodes. In one case, the farmer received assistance with the purchase of nematodes.
Biocontrol nematodes sound so much like foo foo dust that growers and other colleagues have a wait and see attitude even though my Univ colleagues have watched it develop for 20+ years. Recommendations by third parties carry a liability risk and nobody wants to expose themselves to that risk. In the cutthroat world of Ag business, the lack of opposition is a big plus.
When farmers try biocontrol nematodes, we have a 95% return rate for the purchase of more nematodes. This is the reason for the 50% off for 65ac offer. We want you to put them on your worst rootworm field and only treat half the field. See for yourself without sales pressure. Sometimes with the variable nature of rootworm, you will not see results until year 2 or 3, but you will be back for more.
My biggest win: A farmer in Western Nebraska applied biocontrol nematodes to his worst rootworm pivot. It was chronically bad! It took 3 growing seasons with reduced rootworm damage each year, but he finally admitted that nematodes had value. He treated a second pivot a couple of years ago and reduced rootworm significantly. He just ordered more nematodes for a Labor day application. |
rootworm damage on CRW corn paid for by seed companies
