Farmer tackles weed challenges: New technology used in soybean planting

LAFAYETTE, Ind. — A farmer in west-central Indiana planted Asgrow XtendFlex soybeans for the first time April 6.

Cory Peabody has experienced weed challenges on his farm, including lambsquarter, marestail, giant ragweed and waterhemp.

The new soybean traits are triple-stacked, helping tackle weed challenges on his farm.

“The most beneficial aspect of using the new platform is being able to use glyphosate, glufosinate and dicamba,” Peabody said. “It just gives you so many more options in different weather and planting conditions. It really helps.”

Peabody is planting variety AG27X1 treated with Acceleron Elite seed treatment on all of his soybean acres.

The farm also has experienced frogeye leaf spot. Peabody uses Delaro fungicide to combat it and increase yields.

“I think Delaro increased our yields by at least 10 bushels,” he said.

Peabody works with his seed representative, Pat Haan, and seed dealer Ceres Solutions in Templeton to implement the latest technologies on the farm.

“Pat has really helped our operation and place different varieties where they need to be on different soil types — and that’s really maximized our yield potential,” Peabody said.

Technology is important for the Peabody family farm.

“We’re an operation that likes to use new technology,” he said. “Our goal every year is to increase yields. And Asgrow has done that for us.”

For more information, visit Asgrow.com/XtendFlex.

Stewardship Program Facts

• To prepare for the 2021 launch, Asgrow XtendFlex products were tested in nationwide field trials.

• The Asgrow XtendFlex Stewarded Grower Introduction Program provides select farmers in the program an opportunity to experience the technology prior to full trait approval in a managed stewarded environment.

• The program was a success, allowing select farmers to experience the technology on their own farms, including the herbicide flexibility from added tolerance to glufosinate and high-yield performance.