TABLE OF CONTENTS - Beck's Hybrids [PDF]

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2009 INDEPENDENT TEST RESULTS F.I.R.S.T. Results Purdue University University of Kentucky University of Illinois Michigan State University

MULTI-YEAR COMPARISONS Corn Summary Soybean Summary

Page 6 7 7 7 7 Page 8-14 15-19

PRACTICAL CORN RESEARCH Agronomic Research Studies and Plots Arcadia Corn Plot “Choices” Show Plot Atlanta Corn Plot 300 Bushel Attempt Corn Irrigation Plot Advanced Hybrid Corn Plot in HP and MP Soils Corn Fungicide Study 20” vs. 30” Row Show Plot 20” vs. 30” Row Population Study Corn Trait Population Study Flex-Ear Population Study Corn Planting Date Summary Corn Replant Study Zone-Till vs. Conv.-Till Long Range Study (CAB) Zone-Till vs. Conv.-Till Continuous Corn Study Strip-Till vs. Conv.-Till Study Purdue Nitrogen Rate Study Herbicide Sensitivity Study Lime Study on Corn Gypsum Study Gypsum Study in Zone-Till Tile & Strip Crop Study

Tiling Study Quality Trait Products Corn Silage Study

Page 20 20 21 22-23 24 25 26-27 28-29 30-31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47

PRACTICAL ALFALFA RESEARCH Alfalfa Products

48-49

PRACTICAL SOYBEAN RESEARCH Agronomic Research Studies and Plots Office Soybean Variety Plot Atlanta Show Plot Arcadia Show Plot 15” Row Show Plot Clark Soybean Study High School Educational Plot Advanced Soybeans in No-Till and Conv.-Till LL vs. RR 100 Bushel Showdown Soybean Irrigation Plot 100 Bushel Soybean Study on HP & MP Soil 100 Bushel Soybean Management Study

Page 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 57 58 59

PRACTICAL SOYBEAN RESEARCH – CONT. Agronomic Research Studies and Plots Foliar Fungicide Study Rancona™ Study Sure Gro™ vs. Untreated - Mid April Planting LL Row Spacing & Population Study Soybean Planting Date Study No-Till vs. Conv.-Till Long Range Study (BAC) Strip-Till vs. Conv.-Till Study Traditional vs. RR vs. LL Systems Lime Study on Soybeans No-Till Double Crop Soybeans after Wheat

Page 60 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68

SOUTHERN PRACTICAL CORN RESEARCH Agronomic Research Studies and Plots Corn After Soybeans Show Plot Corn After Corn Show Plot Corn Rootworm Control Study 300 Bushel Attempt Quality Trait Products® Corn Fungicide Study 20” vs. 30” Row Population Study Corn Planting Date Summary Corn Replant Study Tillage Study Corn Nitrogen Timing Study Optimum Nitrogen Rate Study PSNT Study Torque™ Study Herbicide Study Invisible Yield Loss Study

Page 70 71 71 72 73 74-75 76-77 78 79 80-81 82 83 84 85 86-87 87

SOUTHERN PRACTICAL SOYBEAN RESEARCH Agronomic Research Studies and Plots Soybean Show Plot LibertyLink® & Conventional Soybeans 100 Bushel Attempt Foliar Fungicide & Insecticide Study Foliar Feed Study Fungicide & Insecticide Seed Treatment on Soybeans Optimize® on Soybeans Row Width Population Study Soybean Planting Date Study P & K Study (BAC & CAB) Double Crop Soybean Population Study Double Crop Foliar Feed Study Double Crop Foliar Fungicide Study Double Crop Wheat/Soybean System Study

Page 88 88 89 90-91 91 92 92 93 94 95 96 96 97 98-99

ILLINOIS PRACTICAL CORN RESEARCH Agronomic Research Studies and Plots Corn Show Plot 300 Bushel Attempt Fungicide Study

Page 100 101 102-103

5

TABLE OF CONTENTS ILLINOIS PRACTICAL CORN RESEARCH – CONT. Page Agronomic Research Studies and Plots Surfactant Crop Injury Study Ethylene Management Study Row Width & Population Study Corn Trait & Population Study Triple Stack Corn with Soil-Applied Insecticide Corn Planting Date Study Corn Replant Study Nitrogen Enhancement Study University of IL Nitrogen Rate Study Avail® Study Nitrogen Timing Study (CAB & CAC) Torque Study Starter Fertilizer Study Gypsum Study Airforce™ Planter Study Crop Rotation Tillage Study Frost Study Hail Study Waxy Show Plot Quality Trait Products®

104 105 106-107 108-109 109 110 111 112-113 114-115 115 116 117 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124

ILLINOIS PRACTICAL SOYBEAN RESEARCH Page Agronomic Research Studies and Plots Soybean Show Plot 100 Bushel Attempt Soybean Max Grow Study Soybean Plant Health Study Soybean Stratego® / Leverage® Study Ethylene Management Study Foliar Fertilizer Study Row Width Population Study Planting Date Study Manganese Study Optimize Study Crop Health Imaging Project Leaf Wetness Fungicide Study

125 126-127 127 128 129 130 131 132-133 134 135 135 136-141 142-144

NEW SOUTHERN ILLINOIS PFR LOCATION INFORMATION

145

Escalate™ yield enhancement system

146-151

6

2009 INDEPENDENT TEST RESULTS  

 

 

 

 

 

F.I.R.S.T. (Farmers Independent Research of Seed Technologies) Corn

% Mois.

Bu./A.

Rank

Indiana North Full - La Crosse Indiana North Full - Marion Indiana Central Early - Windfall Indiana Central Full - Otterbein Indiana South Early - Folsomville Indiana South Early - Versailles

32.1 26.2 26.0 19.6 30.2 31.5

222.3 209.3 231.5 277.9 228.6 269.5

1st out of 45 8th out of 45 4th out of 48 3rd out of 48 3rd out of 42 3rd out of 42

Ohio BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5779VT3

Ohio North West Early - Fayette Ohio North West Early - Bloomdale Ohio North West Full - Bloomdale Ohio North West Full - Dunkirk Ohio West Central Early - Celina Ohio West Central Full - Celina

22.6 22.5 27.1 24.4 16.0 17.4

158.2 169.2 178.6 199.4 155.2 158.5

5th out of 36 6th out of 36 3rd out of 36 4th out of 36 2nd out of 36 1st out of 36

Illinois BECK 5244VT3 BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5442VT3

Illinois North Early - Sublette Illinois North Full - Sublette Illinois North Full - Sublette Illinois West Central Early - Virden Illinois South Early - Flora

32.2 33.5 34.0 20.9 19.2

267.7 270.5 265.0 253.9 231.2

3rd out of 90 2nd out of 90 3rd out of 90 3rd out of 81 7th out of 66

Brand Indiana BECK 5716A3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5779VT3

Test/Location

Soybeans Indiana BECK 322NR™* BECK 296NR BECK 322NR™* BECK 325NR™* BECK 355R™* BECK 355R™* BECK 362NR™* BECK 355R™*

Indiana North - La Crosse Indiana North - La Crosse Indiana North - New Paris Indiana North - Roanoke Indiana North - Roanoke Indiana North - Wolcott Indiana Central - Windfall Indiana Central - Windfall

73.1 70.1 59.6 61.4 58.9 69.0 72.8 71.8

1st out of 36 6th out of 36 3rd out of 36 3rd out of 36 5th out of 36 4th out of 36 3rd out of 35 6th out of 35

Ohio BECK 362NR™*

Ohio North West - Leipsic

47.3

5th out of 24

Illinois BECK 244NR™* BECK 244NR™* BECK 355R™* BECK 362NR™* BECK 325NR™* BECK 460NR BECK 460NR

Illinois North - Milledgeville Illinois North - Grand Ridge Illinois North Central - Towanda Illinois North Central - Towanda Illinois North Central - Easton Illinois South - Jewett Illinois South - Vandalia

46.9 45.1 58.4 58.1 59.7 59.1 63.5

1st out of 54 5th out of 54 3rd out of 60 4th out of 60 4th out of 60 6th out of 42 4th out of 42

7

2009 INDEPENDENT TEST RESULTS (continued) University Results Purdue University CORN

Brand BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5608VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5435™* BECK 5354HXR™*

Test/Location Northern Mid - Milford Northern Mid - DeMotte Northern Late - Columbia City Northern Late - Milford Northern Late - DeMotte Central Early - Rushville

%Mois. 25.0 25.1 26.5 29.6 22.6 18.4

Bu./A. 267.0 256.0 236.0 253.0 242.0 234.0

Rank 6th out of 60 6th out of 60 1st out of 45 5th out of 45 5th out of 45 3rd out of 38

60.7 57.9 62.6 64.8 68.3 57.2 65.9 58.6 62.6

4th out of 20 1st out of 43 1st out of 54 2nd out of 54 4th out of 38 5th out of 38 3rd out of 35 1st out of 26 4th out of 26

27.8 23.6 25.6 34.1 32.1

227.3 225.6 243.4 212.9 210.2

1st out of 61 1st out of 61 4th out of 61 9th out of 61 11th out of 61

16.6 18.3

218.3 219.5

6th out of 30 3rd out of 28

84.4 85.8 80.9

4th out of 68 5th out of 68 6th out of 68

226.0 241.0 284.0 271.0

3rd out of 93 8th out of 153 5th out of 134 4th out of 131

69.9 75.0

2nd out of 168 1st out of 96

SOYBEANS BECK 244NR™* BECK 325NR™* BECK 355R™* BECK 355R™* BECK 399NR BECK 342NR BECK 362NR™* BECK 400NR™* BECK 445NR Michigan State University CORN BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5135HXR™*

Northeast Early - Columbia City Northeast Mid - Farmland Northwest Late - Summary Northwest Late - W. Lafayette Southern Early - Butlerville Southern Early - Vincennes Southern Mid - Vincennes Southern Late - Vincennes Southern Late - Butlerville

Early Trial Average Early - Cass Early - Lenawee Early - Branch Early - Branch

University of Kentucky CORN BECK 5779VT3 Early Hybrids - Two Year Avg BECK 6733HXR™* Medium Hybrids - Two Year Avg SOYBEANS BECK 414N Early Group IV - Fayette Co. BECK 445NR Early Group IV - McLean Co. BECK 445NR Early Group IV - Warren Co. University of Illinois CORN BECK 5473A3 South Region BECK 6733HXR™* Goodfield BECK 5442VT3 Erie BECK 5608VT3 New Berlin SOYBEANS BECK 355R™* Urbana - Maturity Group 3 BECK 445NR Region 5 - Maturity Group 4 *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

 

18.5 31.7 25.0 22.6

8

CORN SUMMARY Multi-Year Yield Comparisons of Various Products (Includes Farmer Plots, BECK'S Research, and University Data) Dollar advantage per acre is calculated using $3.60/Bu. pricing and drying costs of $0.04 per point of moisture per bushel. Waxy dollar advantage per acre is calculated using $4.20/Bu.

BECK 5335HXR™* Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand 2 70 BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 5112VT3

BECK 5435HXR™* Comparisons

% $/Acre Bu/A Moist. Adv. Yrs Plots Brand 202.3 21.8 $5.59 1 27 BECK 5435HXR™* 197.3 20.4 BECK 4807VT3

% $/Acre Bu/A Moist. Adv. 234.1 25.9 $26.90 223.9 25.3

2

106 BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 5135HXR™*

215.1 210.2

24.5 23.6

$8.21 1

22

BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5112VT3

218.8 204.9

25.6 24.7

$36.77

2

72

BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 5316HXR

199.4 201.3

20.2 21.1

$0.80 1

9

BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5316HXR

197.6 182.8

25.9 27.4

$57.80

2

228 BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 5608VT3

218.7 218.2

23.0 24.0

$10.37 1

176 BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5335HXR™*

220.3 217.8

24.3 24.3

$8.07

2

175 BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 5616VT3

209.6 209.6

21.3 22.0

$5.87 1

157 BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5354HXR™*

222.4 223.7

24.5 25.1

$1.18

1

135 BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 5676HXR™*

214.2 209.4

23.3 25.8

$36.63 1

201 BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5444VT3

224.0 223.2

24.7 25.8

$12.39

1

136 BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 5779VT3

215.0 219.9

23.4 25.0

-$1.92 1

193 BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5608VT3

221.4 216.0

24.3 25.7

$29.53

1

47

BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 5784RR

223.4 220.3

24.5 26.4

$26.72 1

67

BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5616VT3

223.6 221.5

24.5 26.2

$21.82

2

270 BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™*

212.8 221.8

21.7 25.0

-$0.71 1

163 BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5676HXR™*

219.4 213.9

23.8 26.5

$40.97

2

7

BECK 5335HXR™* Dekalb DKC54-49

235.2 216.7

21.1 18.1

$36.08 1

12

BECK 5435HXR™* Dekalb DKC55-64

235.4 211.4

26.1 24.6

$63.06

1

12

BECK 5335HXR™* Dekalb DKC55-64

227.9 211.4

26.3 24.6

$37.57 1

133 BECK 5435HXR™* Dekalb DKC63-42

222.5 228.4

24.1 26.8

$5.57

2

157 BECK 5335HXR™* Pioneer 33F88

223.9 225.9

22.6 25.1

$16.00 1

32

BECK 5435HXR™* Dekalb DKC65-63

237.5 243.1

26.0 30.4

$25.09

2

15

BECK 5335HXR™* Pioneer 33N58

227.1 228.0

25.5 26.4

$5.35 1

106 BECK 5435HXR™* Pioneer 33F88

224.6 224.5

24.5 27.3

$25.47

2

31

BECK 5335HXR™* Pioneer 33W84

217.0 217.5

23.7 25.1

$10.55 1

23

BECK 5435HXR™* Pioneer 33W84

229.4 219.2

25.3 27.2

$49.18

2

23

BECK 5335HXR™* Pioneer 35F44

227.6 217.3

24.6 23.2

$20.96 1

84

BECK 5435HXR™* Pioneer 34F97

230.8 235.7

25.5 27.6

$4.22

1

13

BECK 5335HXR™* Pioneer 35K04

196.7 187.5

23.7 22.0

$17.17 1

12

BECK 5435HXR™* Pioneer 35K04

202.1 192.1

23.1 21.9

$23.54

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

9

CORN SUMMARY BECK 5354HXR™* Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand 1 19 BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5112VT3

Bu/A 223.3 210.0

(continued)

BECK 5444VT3 Comparisons

$/Acre % Moist. Adv. Yrs Plots Brand 25.7 $25.39 3 372 BECK 5444VT3 23.7 BECK 5244VT3

$/Acre % Bu/A Moist. Adv. 217.3 21.3 -$0.53 215.4 20.5

1

118 BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5244VT3

223.5 221.6

25.3 24.8

$1.63 2

89

BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5316HXR

212.0 206.8

19.5 20.2

$23.57

1

69

BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5442VT3

219.1 219.3

24.2 24.5

$1.99

2

273 BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5608VT3

226.4 222.7

24.1 24.7

$17.32

1

164 BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5444VT3

226.1 225.6

25.0 25.8

$8.82 3

410 BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5616VT3

221.7 210.9

19.7 20.2

$41.07

1

152 BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5608VT3

223.1 215.4

24.8 25.7

$32.46 3

546 BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5684VT3

224.0 221.1

19.2 19.2

$9.95

1

113 BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5716A3

224.3 222.0

24.6 26.6

$25.16 3

132 BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5722HXR

210.7 206.9

19.8 22.1

$31.99

1

121 BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5779VT3

223.0 222.7

24.6 25.8

$11.65 3

289 BECK 5444VT3 BECK 6722VT3

220.1 216.4

19.1 22.6

$43.01

1

134 BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™*

221.2 224.0

24.8 27.4

$14.31 3

40

BECK 5444VT3 AgriGold A6459

220.6 219.3

19.6 20.9

$15.84

1

5

BECK 5354HXR™* AgriGold A6533

201.8 196.0

24.0 28.2

$51.72 1

20

BECK 5444VT3 Dekalb DKC55-64

241.3 214.6

28.4 24.2

$45.76

1

20

BECK 5354HXR™* Dekalb DKC55-64

240.9 214.6

27.4 24.2

$54.17 3

339 BECK 5444VT3 Dekalb DKC63-42

227.0 227.2

21.3 22.7

$12.05

1

48

BECK 5354HXR™* Dekalb DKC57-43

233.4 224.8

25.9 23.6

$6.53 1

36

BECK 5444VT3 Pioneer 33D49

228.9 229.5

27.4 29.8

$20.17

1

64

BECK 5354HXR™* Dekalb DKC63-42

227.9 227.8

24.9 27.4

$23.10 2

209 BECK 5444VT3 Pioneer 33F88

232.6 233.0

23.0 25.5

$21.99

1

59

BECK 5354HXR™* Pioneer 33F88

227.0 228.7

25.6 27.8

$14.73 2

32

BECK 5444VT3 Pioneer 33N58

223.4 218.7

25.0 24.8

$13.29

1

23

BECK 5354HXR™* Pioneer 33W84

231.6 220.1

26.0 26.9

$44.26 2

44

BECK 5444VT3 Pioneer 33W84

222.3 218.9

22.4 23.0

$16.49

1

48

BECK 5354HXR™* Pioneer 34F97

233.4 239.4

26.3 27.8

-$4.52 3

186 BECK 5444VT3 Pioneer 34P94

241.8 241.1

22.4 23.4

$11.96

1

26

BECK 5354HXR™* Pioneer 35F44

237.4 220.7

26.7 24.8

$35.53 2

35

BECK 5444VT3 Pioneer 35F44

239.4 220.7

25.3 23.1

$40.19

1

23

BECK 5354HXR™* Pioneer 35K04

225.6 216.7

24.9 22.7

$9.45 2

20

BECK 5444VT3 Pioneer 35K04

234.3 222.0

25.8 22.5

$9.66

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

10

CORN SUMMARY BECK 5442VT3 Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand 1 47 BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5244VT3

Bu/A 216.4 210.2

(continued)

BECK 5716A3 Comparisons

% $/Acre Moist. Adv. Yrs Plots Brand 25.0 $13.95 2 176 BECK 5716A3 24.3 BECK 5335HXR™*

% $/Acre Bu/A Moist. Adv. 223.0 25.2 $0.50 216.6 22.9

1

54

BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5335HXR™*

218.7 213.3

24.1 23.4

$11.50 2

207 BECK 5716A3 BECK 5444VT3

225.0 218.4

25.8 24.3

$7.80

1

69

BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5354HXR™*

219.3 219.1

24.5 24.2

-$1.99

2

226 BECK 5716A3 BECK 5608VT3

225.4 216.4

25.6 24.6

$19.93

1

74

BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5444VT3

217.1 209.1

23.8 24.1

$28.49 2

127 BECK 5716A3 BECK 5616VT3

228.8 221.4

25.0 23.9

$13.94

1

30

BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5555VT3

215.5 216.2

24.0 24.7

$3.79 1

201 BECK 5716A3 BECK 5676HXR™*

222.5 211.6

25.9 26.1

$36.18

1

71

BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5608VT3

217.5 206.8

23.6 24.0

$38.15 1

199 BECK 5716A3 BECK 5779VT3

223.2 222.0

25.9 25.3

-$1.53

1

14

BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5616VT3

215.4 208.9

23.0 23.3

$23.83 1

196 BECK 5716A3 BECK 6363HXR™*

226.6 213.2

26.3 27.3

$50.71

1

80

BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5779VT3

222.4 217.5

24.0 24.8

$22.84 2

283 BECK 5716A3 BECK 6733HXR™*

223.5 224.0

25.4 26.4

$7.37

1

89

BECK 5442VT3 BECK 6733HXR™*

221.0 222.4

23.7 26.0

$15.91 1

14

BECK 5716A3 Dekalb DKC57-43

247.2 227.3

28.9 24.9

$24.21

1

8

BECK 5442VT3 AgriGold A6533

212.8 207.3

23.3 26.9

$47.83 2

175 BECK 5716A3 Dekalb DKC63-42

226.1 225.6

25.6 25.7

$2.49

1

18

BECK 5442VT3 Dekalb DKC61-69

218.4 219.8

23.8 24.0

-$2.79 1

57

BECK 5716A3 Dekalb DKC65-63

240.3 239.9

28.8 29.8

$10.82

1

45

BECK 5442VT3 Dekalb DKC63-42

225.0 222.0

23.5 25.4

$26.65 1

36

BECK 5716A3 Pioneer 33D49

241.3 229.5

28.6 29.8

$47.08

1

4

BECK 5442VT3 Dekalb DKC65-63

217.9 211.0

28.4 30.2

$36.33 2

150 BECK 5716A3 Pioneer 33F88

232.3 226.2

26.1 26.4

$21.97

1

22

BECK 5442VT3 Pioneer 33F88

221.6 215.8

22.8 24.7

$35.47 1

25

BECK 5716A3 Pioneer 33W84

230.4 218.9

28.5 27.1

$22.93

1

8

BECK 5442VT3 Pioneer 33W84

222.7 208.4

24.6 25.8

$55.99 1

5

BECK 5716A3 Pioneer 33Z74

206.2 202.0

26.9 26.8

$12.31

1

4

BECK 5442VT3 Pioneer 33Z74

237.9 206.9

26.7 28.2

$109.51 1

76

BECK 5716A3 Pioneer 34F97

234.8 233.1

27.2 27.1

$4.36

1

10

BECK 5442VT3 Pioneer 35K04

217.1 199.4

24.0 21.9

$40.60 1

14

BECK 5716A3 Pioneer 35H42

247.2 233.4

28.9 25.3

$8.40

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

11

CORN SUMMARY

BECK 6733HXR™* Comparisons

BECK 5779VT3 Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand 1 170 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5444VT3

Bu/A 223.5 219.6

(continued)

$/Acre % Moist. Adv. Yrs Plots Brand 26.0 $7.05 2 377 BECK 6733HXR™* 25.4 BECK 5444VT3

$/Acre % Bu/A Moist. Adv. 226.6 25.1 -$5.19 219.7 22.0

1

216 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5608VT3

221.3 214.1

25.4 25.2

$21.21 2

288 BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5608VT3

230.0 219.3

26.4 24.2

$14.34

1

75

220.6 218.2

25.2 25.1

$6.79 1

221 BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5676HXR™*

222.5 212.0

26.9 26.2

$26.87

1

187 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5676HXR™*

220.8 213.1

25.3 26.2

$32.22 2

185 BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 6722VT3

226.4 216.7

24.0 23.8

$29.69

1

16

BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5722HXR

230.2 224.0

27.3 27.7

$22.85 2

6

BECK 6733HXR™* AgriGold A6459

225.9 216.4

22.5 21.2

$20.10

1

32

BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6722VT3

229.8 224.7

26.9 28.9

$33.91 2

16

BECK 6733HXR™* AgriGold A6479

222.8 217.1

24.5 23.0

$5.33

1

225 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6733HXR™*

222.1 224.4

25.4 26.9

$6.14 2

11

BECK 6733HXR™* AgriGold A6639

223.9 213.4

23.0 23.5

$38.71

BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5616VT3

1

5

BECK 5779VT3 AgriGold A6399

206.9 203.8

20.5 19.7

$3.96 2

262 BECK 6733HXR™* Dekalb DKC63-42

226.2 223.2

25.3 23.9

-$2.94

1

6

BECK 5779VT3 AgriGold A6489

206.6 204.9

22.7 22.9

$7.24 2

11

BECK 6733HXR™* Dekalb DKC65-44

239.2 227.6

23.6 22.6

$28.67

1

6

BECK 5779VT3 Dekalb DKC61-33

213.1 209.7

26.7 27.1

$14.00 1

8

BECK 6733HXR™* Pioneer P1395XR

236.9 231.9

23.1 22.0

$6.18

1

137 BECK 5779VT3 Dekalb DKC63-42

222.6 225.6

25.2 26.2

-$0.55 2

10

BECK 6733HXR™* Pioneer 32T85

231.0 220.4

21.7 21.6

$34.44

1

42

BECK 5779VT3 Dekalb DKC65-63

233.8 236.4

28.0 29.6

$7.12 1

36

BECK 6733HXR™* Pioneer 33D49

231.1 229.5

29.4 29.8

$8.51

1

36

BECK 5779VT3 Pioneer 33D49

234.8 229.5

27.8 29.8

$34.73 2

220 BECK 6733HXR™* Pioneer 33F88

235.1 230.5

26.6 25.8

$7.05

1

131 BECK 5779VT3 Pioneer 33F88

224.8 223.5

26.1 27.0

$12.15 1

11

BECK 6733HXR™* Pioneer 33T55

257.8 244.4

25.0 22.6

$19.42

1

25

BECK 5779VT3 Pioneer 33N58

235.0 225.7

27.5 27.0

$24.32 2

34

BECK 6733HXR™* Pioneer 33W84

230.4 219.3

27.1 25.3

$18.80

1

26

BECK 5779VT3 Pioneer 33W84

229.1 219.1

27.0 26.9

$30.32 2

7

BECK 6733HXR™* Pioneer 33Z74

230.5 213.8

27.0 25.0

$35.00

1

77

BECK 5779VT3 Pioneer 34F97

231.8 230.9

27.1 27.3

$4.65 2

96

BECK 6733HXR™* Pioneer 34F97

234.1 231.4

28.2 26.8

-$4.66

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

12

CORN SUMMARY (continued) BECK 5135HXR™* Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand 1 22 BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5112VT3

BECK 5244VT3 Comparisons

% $/Acre Bu/A Moist. Adv. Yrs Plots Brand 212.0 24.0 $7.64 3 104 BECK 5244VT3 208.1 23.4 BECK 4807VT3

% Bu/A Moist. 218.6 21.2 207.8 19.7

$/Acre Adv. $23.73

1

10

BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5316HXR

190.9 183.7

25.9 27.9

$37.48

1

17

BECK 5244VT3 BECK 5244VTwx

232.1 25.4 227.7 26.4

-$113.50

2

104 BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5608VT3

210.3 215.4

23.6 25.9

$3.21

1

76

BECK 5244VT3 BECK 5779VT3

221.2 24.7 221.8 26.3

$12.27

2

21

BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5616VT3

222.2 226.9

25.0 27.2

$4.93

2

53

BECK 5244VT3 Dekalb DKC57-43

234.5 24.3 225.4 23.1

$18.56

1

20

BECK 5135HXR™* Dekalb DKC55-64

229.9 214.6

26.0 24.2

$32.90

1

18

BECK 5244VT3 Dekalb DKC60-51

234.4 25.9 229.9 25.6

$11.48

1

12

BECK 5135HXR™* Pioneer 33K39

229.4 220.8

26.3 27.5

$37.67

2

26

BECK 5244VT3 Pioneer 34F97

224.5 24.6 226.8 26.8

$12.56

1

14

BECK 5135HXR™* Pioneer 33N58

229.4 228.7

26.1 27.1

$11.36

3

95

BECK 5244VT3 Pioneer 34P94

241.3 22.0 245.6 23.7

$2.42

1

26

BECK 5135HXR™* Pioneer 33F44

225.8 220.7

25.6 24.8

$9.14

2

37

BECK 5244VT3 Pioneer 35F44

243.3 24.1 219.2 23.0

$68.34

BECK 5454HXR™* Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand 1 67 BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 4609HXR™*

BECK 5555VT3 Comparisons

% $/Acre Bu/A Moist. Adv. Yrs Plots Brand 214.2 26.2 -$2.83 1 30 BECK 5555VT3 205.7 22.6 BECK 5442VT3

% Bu/A Moist. 216.2 24.7 215.5 24.0

$/Acre Adv. -$3.79

1

5

BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 5112VT3

206.8 190.6

27.8 22.4

$8.86

1

112 BECK 5555VT3 BECK 5779VT3

231.2 26.1 226.2 26.2

$16.68

1

53

BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 5319A3

220.9 214.4

27.1 24.5

-$2.04

2

31

BECK 5555VT3 Dekalb DKC60-51

229.7 24.4 226.4 22.6

-$5.66

1

188 BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 5676HXR™*

213.7 216.0

26.0 26.9

$0.51

2

167 BECK 5555VT3 Dekalb DKC63-42

219.6 22.6 220.1 23.2

$3.63

1

201 BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™*

216.0 215.5

25.9 27.8

$17.96

1

19

BECK 5555VT3 Dekalb DKC65-63

242.6 28.3 235.0 30.2

$41.18

1

12

BECK 5454HXR™* Pioneer 33K39

222.8 220.8

27.5 27.5

$6.20

2

38

BECK 5555VT3 Pioneer 33W84

226.0 24.1 215.7 23.7

$29.88

1

4

BECK 5454HXR™* Pioneer 33Z74

211.5 206.9

27.4 28.2

$20.90

2

67

BECK 5555VT3 Pioneer 34F97

231.5 26.5 225.3 26.8

$22.17

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

13

CORN SUMMARY (continued) BECK 5608VT3 Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand 1 206 BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5676HXR™*

BECK 5676HXR™* Comparisons

% $/Acre Bu/A Moist. Adv. Yrs Plots Brand 214.0 25.2 $10.99 1 16 BECK 5676HXR™* 213.5 26.3 BECK 5722HXR

% $/Acre Bu/A Moist. Adv. 229.9 28.1 $14.56 224.0 27.7

2

75

BECK 5608VT3 BECK 6722VT3

230.2 229.8

23.3 26.1

$27.04

1

70

BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5784RR

217.7 26.9 218.1 26.1

-$8.23

2

119 BECK 5608VT3 BECK 7916VT3

227.1 222.4

24.0 27.9

$49.92

1

187 BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™*

215.0 26.3 211.6 27.3

$19.17

1

12

BECK 5608VT3 Dekalb DKC55-64

223.9 211.4

27.6 24.6

$13.33

1

31

BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 6722VT3

222.8 28.0 227.7 28.8

-$7.81

1

17

BECK 5608VT3 Pioneer 33D14

250.2 252.0

21.1 24.1

$24.20

1

10

BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 7916RR

218.4 28.5 216.5 31.6

$32.66

1

36

BECK 5608VT3 Pioneer 33D49

225.6 229.5

27.9 29.8

$5.41

1

80

BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 7916VT3

218.8 26.8 217.4 29.4

$26.99

2

27

BECK 5608VT3 Pioneer 33W84

222.8 222.4

25.7 25.9

$3.05

1

36

BECK 5676HXR™* Pioneer 33D49

228.6 28.8 229.5 29.8

$6.44

2

9

BECK 5608VT3 Pioneer 34R67

207.2 199.9

22.1 22.3

$25.81

1

22

BECK 5676HXR™* Pioneer 33W84

225.3 27.9 217.5 26.9

$15.36

BECK 6363HXR™* Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand 1 6 BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5112VT3

BECK 7916VT3 Comparisons

% $/Acre Bu/A Moist. Adv. Yrs Plots Brand 214.3 26.8 $28.13 2 9 BECK 7916VT3 193.2 21.9 BECK 7916CBRR

% $/Acre Bu/A Moist. Adv. 268.5 26.6 $98.89 239.1 27.3

1

62

BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5135HXR™*

213.8 210.2

27.5 23.5

-$22.47

2

27

BECK 7916VT3 BECK 7916RR

240.4 28.2 226.7 28.8

$47.53

1

6

BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5316HXR

190.3 181.2

25.2 22.4

$8.75

2

18

BECK 7916VT3 BECK 7997RR

245.8 28.9 219.9 29.6

$85.00

1

25

BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 7916Hx1CL

220.2 217.3

30.1 29.8

$6.08

1

8

BECK 7916VT3 Pioneer 32B81

259.8 25.2 256.9 24.8

$5.15

1

10

BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 7916RR

216.4 216.5

30.4 31.6

$10.09

1

8

BECK 7916VT3 Pioneer 33A82

272.1 26.3 255.1 22.3

$12.70

1

80

BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 7916VT3

212.9 217.4

27.9 29.4

-$0.83

1

12

BECK 7916VT3 Pioneer 33K39

221.3 32.9 220.8 27.5

-$46.25

1

4

BECK 6363HXR™* Dyna-Gro 57V70

209.4 190.3

22.5 20.9

$50.85

1

8

BECK 7916VT3 Pioneer 33K42

272.1 26.3 256.1 23.2

$18.61

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

14

CORN SUMMARY BECK EX 1811HXT (6288A3 Yrs Plots Brand 2 68 BECK EX 1811HXT BECK 5608VT3

Genetics)

(continued)

BECK EX 0916Hx1RR™*

(5668™* Genetics)

$/Acre % Bu/A Moist. Adv. Yrs Plots Brand 240.8 28.6 $15.84 1 118 BECK EX 0916Hx1RR™* 227.0 25.7 BECK 5608VT3

$/Acre % Bu/A Moist. Adv. 216.4 25.3 $10.94 215.4 26.2

2

40

BECK EX 1811HXT BECK 5616VT3

237.6 226.4

28.8 26.6

$14.21 1

102 BECK EX 0916Hx1RR™* BECK 5676HXR™*

214.9 216.1

25.1 27.0

$12.59

1

59

BECK EX 1811HXT BECK 5716A3

237.8 234.4

29.1 27.6

-$3.74 1

14

BECK EX 0916Hx1RR™* BECK 5722HXR

228.1 225.0

26.2 28.1

$26.87

1

58

BECK EX 1811HXT BECK 5779VT3

237.9 230.2

29.3 27.0

$2.14 1

32

BECK EX 0916Hx1RR™* BECK 5784RR

224.7 223.3

26.0 26.8

$11.57

2

60

BECK EX 1811HXT Dekalb DKC63-42

243.5 237.2

29.0 27.9

$8.72 1

12

BECK EX 0916Hx1RR™* BECK 6733

224.0 225.9

25.9 29.7

$28.33

1

28

BECK EX 1811HXT Dekalb DKC65-63

246.7 240.8

30.1 30.0

$16.71 1

32

BECK EX 0916Hx1RR™* Pioneer 33D49

236.6 231.6

27.1 30.0

$42.45

1

14

BECK EX 1811HXT Pioneer 33D49

249.9 227.6

29.9 30.7

$74.27 1

77

BECK EX 0916Hx1RR™* Pioneer 33F88

220.5 225.9

25.6 27.5

$0.02

2

58

BECK EX 1811HXT Pioneer 33F88

243.9 237.0

29.0 27.7

$8.65 1

23

BECK EX 0916Hx1RR™* Pioneer 33N58

231.7 225.1

26.7 27.2

$25.17

BECK 5323VT3wx Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand 1 19 BECK 5323VT3wx BECK 5244VTwx

BECK 6722wx Comparisons

% $/Acre Bu/A Moist. Adv. Yrs Plots Brand 227.7 27.8 -$29.21 2 17 BECK 6722wx 231.6 26.2 BECK 5616wx

% $/Acre Bu/A Moist. Adv. 243.2 29.4 $57.42 219.6 26.2

2

34

BECK 5323VT3wx BECK 5323wx

237.0 237.0

27.4 27.6

$1.90 2

10

BECK 6722wx BECK 5716A3

240.7 241.4

26.4 $120.01 24.1

2

24

BECK 5323VT3wx BECK 6722wx

245.6 244.1

26.1 28.3

$27.11 2

28

BECK 6722wx BECK 6722VT3

226.2 234.7

24.9 $102.85 24.3

1

15

BECK 5323VT3wx Dekalb DKC61-19

228.1 239.3

28.4 25.5

$74.78 2

29

BECK 6722wx BECK 6733HXR™*

227.4 249.1

24.8 24.4

$62.84

2

20

BECK 5323VT3wx Dekalb DKC63-44

245.5 249.0

26.6 29.1

$11.82 2

21

BECK 6722wx Dekalb DKC61-69

221.1 223.6

24.7 19.6

$79.02

2

36

BECK 5323VT3wx Pioneer 33F88

236.1 244.9

27.4 $118.26 2 27.8

20

BECK 6722wx Dekalb DKC63-42

229.7 230.1

28.1 $114.50 25.7

1

14

BECK 5323VT3wx Pioneer 33W84

230.9 225.4

28.7 $149.01 1 28.0

22

BECK 6722wx Pioneer 33F88

232.3 247.6

25.5 23.9

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

$74.88

15

SOYBEAN COMPARISONS SUMMARY Multi-Year Yield Comparisons of Various Products (Includes Farmer Plots, BECK'S Research, and University Data)

BECK 322NR™* Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand 1 132 BECK 322NR™* BECK 299NR™*

Bu/A 60.7 59.2

BECK 325NR™* Comparisons

Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand +1.5 1 155 BECK 325NR™* BECK 322NR™*

Bu/A 62.3 61.4

Difference in Yield

+0.9

1

37

BECK 322NR™* BECK 321NR

64.4 60.1

+4.3

2

289 BECK 325NR™* BECK 342NR

61.9 59.6

+2.3

1

15

BECK 322NR™* BECK 334NL

65.7 63.1

+2.6

1

22

BECK 325NR™* BECK 343N

64.7 63.4

+1.3

1

142 BECK 322NR™* BECK 342NR

61.3 59.8

+1.5

2

149 BECK 325NR™* BECK 362NR™*

64.8 64.4

+0.4

1

14

BECK 322NR™* BECK 343N

65.6 64.0

+1.6

2

187 BECK 325NR™* BECK 364NR

62.5 60.9

+1.6

1

58

BECK 322NR™* BECK 388NR™*

62.1 61.8

+0.3

2

138 BECK 325NR™* BECK 399NR

63.2 61.3

+1.9

1

60

BECK 322NR™* BECK 399NR

62.1 61.7

+0.4

1

37

BECK 325NR™* Asgrow AG3139

65.1 64.4

+0.7

1

28

BECK 322NR™* Asgrow AG3102

64.9 62.1

+2.8

1

13

BECK 325NR™* Asgrow AG3239

62.5 62.2

+0.3

1

12

BECK 322NR™* Asgrow AG3239

61.4 61.6

-0.2

2

101 BECK 325NR™* Asgrow AG3402

65.0 63.4

+1.6

1

47

BECK 322NR™* Asgrow AG3402

64.1 63.9

+0.2

1

62

BECK 325NR™* Asgrow AG3439

62.4 60.7

+1.7

1

54

BECK 322NR™* Asgrow AG3439

61.0 59.8

+1.2

1

31

BECK 325NR™* Asgrow AG3539

61.4 59.7

+1.7

1

30

BECK 322NR™* Asgrow AG3539

58.7 57.5

+1.2

1

44

BECK 325NR™* Asgrow AG3705

61.2 58.5

+2.7

1

52

BECK 322NR™* Pioneer 93M42

63.1 60.9

+2.2

2

63

BECK 325NR™* Asgrow AG3803

63.6 61.5

+2.1

1

19

BECK 322NR™* Pioneer 93Y10

65.2 59.3

+5.9

2

122 BECK 325NR™* Pioneer 93M42

64.8 59.6

+5.2

1

36

BECK 322NR™* Pioneer 93Y11

62.4 58.5

+3.9

2

74

BECK 325NR™* Pioneer 93M61

64.9 62.4

+2.5

1

36

BECK 322NR™* Pioneer 93Y20

64.1 63.2

+0.9

2

37

BECK 325NR™* Pioneer 93Y11

63.7 58.5

+5.2

1

36

BECK 322NR™* Pioneer 93Y50

64.2 63.4

+0.8

2

82

BECK 325NR™* Pioneer 93Y20

65.7 61.6

+4.1

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

16

SOYBEAN COMPARISONS (continued) BECK 342NR Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand 2 43 BECK 342NR BECK 287NR™*

Bu/A 59.8 57.9

BECK 355R™* Comparisons

Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand +1.9 1 99 BECK 355R™* BECK 299NR™*

Bu/A 61.3 59.9

Difference in Yield

+1.4

3

170 BECK 342NR BECK 296NR

59.7 58.1

+1.6

1

37

BECK 355R™* BECK 321NR

64.1 60.1

+4.0

1

115 BECK 342NR BECK 299NR™*

59.4 59.1

+0.3

1

27

BECK 355R™* BECK 326RV

66.8 62.3

+4.5

4

416 BECK 342NR BECK 321NR

60.7 59.2

+1.5

1

142 BECK 355R™* BECK 342NR

61.6 61.0

+0.6

4

216 BECK 342NR BECK 326RV

61.3 57.2

+4.1

1

49

BECK 355R™* BECK 364NR

62.6 62.4

+0.2

1

22

BECK 342NR BECK 343N

62.7 63.4

-0.7

1

9

BECK 355R™* BECK 381N

61.8 58.9

+2.9

1

28

BECK 342NR Asgrow AG3102

62.8 62.1

+0.7

1

65

BECK 355R™* BECK 388NR™*

62.5 62.1

+0.4

1

9

BECK 342NR Asgrow AG3239

62.8 63.2

-0.4

1

6

BECK 355R™* Asgrow AG3239

67.7 66.1

+1.6

1

61

BECK 342NR Asgrow AG3439

60.4 60.9

-0.5

1

57

BECK 355R™* Asgrow AG3439

60.9 60.6

+0.3

1

33

BECK 342NR Asgrow AG3539

59.7 59.4

+0.3

1

29

BECK 355R™* Asgrow AG3539

60.5 59.3

+1.2

3

77

BECK 342NR Asgrow AG3705

59.6 59.5

+0.1

1

52

BECK 355R™* Pioneer 93M42

62.8 60.9

+1.9

2

8

BECK 342NR NK S35-T9

60.3 56.3

+4.0

1

18

BECK 355R™* Pioneer 93Y10

65.5 59.7

+5.8

4

196 BECK 342NR Pioneer 93M42

62.1 60.5

+1.6

1

28

BECK 355R™* Pioneer 93Y11

63.8 60.8

+3.0

1

19

BECK 342NR Pioneer 93Y10

62.9 59.3

+3.6

1

30

BECK 355R™* Pioneer 93Y20

63.9 63.9

+0.0

2

38

BECK 342NR Pioneer 93Y11

59.7 58.4

+1.3

1

36

BECK 355R™* Pioneer 93Y50

64.1 63.4

+0.7

2

76

BECK 342NR Pioneer 93Y20

62.7 62.0

+0.7

1

26

BECK 355R™* Pioneer 93Y70

61.5 61.6

-0.1

2

25

BECK 342NR Pioneer 93Y80

61.1 59.8

+1.3

1

24

BECK 355R™* Pioneer 93Y80

61.6 60.5

+1.1

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

17

SOYBEAN COMPARISONS (continued) BECK 362NR™* Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand 2 43 BECK 362NR™* BECK 296NR

Bu/A 66.7 62.8

BECK 388NR™* Comparisons

Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand +3.9 1 64 BECK 388NR™* BECK 342NR

Bu/A 61.8 61.5

Difference in Yield

+0.3

1

52

BECK 362NR™* BECK 299NR™*

63.8 63.0

+0.8

1

10

BECK 388NR™* BECK 343N

61.6 62.6

-1.0

1

80

BECK 362NR™* BECK 322NR™*

63.4 62.5

+0.9

1

79

BECK 388NR™* BECK 362NR™*

62.5 62.3

+0.2

2

149 BECK 362NR™* BECK 342NR

64.4 62.9

+1.5

1

41

BECK 388NR™* BECK 364NR

61.8 61.5

+0.3

2

116 BECK 362NR™* BECK 364NR

64.1 63.1

+1.0

1

29

BECK 388NR™* BECK 377NR

62.1 55.2

+6.9

2

140 BECK 362NR™* BECK 399NR

63.0 62.9

+0.1

1

11

BECK 388NR™* BECK 381N

59.6 57.1

+2.5

2

69

BECK 362NR™* BECK 422NR

65.2 61.7

+3.5

1

76

BECK 388NR™* BECK 399NR

62.1 62.9

-0.8

1

8

BECK 362NR™* Asgrow AG3239

65.7 63.9

+1.8

1

24

BECK 388NR™* BECK 422NR

64.2 64.1

+0.1

2

68

BECK 362NR™* Asgrow AG3402

65.0 63.9

+1.1

1

18

BECK 388NR™* Asgrow AG3402

64.6 62.2

+2.4

1

28

BECK 362NR™* Asgrow AG3539

60.7 59.3

+1.4

1

34

BECK 388NR™* Asgrow AG3439

63.2 63.5

-0.3

2

38

BECK 362NR™* Asgrow AG3705

66.2 62.1

+4.1

1

22

BECK 388NR™* Pioneer 93M42

63.3 60.9

+2.4

2

66

BECK 362NR™* Asgrow AG3803

63.4 61.8

+1.6

1

24

BECK 388NR™* Pioneer 93M61

63.2 63.2

+0.0

1

22

BECK 362NR™* Pioneer 93M11

67.5 60.8

+6.7

1

18

BECK 388NR™* Pioneer 93Y50

64.6 62.5

+2.1

2

69

BECK 362NR™* Pioneer 93M42

65.0 59.8

+5.2

1

24

BECK 388NR™* Pioneer 93Y70

63.2 61.7

+1.5

2

74

BECK 362NR™* Pioneer 93M61

64.2 62.7

+1.5

1

24

BECK 388NR™* Pioneer 93Y80

63.2 60.5

+2.7

1

34

BECK 362NR™* Pioneer 93M70

66.9 63.0

+3.9

1

5

BECK 388NR™* Pioneer 93Y90

61.4 60.4

+1.0

1

4

BECK 362NR™* Stewart 3677R2

56.2 53.3

+2.9

1

20

BECK 388NR™* Pioneer 94Y20

65.8 65.9

-0.1

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

18

SOYBEAN COMPARISONS (continued) BECK 244NR™* Comparisons

Yrs Plots Brand 2 84 BECK 244NR™* BECK 257NR

Bu/A 57.5 55.5

BECK 257NR Comparisons

Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand +2.0 1 22 BECK 257NR BECK 257NR FaSTart

Bu/A 62.3 64.6

Difference in Yield -2.3

2

105 BECK 244NR™* BECK 274NR

57.4 56.4

+1.0

2

54

BECK 257NR BECK 287NR™*

60.1 60.0

+0.1

1

22

BECK 244NR™* Asgrow AG2606

65.6 64.4

+1.2

1

26

BECK 257NR Asgrow AG2839

60.9 60.4

+0.5

1

26

BECK 244NR™* Asgrow AG2839

64.0 60.4

+3.6

1

4

BECK 257NR Asgrow AG2939

53.6 54.7

-1.1

1

4

BECK 244NR™* Asgrow AG3239

59.5 59.5

+0.0

1

4

BECK 257NR Asgrow AG3239

57.7 59.5

-1.8

1

4

BECK 244NR™* ICORN 2.470R2

55.6 52.5

+3.1

1

6

BECK 257NR Asgrow AG3439

59.5 59.8

-0.3

2

23

BECK 244NR™* Pioneer 92M61

65.5 63.1

+2.4

1

4

BECK 257NR ICORN 2.470R2

53.6 52.5

+1.1

2

15

BECK 244NR™* Pioneer 93Y11

56.8 55.6

+1.2

2

37

BECK 257NR Pioneer 92M61

61.3 59.9

+1.4

BECK 282R™* Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand 1 50 BECK 282R™* BECK 257NR

Bu/A 60.0 59.2

BECK 299NR™* Comparisons

Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand +0.8 1 123 BECK 299NR™* BECK 274NR

Bu/A 60.3 57.0

Difference in Yield +3.3

1

120 BECK 282R™* BECK 274NR

57.9 56.8

+1.1

1

22

BECK 299NR™* Asgrow AG2839

64.8 62.0

+2.8

1

22

BECK 282R™* Asgrow AG2839

63.1 62.0

+1.1

1

7

BECK 299NR™* Asgrow AG3239

65.1 63.4

+1.7

1

32

BECK 282R™* Asgrow AG3439

58.0 57.2

+0.8

1

32

BECK 299NR™* Asgrow AG3439

60.4 57.2

+3.2

1

22

BECK 282R™* Pioneer 92M61

63.1 62.9

+0.2

1

26

BECK 299NR™* Asgrow AG3539

59.8 58.1

+1.7

1

4

BECK 282R™* Pioneer 93Y02

48.3 40.5

+7.8

1

22

BECK 299NR™* Pioneer 92M61

64.8 62.9

+1.9

1

19

BECK 282R™* Pioneer 93Y10

59.0 59.3

-0.3

1

6

BECK 299NR™* Pioneer 92Y80

64.5 63.3

+1.2

1

32

BECK 282R™* Pioneer 93Y11

57.2 58.6

-1.4

1

19

BECK 299NR™* Pioneer 93Y10

59.5 59.3

+0.2

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

19

SOYBEAN COMPARISONS (continued) BECK 399NR Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand 3 166 BECK 399NR BECK 364NR

Bu/A 61.2 60.5

BECK 400NR™* Comparisons

Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand +0.7 1 89 BECK 400NR™* BECK 362NR™*

Bu/A 65.4 62.5

Difference in Yield +2.9

1

44

BECK 399NR Asgrow AG3439

62.3 61.9

+0.4

1

93

BECK 400NR™* BECK 399NR

64.5 61.9

+2.6

1

29

BECK 399NR Asgrow AG3539

60.0 58.6

+1.4

1

56

BECK 400NR™* BECK 403NR™*

66.9 64.3

+2.6

3

86

BECK 399NR Asgrow AG3705

60.3 58.3

+2.0

1

43

BECK 400NR™* BECK 445NR

65.9 65.0

+0.9

3

86

BECK 399NR Asgrow AG3803

62.8 62.3

+0.5

1

15

BECK 400NR™* Asgrow AG3539

59.4 59.8

-0.4

3

7

BECK 399NR NK S39-A3

58.3 57.3

+1.0

1

25

BECK 400NR™* Asgrow AG3803

68.8 64.3

+4.5

2

25

BECK 399NR Pioneer 93Y80

63.1 59.8

+3.3

1

48

BECK 400NR™* Pioneer 94Y01

68.4 63.6

+4.8

2

47

BECK 399NR Pioneer 94Y01

62.7 63.2

-0.5

1

42

BECK 400NR™* Pioneer 94Y10

69.9 65.1

+4.8

BECK 445NR Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand 2 92 BECK 445NR BECK 399NR

Bu/A 63.0 61.2

BECK 491NR™* Comparisons

Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand +1.8 1 10 BECK 491NR™* BECK 388NR™*

Bu/A 75.2 70.1

Difference in Yield +5.1

2

74

BECK 445NR BECK 403NR™*

62.8 62.2

+0.6

1

11

BECK 491NR™* BECK 399NR

73.1 68.6

+4.5

3

94

BECK 445NR BECK 422NR

62.6 60.5

+2.1

1

11

BECK 491NR™* BECK 400NR™*

73.1 69.4

+3.7

3

51

BECK 445NR BECK 474NR

63.7 56.5

+7.2

1

8

BECK 491NR™* BECK 422NR

71.1 68.7

+2.4

2

17

BECK 445NR Asgrow AG3803

65.4 63.6

+1.8

1

19

BECK 491NR™* BECK 445NR

70.3 70.2

+0.1

2

23

BECK 445NR Pioneer 94Y01

62.9 61.4

+1.5

1

19

BECK 491NR™* BECK 474NR

70.3 61.0

+9.3

2

30

BECK 445NR Pioneer 94Y20

64.9 63.8

+1.1

1

6

BECK 491NR™* Pioneer 94Y20

70.4 63.7

+6.7

2

13

BECK 445NR Pioneer 94Y60

62.7 59.4

+3.3

1

8

BECK 491NR™* Pioneer 94Y60

66.5 61.1

+5.4

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

W

elcome to the 2009 Practical Farm Research results publication. Before you review the Practical Farm Research studies in this book, please read the reviews written by the directors from each site. They provide an overview of the growing season to help you gain perspective and understanding for the data presented. Also, you will notice that for some of our research plots, we calculate revenue. Market price volatility makes it difficult to figure revenue and income per acre for the crops and inputs that we test and have it applicable to every farmer.  The following prices reflect the yearly average of Friday’s closing price (October 2008 to September 2009) of our local markets near our three Practical Farm Research locations. We then rounded the numbers for simplicity in calculating returns. You may need to refigure your own return per acre for prices that you expect to receive if they differ significantly from the commodity and input prices we used.

Scott Beck Vice President PFR Director

Corn . . . $3.60 per bushel (Waxy corn premium . . . $0.60 per bushel) Soybeans . . . $9.55 per bushel (Vistive Soybean premium . . . $0.55 per bushel) Drying costs . . . $0.04 per point of moisture    28% nitrogen . . . $355 per ton Other costs and inputs specific to a study will be listed on the page of the study.

Base Nitrogen rates used in our corn studies are as follows: Atlanta Southern Illinois

The Summary Comparison pages near the front of this book contain data from Farmer Plots, Beck’s 1st Year Corn: PFR and Replicated testing, and University and third Corn After Corn: party testing. You may obtain copies and/or view the individual farmer plots in the following ways:

220 lbs.

180 lbs.

180 lbs.

220 lbs.

220 lbs.

240 lbs.

Visit our website www.beckshybrids.com/research or contact Beck’s main office at 1-800-937-2325 or your District Sales Manager for a printed copy or a CD containing farmer plots for specific regions that are of interest.

Atlanta Location Review At the Atlanta Practical Farm Research we started our Planting Date studies right on target in March, but wet spring weather kept us out of the fields again until April 24th. In fact we were only able to plant on three days in April. The frustration continued into May with additional sporadic rainfall that made it seem impossible to return to the fields without it raining, which only allowed us to plant twelve days of May. After dodging rain since March, we finally completed planting in early June. Toby Ripberger

Over 75% of the rain that we received this growing season came prior to July 1st. Assistant While we had abundant moisture early in the season we did not have an abundance of PFR Manager heat units; we actually received more growing degree days in June than we did in July. With the lack of heat and later planting dates the crop progressed slower than normal in the 2009 growing season. August and September brought more heat units and just enough rain to help finish the soybean crop. There are several exciting studies to take a look at as you read through this year’s results. The plots to take note of are the corn fungicide study, corn population and row width study, Purdue Nitrogen Rate study, irrigated corn plot, Gypsum study and the 300 Bushel attempt plot where we hit 320.7 Bu./A. Also spend some time reviewing soybean plots such as our 100 Bushel attempt plots, LibertyLink® row spacing/ population study, and irrigated plot. In corn, soybeans, wheat and alfalfa we are continually testing the newest and most advanced seed treatments and technologies to be a part of Beck’s Escalate™ yield enhancement system. Enjoy reading this year’s compilation of results from Beck’s PFR, Farmer Plots and University Data and as always feel free to contact us with questions and suggestions for next year’s research.

Southern Indiana Location Review 2009 proved to be a challenging but very rewarding year at the Southern PFR farm. Although we were able to get one early corn planting date entry in on March 18th, wet conditions kept us out of the field for most of the month of April. However, we were able to get the majority of our corn plots planted in a small window between April 24th and April 27th. Rain was persistent again throughout the remainder of April through mid May dropping 7.52 inches of rain during this time. Fortunately stands were very good for corn planted April 24th and 25th. Plots that were planted on April 26th in areas where water stood had to be replanted. Corn planting wrapped up on May 19th and 20th.

Scott Ebelhar, CCA Southern Indiana PFR Director

First crop soybeans were planted on May 19th and 20th. May 25th brought more rainfall which continued sporadically through June 18th dropping another 4.37 inches. Wheat was harvested on June 20th, although field conditions were quite heavy. Rain began again that evening and we received another 1.01 inches between June 20th and June 23rd. Double crop soybeans planted on both June 24th and 29th were basically “mudded” in. The last planting date for double crop soybeans was purposely delayed until field conditions faired for optimum planting. This did not occur until July 7th. July was one of the coolest on record for our area. The mean temperature for the month was 71.1 degrees (4 degrees cooler than June). There were no 90 degree days in July this year while 7.15 inches of rainfall was recorded. Cool temperatures and an abundance of moisture led to significant Northern Corn Leaf Blight and Southern Rust pressure as well as late-season Gray Leaf Spot pressure. Rainfall

during silking and pollination also led to very heavy ear rot pressure by the time that harvest started. August brought our fifth annual Southern Field Show at the Ft. Branch, IN location. Beautiful weather helped to draw a record crowd. I would personally like to thank every one of you who attended the show and helped to make it a great success!!! Corn harvest began on September 10th. Slow dry-down and scattered rain events throughout September and October extended harvest, but yields proved to be very good. Corn yields generally averaged between 215 and 220 Bu./A. The 300 Bushel Study produced our three highest yields for the study to date with the highest yield coming in at 267.9 Bu./A.! Soybean harvest began on September 28th with first crop harvest wrapping up on October 5th. The majority of this year’s double crop soybeans were harvested on October 26th producing some of the highest double crop yields recorded in our five year history at the SPFR farm. Harvest was completed on November 2nd. Although wet conditions delayed wheat planting, plots were sowed on October 21st. There are many different agronomic studies conducted at our three PFR sites this year. We hope that you will find information that will be useful in making management decisions for your farm. If you have any questions concerning any of these studies feel free to contact me at anytime! I look forward to meeting and visiting with many of you at the various meetings that we will be hosting this winter!

Central Illinois Location Review At the Central Illinois Practical Farm Research Center, 2009 was a very successful crop year, but it had its difficulties to say the least. As spring roared in, April and May rainfall totals amounted to 14.9 inches. Cool conditions persisted with the wet weather and virtually no field work was done until May 10th. The weather finally cooperated and did allow off-and-on corn planting on May 10th. However, on May 11th we had 3 inches of rain along with below normal temperatures. This stressed most of the corn that was planted in the area, but fortunately we ended up with very good stands of corn. Conditions improved and we were able to finish most of the corn planting from May 20th – May 25th. At Central IL PFR, all soybeans got planted before June 1st, but many farmers in the area planted soybeans from May 25th – June 10th.

Jason Webster, CCA Central Illinois PFR Director

June and July offered another 8.8 inches of rainfall. Along with saturated soils, 2009 offered one of the coolest summers on record. Mean daily temperatures in July and August averaged near 68 degrees. This resulted in low accumulations of heat units, which led to slow growing conditions. Most corn didn’t start to get harvested until October 20th and most moistures averaged near 30%. Corn yields varied, but whatever corn was planted in April and early May was excellent. Yields on studies at the PFR Center exceeded 300 Bu./A in two different trials and 290 Bu./A in 4 others. Yields tapered off to 200- 230 Bu./A on later planting dates. Soybean yields ranged in general from 50-70 Bu./A on most acres. However, in some areas White Mold Disease was an apparent problem and this decreased soybean yields dramatically. All in all, 2009 had weather challenges, but it was very exciting for Beck’s Practical Farm Research. Our PFR team continued to test agronomic studies that our customers find valuable and was even expanded to include two new pilot programs that consisted of Crop Health Imaging and a large, four state Soybean Fungicide Study. We hope you enjoy our agronomic research results and I look forward to hosting meetings throughout the winter months explaining and showcasing our PFR results. Roundup Ready and Vistive are registered trademarks of Monsanto Technology LLC. Headline is a registered trademark of BASF. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Escalate, PFR-Practical Farm Research, Discover the Power, the “B” design and Beck’s are trademarks of Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

67

BECK'S Lime Study on Soybeans – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Soil Type: Purpose:

300-6 (S) plot April 25, 2009 September 22, 2009 Four 30" rows 120,000 seeds/A. Genesee Silt Loam

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

Corn V-Rip / S-tine 32 oz. Durango Amaze Gold None

This study compares four BECK soybean products planted where 3 ton/A. of the following lime types were applied in the Spring of 1998: High Calcium Lime, High Magnesium Lime and Bed Ash (Calcium Sulfate). Plant Height (IN.)

Pod Height (IN.)

Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat

2009 Bushels† Per Acre

4 Year Average ’02, ‘04, ‘07, ‘09

38 36 36 40 38

3 2 3 3 3

1.4 1.4 1.6 1.6 1.5

78.5 78.2 76.8 75.5 77.3

69.7

HIGH CALCIUM LIME 1 BECK 362NR™* 2 BECK 322NR™* 3 BECK 299NR™* 4 BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

40 44 38 42 41

3 3 2 3 3

1.4 1.7 1.5 1.6 1.6

80.2 74.1 70.8 70.8 74.0

70.6

HIGH MAGNESIUM LIME 1 BECK 322NR™* 2 BECK 362NR™* 3 BECK 299NR™* 4 BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

42 38 36 38 39

2 3 2 3 3

1.5 1.4 1.4 1.5 1.5

77.4 77.2 76.6 73.6 76.2

71.9

Yield Rank Brand BED ASH (Calcium Sulfate) 1 BECK 325NR™* 2 BECK 299NR™* 3 BECK 362NR™* 4 BECK 322NR™* AVERAGE

†

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

SOIL TEST RESULTS (IN LBS./A.) SPRING 1999 Bed Ash High Calcium High Magnesium SPRING 2000 Bed Ash High Calcium High Magnesium SPRING 2001 Bed Ash High Calcium High Magnesium SPRING 2002 Bed Ash High Calcium High Magnesium FALL 2006 Bed Ash High Calcium High Magnesium SPRING 2008 Bed Ash High Calcium High Magnesium

pH 7.4 7.2 7.6 7.7 7.5 7.3 7.5 7.6 6.9 7.7 7.6 6.9 7.4 7.5 7.1 7.1 7.3 6.8

P 178 148 176 210 202 160 218 214 140 272 238 188 118 162 120 142 134 92

K 550 310 464 428 384 332 398 318 226 518 434 408 384 464 390 380 354 274

Mg 800 638 778 788 680 616 526 542 450 610 572 518 510 530 538 440 440 410

Ca 5400 4968 5292 4752 5400 4860 5474 5684 4520 5668 5488 4416 4032 4048 3668 2900 3200 2600

C.E.C. 17.0 15.0 17.0 16.0 17.0 15.0 16.0 17.0 14.0 17.0 17.0 14.0 12.7 12.9 11.9 9.6 10.3 8.8

Soil test conducted by Agri-Labs.

Summary:

Our 1998 results were inconclusive due to spring flooding. The 1999-01 results showed lower yields where High Magnesium Lime was applied. It’s interesting to see how the pH has increased where the High Calcium Lime was added, but decreased where the High Magnesium lime was applied. This year’s study produced the highest yields (by a small margin) in the Bed Ash environment, which is different than our four year average where High Magnesium Lime has been the highest yielding environment.

20

BECK'S Corn Plot - Arcadia – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Soil Type: Yield Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

½ mile West of Arcadia May 19, 2009 October 29, 2009 Four 30” rows 33,674 seeds/A. Clay Loam

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

Insecticide:

Brand BECK 7916VT3 BECK EX 0979™* BECK 5555VT3 BECK 5354HXR™* BECK EX 0921 BECK EX 1915™* BECK 5435HXR™*

Wheat Plow / S-tine 2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum 1 qt. Princep 4L 1 gal. 28% N Force on Non-RW Percent Harvested Test† Broken Population Weight Stalks 29,000 57.9 0.8 31,500 59.1 0.0 30,000 56.9 0.8 30,500 56.4 0.0 30,000 55.3 2.6 31,750 56.1 0.8 30,250 58.2 0.8

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in. 2009 Percent Bushels† Moisture Per Acre 24.9 250.0 22.3 242.5 21.8 240.5 21.6 240.2 20.7 237.8 21.6 233.2 19.9 230.3

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5444VT3 BECK EX 1811 (Beck 6288A3 Genetics) BECK EX 1909™* BECK EX 1921™* BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5244VT3 BECK 5716A3 BECK 5135HXR™*

31,000 30,000 30,750 31,500 31,250 31,250 30,750 29,250 30,000 29,750

56.8 55.0 55.8 57.1 56.2 56.5 53.9 56.7 54.2 58.7

0.0 0.0 0.8 0.8 0.0 0.0 0.8 2.6 0.0 2.5

23.4 20.1 23.4 21.7 20.4 22.0 21.6 19.8 23.2 19.8

229.3 227.5 227.3 226.5 225.8 225.8 223.7 223.3 221.1 217.2

18 19 20 21 22 23

BECK 5779VT3 BECK EX 0981 BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™*

32,000 32.500 30,250 30,750 30,500 31,250 30,685

54.0 56.0 56.2 54.7 58.5 56.9 56.4

0.0 1.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.6

22.4 22.3 22.4 21.7 21.4 22.8 21.8

214.2 211.2 210.6 209.7 209.5 201.6 225.2

AVERAGE

BECK'S “Choices” Show Plot – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Soil Type: Purpose:

Yield Rank 1 1 3 4 6 7 8 9

RAINFALL Previous Crop: US 31 Soybeans April 7.3 in. Tillage: April 27, 2009 No-Till May 4.5 in. Herbicide: October 7, 2009 2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum June 5.6 in. Four 30” rows 1 qt. Princep July 2.3 in. 32,454 seeds/A. 8 oz. 2,4-D August 3.0 in. Clay Loam 26 oz. Durango Total 22.7 in. This study is located along US 31 and is designed to showcase the variety of choices that Beck’s offers farmers. This plot showcases some of our leading genetics with traits like Agrisure 3000GT, Herculex Xtra with Roundup Ready and YieldGard VT Triple. Percent 2009 Harvested Test† Broken Percent Bushels† Brand Population Weight Stalks Moisture Per Acre BECK 5716A3 30,000 58.4 1.7 24.8 229.9 BECK 6733HXR™* 30,000 58.5 0.0 23.8 228.2 BECK EX 0980™* 33,000 58.5 0.0 22.3 227.4 BECK 5454HXR™* 29,500 58.3 0.0 22.8 225.5 BECK EX 1908™* 32,000 58.5 0.0 24.4 216.6 BECK 5779VT3 28,500 58.2 0.0 21.7 213.2 BECK EX 0926 BECK 6363HXR™* AVERAGE

†

31,000 33,000 30,778

58.4 58.4 58.4

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

0.0 0.0 0.2

24.0 24.4 23.5

209.2 194.0 219.1

21

BECK'S Corn Plot - Atlanta - 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Soil Type: Yield Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 †

SR 19 West of Atlanta April 25, 2009 September 28, 2009 Four 30” rows 33,674 seeds/A. Brookston

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

Brand BECK EX 0921 BECK 5244VT3 BECK 5335HXR™* BECK EX 1915™* BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5454HXR™* BECK EX 0953 BECK 5354HXR™* BECK EX 1909™* BECK 5676HXR™* BECK EX 0979™* BECK 5779VT3 BECK 7916VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™* BECK EX 1811 (BECK 6288A3 Genetics) BECK 5444VT3 BECK EX 0981 BECK EX 1921™* BECK 5555VT3 BECK 5716A3 BECK 5135HXR™* AVERAGE

Wheat Moldboard Plow / S-tine 2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum 1 qt. Princep 4L Force on non-RW Corn

Harvested Population 29,500 31,000 33,000 33,500 28,500 30,500 31,000 28,500 28,500 29,000 25,000 29,500 26,000 28,000 25,500 29,000 33,500 32,000 26,000 28,500 31,000 23,000 27,500 26,000 28,896

Test† Weight 58.4 58.2 57.7 58.4 58.2 58.0 57.8 58.5 58.4 58.4 58.4 58.3 58.4 58.3 58.6 58.2 58.4 58.2 58.1 58.2 56.3 58.2 57.8 56.0 58.1

Percent Broken Stalks 6.8 1.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 7.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.1 0.0 5.3 0.0 4.3 5.5 1.9 1.6

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

Percent Moisture 23.7 21.3 23.9 21.5 22.8 21.0 24.3 24.6 20.3 22.2 22.8 24.1 22.2 22.8 25.9 23.7 23.9 24.6 21.7 22.8 24.7 23.8 21.9 22.8 23.1

2009 Bushels† Per Acre 242.9 237.3 234.8 234.3 232.6 230.7 228.0 227.3 226.4 226.1 225.8 225.6 218.4 218.1 217.9 217.9 207.9 206.1 205.5 199.4 197.2 193.7 186.1 180.8 217.5

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Insect Resistance Management and Product Stewardship Rootworm

Corn Borer

Growers of transgenic Rootworm products are required to plant a corn refuge that does not contain Bt technologies that control corn rootworm. The refuge must represent at least 20% of the grower’s total corn acres and must be within or adjacent to the transgenic rootworm field. The refuge can be treated with a non-Bt soilapplied, seed-applied or foliar-applied insecticide if pest pressure exceeds the economic threshold. If adult corn rootworm beetles are present in the refuge when the refuge is treated, the transgenic Rootworm portion must be treated in a similar manner. The refuge can be planted as a block or strips within the transgenic Rootworm field or as an adjacent field.

Growers of biotech traits containing insect protection from European Corn Borer, are required to plant a non-Bt corn refuge representing at least 20% of their total corn acres. Refuges must be within ½ mile of each Bt corn field. The refuge can be treated with a non-Bt insecticide if pest pressure exceeds the economic threshold. The refuge can be planted as a border, block, strip, or as a separate field.

22

BECK'S 300 Bushel Attempt – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Population: Soil Type: Tillage:

Herbicide:

Purpose:

300-2 S, 300-3 S, 300-4 S plots Fertilizer: April 24, 2009 September 21, 2009 36,500 seeds/A. Genesee Silt Loam Insecticide: Moldboard Plow & S-tine on continuous corn and corn after Fungicide: corn V-Rip on corn after beans Pre: 2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum 1 qt. Princep 4L Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar

Starter Mix: Sidedress:

8.5 gal 8.5 gal 97 gal

10-34-0 28-0-0 28-0-0

35#N 290#N 301#N

3.2 oz. Mustang Max

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. Aug. 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

6 oz. Headline

In our attempt to reach 300 bushels per acre, we have tried several different approaches in the past 29 years. In the early years, we increased our populations and applied extremely high rates of fertilizer as well as some micronutrients. In the mid to late 80’s, we tried using different tillage methods like v-rip, chisel, and moldboard plow. From 1991 to 2002, we tested zone-till vs. conventional-till. In 2003, we tested ultra-high populations and twin rows using conventional-till practices. Since 2004, we have compared the following crop rotations: continuous corn, two-year corn/one year soybean, and corn/soybean rotations. Harvested Population

Test† Weight

Percent Broken Stalks

Percent Root Lodging

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

35,000 35,000 34,000 37,000 34,500 35,000 32,000 33,500 34,500

58.6 57.6 58.4 55.0 57.1 59.5 58.9 55.2 57.5

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.5 0.2

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

28.6 27.1 23.9 24.5 28.8 29.3 27.3 25.9 26.9

320.7 291.0 285.5 279.0 276.7 269.2 261.0 260.8 280.5

CORN AFTER CORN (2ND YEAR) BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5716A3 BECK 5454HXR™* AVERAGE

35,500 38,500 23,500 35,000 34,500 36,500 32,500 25,500 32,688

54.3 55.5 57.8 58.4 57.8 59.3 54.0 57.3 56.8

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.0 0.2

1.4 3.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.0 0.9

25.1 25.8 28.0 28.4 23.6 29.4 27.2 29.2 27.1

293.6 288.7 288.4 287.2 282.9 282.4 281.8 261.7 283.3

CORN AFTER BEANS BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE

33,000 37,000 30,000 33,000 34,000 35,500 37,000 31,000 33,813

58.5 55.1 58.6 57.7 54.5 57.1 59.3 56.2 57.1

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.4

0.0 4.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.5

27.8 26.3 24.4 26.6 26.3 28.4 30.5 28.7 27.4

297.8 295.7 293.2 289.9 289.5 281.2 280.6 278.1 288.3

Brand CONTINUOUS CORN (9TH YEAR) BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5716A3 BECK 5779VT3 AVERAGE

† Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. * XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

22

BECK'S 300 Bushel Attempt – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Population: Soil Type: Tillage:

Herbicide:

Purpose:

300-2 S, 300-3 S, 300-4 S plots Fertilizer: April 24, 2009 September 21, 2009 36,500 seeds/A. Genesee Silt Loam Insecticide: Moldboard Plow & S-tine on continuous corn and corn after Fungicide: corn V-Rip on corn after beans Pre: 2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum 1 qt. Princep 4L Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar

Starter Mix: Sidedress:

8.5 gal 8.5 gal 97 gal

10-34-0 28-0-0 28-0-0

35#N 290#N 301#N

3.2 oz. Mustang Max

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. Aug. 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

6 oz. Headline

In our attempt to reach 300 bushels per acre, we have tried several different approaches in the past 29 years. In the early years, we increased our populations and applied extremely high rates of fertilizer as well as some micronutrients. In the mid to late 80’s, we tried using different tillage methods like v-rip, chisel, and moldboard plow. From 1991 to 2002, we tested zone-till vs. conventional-till. In 2003, we tested ultra-high populations and twin rows using conventional-till practices. Since 2004, we have compared the following crop rotations: continuous corn, two-year corn/one year soybean, and corn/soybean rotations. Harvested Population

Test† Weight

Percent Broken Stalks

Percent Root Lodging

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

35,000 35,000 34,000 37,000 34,500 35,000 32,000 33,500 34,500

58.6 57.6 58.4 55.0 57.1 59.5 58.9 55.2 57.5

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.5 0.2

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

28.6 27.1 23.9 24.5 28.8 29.3 27.3 25.9 26.9

320.7 291.0 285.5 279.0 276.7 269.2 261.0 260.8 280.5

CORN AFTER CORN (2ND YEAR) BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5716A3 BECK 5454HXR™* AVERAGE

35,500 38,500 23,500 35,000 34,500 36,500 32,500 25,500 32,688

54.3 55.5 57.8 58.4 57.8 59.3 54.0 57.3 56.8

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.0 0.2

1.4 3.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.0 0.9

25.1 25.8 28.0 28.4 23.6 29.4 27.2 29.2 27.1

293.6 288.7 288.4 287.2 282.9 282.4 281.8 261.7 283.3

CORN AFTER BEANS BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE

33,000 37,000 30,000 33,000 34,000 35,500 37,000 31,000 33,813

58.5 55.1 58.6 57.7 54.5 57.1 59.3 56.2 57.1

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.4

0.0 4.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.5

27.8 26.3 24.4 26.6 26.3 28.4 30.5 28.7 27.4

297.8 295.7 293.2 289.9 289.5 281.2 280.6 278.1 288.3

Brand CONTINUOUS CORN (9TH YEAR) BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5716A3 BECK 5779VT3 AVERAGE

† Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. * XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

23

BECK'S 300 Bushel Attempt – 2009 Summary:

Overall we have seen some variability from year to year in how continuous corn compares to first year corn in this particular study. Our average for the past five years would still show an advantage for corn after soybeans. This year, corn after soybeans averaged 5 to 8 bushels per acre more than either of the two corn following corn environments. BECK 6733HXR™* took first place in all three environments in 2008, and first place in two of the environments in 2009. In 2007, BECK 6733 (non-traited version) claimed the plot’s top spot with a yield of 302.9 bushels per acre. This year’s win solidifies BECK 6733 genetics as having the highest yield potential in three consecutive years of testing. Overall, Beck’s genetics over the past two years exceeded the previous year’s plot average by a significant margin of 30 bushels per acre. Keys to the success of this year’s plot were early planting, good stand establishment on most hybrids, and moderate temperatures in July, August and September when rainfall was below average. Also, with the high fertility levels in this highly productive soil, we have not applied any fall fertilizer since October 2005, and relied only on the starter and sidedress nitrogen to feed the crop. Think about it… What does it mean to raise 320.7 bushels per acre with a market price of $3.60 per bushel? Answer: Over $1,154 per acre!!

24

BECK'S Corn Irrigation Plot – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population:

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

Corn V-Rip / S-tine / Roto-Tiller 32 oz. Durango Amaze Gold Headline Mustang Max

RAINFALL NATURAL IRRIGATED April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. 5.0 in. 1.0 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in. 28.7 in.

To evaluate the same eight hybrids that we tested in the 300 Bu. Attempt plot, now being observed under irrigated conditions.

Purpose:

Yield Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

300-5 (S) May 12, 2009 October 17, 2009 Three 30” rows 37,418 seeds/A.

Brand BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE

Harvested Population 33,500 33,000 34,500 32,500 32,000 34,000 31,000 29,500 32,500

Test† Weight 59.9 60.0 60.0 60.1 61.1 60.4 59.9 60.3 60.2

Percent Broken Stalks 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Percent Moisture 25.7 25.6 26.8 27.5 32.3 28.0 23.3 28.8 27.3

2009 Bushels† Per Acre 244.3 243.2 237.5 232.5 228.7 228.7 226.1 223.5 233.1

†

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

The addition of 6” of water from July 2nd to August 13th was not enough for the plot to yield 300 Bu./A. Although, the combination of additional water and Headline, kept the plot green and healthy longer than the surrounding plots without irrigation. We watered 1” per acre every week in July. We did not irrigate the first full week in August because we received .91” of rain. We irrigated the second week of August and then the third week we received 1.46” of rain. With pollinating finished and the corn on its way, we decided not to irrigate the plot any more.

25

BECK'S Advanced Hybrid Corn Plot in HP and MP Soils – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Insecticide: Purpose:

H4 & H5 plots (MP Soil) 300-3, 4 (N) plots (HP Soil) May 23, 2009 October 29, 2009 Two 30” rows 33,674 seeds/A. Force on Non RW

Previous Crop: Tillage: H4,H5 plots: 300-3, 4 (N) plots: Herbicide:

Soybeans No-Till Conventional-Till 2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum 1 qt. Princep 4L 1 gal. 28% N In addition, H4, H5 plots had 32 oz. Durango

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

This study shows how our most popular hybrids as well as some leading experimental hybrids perform in HP (Highly Productive) and MP (Medium Productive) soil types.

Brand BECK EX 1915™* BECK EX 1915™* BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5442VT3 BECK EX 0932 BECK EX 0932 BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5435HXR™* BECK EX 1811 (Beck 6288A3 Genetics) BECK EX 1811 (Beck 6288A3 Genetics) BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™* BECK EX 0926 BECK EX 0926 BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 5335HXR™* BECK EX 1921™* BECK EX 1921™* BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK EX 0979™* BECK EX 0979™* BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5444VT3 BECK EX 1908™* BECK EX 1908™* BECK 5716A3 BECK 5716A3 BECK 5244VT3 BECK 5244VT3 BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5676HXR™* BECK EX 1909™* BECK EX 1909™* BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5135HXR™* HP Soil Average MP Soil Average

Soil Type HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP HP MP

Harvested Population 32,000 33,250 34,500 34,000 32,000 34,000 34,500 33,500 32,500 33,000 32,500 33,500 32,000 34,250 34,500 31,250 35,000 32,750 34,000 35,000 35,000 30,750 33,000 32,750 33,500 33,500 36,000 33,250 30,000 31,500 36,000 33,500 30,000 31,500 34,500 34,250 34,500 34,250 33,000 35,000 31,000 32,750 33,800 33,275

†

Test Weight 59.6 58.1 55.0 58.2 58.5 58.1 60.1 58.2 56.1 58.0 57.6 58.5 60.4 58.0 53.7 58.3 60.8 58.1 57.7 58.6 57.1 58.2 59.7 58.2 55.8 58.0 55.6 58.2 57.2 58.1 56.0 58.6 57.4 58.1 58.1 58.2 57.9 58.4 58.3 58.1 57.8 58.4 57.4 58.2

Percent Broken Stalks 0.0 0.0 4.3 2.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.9 0.0 0.0 1.5 0.0 1.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.4 1.5 0.0 0.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.4 1.5 0.0 0.0 0.0. 0.4 0.7

Percent Moisture 23.3 25.5 22.8 23.7 22.2 23.9 23.3 23.5 26.2 24.9 23.1 24.5 26.7 23.0 25.7 22.4 23.7 23.0 22.8 24.6 26.0 23.3 24.1 22.0 23.4 23.0 24.6 24.0 25.3 23.7 20.9 25.7 25.5 24.1 23.1 24.6 22.3 24.4 24.0 24.3 21.2 25.3 23.8 23.9

2009 † Bushels Per Acre 274.5 191.1 269.2 177.9 267.9 180.5 263.6 184.1 262.9 183.4 258.3 168.0 257.3 192.7 256.5 192.4 255.8 188.9 254.0 193.3 253.6 181.8 252.1 186.6 252.0 185.1 250.9 196.2 245.8 193.8 240.9 179.1 237.9 181.9 236.3 204.1 235.9 178.3 235.5 185.5 233.4 203.1 247.5 186.0

2009 Average † Bu./A. 232.8

Bu./A. Advantage † In HP Soil +83.4

223.6

+91.3

224.2

+87.4

223.9

+79.5

223.2

+79.5

213.2

+90.3

225.0

+64.6

224.5

+64.1

222.4

+66.9

223.7

+60.7

217.7

+71.8

219.4

+65.5

218.6

+66.9

223.6

+54.7

219.8

+52.0

210.0

+61.8

209.9

+56.0

220.2

+32.2

207.1

+57.6

210.5

+50.0

218.3

+30.3

>61.5 Bu./A. Difference

(includes hybrids not published in this report) Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. Note: Some experimental hybrids were omitted due to limited space on this page. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. †

Summary:

Since 1999 when we began this study, yield differences between HP and MP soils have been a direct reflection of available moisture. In drier years, differences in the average yield range from 35 to 63 Bu./A. In years with normal or excess rainfall, an average of 20 Bu./A. separate the two soil types. With 2008 being a year of less than average moisture, we saw a 82.5 Bu./A. difference between the two soil types. This year, we saw a yield difference of 61.5 Bu./A., which is closer to what we normally see in a year with less than normal rainfall. Because of the cooler temperatures, yields in the HP soils were exceptionally good, which made the yield difference greater than expected with the adequate rainfall we received.

26

BECK'S Corn Fungicide Study – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Soil Type:

H1 & H2 plot May 23, 2009 October 26, 2009 Four 30” rows 33,674 seeds/A. Clay Loam

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Pre:

Post: Insecticide:

Purpose:

Soybeans No-Till 2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum 1 qt. Princep 4L 28% N 1.67 qts. Lexar Force on Non-RW Hybrids

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

This study compares sixteen popular corn products with and without Headline fungicide applied at early tassel time.

Brand HEADLINE BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5555VT3 BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5244VT3 BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5716A3 BECK 6363HXR™* BECK EX 1811 (Beck 6288A3 Genetics) AVERAGE NO HEADLINE BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5716A3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK EX 1811 (Beck 6288A3 Genetics) BECK 5555VT3 BECK 5444VT3 BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5244VT3 BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 5135HXR™* AVERAGE

Harvested Population

Test† Weight

32,000 31,500 32,500 32,000 31,500 30,500 33,000 32,000 33,000 33,000 32,500 34,500 34,000 29,500 33,500 34,000 32,438

57.4 56.6 58.2 62.0 61.8 59.8 56.2 53.3 56.4 57.2 59.8 55.7 59.1 55.3 58.2 57.6 57.8

31,500 31,500 34,500 33,500 32,500 32,000 35,500 34,500 31,000 33,500 34,000 34,500 33,500 35,500 32,000 32,500 33,250

61.4 59.5 59.4 57.4 57.9 54.5 58.8 57.1 59.2 59.8 57.7 58.0 56.4 57.1 62.7 61.7 58.7

Percent Broken Stalks

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

Headline Advantage Bu./A.

$ Fung. Return^

0.0 4.8 1.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 4.6 0.0 1.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.8

20.5 21.7 23.4 22.2 22.1 24.5 21.6 22.1 22.0 20.5 21.2 21.1 24.8 23.7 24.9 24.4 22.5

277.7 272.6 264.7 258.0 250.8 250.4 248.1 247.6 246.9 244.2 244.0 243.2 239.1 234.1 228.4 222.7 248.3

70.6 45.5 52.9 28.0 51.9 20.9 33.7 24.1 39.3 23.6 55.4 40.7 25.7 9.4 14.9 -0.4 33.5

+$232.26 +$141.90 +$168.54 +$78.90 +$164.94 +$53.34 +$99.42 +$64.86 +$119.58 +$63.06 +$177.54 +$124.62 +$70.62 +$11.94 +$31.74 -$23.34 $98.75

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.2

24.7 26.2 23.6 26.1 23.4 26.3 24.4 26.5 25.4 25.8 26.7 23.8 23.6 25.3 25.5 23.0 25.0

230.0 229.5 227.1 224.7 223.5 223.1 220.6 214.4 213.5 213.4 211.8 207.6 207.1 202.5 198.9 188.6 214.8

† Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Fungicide Return = Net return for Fungicide Application minus Net Return for the Control. Cost of Headline = $16.40/A. Application cost = $5.50/A. Corn price = $3.60/Bu.

Summary:

With 33.5 Bu./A. additional yield on average for the hybrids with fungicide-applied, an economic advantage was gained for using Headline in this study for fifteen out of sixteen hybrids. However, we suspect that other factors such as soil type differences also contributed to the large yield difference we observed. In evaluating individual hybrids, they responded as expected in most cases. Note that moistures were 2.5% lower in this study where Headline was applied. We typically observe higher moistures at harvest when Headline is used due to the plant staying healthier longer.

27

BECK'S Corn Fungicide Study – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Soil Type:

A6 plot May 22, 2009 October 19 & 29, 2009 Four 30” rows 33,674 seeds/A. Clay Loam

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Pre:

Post: Insecticide:

Purpose:

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

This study compares nine popular corn products with and without Headline fungicide applied at early tassel time.

Brand HEADLINE (Three Replication Average) BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 7916VT3 BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5335HXR™* AVERAGE NO FUNGICIDE (Two Replication Average) BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 7916VT3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™* AVERAGE †

Soybeans Zone-Till 2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum 1 qt. Princep 4L 2, 4-D 32 oz. Durango None

Harvested Population

Test† Weight

Percent Broken Stalks

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

31,333 34,500 35,000 33,333 32,500 34,667 30,375 32,833 31,333 32,875

55.0 55.4 58.5 56.5 58.4 58.1 57.9 55.9 60.0 57.3

0.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.5 1.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.2

24.7 25.5 26.3 25.3 25.8 25.1 26.7 25.3 25.4 25.6

249.0 237.4 226.2 234.9 234.7 238.3 232.4 237.8 233.8 236.1

35,500 33,500 35,250 32,500 30,500 34,500 33,000 35,000 37,750 34,167

55.1 60.5 59.1 57.8 55.6 55.3 57.7 56.9 58.5 57.4

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.7 0.7 0.0 0.0 0.2

24.9 25.1 26.5 29.1 26.1 25.2 25.0 26.9 25.5 26.0

238.0 236.9 230.3 228.0 224.9 223.0 222.9 217.9 213.2 226.1

Headline Advantage

+24.1 +19.5 +13.0 +11.9 +11.8 +8.0 +4.4 -0.2 -3.1 +10.0

Fungicide Return^

+$64.86 +$48.30 +$24.90 +$20.94 +$20.58 +$6.90 -$6.06 -$22.62 -$33.06 +$14.10

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Fungicide Return = Net return for Fungicide Application minus Net Return for the Control. Cost of Headline = $16.40/A. Application Cost = $5.50/A. Corn price = $3.60/Bu.

Summary:

With a 10 Bu./A. additional average yield for the hybrids with fungicide-applied, an economic advantage was gained for using Headline in this study for six out of nine hybrids. In evaluating individual hybrids, they responded as expected, with a few exceptions like Beck 5444VT3 which usually benefits from a fungicide, and 5454HXR™* which showed a greater than expected benefit. Last year, we had similar results where yields were improved on seven out of ten hybrids with an average advantage of 14.1 Bu./A.

Did You Know? Growers that purchase Headline by Feb. 15th, 2010 can receive a $100 per gallon rebate. Visit www.beckshybrids.com for more details.

28

BECK'S 20” vs. 30” Row Show Plot – 2009 Location: Planted:

Previous Crop: RAINFALL Hoch N & S plot Soybeans Tillage: 20” - June 1 & 2, 2009 Plow / S-tine April 7.3 in. Hoch N&S: 60 gal. 28-0-0 Herbicide: 30” - May 27, 2009 May 4.5 in. Hoch S: 2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum Harvested: June 5.6 in. November 3, 2009 Rows: North: Four 30” Rows 1 qt. Princep, 1 qt. Callisto July 2.3 in. South: Six 20” Rows 6 oz. 2,4-D, 1 gal. 28-0-0 August 3.0 in. Population: Insecticide: 39,200 seeds/A. in 20” rows Force 22.7 in. 33,700 seeds/A. in 30” rows Purpose: In this study we compared over 70 hybrids in 20” vs. 30” rows to evaluate performance in both row spacings. On this page we have listed products we currently sell, plus several leading experimental we are testing in our Head Start Testing Groups. Bu./A. Percent 2009 Advantage Row Harvested Test† Broken Percent 2009 Average in 30” Brand Width Population Weight Stalks Moisture Bu./A.† Bu./A.† rows† BECK 5716A3 30” 32,000 57.0 0.0 26.3 229.5 230.8 -2.6 BECK 5716A3 20” 35,000 55.9 5.7 28.2 232.1 BECK EX 0981 BECK EX 0981

30” 20”

30,000 39,000

56.4 55.7

0.0 5.8

24.7 25.1

226.6 230.0

228.3

-3.4

BECK EX 0926 BECK EX 0926

30” 20”

30,500 38,000

54.4 54.9

0.8 0.0

24.7 27.5

226.6 229.7

228.2

-3.1

BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5608VT3

30” 20”

30,000 36,000

55.8 56.3

0.0 1.4

24.1 24.3

221.5 225.7

223.6

-4.2

BECK EX 0980™* BECK EX 0980™*

30” 20”

33,000 39,500

57.7 57.1

0.8 0.0

24.4 24.4

207.3 234.9

221.1

-27.6

BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5435HXR™*

30” 20”

32,500 33,500

62.4 57.5

0.0 0.0

22.3 19.8

220.1 219.8

220.0

+0.3

BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 5335HXR™*

30” 20”

32,000 32,500

61.2 60.0

0.0 0.8

23.0 20.8

210.1 223.4

216.8

-13.3

BECK 5722HXR BECK 5722HXR

30” 20”

30,500 39,000

54.6 56.7

0.8 0.0

24.1 27.2

225.9 206.7

216.3

+19.2

BECK EX 0986™* BECK EX 0986™*

30” 20”

31,000 36,500

60.6 58.5

2.4 3.4

26.4 26.3

221.7 208.3

215.0

+13.4

BECK 5416CBRWRR BECK 5416CBRWRR

30” 20”

30,000 37,000

54.7 55.3

0.0 6.8

26.3 27.6

218.9 210.7

214.8

+8.2

BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5444VT3

30” 20”

33,500 35,000

56.7 54.0

0.8 0.7

25.4 22.5

222.5 206.2

214.4

+16.3

BECK EX 0979™* BECK EX 0979™*

30” 20”

32,500 38,500

62.0 56.7

0.0 5.2

26.2 24.8

217.3 211.2

214.2

+6.1

BECK EX 0922 BECK EX 0922

30” 20”

33,500 34,000

57.0 56.5

0.0 1.5

23.9 23.2

222.6 203.0

212.8

+19.6

BECK 5316HXT BECK 5316HXT

30” 20”

35,500 36,500

57.2 56.7

0.0 0.0

25.4 25.8

215.3 209.3

212.3

+6.0

BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5779VT3

30” 20”

32,500 37,000

53.2 54.7

0.0 6.1

23.7 24.5

220.2 203.6

211.9

+16.6

BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5676HXR™*

30” 20”

34,500 37,500

58.6 56.1

0.0 1.4

24.0 25.2

206.4 211.0

208.7

-4.6

BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™*

30” 20”

31,000 33,000

57.0 57.0

1.6 4.4

25.5 26.7

240.8 192.4

208.5

+48.4

29

BECK'S 20” vs. 30” Row Show Plot – Continued Row Width 30” 20”

Harvested Population 32,500 39,500

Test† Weight 56.6 55.6

BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5354HXR™*

30” 20”

35,500 38,500

57.1 54.7

BECK 0916™* (BECK 5668™* Genetics) BECK 0916™* (BECK 5668™* Genetics)

30” 20”

32,500 32,000

BECK 7916VT3 BECK 7916VT3

30” 20”

BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™*

Percent Broken Stalks 0.0 3.2

2009 Average Bu./A.† 207.8

Bu./A. Advantage in 30” rows† +0.4

Percent Moisture 24.5 26.4

2009 Bu./A.† 208.0 207.6

0.7 0.0

23.5 21.9

194.8 217.2

206.0

-22.4

59.0 59.3

0.0 1.6

22.0 19.9

208.3 198.8

203.6

+9.5

33,500 36,000

59.9 58.3

0.0 1.4

24.8 30.0

215.5 191.2

203.4

+24.3

30” 20”

31,500 36,500

57.0 58.1

0.0 1.4

25.7 28.2

208.1 192.3

200.2

+15.8

BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 5454HXR™*

30” 20”

34,500 37,000

58.0 54.6

0.0 0.0

22.8 21.6

188.6 208.6

198.6

-20.0

BECK EX 1909™* BECK EX 1909™*

30” 20”

34,000 37,000

57.5 56.0

0.0 0.0

22.4 21.4

190.7 204.9

197.8

-14.2

BECK EX 1908™* BECK EX 1908™*

30” 20”

34,500 32,500

56.4 47.1

0.0 3.1

24.7 30.4

202.1 185.2

193.6

+16.9

BECK EX 1910™* BECK EX 1910™*

30” 20”

34,500 38,000

57.7 56.3

1.5 4.6

25.4 27.5

206.5 176.1

191.3

+30.4

BECK EX 0921 BECK EX 0921

30” 20”

34,000 35,000

57.7 54.8

0.0 12.2

23.3 22.8

227.3 152.7

190.0

+74.6

BECK EX 1913™* BECK EX 1913™*

30” 20”

31,500 37,500

58.1 59.9

0.0 4.0

25.2 29.6

201.7 173.5

187.6

+28.2

BECK 5684VT3 BECK 5684VT3

30” 20”

32,000 37,000

53.8 54.9

0.8 15.6

22.3 23.5

186.7 165.4

176.1

+21.3

BECK 4609HXR™* BECK 4609HXR™*

30” 20”

34,500 36,500

54.8 55.3

0.0 0.0

20.9 20.5

172.1 171.6

171.8

+0.5

32,655 36,383

57.3 56.1

0.4 3.0

24.3 25.1

212.3 203.2

Brand BECK 5616VT3 BECK 5616VT3

30”Average 20” Average

†

+9.1 Bu./A. Difference

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. Note: Some hybrids were omitted due to limited space on this page. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

The overall difference between 20” and 30” rows in this study favored 30” rows in yield, dry-down, standability and test weight. Individual hybrid differences observed in this study should be compared with other studies since this is only one replication. We also need to consider that the 20” rows were planted with a tractor set-up for 30” rows, so we had to plant into the tire tracks. In this study, we harvested 3 non-affected rows in each plot. Also we harvested the 20” rows with a 30” row head. As we consider higher populations and narrow rows, we need to switch equipment to fit the program being used.

“Beck’s latest seed treatment, Escalate, offers the farmer a flexible treatment. This is allowing us to plant early and keeps us on the cutting edge of treatments in the industry. This seed treatment is the best in the industry.” Gordon Hall Rushville, IN

30

BECK'S 20” vs. 30” Row Corn Population Study - 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Soil Type:

Purpose:

D1-D2 plot May 20, 2009 October 20, 2009 D1 - Three 20” rows D2 - Two 30” rows Various Crosby

Previous Crop: Tillage: PPI: Herbicide: Post: Fertilizer:

Soybeans V-Rip / S-tine 2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum 1 qt. Princep 4L / 1 gal. 28% N 32 oz. Durango / Amaze Gold 60 gal. 28-0-0

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

An increasing number of farmers have shown an interest in 20” corn rows. This study compares fifteen hybrids in 20” and 30” row spacing at populations ranging from 18,000 to 48,000 to determine the performance difference between 20” and 30” rows and to provide hybrid specific data for farmers planting Beck products in 20” rows. Plots were over seeded and thinned to achieve final populations.

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids.

31

BECK'S 20” vs. 30” Row Corn Population Study – Cont.

Population Summary:

The last several years Beck’s Hybrids and the industry as a whole have been talking about higher populations equating to higher yields. This year’s population studies continue to show this trend. The overall summary in the right center of this page show all hybrids across 20” and 30” rows yielding more at higher populations. The highest yield actually came at 45,000 plants per acre (20” rows only at that population).

Summary for 20” vs. 30” Rows:

At first glance our study shows an advantage for 20” rows this year as all hybrids in the 20” system yielded an additional 13.2 Bu./A. over all hybrids in the 30” system. However when looking at the 24,000 to 42,000 population range (the population range where both systems overlapped) the two systems were within 0.4 Bu./A. It was apparent that the 20” rows handled the extremely high populations well this year as the 45 – 48,000 range were the two highest yields in the study. We cannot definitively state that 20” rows had an overall advantage as there were no 30” rows planted at the two highest populations. Previous year’s studies as well as studies at our other PFR locations in 2009 would suggest that 30” rows generally would trend down at these extreme populations. These populations are all final stands planted on medium-high productivity soils. In general, you should slightly reduce populations in soils with less productivity. Please refer to our population studies from all of our PFR locations, as well as our 2010 Company Profile and Product Guide, to decide the optimum population range for each hybrid. We also need to consider that the 20” rows were planted with a tractor set-up with 30” rows, so we planted into tire tracks. Also we harvested the 20” rows with a 30” row head. As we consider higher populations and narrow rows, we need to switch equipment to fit the program being used.

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

32

BECK’S Corn Trait / Population Study – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Population: Previous Crop:

Purpose:

Field C (S) plot May 21, 2009 October 19, 2009 Various Corn

Tillage: Herbicide:

Insecticide:

Plow / S-tine 2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum 1 qt. Princep 4L 1 gal. 28% N Force on non-RW only

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

Improved genetics and insect protection traits may allow farmers to improve yields by simply planting higher populations. This study compares RR to HXR hybrids at 30,000, 33,000, 36,000 and 39,000 populations.

Brand BECK 5135RR™* BECK 5135RR™* BECK 5135RR™* BECK 5135RR™* AVERAGE

Target Population 30,000 33,000 36,000 39,000

BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5135HXR™* AVERAGE

30,000 33,000 36,000 39,000

BECK 5676RR™* BECK 5676RR™* BECK 5676RR™* BECK 5676RR™* AVERAGE

30,000 33,000 36,000 39,000

BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5676HXR™* AVERAGE

30,000 33,000 36,000 39,000

BECK 6733RR™* BECK 6733RR™* BECK 6733RR™* BECK 6733RR™* AVERAGE

30,000 33,000 36,000 39,000

BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™* AVERAGE

30,000 33,000 36,000 39,000

Harvested Percent Population Moisture 25,000 21.7 31,000 21.6 33,500 21.2 38,500 20.8 21.3 27,500 31,500 34,000 38,000

Bushels† Per Acre 204.6 209.1 214.0 209.9 209.4

$ Net Return Per Acre^ $651.43 $660.56 $671.11 $649.17

$/A. Advantage vs. 30,000^^

Yield Advantage HXR

+$9.13 +$19.69 -$2.26

22.3 22.3 21.8 22.1 22.1

204.4 209.4 216.3 205.9 209.0

$640.90 $649.63 $664.78 $618.15

27,000 31,500 36,500 40,500

23.7 24.7 25.8 26.3 25.1

217.0 218.5 241.2 212.3 222.3

$702.67 $701.61 $776.93 $666.63

-$1.06 +$74.26 -$36.04

28,000 28,500 35,000 38,500

26.4 26.5 26.1 26.3 26.3

209.7 228.4 230.7 216.9 221.4

$660.21 $718.10 $716.71 $657.55

+$57.89 +$56.50 -$2.66

30,500 32,500 36,500 39,000

24.4 24.6 25.3 26.6 25.2

224.4 217.5 215.2 211.0 217.0

$728.71 $698.05 $683.43 $661.71

-$30.66 -$45.28 -$67.00

29,500 31,000 35,000 41,000

24.5 26.2 26.7 26.2 25.9

225.4 210.1 223.6 211.4 217.6

$720.17 $655.83 $695.23 $642.05

-$64.34 -$24.94 -$78.12

+$8.73 +$23.88 -$22.75 -0.4

-0.9

+0.6

†

Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Net return/acre calculated at yield times $3.60/Bu. less $14.00/A. insecticide cost (if applied), less 2009 seed corn prices with typical discounts. ^^The $/A. Advantage versus 30,000 population shows the difference in return versus the return for 30,000 planting population.

Summary:

In last year’s study, triple stack products out-yielded RR products in every comparison. However, we did not see the yield and economic advantage for higher populations in many of the hybrids. This year, triple stack products performed nearly the same as RR hybrids, but yields generally improved as population increased up to 36,000. BECK 6733 genetics has been the exception for two consecutive years; its highest yields came from the 30,000 population.

33

BECK'S Flex-Ear Population Study – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Product Tested: Purpose:

300-5 (S) May 20, 2009 October 17, 2009 Two 30” rows Various BECK 5135HXR™*

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

Corn V-Rip / S-tine / Roto-Tiller 32 oz. Durango Amaze Gold None

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

In this study we are looking at the flex-ear hybrid, Beck 5135HXR™* and its response to populations ranging from 20,000 to 34,000.

Harvested Population 34,000 32,000 30,000 28,000 26,000 24,000 22,000 20,000 AVERAGE

Test† Weight 60.0 60.0 60.0 60.0 60.1 60.1 60.3 59.9 60.1

Percent Broken Stalks 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Percent Moisture 23.3 25.0 23.9 23.7 24.8 25.9 26.2 25.1 24.7

2009 Bushels† Per Acre 211.7 229.9 202.6 208.6 206.0 189.5 177.6 202.1 203.5

†

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

In general, we saw a trend towards higher yields from higher populations in this study. This study correlates to our long-term population study, which has multiple replications and multi-year data and shows the affects of higher populations across hybrids.

“The selection of products offered by Beck’s, guarantees that I have the right product on each of my fields. Whether I use Herculex, VT3, or Agrisure, I know that I can come to Beck’s because they offer the farmer choices and I know that the performance is always there.” Cameron Mills Walton, IN

34

BECK'S Corn Planting Date Study – 2009 N4 plot Various October 7, 2009 Four 30” rows 36,068 seeds/A.

Purpose:

To evaluate performance of an early-season and a mid-season product planted on several dates throughout the growing season.

Planting Date March 21 March 21 April 24 April 24 May 11 May 11 May 20 May 20 May 27 May 27 June 5 June 5

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Pre:

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population:

Brand BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE

† Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

We know from past Practical Farm Research that earlier planted corn generally has greater yield potential than later planted corn. This year, our highest yielding planting date was May 11th. Corn planted March 21st and April 24th endured the cooler, wetter, slow growing environment we had in April through mid-May, which is a critical period in getting the stage set for optimum yields. June 5th faired much better this year than in the 12 year average. The bar graph reflects the percent of the average yield for each date range for the past 12 years. The line graph shows that early planting often results in lower populations. Overall, lower final populations resulting from early planting still yielded more than higher final stands that were planted later.

Post:

Soybeans V-Rip / S-tine 2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum 1 qt. Princep 4L 32 oz. Durango / Amaze Gold

Harvested Population 29,500 30,000 29,750 28,500 29,500 29,000 31,000 31,000 31,000 30,000 31,000 30,500 34,000 35,500 34,750 34,500 32,500 33,500

Test† Weight 59.9 58.6 59.3 59.5 58.1 58.8 58.5 58.2 58.4 58.7 60.2 59.5 60.4 63.1 61.8 63.0 64.0 63.5

Percent Moisture 17.7 18.6 18.2 18.2 20.2 19.2 21.1 25.1 23.1 24.6 31.2 27.9 31.0 38.5 34.8 38.1 40.6 39.4

Bushels† Per Acre 184.9 170.4 177.7 214.2 209.9 212.1 269.9 222.9 246.4 239.6 244.8 242.2 233.0 246.6 239.8 202.0 246.2 224.1

Population line graph reflects the % of harvest population vs. seeds planted.

35

BECK’S Corn Replant Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Soil Type: Population: Rows:

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Pre:

Various October 17, 2009 Ragsdale Silt Loam Various Four 30” rows

Post: Insecticide:

Purpose:

Soybeans S-tine 2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum 1 qt. Princep 4L 32 oz. Durango Amaze Gold Various

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

To evaluate two genetic families at multiple planting dates and at a high and low population. With the varying weather conditions, replant results change from year to year. With 2009 starting off wet, the need to replant was less in most areas since planting was delayed later in the season. Planting Population

Test† Weight

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

April 25 May 11 (Replanted)

35,000 20,000 35,000

59.0 53.0 58.2

19.3 18.2 22.2

219.2 206.2 200.4

May 11 May 27 (Replanted)

20,000 35,000

55.0 60.2

22.8 27.1

166.6 225.8

May 27 June 5 (Replanted)

20,000 35,000

56.0 60.0

27.4 29.8

209.2 212.8

April 25 May 11 (Replanted)

35,000 20,000 35,000

53.1 58.2 55.7

19.0 19.7 22.4

May 11 May 27 (Replanted)

20,000 35,000

58.7 56.8

May 27 June 5 (Replanted)

20,000 35,000

58.2 56.6

Planting Date BECK 5335HXR™* April 25 (Normal 1st planting)

Replant† Advantage

$ Net Return**

Additional $/A.

$789.12

-5.8

$742.32 $696.44

-$45.88

+59.2

$599.76 $787.88

+$188.12

+3.6

$753.12 $741.08

-$12.04

215.3 180.4 217.9

+37.5

$775.08 $649.44 $759.44

+$110.00

23.0 27.1

165.4 225.8

+60.4

$595.44 $787.88

+$192.44

27.8 31.1

198.5 210.0

+11.5

$714.60 $731.00

BECK 5684VT3 April 25 (Normal 1st planting)

+$16.40

†

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ** Factor in drying costs and other replant costs of $25.00/A.

Summary:

This year we saw a yield benefit in replanting all through the season except with BECK 5335HXR™* when it was replanted on May 11th. The May 11th plantings of 20,000 population also produced about 60 Bu./A. less than the 35,000 population planted the same day. This led to results that made replanting on May 27th look more favorable than what we would normally expect. Although we may see a yield response with a replant, it does not mean we had a larger profit. Increased time, fuel and wear on equipment makes replanting a costly venture. In summary, we need to evaluate planting conditions, replanting and drying cost and potential yield before tearing up an existing stand of corn to replant.

“It's not just one thing that makes Beck’s so neat; it's a whole bunch of "little" things. For instance who has a better replant policy? Who else has a President’s Club with cash back! Who has anything that compares to Practical Farm Research? Becknology Days are one of a kind. Oh, did I mention Beck’s has access to all of the elite genetics from all over the world. Beck’s also uses the most efficient seed treatments available on every bag of seed they supply. I am proud to plant Beck’s.” Duane Franz Monroeville, IN

36

BECK'S Zone-Till vs. Conv.-Till Long Range Study – 2009 Corn After Soybeans (Also Nitrogen Rate Study) Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Soil Type: Population: Previous Crop:

Purpose:

E7 (S) & E8 (S) plots May 21, 2009 October 21, 2009 Four 30" rows Crosby / Miami 33,674 seeds/A. Soybeans

Herbicide:

Insecticide: Tillage: Fertilizer:

Pre:

2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum 1 qt. Princep 4L / 1 gal. 28% N Post: 32 oz. Durango / Amaze Gold Force on Beck 6733RR™* only Zone-Till = 7" wide with 3 coulters Conv.-Till = V-Rip & S-tine Starter Mix: 8.5 gal. 28-0-0 8.5 gal. 10-34-0 35# N Sidedress: 62.4 gal. 28-0-0 186# N 221# N

or 156# N (30# less N) 191# N

This is the nineteenth year for evaluating zone-till vs. conventional-till practices in a corn / soybean rotation. Since the previous year’s soybeans are said to supply about 30 lbs. of nitrogen credit, we are also comparing a 30 lbs. lower rate of nitrogen on the same hybrids in each test.

Brand ZONE-TILL STUDY BECK 5716A3 BECK 6733RR™* BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5454HXR™*

Harvested Population

Test† Weight

Percent Broken Stalks

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

Bu./A. Difference for less N

$ Return^ per Acre

Sidedress 30# less N Sidedress 30# less N Sidedress 30# less N Sidedress 30# less N AVERAGE

31,000 29,500 31,500 32,500 31,125

56.2 57.6 55.8 56.6 56.6

0.0 0.0 1.6 0.0 0.4

27.5 25.6 25.6 24.5 25.8

224.4 212.2 209.7 208.6 213.7

-9.6

-$15.54

AVERAGE

31,500 34,000 33,000 35,000 33,375

55.4 57.4 58.8 54.6 56.6

0.0 0.0 1.5 0.0 0.4

25.2 26.3 23.1 23.6 24.6

231.6 226.5 220.2 214.9 223.3

32,250

56.6

0.4

25.2

218.5

31,500 33,500 30,000 32,000 31,750

55.2 57.3 57.4 54.5 56.1

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

26.6 23.3 27.2 24.6 25.4

205.2 201.5 199.9 195.9 200.6

+2.7

+$28.74

30,000 32,000 32,000 35,500 32,375

53.1 55.9 58.7 55.3 55.8

0.0 1.6 0.0 0.0 0.4

24.2 27.0 25.2 25.1 25.4

200.4 199.6 196.5 195.1 197.9

32,063

56.0

0.2

25.4

199.3

Notes

BECK 5716A3 BECK 6733RR™* BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 5444VT3

ZONE-TILL AVERAGE CONVENTIONAL-TILL STUDY BECK 5716A3 Sidedress 30# less N BECK 5454HXR™* Sidedress 30# less N BECK 6733RR™* Sidedress 30# less N BECK 5444VT3 Sidedress 30# less N AVERAGE BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 5716A3 BECK 6733RR™* BECK 5444VT3 AVERAGE CONVENTIONAL-TILL AVERAGE †

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Corn price = $3.60/Bu. 28% nitrogen cost = $355/ton

Tillage Summary:

Zone-till vs. conventional-till corn following soybeans for 19 years has produced higher corn yields in the zone-till areas in the majority of recent years. This soil type is conducive to reduced till conditions. This year’s difference of 19.2 Bu./A. is one of the largest in the plots history, due in part to us dividing the study with a driveway and using the less productive portion for this test.

Nitrogen Summary:

In 2005, we saw no significant difference when sidedressing 30 lbs. less nitrogen in either tillage system in this corn after soybean environment. In 2006, we saw mixed results: Zone-till produced nearly 4 bushels per acre more yield with 30 lbs. less Nitrogen, and conventional-till produced over 5 bushels per acre less with 30 lbs. less Nitrogen sidedressed. In 2007, we saw the opposite results with zone-till nearly equal when 30 lbs. less nitrogen was used and conventional-till 6.2 bushels per acre more when 30 lbs. less Nitrogen was used was used. In 2008, we saw slight yield improvement in both tillage systems where 30 lbs. less nitrogen was used. This year, zone-till yields suffered by 9.6 Bu./A. when 30 lbs. less N was applied, while conventional-till yields showed a 2.7 Bu./A. advantage.

37

BECK'S Zone-Till vs. Conv.-Till Continuous Corn Study – 2009 (Also Nitrogen Rate Study) Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Soil Type: Population:

E5 (S) & E6 (S) plots May 21, 2009 October 17, 2009 Four 30" rows Crosby / Miami 33,674 seeds/A.

Herbicide:

2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum 1 qt. Princep 4L / 1 gal. 28% N Post: 32 oz. Durango / Amaze Gold Force on Beck 6733RR™* only Zone-Till = 7" wide with 3 coulters Conv.-Till = Plow & S-tine Starter Mix: 8.5 gal. 28-0-0 8.5 gal. 10-34-0 35# N Sidedress: 62.4 gal. 28-0-0 186# N 221# N

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

Pre:

Insecticide: Tillage: Fertilizer:

or 216# N (30# extra N)

251# N

This study is similar to our long-term zone-till vs. conventional-till study on the previous page except this is continuous corn. Instead of lowering the nitrogen rate 30 lbs. we increased the rate by 30 lbs. in one replication to determine whether additional nitrogen in a continuous corn environment pays.

Purpose:

Harvested Population

Test† Weight

Percent Broken Stalks

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

Bu./A. Advantage for extra N

$ Return^ per Acre

Sidedress extra 30# N Sidedress extra 30# N Sidedress extra 30# N Sidedress extra 30# N AVERAGE

34,500 31,000 30,500 31,500 31,875

54.3 56.6 59.7 55.2 56.5

0.0 0.0 0.0 1.6 0.4

25.5 25.1 26.5 25.4 25.6

199.1 197.2 189.6 188.4 193.6

+7.7

+$8.70

AVERAGE

34,000 32,000 30,500 32,500 32,250

56.7 57.6 54.7 54.8 56.0

1.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.4

23.7 24.3 24.8 24.9 24.4

188.8 188.8 188.8 177.3 185.9

ZONE-TILL AVERAGE

32,063

56.3

0.4

25.0

189.8

CONVENTIONAL-TILL STUDY BECK 6733RR™* Sidedress extra 30# N BECK 5716A3 Sidedress extra 30# N BECK 5444VT3 Sidedress extra 30# N BECK 5454HXR™* Sidedress extra 30# N AVERAGE

31,000 34,500 32,000 32,500 32,500

58.9 55.7 53.8 56.1 56.1

0.0 1.4 0.0 0.0 0.4

25.6 25.3 23.5 22.1 24.1

197.5 197.1 186.3 185.7 191.7

+2.7

-$9.30

30,500 31,000 30,500 32,000 31,000

54.1 57.6 56.1 57.3 56.3

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

23.4 25.5 22.5 25.5 24.2

191.8 189.8 189.6 184.8 189.0

31,750

56.2

0.2

24.2

190.4

Brand ZONE-TILL STUDY BECK 5716A3 BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 6733RR™* BECK 5444VT3

Notes

BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 6733RR™* BECK 5716A3 BECK 5444VT3

BECK 5444VT3 BECK 6733RR™* BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE CONVENTIONAL-TILL AVERAGE †

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Corn price = $3.60/Bu. 28% nitrogen cost = $355/ton

Tillage Summary:

We saw a 15.0 Bu./A. advantage for conventional-till on average the first three years in this continuous corn environment. In 2007 and 2008, however, with reduced rainfall, the zone-till areas provided an advantage due to less water loss through evaporation: 10.6 Bu./A. in 2007 and 3.6 Bu./A. in 2008. This year’s yields are nearly equal as we saw less heat and moisture stress.

Nitrogen Summary:

In 2005, adding 30 lbs. extra nitrogen improved yields in both zone-till and conventional-till areas and gave the largest yield and economic benefit in the zone-till environment. In 2006 and 2007, there was no additional yield benefit to adding 30 lbs. more nitrogen. In 2008, we saw a 14.8 Bu./A. advantage (+$56.83/A.) for 30 lbs. more nitrogen, but a loss of 0.6 Bu./A. ($20.67) for extra nitrogen in the conventional-till area. This year, yields improved by 7.7 Bu./A. when the extra 30 lbs. N was added in the zone-till, and by 2.7 Bu./A. when it was added in the conventional-till.

38

BECK’S Strip-Till vs. Conventional-Till Corn After Soybeans /Corn After Corn Studies – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Soil Type: Population: Rows: Replications:

B2, B3 plots May 22, 2009 October 12, 2009 Clay Loam 33,674 seeds/A. Four 30” rows Three (averaged)

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Pre:

Purpose:

Strip-Till has become of interest to many farmers that want to reduce tillage and focus on the fertility in the zone where the crop is growing. This study compares strip-till to conventional-till in both corn after corn and corn after soybean environments. In the future, we plan to apply banded fertilizer in the strip-till zone at full and reduced rates to compare to full rates in the conventional-till area.

Post:

Soybeans Strip - Till / Conv. - Till 2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum 1 qt. Princep 4L 1 gal. 28% N 32 oz. Durango

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

CORN AFTER SOYBEANS Yield Rank STRIP-TILL 1 2 3 4

Harvested Population

Test† Weight

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

AVERAGE

33,833 33,667 35,333 37,167 35,000

55.6 55.8 58.6 58.6 57.2

30.6 26.4 29.1 30.1 29.1

234.8 218.4 206.0 200.1 214.8

AVERAGE

32,333 33,333 34,500 35,500 33,917

56.1 55.4 58.4 60.0 57.5

28.8 25.0 28.1 30.0 28.0

237.9 213.3 206.3 194.4 213.0

Harvested Population

Test† Weight

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

AVERAGE

32,833 35,167 33,500 34,667 34,042

56.1 56.2 58.0 57.9 57.1

29.8 27.6 27.8 28.6 28.5

200.9 177.5 162.1 153.8 173.6

AVERAGE

32,000 32,000 33,167 34,667 32,959

55.8 57.2 57.8 58.7 57.4

29.0 28.0 27.6 27.9 28.1

244.7 216.2 209.4 205.9 219.1

Brand BECK 5716A3 BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™*

CONVENTIONAL-TILL 1 BECK 5716A3 2 BECK 5454HXR™* 3 BECK 6733HXR™* 4 BECK 6363HXR™*

CORN AFTER CORN Yield Rank Brand STRIP-TILL 1 BECK 5716A3 2 BECK 5454HXR™* 3 BECK 6733HXR™* 4 BECK 6363HXR™*

CONVENTIONAL-TILL 1 BECK 5716A3 2 BECK 5454HXR™* 3 BECK 6733HXR™* 4 BECK 6363HXR™* †

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

In 2007, the first year of testing, we saw a consistent pattern of higher yields in the strip-till areas. This year, the yield averages were nearly equal in the corn after soybean study, but in the continuous corn, conventional-till out yielded strip-till by 45.5 Bu./A. It is interesting to note that the hybrid ranking stayed consistent in all four environments and Beck 5716A3 averaged over 20 Bu./A. more than the second place hybrid across all four environments. One of the lessons learned is the importance of using auto-guide technology with strip-till. Many of the areas strip-tilled in the fall were difficult to distinguish at planting time due to weathering and residue movement back into the strips. In addition, strip-tilled areas on sloping ground were more subject to erosion when the strip was located in an area where water ran. This created a non-uniform seed bed at planting time and erosion continued to occur.

39

BECK’S Purdue Nitrogen Rate Study – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Soil Type: Replications: Purpose:

†

Field K (N) May 20, 2009 October 29, 2009 Eight 30” rows 33,764 seeds/A. (Harvested 4 middle rows) Brookston Four (averaged)

Corn Plow / S-tine 2.3 qts.Bicep II Magnum 1 qt/ Princep 4L 1 gal. 28% N None BECK 5676HXR™*

Previous Crop: Tillage: PPI: Herbicide:

Insecticide: Product Tested:

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

This study was set up in 2006 to help gather nitrogen data for a state-wide database coordinated by Purdue University.

Lbs. of Nitrogen 250 lbs. 200 lbs. 150 lbs. 100 lbs. 0 lbs. AVERAGE

Percent Moisture 29.8 28.3 25.7 24.7 22.8 26.3

Percent Broken Stalks 0.7 0.0 0.4 0.8 1.6 0.7

Harvest Population 32,625 32,625 32,000 31,250 31,500 32,000

2009 Bushels† Per Acre 197.5 174.5 158.5 118.8 27.4 135.3

4 Year Average† 06 - 09 ----196.7 184.6 153.6 58.7 148.4

2009 Gross Income $711.00 $628.20 $570.60 $427.68 $98.64

Gross Minus Nitrogen & Drying Cost $435.83 $408.77 $407.81 $318.29 $90.09

Return on Additional lbs. of N $27.06 $0.95 $89.53 $228.19 -----

Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Gross income based on $3.60/Bu. corn. Drying cost figured at $0.04/point of moisture above 15%/bushel. Nitrogen price based on $355/ton 28% liquid nitrogen.

Summary:

The past three years we have seen 200 lbs. of nitrogen produce the highest yield of the plot. Due to this, we removed the 50 lbs. nitrogen strip and added a 250 lbs. nitrogen strip in hopes of finding our peak nitrogen rate. In doing this we actually received an increase in yield and an additional return on investment with the 250 lbs. of nitrogen. It is also interesting to observe how the area with no nitrogen applied for four consecutive years has produced lower yields each year, starting at over 130 Bu./A. in the first year with no nitrogen to less than 30 Bu./A. in this fourth year without nitrogen.

“Our farm is completely conventional corn and soybean acres. Beck’s lineup performs and continues to have choices whereas the competitors are switching to all traited products and limit the farmer’s choices. As a smaller farmer, we are still treated like a larger farmer and receive the same service regardless of our size. Beck’s values and their service is the top in the industry.” Don Lemler Bourbon, IN

Why Plant Beck’s? • • • •

73 Years in the Seed Business More Product Choices Strong Dealer Network Access to the Best Genetics and Seed Technologies

• • • • •

Dedicated Sales Force Best Agronomic Support 100% Replant Free Delivery Superior Customer Service

40

BECK'S Herbicide Sensitivity Study – 2009 Soybeans Previous Crop: V-Rip / S-tine Tillage: Force Insecticide: Pre-Applied Herbicide: 2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum Used only where Post 1 qt. Princep / 1 gal. 28%N applied products were tested.

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population:

D3 plot May 20, 2009 October 20, 2009 Two 30” rows 32,454 seeds/A.

Purpose:

Numerous factors can affect crop injury caused by herbicides, including soil type, weather conditions before, during and after application, planting depth, and proper furrow closure to name a few. This study was designed to evaluate the sensitivity of four industry herbicides. To simulate a spray overlap, a 2X labeled rate was applied. When evaluating the results, the lower the percentage, the greater the sensitivity. (Example: BECK 5135HXR™* (80.2%) was more sensitive to Integrity than BECK 5716A3 (99.7%). Keep in mind each % listed in the body of the chart is for one product on one hybrid and should not be weighed too heavily. The averages at the bottom of the chart should be more significant data to evaluate. Balance® Flexx

Corvus™

BECK 5135HXR™*

98.2%

102.5%

BECK 5323VT3wx

98.3%

BECK 5354HXR™*

Laudis™

Control

80.2%

113.7%

105.4%

107.9%

90.4%

99.4%

104.1%

103.1%

107.5%

85.1%

110.0%

94.3%

BECK 5435HXR™*

97.8%

97.5%

102.1%

104.7%

97.9%

BECK 5442VT3

99.7%

95.0%

93.9%

101.1%

110.2%

BECK 5444VT3

103.0%

100.3%

98.2%

108.7%

89.9%

BECK 5454HXR™*

105.6%

108.5%

81.6%

102.3%

101.9%

BECK 5555VT3

104.3%

92.7%

98.9%

102.8%

101.3%

BECK 5608VT3

102.1%

95.2%

95.3%

104.3%

103.1%

BECK 5676HXR™*

112.7%

86.4%

87.2%

100.8%

112.9%

BECK 5716A3

110.7%

103.1%

99.7%

89.2%

97.2%

BECK 5779VT3

103.8%

106.3%

86.6%

98.8%

104.5%

BECK 6363HXR™*

110.1%

92.3%

93.6%

106.7%

97.2%

BECK 6733HXR™*

105.5%

103.0%

92.4%

105.4%

93.8%

BECK 7916VT3

106.2%

100.2%

93.5%

100.3%

99.8%

104.0%

99.9%

92.0%***

103.3%

100.8%

Brand

AVERAGE**

Integrity™

**This row is an average of all hybrids per treatment. ***Integrity is a new tank-mix product with a non selective burndown + a residual root and shoot inhibitor that was applied after emergence. The corn experienced leaf tissue damage similar to a frost and most plants appeared to have died due to our misapplication (no fault of Integrity. Corn yields are surprisingly good considering the severe injury that we created with the off-label application of Integrity.

Summary:

The 2009 results for all hybrids with a 2X rate applied, showed that Laudis (a pigment inhibiter) had much better crop safety this year than in last year’s study. Balance Flexx (an HPPD inhibiter with a new generation safener) showed very good crop safety for the second year in a row. Corvus (also a HPPD inhibiter) did not show any sensitivity this year as it showed a 99.9% average across all hybrids. Individual hybrid sensitivity to a given herbicide is displayed in the body of the table.

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Balance Flexx , Corvus and Laudis are trademarks of Bayer. Integrity is a trademark of BASF.

41

BECK'S Lime Study on Corn – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Seeding Rate:

Purpose:

300-6 North April 25, 2009 September 28, 2009 30,000 seeds/A.

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

Soybeans V-Rip / S-tine 32 oz. Durango Amaze Gold

This is the sixteenth year of a long-term study to determine the effects of High Calcium lime on corn and soybean production. We applied 0, 5, and 10 ton/A. of High Calcium lime in April 1993 and planted corn. In the spring of 1994 we applied 0, 3, and 5 ton/A. of High Calcium lime to an additional area and planted soybeans. We have rotated the crops over the years, and applied additional lime to only one area; in the Spring of 2000, we applied 1.5 ton/A. each of Bed Ash (Calcium Sulfate) and High Calcium lime to one of the areas where we had not applied lime. In the spring of 2006, we converted the 10 ton/A. area to an alfalfa plot.

Yield Rank Brand 5 TON / ACRE

Harvested Population

Test† Weight

Percent Broken Stalks

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

No data due to compaction

†

0 TON / ACRE + 3 TON / ACRE 1 BECK 5454HXR™* 2 BECK 5716A3 3 BECK 6733HXR™* 4 BECK 6363HXR™* AVERAGE

30,500 26,000 27,000 28,000 27,875

57.8 57.8 59.0 58.6 58.3

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

28.7 28.8 30.9 30.0 29.6

254.9 244.0 236.0 233.5 242.1

NO ADDED LIME 1 BECK 6733HXR™* 2 BECK 5716A3 3 BECK 5454HXR™* 4 BECK 6363HXR™* AVERAGE

28,000 28,500 26,000 29,500 28,000

59.1 57.8 57.9 58.7 58.4

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

32.2 28.4 28.3 30.7 29.9

249.2 248.3 244.8 230.2 243.1

3 TON / ACRE 1 BECK 6733HXR™* 2 BECK 5454HXR™* 3 BECK 5716A3 4 BECK 6363HXR™* AVERAGE

30,000 30,000 27,500 28,000 28,875

59.4 59.0 58.7 59.0 59.0

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

33.0 32.3 30.8 32.0 32.0

251.3 250.2 248.6 237.8 246.9

5 TON / ACRE 1 BECK 5716A3 2 BECK 5454HXR™* 3 BECK 6363HXR™* 4 BECK 6733HXR™* AVERAGE

27,500 30,500 28,000 27,500 28,375

58.5 58.1 58.8 58.6 58.5

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

30.9 29.0 31.0 30.6 30.4

249.5 248.6 238.5 229.0 241.4

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

In 1993 and 1994, we saw no significant yield difference between limed and un-limed areas. From 1995 to 2001 we saw an advantage of 22.0 Bu./A. of corn and 5.0 Bu./A. of beans in the limed areas. We have also seen significantly taller plant heights in the limed areas. No data was reported in 2002, due to flooding. We grew soybeans and wheat in 2003-2004, so 2005 was our first year since 2001 to report corn data. The limed areas continued to produce higher yields than the unlimed areas giving us an eight-year average of 20.6 bushels per acre more yield. However, our advantage in 2005 was only 11.0 Bu./A. In 2006, average soybean yields between all areas of the study differed by less than 3.0 Bu./A. and the unlimed area topped the trial at 69.2 Bu./A. average. In 2008, soybean yields were somewhat inconclusive due to a planting error. The past two corn years (2007 and 2009) corn yields were nearly the same between limed and un-limed areas, so it appears that the effects of lime are diminishing.

42

BECK’S Gypsum Study – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Product Tested: Purpose:

300-5 (N) May 25, 2009 October 17, 2009 Four 30” rows 30,000 seeds/A. BECK 5454HXR™*

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

Corn V-Rip / S-tine / Roto-Tiller 32 oz. Durango Amaze Gold None

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

Gypsum (Calcium Sulfate) has been used to improve soil structure and add the micronutrient, sulfur. In 2008, we applied gypsum at 1,600 lbs./A. in this study. In 2009, we applied a half-rate to part of the area that received 1600 lbs./A. in 2008. Harvest Population 29,500

Test† Weight 59.9

Percent Moisture 23.2

Bushels† Per Acre 230.0

Two Year Average Bu./A. 243.0

1600 LBS. GYPSUM in 2008 NO GYPSUM in 2009

29,500

59.9

23.3

232.5

244.3

NO GYPSUM APPLIED AVERAGE

28,500 29,167

59.9 59.9

25.0 23.8

249.9 237.5

241.9

Applications 1600 LBS. GYPSUM in 2008 800 LBS. GYPSUM in 2009

†

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

In our two years of testing, yields have varied about 20 Bu./A. in both directions, so this plot is inconclusive regarding any benefit from the use of gypsum, especially when we saw no response from adding an additional 800 lbs. in 2009 to one section of the test.

“This year I made a last minute decision to switch corn maturities. I called my DSM at 9 p.m. and by 9 a.m. that next morning I had 3 boxes of corn delivered, so I could plant before the rain came in. They also went ahead and returned the corn that I switched from and took back all my empty boxes. Now that is service!” Alan Dunn Michigantown, IN

OUR MISSION: TO PROVIDE OUR CUSTOMERS WITH THE BEST IN SEED QUALITY, FIELD PERFORMANCE AND SERVICE.

43

BECK’S Gypsum Study in Zone-Till – 2009 Field K (S) May 23, 2009 October 29, 2009 Eight 30” rows 33,674 seeds/A.

Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population:

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

Insecticide: Purpose:

Soybeans Zone-Till 2.3 qts.Bicep II Magnum 1 qt. Princep 4L 8 oz. 2,4-D 32 oz. Durango None

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

Gypsum (Calcium Sulfate) was applied at 2,000 lbs./A. in this study. Gypsum has been used to improve soil structure and add the micronutrient, sulfur. The gypsum that we evaluated is a byproduct from power plants. It has a guaranteed analysis of 21.5% calcium and 16.5% sulfur. Harvest Population

Test† Weight

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

2000 LBS. GYPSUM APPLIED BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5444VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5335HXR™* AVERAGE

33,000 34,500 35,500 34,000 34,250

58.2 55.9 56.1 58.3 57.1

24.1 23.5 25.4 20.9 23.5

286.9 280.8 274.2 213.6 263.9

NO GYPSUM APPLIED BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5335HXR™* AVERAGE

33,500 35,500 32,500 32,500 33,500

55.6 54.4 58.1 58.0 56.5

23.9 23.7 22.2 22.6 23.1

263.2 256.7 243.2 209.8 243.2

†

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

After seeing a fairly large yield response to gypsum in a small plot in 2008, we wanted to try a more comprehensive study in 2009. In 2009, we used a spreader truck to apply product to the testing area. All hybrids tested in this study showed positive yield improvements from 3.8 to 37.6 Bu./A. and the average advantage where we applied gypsum was over 20 Bu./A.

Gypsum was applied in the zone-till study with our spreader truck.

The relationships that are built at Beck’s is why I purchase through Beck’s. No other company can provide the personal touch and the family values that Beck’s has with their customers and that is what sets them apart from the competition.” Bruce Bennett Knox, IN

44

BECK'S Tile and Strip Crop Study – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Corn: Soybeans:

Purpose:

T1 - T2 plots May 23, 2009 October 16, 2009 30” rows 36,068 seeds/A. 139,089 seeds./A.

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

Crosby / Miami Corn / Soybeans No-Till 32 oz. Durango None

Maximizing yield on every acre is a key to obtaining greater profitability. Strip cropping (planting corn and soybeans in strips across the same field) allows corn to capture more energy from sunlight during the growing months and improves air movement for dry down purposes in the fall. We planted a medium height hybrid, BECK 5779VT3, on the outside two rows and a tall hybrid, BECK 6733HXR™*, on the middle four rows of each strip to maximize the performance of the tall hybrid. With the use of Roundup Ready technology in corn and soybeans, and the Auto-Steer guidance systems for planting accuracy, strip cropping is now easier to implement. In this study, we planted the rows north and south (perpendicular to the tile lines) and measured yields in the tiled area and in the un-tiled area. The data below reflects the averages of 7 to 8 replications.

T1 -Tiled Plot Corn Strip Averages (8 Reps) Two Outside Rows (West exposure) Two Outside Rows (East exposure) AVERAGE Four Middle Rows

Percent Moisture 23.4 23.6 23.5

Bushels† Per Acre 220.5 244.8 232.7

24.6

219.9

Soybean Strip Averages (7 Reps) Two Rows Next to Corn (West) Two Rows Next to Corn (East) AVERAGE

50.2 51.5 50.9

Four Middle Rows

58.8

T2 - Un-Tiled Plot Corn Strip Averages (8 Reps) Two Outside Rows (West exposure) Two Outside Rows (East exposure) AVERAGE Four Middle Rows

†

Soil Type: Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

Percent Moisture 25.0 25.0 25.0

Bushels† Per Acre 211.8 234.6 223.2

26.5

213.9

Soybean Strip Averages (7 Reps) Two Rows Next to Corn (West) Two Rows Next to Corn (East) AVERAGE

48.4 50.3 49.4

Four Middle Rows

58.6

Corn (Tiled and Un-Tiled) Strip Crop Average = 222.4 Bu./A.

Soybean (Tiled and Un-Tiled) Strip Crop Average = 54.4 Bu./A.

Corn bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. Soybean bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Corn Price = $3.60/Bu. Soybean Price = $9.55/Bu.

Corn Average for Strip Crop System = Soybean Average for Strip Crop System = AVERAGE Corn Average for Block System = Soybean Average for Block System = AVERAGE

Summary:

Bushels Per Acre 222.4 54.4

224.5 68.1

$ Gross Revenue/A. $807.84 $519.52 $663.68

Disadvantage for Strip Crop/A.

-$65.60

$808.20 $650.36 $729.28

On average the strip crop system lost $65.60 per acre this year, $178.40 in 2008, $62.14 per acre in 2007, and $31.60 per acre in 2006. Only in 2005, did we see an advantage of $24.00 per acre. After visually observing the plot these past five years, the difference has been due in part to soil type and soil conditions at the time of planting. The strip crop area is on a tighter and wetter soil, where uniform emergence and stand establishment has been more difficult to obtain compared to the block study area. In this year’s test, where we obtained good stands, our corn differences were minimal, but real losses occurred in soybeans with $130/A. deficits. Differences between tile and no-tile were minimal this year and the 6 Bu./A. advantage in the corn was likely insignificant or related to soil type.

45

BECK'S Tiling Study – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population:

Corn: Beans: Corn: Beans:

Soil Type: Purpose:

T3 & T4 plots May 23, 2009 October 16, 2009 October 20, 2009 Various 36,068 seeds/A. 139,089 seeds/A. Crosby

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Products Tested:

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

Corn / Soybeans No-Till 32 oz. Durango BECK 5779VT3 BECK 362NR™*

In this study we are comparing yield between a non-tiled plot and a plot that was tile ditched in September 2004 with 4” tile every 20’. We are also measuring yield in the four rows directly above the tile lines verses the three or four rows between the tile lines.

Bushels† Per Acre 70.7 66.2 64.6 65.0

Soybean Tiled Plot Rows Over Tile Rows Between Tile Rows Over Tile Rows Between Tile

Corn Tiled Plot Rows Between Tile Rows Over Tile Rows Between Tile Rows Over Tile Rows Between Tile Rows Over Tile Rows Between Tile Rows Over Tile Rows Between Tile

Percent Moisture 25.5 26.4 25.7 26.6 25.1 24.4 24.7 24.0 23.5

Test† Weight 55.9 57.8 57.5 55.3 56.7 54.8 54.8 54.0 56.3

Bushels† Per Acre 243.6 226.9 232.0 237.9 232.3 235.2 217.1 225.1 243.7

PLOT AVERAGE

66.6

PLOT AVERAGE

25.1

55.9

232.6

AVG. YIELD OVER TILE AVG. YIELD BETWEEN TILE

67.7 65.6

AVG. YIELD OVER TILE AVG. YIELD BETWEEN TILE

25.4 24.9

55.5 56.2

231.3 233.7

UN-TILED BLOCK OF SOYBEANS

69.5

UN-TILED BLOCK OF CORN

26.0

55.2

216.4

SOYBEAN BLOCK AVERAGE

68.1

CORN BLOCK AVERAGE

25.6

55.6

224.5

†

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Corn Summary:

In both the first and second year following tile installation, corn rows over the tile averaged 17 Bu./A. less than the corn rows between the tiles. Differences the third year were only 7.7 Bu./A. In 2008 and 2009, it appears that the soil has settled and the subsoil structure has started to develop since yield differences averaged only 2 Bu./A. In 2008, the tiled study averaged 25.7 Bu./A. less, 32.2 Bu./A. less in 2007, and only 11 Bu./A. in 2006 when rainfall was more prevalent. Compared to the un-tiled ground, this is the first year that the tiled ground has yielded more (232.6 vs. 224.5). The un-tiled plot has better soil and will produce more in most years. This study will help us determine if we can help soil that is not as productive, become as productive as better soil through the use of tiling.

Soybean Summary:

In 2006, 2008 and 2009, soybeans above the tile yielded about 2 Bu./A. more than those planted between tile lines. What appears to be the most significant in the past has been the difference in soil type. In 2007, the un-tiled plot, which has better soil, produced 14.1 Bu./A. more than the tiled area. In 2006, the advantage for the higher productive soil was 8.1 Bu./A. For the past two years, however, soil type was of less effect and yields between the tiled area and the un-tiled area averaged only 1.7 Bu./A. difference in 2008 and 2.9 Bu./A. in 2009.

46

BECK'S Quality Trait Products® - 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Soil Type:

Purpose:

Quality Trait Product Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade H.F.C. H.F.C. Waxy Waxy Waxy Waxy Waxy Waxy Waxy Waxy Waxy White Corn White Corn

N2 plot April 27, 2009 September 28, 2009 Four 30” rows 30,000-32,000 Seeds/A. Brookston

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: PPI: Post: Insecticide:

Corn V-Rip / S-tine 2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum 1 qt. Princep 4L 1.67 qts. Lexar Force on some Non-RW Hybrids

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

This study shows the Quality Trait Products Beck’s is testing and/or offering for sale. Our purpose is to evaluate and offer for sale the products that are profitable for our customers.

Brand BECK EX 1908 BECK 6733 BECK 5335™* BECK 5676™* BECK EX 0979 BECK 5135™* BECK EX 0980 BECK EX 1915 BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5608 BECK EX 1811 (BECK 6288CL Genetics) BECK 5444

Harvested Population 29,000 23,000 20,500 22,500 26,000 29,500 30,500 27,000 23,500 26,000 29,000

Test† Weight 56.2 58.3 58.7 58.8 58.4 55.7 57.6 54.4 56.7 52.3 53.9

Percent Broken Stalks 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.9 0.0 0.0 0.0

Percent Moisture 28.0 27.6 23.5 27.5 26.1 22.0 27.1 25.8 25.2 25.6 25.9

2009 Bushels† Per Acre 240.3 231.9 224.4 224.4 223.0 216.2 215.8 203.7 201.3 190.2 183.5

+ or – Plot Avg. +25.1 +16.7 +9.2 +9.2 +7.8 +1.0 +0.6 -11.5 -13.9 -25.0 -31.7

27,500

52.8

0.0

28.2

222.2

+7.0

28,500

53.4

0.0

25.4

210.8

-4.4

27,000 25,000 25,500

54.7 55.7 54.4

0.0 0.0 3.9

27.5 25.3 25.1

253.7 233.2 221.8

+38.5 +18.0 +6.6

BECK 6722wx BECK 5244VTwx BECK EX 2931 (Beck 5774VT3wx Genetics) BECK EX 1934 (Beck 5335wx™* Genetics) BECK 5323VT3wx BECK 5323RRwx BECK 5012wx BECK 5166wx BECK 5616wx

26,500

60.0

0.0

25.4

218.9

+3.7

29,000 31,000 34,000 29,000 30,000

53.9 53.8 56.1 55.2 55.4

0.0 0.0 0.0 3.4 0.0

24.5 25.4 22.7 25.1 23.7

215.4 210.8 205.0 201.6 199.2

+0.2 -4.4 -10.2 -13.6 -16.0

BECK EX 2916

26,000

60.2

0.0

28.5

215.5

+0.3

56.0 55.9

0.0 0.4

26.2 25.7

202.6 215.2

-12.6

BECK 6218W 21,000 AVERAGE 26,938 † Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Potential Premiums

Food Grade $0.10$0.60

H.F.C. None at this time

Waxy $0.60$0.80

White Corn $0.20 +

Food Grade Corn - Used by dry millers to produce cereal and snack food products. The endosperm is much harder than commodity corn and is higher in test weight. High Fermentable Corn (H.F.C.) - Hybrids identified as High Fermentable are those that will produce a higher percentage of ethanol per bushel. Once identified, ethanol producers will use these hybrids to increase ethanol yields and plant efficiencies. Waxy Corn - Unlike normal corn, it does not contain any amylose starch, only amylopectin. It is used by processors to produce specialty starches used in food and industrial products. White Corn - White corn mainly used by grain millers to produce snack foods. Quality Trait Products® is a registered trademark of Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

47

BECK'S Corn Silage Study – 2009 N3 plot April 27, 2009 September 2, 2009 Four 30” rows 32,454 seeds/A.

Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population:

Previous Crop: Tillage: PPI: Herbicide: Post: Insecticide:

Corn V-Rip / S-tine 2.3 qts. Bicep II Magnum 1 qt. Princep 4L 1.67 qts. Lexar None

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

NIR (Near Infrared Spectroscopy) Test done by Dairy One Forage Labs Ithaca, NY

To find hybrids that combine high tonnage along with excellent nutritional quality. This combination produces the highest pounds of milk per acre as calculated by the Milk 2006 program developed by the University of Wisconsin. The pounds of milk per acre data combines the yield in tons with the nutritional data to form one easy to understand number.

Purpose:

% Dry Matter Basis Lbs of Milk/Acre 37,876

Lbs of Milk/Ton 3,439

% Mois. 61.5

65% Moist. Tons/Acre 31.5

BECK EX 4780

35,360

3,376

64.2

29.9

BECK 6733HXR™*

35,271

3,276

63.2

30.8

BECK 6363HXR™*

30,869

3,123

61.1

28.2

21.2

BECK 5244VT3

30,725

2,991

60.5

29.3

25.9

BECK 5135HXR™*

30,627

3,297

62.4

26.5

19.9

BECK 6288CL**

30,615

3,164

60.8

27.6

21.0

BECK 5716A3

30,180

3,038

61.8

28.4

24.7

BECK 5608VT3

29,958

3,018

65.3

28.4

BECK 5444VT3

29,623

2,917

64.5

29.0

BECK 5442VT3

27,757

3,024

63.8

BECK 5354HXR™*

26,472

3,035

68.8

Brand BECK 5676HXR™*

NDF 31.8

Adj. Crude Protein 8.1

Starch 46.5

Crude Fat 3.5

NEL 0.85

NEG 0.58

19.5

35.6

8.3

39.4

3.6

0.80

0.52

20.7

36.6

7.9

39.4

2.9

0.79

0.52

38.0

7.4

40.8

2.8

0.78

0.51

45.5

7.0

33.6

3.4

0.73

0.47

36.1

8.0

42.4

3.1

0.79

0.52

38.5

7.0

41.2

3.1

0.79

0.52

42.2

7.2

37.6

2.9

0.75

0.48

25.7

45.3

8.1

28.9

2.8

0.71

0.44

27.1

47.6

7.6

29.5

2.9

0.69

0.43

26.2

25.5

43.4

7.8

34.4

2.8

0.73

0.46

24.9

27.3

46.4

8.3

28.8

3.3

0.70

0.44

ADF 16.9

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ** Low population

ADF

Acid Detergent Fiber

Includes cell wall portions made up of cellulose and lignin. As ADF increases, digestibility decreases.

NDF

Neutral Detergent Fiber

Includes ADF plus hemicellulose. As NDF increases, dry matter intake will generally decrease.

NEL

Net Energy of Lactation

An estimate of energy in feed available for lactating animals.

NEG

Net Energy for Gain

An estimate of energy in feed available for non-lactating animals.

Pounds of Milk/Acre & Ton North BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5244VT3 BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5354HXR™* Summary:

Calculated using the University of Wisconsin’s Milk 2006 Program.

Rm (Days) 112 106 104 109 107

Top Five Hybrids for Silage Rm (Days) Central BECK 5676HXR™* 112 BECK 6733HXR™* 114 BECK 6363HXR™* 113 BECK 5716A3 111 BECK 5444VT3 109

South BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5716A3 BECK 6288A3

Rm (Days) 114 113 112 111 112

Identifying the silage hybrids that produce tons and nutritional value is very important to Beck’s Hybrids. Hybrids like the “44” family and new “XL” hybrids like 5676HXR™*, 6363HXR™* and 6733HXR™* have risen to the top of our testing this year. Take a look at the box above to find the hybrids that work best in your area.

48

Caliber Alfalfa Take Aim at Outstanding Forage Quality and Excellent Yield • • • •

Key Characteristics Exceptional forage quality will make Caliber a favorite across Beck’s marketing geography. High multi-leaf expression and excellent relative forage quality contribute to more pounds of milk and beef produced per acre. Outstanding winter-hardiness and disease resistance leads to long stand life and productivity. Medium maturity extends the harvest window for quality and works well in combination with cool season grass mixtures.

Caliber is the newest alfalfa variety to be offered by Beck’s Hybrids. Caliber was specifically bred to be higher in Relative Forage Quality (RFQ), which equates to better fiber digestibility and improved animal performance. Its deep, dark green appearance makes it a real “head turner” in the field.

Who should plant Caliber alfalfa? Growers using 3-4 cut management strategies who emphasize quality and tonnage. Caliber holds its quality at later maturity stages, giving you a flexible harvest window.

QUALITY (Milk/Acre)

Fall Dormancy: 4.0 Winter Hardiness: 2.0 Disease Resistance: 30 Anthracnose HR Aphanomyces Race 1 HR Bacterial Wilt HR Fusarium Wilt HR Phytophthora HR Verticillium Wilt HR HR = Highly Resistant

18,500 17,500 lbs. / Acre

Disease Resistance Index

19,500

16,500 15,500 14,500 13,500 12,500 Ameristand 403T

HybriForce400

Genoa

54V46

WL 357HQ

Caliber

49

Charger Alfalfa A Pacesetter in Total Alfalfa Production • • • • •

Key Characteristics Charger’s industry leading growth rate maximizes total season forage yield. Bigger second, third and fourth cuts during the summer allow more tons of dry hay to be harvested when weather is more cooperative. Superior yield and quality generates more milk and beef per acre. Quick canopy closure naturally suppresses weed competition. Exceptional stand persistence into the later production years even under multiple traffic passes.

Charger Alfalfa from Beck’s Hybrids was developed from crossing unique European germplasm onto elite U.S. alfalfas screened for superior yield, forage quality and persistence. The resulting alfalfa varieties express faster growth and are designated as StandFast® Fast Growth alfalfa.

Who should plant Charger alfalfa? Growers using a 4+ cut management strategy who look for high quality and tonnage. Charger’s leading recovery speed gives you increased tonnage in short-interval harvests.

RECOVERY Fall Dormancy: 5.0 Winter Hardiness: 2.0 Disease Resistance: 30 Anthracnose HR Aphanomyces Race 1 HR Bacterial Wilt HR Fusarium Wilt HR Phytophthora HR Verticillium Wilt HR

2.00 Avg. Recovery Rating

Disease Resistance Index

2.20

1.80

1.60

1.40

1.20

1.00 Ameristand 403T HybriForce-400

HR = Highly Resistant

WL 357HQ

Alfalfa Variety

SummerGold

54V46

Charger

50

BECK'S Soybean Variety Plot - Office – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows:

A2 plot April 25, 2009 Various Three 30” rows

Seeding Rate: Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

LL: Insecticide:

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

120,000 seeds/A. Corn Moldboard / S-tine 32 oz. Durango / Amaze Gold 22 oz. Ignite 3.2 oz. Mustang Max

Plant Height (IN.)

Pod Height (IN.)

Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat

2009 Bushels† Per Acre

2 Yr. Average† ‘08 – ‘09

BECK 274NR BECK 282R™* BECK 257NR BECK 244NR™* BECK 299NR™* BECK 284L AVERAGE

26.0 26.0 26.0 30.0 24.0 36.0 28.0

1.0 1.0 1.0 2.0 1.0 2.0 1.3

1.7 1.4 1.4 1.7 1.4 1.5 1.5

86.0 85.9 78.3 75.6 71.1 69.0 77.7

78.4 ----73.6 71.0 ----66.1 72.5

GROUP III & IV 1 BECK 355R™* 2 BECK 414N 3 BECK 362NR™* 4 BECK 325NR™* 5 BECK 392NL 6 BECK 376NL 7 BECK 322NR™* 8 BECK 334NL 9 BECK 326RV 10 BECK 342NR 11 BECK 343N BECK 359NRV 12 AVERAGE

24.0 34.0 28.0 26.0 32.0 37.0 28.0 32.0 22.0 24.0 30.0 24.0 28.4

1.0 1.0 2.0 1.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 2.0 1.0 1.3

1.4 1.5 1.4 1.4 1.4 1.5 1.4 1.4 1.5 1.3 1.4 1.3 1.4

86.0 79.4 77.8 76.7 76.3 75.9 75.8 75.0 74.1 74.1 66.0 64.1 75.1

--------74.4 81.4 ----73.1 ----70.5 74.7 75.3 --------74.9

Yield Rank GROUP II 1 2 3 4 5 6

†

Brand

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Note: BECK 445NR, BECK 400NR™*, BECK 388NR™* and BECK 399NR were omitted from this plot due to chemical damage.

Beck’s 2009 Office Show Plot on September 17, 2009.

51

BECK’S Soybean Variety Plot - Atlanta – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows:

Yield Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6

SR 19 W. of Atlanta May 12, 2009 September 29, 2009 Four 30” rows

Brand BECK 282R™* BECK 299NR™* BECK 257NR BECK 274NR BECK 244NR™* BECK EX 6928™* AVERAGE

GROUP III & IV 1 BECK 362NR™* 2 BECK 325NR™* 3 BECK EX 6935™* 4 BECK 322NR™* 5 BECK 326RV 6 BECK 388NR™* 7 BECK EX 6933™* 8 BECK EX 6932™* 9 BECK EX 6860 10 BECK EX 6963 11 BECK 400NR™* 12 BECK EX 6934™* 13 BECK EX 6931™* 14 BECK 355R™* 15 BECK 342NR 16 BECK 399NR 17 BECK EX 6937™* 18 BECK 359NRV AVERAGE

†

Population: Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

123,773 seeds/A. Corn S-tine 32 oz. Durango

Plant Height (IN.) 30.0 33.0 27.0 29.0 30.0 29.0 29.7

Pod Height (IN.) 2.0 3.0 3.0 2.0 2.0 3.0 2.5

Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat 1.3 1.4 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3

2009 Bushels† Per Acre 69.1 64.1 63.8 63.0 54.5 51.9 61.1

2 Yr. Average† ‘08 – ‘09 ------71.0 71.8 ------71.4

34.0 36.0 36.0 36.0 27.0 36.0 40.0 36.0 32.0 29.0 38.0 28.0 34.0 34.0 32.0 32.0 30.0 30.0 33.3

2.0 2.0 3.0 3.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 3.0 2.0 3.0 2.0 2.0 3.0 3.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.4

1.3 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.4 1.3 1.2 1.0 1.3 1.2 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3

73.4 73.0 73.0 72.0 70.3 70.2 69.9 69.3 68.8 68.7 67.2 67.1 65.0 64.7 64.2 62.4 60.5 58.0 67.6

73.1 76.9 ------------------------------------70.7 64.4 ------71.3

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Kevin Cavanaugh, Ph.D., Beck’s Research Director, evaluates current and experimental varieties in Beck’s Practical Farm Research studies as well as thousands of plots in Beck’s testing program. Beck’s conducts small-plot, replicated testing at eight locations in Indiana, four in Illinois, and one in Ohio to find the best products for each area. Through cooperative and networking efforts, Beck’s has access to hundreds of other testing locations throughout the Midwest.

52

BECK'S Soybean Variety Plot - Arcadia – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Replications:

Yield Rank GROUP II 1 2 3 4 5 6

½ mile West of Arcadia May 12, 2009 September 16, 2009 Four 30” rows Two (averaged)

Brand

BECK 282R™* BECK 274NR BECK 244NR™* BECK 299NR™* BECK EX 6928™* BECK 257NR AVERAGE GROUP III & IV 1 BECK 325NR™* 2 BECK 359NRV 3 BECK EX 6932™* 4 BECK EX 6931™* 5 BECK EX 6963 6 BECK 322NR™* 7 BECK EX 6935™* 8 BECK 362NR™* 9 BECK 326RV 10 BECK EX 6933™* 11 BECK 342NR 12 BECK 400NR™* 13 BECK 399NR 14 BECK EX 6934™* 15 BECK EX 6860 16 BECK EX 6937™* 17 BECK 355R™* 18 BECK 388NR™* AVERAGE

Seeding Rate: Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

123,773 seeds/A. Corn Moldboard Plow / S-tine 32 oz. Durango (twice)

Relative Maturity This Plot

Plant Height (IN.)

Pod Height (IN.)

2009 Bushels† Per Acre

2 Yr. Average† ‘08 – ‘09

2.7 2.7 2.6 2.9 2.5 2.6

31.0 32.0 36.0 30.5 27.5 31.5 31.4

2.0 2.0 3.5 2.5 2.0 2.5 2.4

71.5 70.8 67.5 67.3 67.1 65.8 68.3

---68.1 ---------66.0 67.1

3.4 3.4 3.6 3.4 3.1 3.0 4.0 3.6 3.0 3.5 3.4 3.9 4.1 3.7 3.8 4.0 3.1 3.7

35.5 32.5 39.0 36.5 31.0 31.0 39.0 33.0 28.0 40.0 33.0 44.0 35.0 37.0 35.0 38.0 34.0 41.0 35.7

2.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 2.0 3.0 2.5 2.5 2.5 3.0 3.0 3.0 2.6

76.2 72.7 71.7 71.3 70.2 70.0 69.7 69.5 68.9 67.8 67.3 65.5 65.2 64.8 64.8 64.6 64.5 64.3 68.3

74.6 ------------------70.0 ------65.9 ---66.8 ---------------69.3

† Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

BIG ENOUGH TO GET THE JOB DONE, YET SMALL ENOUGH TO DO IT RIGHT®

Toby Ripberger planting Beck’s soybeans at the Arcadia plot.

53

BECK'S 15” Row Show Plot – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Population: Rows:

Yield Rank GROUP II 1 2 3 4 5 6

N5 plot May 12, 2009 September 16, 2009 166,000 seeds/A. Five 15” rows

Brand

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

Special Characteristic

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

Relative Maturity This Plot

Plant Height (IN.)

Pod Height (IN.)

2009 Bushels† Per Acre

2 Yr. Average† ‘08 – ‘09

3.1 2.9 2.8 2.6 2.6 2.8

32.0 28.0 30.0 28.0 32.0 28.0 29.7

2.0 2.0 2.8 3.0 3.0 2.0 2.5

71.2 63.7 63.4 60.9 59.3 58.3 62.8

------63.2 63.5 59.9 ---62.2

3.5 3.5 3.5 4.0 4.1 3.3 3.5 4.2 3.7 4.0 3.1 3.5 3.4 4.6 3.8 3.9 3.4 3.8

29.0 34.0 33.0 38.0 41.0 38.0 30.0 33.0 33.0 30.0 26.0 36.0 29.0 32.0 35.0 40.0 38.0 27.0 33.4

2.0 2.0 2.0 3.0 3.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.4

73.3 73.3 73.2 72.5 71.6 71.1 68.6 68.6 67.6 67.0 66.9 65.1 65.0 63.7 63.6 63.5 62.9 60.3 67.7

------66.6 65.8 ------------62.1 ---65.6 65.3 58.7 59.6 ---------55.1 62.4

BECK 299NR™* BECK 284L BECK 274NR BECK 257NR BECK 244NR™* BECK 282R™* AVERAGE

GROUP III & IV 1 BECK 355R™* 2 BECK 359NRV 3 BECK 342NR 4 BECK 399NR 5 BECK 400NR™* 6 BECK 322NR™* 7 BECK 343N 8 BECK 414N 9 BECK 362NR™* 10 BECK 392NL 11 BECK 326RV 12 BECK 325NR™* 13 BECK 327 14 BECK 445NR 15 BECK 376NL 16 BECK 388NR™* 17 BECK 334NL 18 BECK 381N AVERAGE

Soybeans V-Rip / S-tine 10 oz. Domain 3.2 oz. Mustang Max

Vistive Low-Linolenic

Traditional (Non-GMO) Traditional (Non-GMO)

Vistive Low-Linolenic Food Grade (Non-GMO)

Traditional (Non-GMO)

†

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

“I started with Golden Harvest and what brought me to Beck’s was their Vistive bean lineup. It was when Vistive just started and I wanted to try out a new bean. What has kept me with Beck’s is the seed quality; less cracked beans and less beeswings in the corn, and their superior treatment. No other companies’ treatment has the even coverage of Beck’s.” Curtis Falldorf West Alexandria, OH

54

BECK'S Clark Soybean Plot - 2009 Clark plot May 29, 2009 October 22, 2009 Four 30” rows

Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows:

Yield Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 †

Brand-Variety BECK 325NR™* BECK 322NR™* BECK 282R™* BECK EX 6860 BECK EX 6935™* BECK 334NL BECK EX 6932™* BECK 355R™* BECK EX 6933™* BECK 299NR™* BECK 392NL BECK 342NR BECK EX 6915 BECK EX 6963 BECK EX 6934™* BECK 400NR™* BECK EX 6933™* BECK 359NRV BECK 399NR BECK 362NR™* BECK EX 6937™* BECK EX 6916 BECK 388NR™* BECK 376NL AVERAGE

Seeding Rate: Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

Relative Maturity 3.5 3.2 2.9 3.9 3.9 3.1 3.5 3.2 3.5 3.1 4.0 3.5 3.5 3.2 3.8 4.1 3.5 3.5 3.9 3.7 3.9 3.9 3.9 3.9

Plant Height (IN.) 38.0 38.0 32.0 39.0 40.0 33.0 34.0 34.0 40.0 34.0 37.0 36.0 35.0 35.0 36.0 44.0 38.0 37.0 39.0 37.0 41.0 35.0 41.0 39.0 37.2

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

“Beck’s service and product performance is what moved me to become 100% Beck’s. The products perform, their treatment is #1 in the industry, their education and service gives a farmer all they need when it comes to a seed company.” Ross Byers Coldwater, MI

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

139,089 seeds/A. Corn Plow / S-tine 32 oz. Durango

Pod Height (IN.) 2.0 2.0 2.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 2.0 2.0 3.0 2.0 3.0 2.0 3.0 3.0 2.0 2.0 3.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 3.0 3.0 2.0 3.0 2.5

Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat 1.2 1.2 1.2 1.2 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.2 1.3 1.2 1.3 1.2 1.2 1.2 1.4 1.4 1.3 1.2 1.2 1.2 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3

Bushels† Per Acre 71.6 69.5 68.1 67.9 67.3 67.0 66.4 65.8 65.3 65.2 65.1 64.9 64.4 64.0 63.9 63.3 63.1 62.9 61.9 61.8 61.1 60.6 60.6 59.4 64.6

55

BECK'S High School Educational Plot – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Soil Type:

Purpose:

Yield Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

SR 19 across from Hamilton Heights High School May 25, 2009 October 22, 2009 Eleven 15” rows 170,000 seeds/A. Crosby / Brookston

Replications: Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

Two (averaged) Corn No-Till 32 oz. Durango None

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

This plot is located across from our local high school. We invite students in agriculture classes to the plot site during planting and harvest to explain the technology that we use to produce a crop. These technologies include seed treatments, biotech traits, auto-guide and other general equipment used to plant, harvest, and gather data.

Brand BECK 257NR BECK 282R™* BECK 325NR™* BECK 322NR™* BECK 326RV BECK 274NR BECK 342NR BECK 299NR™* BECK EX 6860 BECK 362NR™* BECK 399NR BECK 359NRV BECK EX 6933™* BECK EX 6935™* BECK EX 6932™* BECK EX 6934™* BECK 355R™* BECK EX 6931™* BECK 388NR™* BECK 400NR™* BECK EX 6937™* AVERAGE

Relative Maturity This Plot 2.7 2.9 3.5 3.2 3.2 2.9 3.5 3.0 3.9 3.7 3.9 3.4 3.6 3.9 3.5 3.7 3.5 3.5 4.0 4.1 4.0 3.5

Plant Height (IN.) 32.0 30.0 37.0 39.0 33.0 33.0 37.0 34.0 38.0 32.0 37.0 32.0 35.0 41.0 35.0 36.0 29.0 33.0 37.0 40.0 39.0 35.2

Pod Height (IN.) 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 3.0 2.0 3.0 2.0 2.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 2.5 2.0 2.0 2.0 3.0 2.3

Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat 1.2 1.2 1.3 1.3 1.2 1.2 1.2 1.2 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.2 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.2 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3

†

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Toby Ripberger, Beck’s Practical Farm Research Assistant Manager, provides educational instruction to students.

Bushels† Per Acre 62.3 61.0 60.5 60.1 59.7 58.7 58.6 58.6 58.5 56.6 56.1 56.0 55.7 55.7 54.3 53.3 53.3 53.0 51.2 50.8 47.3 56.3

56

BECK'S Advanced Soybeans in No-Till (MP Soil) and Conventional-Till (HP Soil) – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested:

Purpose:

H3 plot (No-Till) 300-1N, 2N plots (Conv.) May 22, 2009 October 1, 2009

Rows: Seeding Rate: Previous Crop: Herbicide:

This study compares some of our advanced experimental varieties in our Head Start testing program to our leading products. We are evaluating yield and agronomic characteristics using the no-till practices in medium productivity soil and conventional-till practices in the highly productive soil.

Relative Yield Maturity Rank Brand This Plot MP SOIL - NO-TILL (Two Replications) 1 BECK 322NR™* 3.2 2 BECK 325NR™* 3.4 3 BECK 355R™* 3.5 4 BECK 299NR™* 2.9 5 BECK EX 6935™* 4.1 6 BECK EX 6932™* 3.8 7 BECK 362NR™* 3.6 8 BECK EX 6934™* 3.4 9 BECK 274NR 2.7 10 BECK 282R™* 2.8 11 BECK EX 6860 3.8 12 BECK 400NR™* 3.8 13 BECK EX 6963 3.2 14 BECK 342NR 3.4 15 BECK EX 6933™* 3.7 16 BECK 388NR™* 3.9 17 BECK 399NR 4.0 18 BECK EX 6937™* 3.9 AVERAGE HP SOIL - CONVENTIONAL-TILL (One Replication) 1 BECK 325NR™* 3.5 2 BECK 342NR 3.5 3 BECK 299NR™* 3.0 4 BECK EX 6935™* 3.9 5 BECK 322NR™* 3.3 6 BECK 355R™* 3.3 7 BECK EX 6963 3.3 8 BECK 274NR 2.8 9 BECK EX 6860 3.9 10 BECK 388NR™* 3.9 11 BECK EX 6932™* 3.6 12 BECK 282R™* 2.9 13 BECK 362NR™* 3.8 14 BECK 399NR 4.0 15 BECK EX 6933™* 3.6 16 BECK EX 6937™* 4.0 17 BECK 400NR™* 4.1 18 BECK EX 6934™* 3.8 AVERAGE

† Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

Five 15” rows 160,000 seeds/A. Corn 32 oz. Durango

Plant Height (IN.)

Pod Height (IN.)

Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat

Bushels† Per Acre

36 33 29 30 37 30 32 34 28 29 32 39 30 32 34 36 33 33 32

4.0 3.0 4.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 2.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 2.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0

1.3 1.3 1.2 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.2 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.4 1.3 1.2 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3

62.1 60.9 58.7 58.5 57.7 57.5 57.2 56.7 56.7 56.1 56.0 55.8 55.5 55.0 54.7 54.6 54.3 49.8 56.5

38 37 31 44 37 36 34 32 44 44 36 32 36 40 40 44 48 44 39

3.0 3.0 3.0 4.0 4.0 3.0 4.0 3.0 4.0 4.0 4.0 3.0 4.0 4.0 4.0 4.0 3.0 4.0 3.6

1.4 1.4 1.3 1.5 1.5 1.3 1.5 1.4 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.4 1.4 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.6 1.5 1.5

64.8 61.9 60.8 60.7 59.0 59.0 58.7 58.4 56.5 56.3 55.7 53.9 53.7 51.9 51.4 51.0 49.6 47.0 56.1

Advantage in HP Soil

+3.9 +6.9 +2.3 +3.0 -3.1 +0.3 +3.2 +1.7 +0.5 +1.7 -1.8 -2.2 -3.5 -2.4 -3.3 +1.2 -6.2 -9.7 -0.4

The HP soil (conventional-till) has out-yielded the MP soil (no-till) in four out of the past seven years. This year’s win by no-till was only by a small margin of 0.4 Bu./A. on the overall average. Adequate, but not excessive moisture and lack of heat stress helped no-till produce some very good yields.

57

BECK’S LL vs. RR Soybean 100 Bu. Showdown – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Replications: Purpose:

Yield Rank Liberty Link 1 2 3

E1 & E2 May 12, 2009 October, 21 2009 Eleven 15” rows Three

Population: Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

155,000 seeds/A. Corn Moldboard Plow / S-tine 32 oz. Durango on RR 32 oz. Liberty 22 oz. Ignite

In this study we compare some of the top yielding RR and LL soybeans in each maturity from 3.3 to 4.0 to see which system takes Top Honors. We are also striving to reach the 100 Bu./A. mark by adding special seed treatments and applying foliar fungicide and insecticide. We planted three replications of each variety and have published the top yield of each. Plant 2009 Emerged Height Bushels† Brand (IN.) Per Acre Population

BECK 392NL 121,968 40.0 70.7 BECK 376NL 104,544 38.0 67.2 BECK 334NL 104,544 36.0 65.9 AVERAGE 110,352 38.0 67.9 Roundup Ready 1 BECK 325NR™* 111,804 36.0 69.0 2 BECK 362NR™* 107,448 32.0 66.8 3 BECK 400NR™* 79,860 34.0 64.7 AVERAGE 99,704 34.0 66.8 LibertyLink soybeans took Top Honors in this location by yielding an average of 1.1 Bu./A. more Summary: than Roundup Ready soybeans. Our efforts to reach 100 Bu./A. in this field were curtailed early in the season when soil crusting slowed emergence and early growth.

BECK’S Soybean Irrigation Plot – 2009 RAINFALL Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate:

Purpose:

300-5 (S) May 12, 2009 October 30, 2009 Eleven 15”rows Various

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Product Tested:

Corn V-Rip / S-tine / Roto-Tiller 32 oz. Durango Amaze Gold BECK 362NR™*

NATURAL

April May June July August September 4 Total

IRRIGATION

5.0 in. 1.0 in. 1.0 in. 30.8 in.

Up until this year, Beck’s PFR had not irrigated soybeans. Since we have set our goals at producing 100 Bu./A. soybeans, we wanted to try irrigation to see if an increase in yield was possible. This plot is the same protocol as our 100 Bu./A. attempt, with the only difference being the irrigation. Our goal was also to compare a normal population of 150,000 seeds per acre to higher and lower populations of 200,000 and 130,000 seeds per acre with the addition of Aim herbicide to shorten the internodes of the soybean plant. One of the keys to having high yields is to have a very strong standing soybean variety to support the extra growth and pods of irrigated soybeans.

Brand

Base Treatment

362NR™* @ 200,000 362NR™* @ 130,000 362NR™* @ 150,000 362NR™* @ 130,000

Sure Gro + FaSTart + Optimize + Protinus + Headline + Mustang Max Sure Gro + FaSTart + Optimize + Protinus + Headline + Mustang Max Sure Gro + FaSTart + Optimize + Protinus + Headline + Mustang Max Sure Gro + FaSTart + Optimize + Protinus + Headline + Mustang Max AVERAGE

†

7.3 in. 4.5 in. 5.6 in. 2.3 in. 3.0 in. 1.1 in. 23.8 in.

Additional Treatment Aim Aim

Bushels† Per Acre 82.2 67.1 66.6 66.2 70.5

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

In the two months between July 2nd and September 4th, we added seven inches of water to this bean plot through irrigation. As a result of added water and higher population, we were able to produce a top yield of 82.2 Bu./A., which was over 12 Bu./A. more than our other 100 Bu./A. attempts at the Atlanta location.

58

100 Bushel Soybean Study on HP vs MP Soil – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Replications: Product Tested:

Purpose:

300-1 (S) & S1 plots April 25 & May 21, 2009 October 21, 2009 15” & 30” rows Varies Two (averaged) BECK 362NR™*

300-1S: Insecticide: Fungicide:

300-1S: S1:

Corn No-Till S-tine 32 oz. Durango 8 oz. Domain 32 oz. Durango Mustang Max Headline Headline

RAINFALL April May June July August Total

7.3 in. 4.5 in. 5.6 in. 2.3 in. 3.0 in. 22.7 in.

With higher commodity prices, each additional bushel of yield means so much more than it used to. In this study, our goal is to utilize seed treatments (fungicide, insecticide, nutrient and a growth promoter) as well as foliar applications of herbicide, fungicide, insecticide and a growth promoter to maximize yield and reach 100 Bu./A. Aim is a herbicide that was used to reduce internode length and create heavier podding.

Base Treatment 15” Rows (MP Soil) Escalate + Optimize + Protinus Escalate + Optimize + Protinus Escalate + Optimize + Protinus AVERAGE 30” Rows (HP Soil) Escalate + Optimize + Protinus Escalate + Optimize + Protinus Escalate + Optimize + Protinus AVERAGE

†

Previous Crop: S1: Tillage: 300-1S: S1: Herbicide:

Additional Treatment

Planted Population

Bushels Per Acre†

Aim Aim

130,000 200,000 130,000 153,333

69.0 68.6 66.5 68.0

Aim Aim

130,000 200,000 130,000 153,333

69.5 64.8 63.3 65.9

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

It is ironic that the base treatment package of Escalate + Optimize + Protinus produced the highest yield in both 15” and 30” rows and any treatment beyond that showed reduced yield. This year we took a look at high yield soybeans in 30” rows on HP soils where the higher nutrient levels can support wider rows and still achieve high yields. We also used 30” rows on this soil due to past presence of Sclerotinia white mold in narrower rows. We looked at 15” rows on MP soils and we received an average of 2.1 Bu./A. more in comparison to the 30” rows in HP soils. We plan to continue to explore ways to tap into higher soybean yields through future research.

Beck’s hires several college interns each summer to assist with Practical Farm Research and other research and sales activities.

59

100 Bushel Soybean Management Study – 2009 S1 plot May 21, 2009 October 21, 2009 Eleven 15”rows Various

Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate:

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Product Tested:

Corn No-Till 32 oz. Durango 8 oz. Domain BECK 362NR™* BECK 399NR

RAINFALL April May June July August Total

7.3 in. 4.5 in. 5.6 in. 2.3 in. 3.0 in. 22.7 in.

In an effort to reach our 100 Bu./A. yield goal, we developed two different methods; a high input trial where we applied various treatments on a planned regimented schedule, and a scouting trial where we spent more time scouting to determine the inputs we needed to apply and when to apply them. The goal is to evaluate the yield results of different management styles: managing with higher inputs and less scouting, or more scouting and perhaps fewer inputs. Bushels Advantage for Brand Base Treatment Per Acre† Treatment Bu./A.† High Input Trial BECK 362NR™* Escalate + Protinus (Treated) 68.3 +0.1 BECK 362NR™* 68.2 Escalate + Protinus (Control) Purpose:

BECK 399NR BECK 399NR

Escalate + Protinus (Treated) Escalate + Protinus (Control) AVERAGE

63.8 62.6 65.7

+1.2

Pre-planned Treatments st July 1 (Burndown) – 15 gal. water, 3.8 oz. Leverage 1 gal. Nitamin 1 qt. Agra Mix July 7th – 15 gal. water, 32 oz. Roundup, 1.5 lbs. AMS, 1 gal. Nitamin, 1 qt. Agra Mix July 14th – 15 gal. water, 2 qt. 10% Manganeese. July 25th – 15 gal. water, 3.8 oz. Leverage, 2 qt. Nitamin, 6 oz. Headline, 1 pt. Agra Mix August 25th – 20 gal. water, 4 oz. Hero (insecticide), 2 oz. Tilt, 4 oz. Quadris, 1 pt. Agra Mix August 31st – 15 gal. water, 1 gal. Nitamin, 1 qt. Sevin. September 7th – 15 gal. water, 1 gal. Nitamin, 1 qt. Sevin.

Scouting Trial BECK 362NR™* BECK 362NR™* BECK 399NR BECK 399NR

Escalate + Protinus (Treated) Escalate + Protinus (Control) Escalate + Protinus (Control) Escalate + Protinus (Treated) AVERAGE

67.5 65.8 55.4 55.6 61.1

+1.7

+0.2

Treatments based on Scouting July 7th – 15 gal. water, 32 oz. Roundup, 1.5 lbs. AMS. July 25th – 15 gal. water, 3.8 oz. Leverage, 6 oz. Headline. † Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

Late planting reduced our chances to reach our 100 Bushel yield goal, but even more surprising is the lack of significant yield difference produced by all of the various treatment applications. Other plots with fungicide and insecticides applied showed greater responses than this study where we were anticipating a greater response due to the frequency of applications and the variety of treatments we applied.

Leverage®:

Insecticide that has two modes of action against sucking and chewing pests – one delivers fast knockdown, the other extends residual control.

Protinus™:

A seed treatment that promotes early plant health and growth by delivering zinc, manganese and iron right to the seed. This can lead to increased root mass, better vigor and early emergence. Protinus helps to lower the pH in the zone immediately around the seed thus allowing important nutrients to be more easily absorbed.

Nitamin® 30L:

The water-soluble liquid is a blend of methylene urea, urea, and triazone that contains 30% nitrogen, of which 60% is slowly available. The remaining 40% is urea, which provides a readily-available nitrogen component.

Krystal Klear® Agra Mix: ™

Hero :

Foliar micronutrient solution containing: 2% copper, 2% Manganese, 2% Zinc, .5% Boron. A new generation foliar insecticide from FMC. Hero provides fast knockdown and longer-lasting control against a broad spectrum of pests including mites, aphids, bean leaf beetles, corn earworms, fall armyworms, and many other yield-robbing insects.

Leverage is a registered trademark of Bayer CropScience. Protinus is a trademark of Wolf Trax. Nitamin is a registered trademark of Georgia-Pacific. Krystal Klear Agra Mix is a registered trademark of Performance Nutrition™. Hero is a trademark of FMC.

60

BECK'S Foliar Fungicide Study – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Purpose:

F2, F3 plots April 27, 2009 October 19, 2009 Eleven 15” rows 150,000 seeds/A.

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Product Tested:

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

Corn No-Till 32 oz. Durango BECK 342NR

This study was designed to demonstrate the use of insecticides and fungicides at two growth stages to protect the growth and yield of soybeans.

Treatment Application Stage R2 Control Headline Headline / Mustang Max Mustang Max AVERAGE Application Stage R4 Control Headline Headline / Mustang Max Mustang Max AVERAGE

Bushels† Per Acre

$ Gross Revenue

Foliar Costs^

$ Net Revenue

$ / Acre Benefit vs. Control

53.7 62.5 63.2 63.0 60.6

$512.84 $596.88 $603.56 $601.65

-$21.90 $26.90 $10.50

$512.84 $574.98 $576.66 $591.15

$62.14 $63.82 $78.31

59.0 62.7 62.8 65.7 62.6

$563.45 $598.78 $599.74 $627.43

-$21.90 $26.90 $10.50

$563.45 $576.88 $572.84 $616.93

$13.43 $9.39 $53.48

†

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Foliar Costs = 6 oz. Headline $16.40/A., 2.5 oz. Mustang Max $5.00/A., Application Cost $5.50/A. Price soybeans = $9.55/Bu.

Summary:

In this year’s study, both fungicide and insecticide applications had a significant return on investment at both R2 and R4 growth stages. Historically, R4 growth stage has had the best chances for a positive net return and R2 has not paid off in most years. This year R4 applications produced the highest yields, but the benefit vs. the control was less than R2 due to differences in the yields of the controls.

Rancona Study on Soybeans – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Purpose:

Yield Rank 1 2 3 4 5 Summary: †

B1 plot May 21, 2009 October 20, 2009 Eleven 15” rows 160,000 seeds/A.

Replications: Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Product Tested:

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

Six (averaged) Corn No-Till 32 oz. Durango BECK 342NR

We have tested the active ingredient in Rancona™, ipconazole, on corn for many years with positive results. Ipconazole is now available on soybeans, so this test compares it to Maxim®, a commonly used seed treatment.

Treatments Maxim® 4FS+ Apron® XL + Macho™ Rancona + Apron XL + Macho Rancona + Apron XL + N-Hibit Rancona + Apron XL Maxim 4FS + Apron XL AVERAGE

Emerged Population 101,882 117,854 100,430 107,932 101,882 105,996

Standability 1=Erect 5=Flat 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3

Bushels† Per Acre 61.5 61.2 60.7 60.2 59.2 60.6

Rancona performed favorably compared to other commonly used fungicides. In these studies, we evaluate products that can be used in the Escalate™ yield enhancement system that we offer as a standard benefit included in all BECK products.

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture.

61

BECK'S Sure Gro vs. Untreated Soybeans - 2009 F1 plot April 25, 2009 October 1, 2008 Five 15” rows Two (averaged)

Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Replications:

Purpose:

154,000 seeds/A. Corn No-Till 32 oz. Durango

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

This long-term study compares Sure Gro with untreated soybeans in early to mid April planting conditions.

Brand BECK 274NR BECK 325NR™* BECK 342NR BECK 362NR™* BECK 400NR™* AVERAGE †

Seeding Rate: Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

Emerged Population Sure Gro™ Untreated 129,228 114,708 137,940 96,558 98,010 129,954 129,228 102,366 101,640 132,132 125,308 109,045

Bushels Per Acre† Sure Gro™ Untreated 48.7 44.9 49.5 47.8 46.2 47.4 47.3 46.6 47.8 47.0 47.9 46.7

Sure Gro Advantage Bu./A. +3.8 +1.7 -1.2 +0.7 +0.8 +1.2

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

In 12 of the 15 years, Sure Gro has shown a positive yield benefit compared to untreated seed. In 10 of the 15 years, Sure Gro has given higher populations in spite of the fact that until 2008, when we started planting the plot using a White planter, we had used a drill which often resulted in an 8% lower seeding rate for Sure Gro due to slower flow rate. Since 1995, Sure Gro has been the name we have used to identify the fungicides applied to the seed to protect seedling health, stands and yield. In 2009, we introduced the yield enhancement system which includes fungicides and a seed-applied insecticide to further improve seedling health and yield.

Advantage for Sure Gro Year Planting Date Final Population Bu./A. 1995 April 26 +35,000 +2.2 1996 April 18 +6,000 +3.3 1997 April 17 +8,000 +0.3 1998 April 13 +29,000 -0.6 1999 April 12 -2,000 +0.2 2000 April 1 +23,000 +2.3 2001 April 3 +10,000 +2.0 2002 April 17 +2,000 +0.7 2003 April 2 -4,000 +1.7 2004 April 5 0 -1.4 2005 April 5 -1,600 +0.4 2006 April 10 -5,373 +2.1 2007 April 3 +8,712 +1.9 2008 April 17 +5,523 -0.3 2009 April 25 +16,263 +1.2 AVERAGE +8,702 +1.1 Fifteen years of testing supports the advantages of Sure Gro coated seed over non-coated seed.

62

BECK’S LibertyLink® Soybeans Row Spacing & Population Study – 2009 A9 plot May 11, 2009 October 13, 2009 Eleven 7.5” rows Five 30” rows Four 30” rows

Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows:

Purpose:

Insecticide:

Corn Plow / S-tine 10 oz. Domain 22 oz. Ignite® None

Soybean varieties can vary greatly in their structure and ability to branch. Selecting the correct variety for your soil type along with knowing how that variety responds to various populations and row spacing is critical for maximizing yield. This study compares two different Beck’s soybean products at 7.5”, 15” and 30” row spacing. In 2007 and 2008, we planted each row spacing at three different populations, and in 2009, we used two LibertyLink soybeans at four populations. Target Population^ 100,000 125,000 150,000 175,000

Brand BECK 334NL

BECK 376NL

100,000 125,000 150,000 175,000

OVERALL AVERAGE †

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

7.5” Rows Bu./A.† 57.5 61.1 66.1 68.8

15” Rows Bu./A.† 57.9 56.0 48.9 59.9

30” Rows Bu./A.† 58.6 55.6 56.6 63.3

Average Bu./A.† 58.0 57.6 57.2 64.0

60.9 56.8 63.6 65.3

55.0 56.0 58.9 67.3

61.9 63.9 67.0 65.9

59.3 58.9 63.2 66.2

62.5

57.5

61.6

60.6

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture.

^Overall, the final populations in this years study were significantly below the Target Population due to hard, crusty soil that had to be rotary hoed twice. The stands throughout the study averaged 90,000 to 100,000 plants per acre, but in general the higher Target Populations did have more plants per acre than the lower populations. In light of this fact, we still produced excellent yields even with 60,000 to 90,000 plants in the majority of the plot. Summary:

Our eleven year average shows only 1.1 Bu./A. difference between all row spacings, with a slightly higher average yield in 15” rows. Each row spacing has produced the highest yield in a given year. The only correlation we have found that relates to which row spacing does best in a given year is heat. More specifically, the month that has the most days above 90 degrees has determined which row spacing produced the most in that year. When June had the most number of days above 90 degrees, 7.5” rows produced the most, July, 15” rows, and August, 30” rows came to the top. This pattern occurred in all but two of the past eleven years.

ELEVEN YEAR AVERAGE* (Bu./A.)

1998 1999 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007** 2008** 2009** Average

7.5” 63.6 47.3 66.7 62.4 54.4 65.8 61.9 65.2 51.1 66.3 62.5 60.7

15” 62.8 44.7 64.3 65.8 53.5 72.5 63.2 66.7 57.9 69.1 57.5 61.6

30” 64.0 48.5 59.5 60.9 54.3 68.0 65.4 65.4 58.2 60.2 61.6 60.5

*Different varieties used each year. Bold entries indicate highest yield each year. **For 2007 through 2009 we tested each row width at three populations. In 2007 and 2008 we used the yield for the normal populations for each row width (e.g. 150,000 for 15” rows). For 2009, we used the overall average due to variability in the populations.

63

BECK'S Soybean Planting Date Study – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population:

Purpose:

N1 plot Various September 16 & 29, 2009 Four 30” rows 133,294 seeds/A.

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

Corn V-Rip / S-tine 32 oz. Durango Amaze Gold

Is it too early to plant soybeans? This question comes up every spring as temperatures begin to increase and the snow melts. So what is the correct answer? It is difficult to give an exact date, since spring weather conditions can vary greatly from year to year. This study has been conducted for several years and compares two soybean varieties, a Group II and a Group III, in six planting dates ranging from March 21 to June 5.

Brand BECK 274NR BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

Plant Height (IN.) 32 36 34

Pod Height (IN.) 3 3 3

Standability 1=Erect 5=Flat 1.5 1.5 1.5

April 24 April 24

BECK 274NR BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

34 36 35

3 3 3

1.6 1.5 1.6

62.3 66.2 64.3

May 11 May 11

BECK 274NR BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

32 38 35

2 2 2

1.5 1.5 1.5

61.6 66.9 64.3

May 20 May 20

BECK 274NR BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

32 38 35

2 3 3

1.5 1.4 1.5

67.5 68.3 67.9

May 27 May 27

BECK 274NR BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

34 34 34

2 3 3

1.4 1.4 1.4

72.8 70.8 71.8

June 5 June 5

BECK 274NR BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

29 38 33.5

2 3 3

1.5 1.5 1.5

70.2 69.6 69.9

Planting Date March 21 March 21

†

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

This year’s planting date results were unlike those of our previous years! Historically, we see over 14 Bu./A. difference between the early April and early June planting periods. Our long-term historical data (shown as a percent of yield) in the graph to the right reflects 12 years of research on planting dates. EscalateTM yield enhancement system makes it possible for farmers to plant during the highest yielding planting periods.

Bushels† Per Acre 63.3 71.5 67.4

64

BECK'S No-Till vs. Conventional-Till Long Range Soybean Study – 2009 (Soybeans after Corn) Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Soil Type: Purpose:

E9 & E10 plots May 2, 2009 October 21, 2009 Five 15" rows Crosby / Miami Clay Loam

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

166,000 seeds/A. Corn None Moldboard Plow / S-tine 32 oz. Durango

From 1991-1999, we studied how four different soybean varieties responded in emergence, plant height, pod height, disease resistance, standability, and yield using no-till and conventional-till practices. Since 2000, we expanded the study to include twice as many varieties, and we used a 15” row drill instead of the 7.5” row drill.

Yield Rank Brand NO-TILL STUDY 1 BECK 325NR™* 2 BECK 362NR™* 3 BECK 400NR™* 4 BECK 322NR™* 5 BECK 388NR™* AVERAGE CONVENTIONAL-TILL STUDY 1 BECK 362NR™* 2 BECK 325NR™* 3 BECK 400NR™* 4 BECK 388NR™* 5 BECK 322NR™* AVERAGE †

Seeding Rate Previous Crop: No-Till: Tillage: Conv.-Till: Herbicide:

Plant Height (IN.)

Pod Height (IN.)

Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat

Bushels† Per Acre

34.0 30.0 40.0 32.0 36.0 34.4

2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0

1.3 1.2 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3

62.9 60.2 59.8 59.2 57.9 60.0

34.0 32.0 38.0 40.0 30.0 34.8

2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0

1.2 1.2 1.3 1.3 1.2 1.2

71.1 61.0 60.3 59.8 58.0 62.0

Bu./A. Difference for Conv.-Till

+10.9 -1.9 +0.5 +1.9 -1.2 +2.0

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

No-Till vs Conventional-Till Soybean Study Nineteen Year Comparison (1991-2009)

65 60 55 50 45 40 35

1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

N

46.0

50.5

59.9

61.9

47.8

41.2

59.0

56.7

42.9

56.5

61.6

58.2

50.1

54.3

51.6

62.1

56.6

63.0

60.0

C

48.4

53.2

59.8

60.3

47.2

41.9

59.8

57.8

40.0

59.8

60.3

55.5

54.6

60.7

59.9

65.0

55.0

60.6

62.0

+2.4

+2.7

-0.1

-1.6

-0.6

+0.7

+0.8 +1.1

-2.9

+3.3

-1.3

-2.7

+4.5 +6.4

+8.3

+2.9

-1.6

-2.4

+2.0

Advantage for Conventional-Till Summary:

After nineteen years of testing no-till vs. conventional-till practices in this same location, the overall average shows a 1.1 Bu./A. difference between the two practices with conventional-till winning eleven out of nineteen years. Conv.-Till = 55.8 Bu./A. No-Till = 54.7 Bu./A. Over the years, we have observed a greater concentration of earthworms in the no-till areas, as well as improved water percolation into the soil after a heavy rain.

65

BECK'S Strip-Till vs. Conventional-Till Soybean Study – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Soil Type:

Purpose:

B2 plot May 22, 2009 October 20, 2009 Four 30" rows Clay Loam

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

This study compares strip-till with conventional-till practices in a corn/soybean rotation to compare differences from emergence to final yield.

Yield Rank Brand CONVENTIONAL-TILL 1 BECK 400NR™* 2 BECK 325NR™* 3 BECK 362NR™* BECK 299NR™* 4 AVERAGE STRIP-TILL 1 BECK 400NR™* 2 BECK 325NR™* BECK 362NR™* 3 BECK 299NR™* 4 AVERAGE †

Three (averaged) 133,000 seeds/A. Corn Strip-Till / S-tine Durango

Replications: Seeding Rate: Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

Plant Height (IN.)

Pod Height (IN.)

Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat

Bushels† Per Acre

35.0 30.0 29.0 29.0 30.8

4.0 2.0 3.0 2.0 2.8

1.4 1.3 1.3 1.2 1.3

64.4 62.4 62.0 53.7 60.6

32.0 30.0 26.0 29.0 29.3

4.0 3.0 2.0 2.0 2.8

1.4 1.3 1.2 1.2 1.3

63.5 63.0 61.5 56.4 61.1

Advantage for Strip-Till

-0.9 0.6 -0.5 2.7 0.5

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

This is the third year for this study; however, no data was reported in 2007 due to herbicide injury. Last year’s comparison showed very similar growth from emergence through final yield with strip-till yielding nearly two bushels per acre more than conventional-till. This year, strip-till yields were only 0.5 Bu./A. better than conventionaltill. This is a long term study that will be interesting to learn from as we gather multi-year data.

“The operation that the Beck Family runs is hard to beat. The educational information that is provided by Practical Farm Research (PFR) is the best in the industry for the farmer. The field show has all the relevant information needed by a farmer to make decisions on their farm for the upcoming year. Beck’s seed treatment and replant policy is #1 in the industry.” Terome Gough Fairmount, IN

66

BECK’S Traditional vs. RR vs. LL Systems 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate:

Purpose:

A8 plot May 11, 2009 October 20, 2009 Four 30” rows 128,357 seeds/A.

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

All: RR: LL: Traditional:

Corn Plow / S-tine 10 oz. Domain 32 oz. Durango / Amaze Gold 22 oz. Ignite 4 oz. Raptor / 4 oz. Fusilade 24 oz. Basagran

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

We developed this study to compare the performance of three different seed/herbicide systems: Roundup Ready with Roundup herbicide, LibertyLink with Ignite herbicide, and traditional seed using traditional herbicides. We will look at the long-term effects of each system on weed species, weed control, and its effect on yield. We will also compare other visual or measured observations as they appear (e.g. volunteer corn, herbicide interactions, etc.).

†

Yield Brand Rank ROUNDUP READY SYSTEM 1 BECK 400NR™* 2 BECK 325NR™* 3 BECK 388NR™* 4 BECK 342NR AVERAGE LIBERTYLINK SYSTEM 1 BECK 376NL 2 BECK 334NL 3 BECK 284L AVERAGE TRADITIONAL SYSTEM 1 BECK 414N 2 BECK 381N 3 BECK 327 4 BECK 343N AVERAGE

Plant Height

Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat

2009 Bushels† Per Acre

System Cost/A.

$ Net Revenue^

40.0 36.0 40.0 34.0 37.5

1.2 1.3 1.2 1.2 1.2

66.3 65.9 62.7 61.3 64.1

$50.93 $50.93 $50.93 $50.93 $50.93

$582.24 $578.42 $547.86 $534.49 $560.75

44.0 32.0 28.0 34.7

1.3 1.3 1.2 1.3

71.7 68.7 55.6 65.3

$51.20 $51.20 $51.20 $51.20

$633.54 $604.89 $479.78 $572.74

36.0 32.0 32.0 30.0 32.5

1.3 1.2 1.3 1.3 1.3

65.6 57.4 55.9 55.5 58.6

$59.46 $59.46 $59.46 $59.46 $59.46

$567.02 $488.71 $474.39 $470.57 $500.17

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^$Net Revenue equals gross revenue based on $9.55/Bu. market price, less system cost of seed with normal discounts and herbicide system.

Summary:

This year’s results favored the LibertyLink System in overall yield and performance. While LL seed costs were slightly below the Roundup Ready seed costs, the Ignite herbicide cost is slightly higher than Durango (glyphosate), so the overall system cost is only slightly higher for LL soybeans. The LibertyLink system produced an additional $12/A. return compared to the RR system. The Traditional System trailed both the RR and LL Systems in yield, and the cost of herbicide was over $8 per acre more. No premium was figured into the Net Revenue. If we add a $1/Bu. premium, the Traditional System closes the gap and nearly equals the RR System in Net Return.

67

BECK'S Lime Study on Soybeans – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Soil Type: Purpose:

300-6 (S) plot April 25, 2009 September 22, 2009 Four 30" rows 120,000 seeds/A. Genesee Silt Loam

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

Corn V-Rip / S-tine 32 oz. Durango Amaze Gold None

This study compares four BECK soybean products planted where 3 ton/A. of the following lime types were applied in the Spring of 1998: High Calcium Lime, High Magnesium Lime and Bed Ash (Calcium Sulfate). Plant Height (IN.)

Pod Height (IN.)

Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat

2009 Bushels† Per Acre

4 Year Average ’02, ‘04, ‘07, ‘09

38 36 36 40 38

3 2 3 3 3

1.4 1.4 1.6 1.6 1.5

78.5 78.2 76.8 75.5 77.3

69.7

HIGH CALCIUM LIME 1 BECK 362NR™* 2 BECK 322NR™* 3 BECK 299NR™* 4 BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

40 44 38 42 41

3 3 2 3 3

1.4 1.7 1.5 1.6 1.6

80.2 74.1 70.8 70.8 74.0

70.6

HIGH MAGNESIUM LIME 1 BECK 322NR™* 2 BECK 362NR™* 3 BECK 299NR™* 4 BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

42 38 36 38 39

2 3 2 3 3

1.5 1.4 1.4 1.5 1.5

77.4 77.2 76.6 73.6 76.2

71.9

Yield Rank Brand BED ASH (Calcium Sulfate) 1 BECK 325NR™* 2 BECK 299NR™* 3 BECK 362NR™* 4 BECK 322NR™* AVERAGE

†

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

SOIL TEST RESULTS (IN LBS./A.) SPRING 1999 Bed Ash High Calcium High Magnesium SPRING 2000 Bed Ash High Calcium High Magnesium SPRING 2001 Bed Ash High Calcium High Magnesium SPRING 2002 Bed Ash High Calcium High Magnesium FALL 2006 Bed Ash High Calcium High Magnesium SPRING 2008 Bed Ash High Calcium High Magnesium

pH 7.4 7.2 7.6 7.7 7.5 7.3 7.5 7.6 6.9 7.7 7.6 6.9 7.4 7.5 7.1 7.1 7.3 6.8

P 178 148 176 210 202 160 218 214 140 272 238 188 118 162 120 142 134 92

K 550 310 464 428 384 332 398 318 226 518 434 408 384 464 390 380 354 274

Mg 800 638 778 788 680 616 526 542 450 610 572 518 510 530 538 440 440 410

Ca 5400 4968 5292 4752 5400 4860 5474 5684 4520 5668 5488 4416 4032 4048 3668 2900 3200 2600

C.E.C. 17.0 15.0 17.0 16.0 17.0 15.0 16.0 17.0 14.0 17.0 17.0 14.0 12.7 12.9 11.9 9.6 10.3 8.8

Soil test conducted by Agri-Labs.

Summary:

Our 1998 results were inconclusive due to spring flooding. The 1999-01 results showed lower yields where High Magnesium Lime was applied. It’s interesting to see how the pH has increased where the High Calcium Lime was added, but decreased where the High Magnesium lime was applied. This year’s study produced the highest yields (by a small margin) in the Bed Ash environment, which is different than our four year average where High Magnesium Lime has been the highest yielding environment.

68

BECK'S No-Till Double-Crop Soybeans after Wheat Study – 2009 Location: Planted: Harvested: Rows:

Purpose:

Yield Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 †

A5 plot June 30, 2009 November 5, 2009 Twenty Four 7.5” rows

Seeding Rate Previous Crop: Tillage: Burndown: Herbicide: Post:

RAINFALL April 7.3 in. May 4.5 in. June 5.6 in. July 2.3 in. August 3.0 in. Total 22.7 in.

275,000 seeds/A. Wheat No-Till 1 qt. Durango 1 qt. Durango

Double crop soybeans after wheat can be profitable in Central Indiana if the weather cooperates. For double crop soybeans to be successful, we need adequate rainfall during July and August along with a normal to later than normal frost.

Brand BECK 322NR™* BECK 299NR™* BECK 282R™* BECK 326RV BECK 325NR™* BECK 274NR BECK 388NR™* BECK 400NR™* BECK 355R™* BECK 342NR BECK 362NR™* BECK 445NR BECK 359NRV BECK 399NR AVERAGE

Plant Height (IN.) 34.0 28.0 27.0 27.0 28.0 25.0 28.0 32.0 22.0 23.0 24.0 25.0 24.0 27.0 26.7

Pod Height (IN.) 2.5 2.0 3.0 3.0 2.5 2.0 3.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.5 2.3

Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.1

2009 Bushels† Per Acre 38.5 37.4 36.9 34.3 33.6 32.9 32.5 31.4 31.4 31.3 31.2 27.8 27.4 27.0 32.4

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

FIRST KILLING FREEZE (28o OR LESS)

DOUBLE CROP SOYBEAN PLOT AVERAGES Plant Height Bushels* Year (IN.) Per Acre 2009 26.7 32.4 2008 23.0 35.7 2007 30.3 46.0 2006 28.2 29.0 2005 23.8 40.2 2004 25.5 27.0 2003 23.8 9.6 2002 24.3 29.7 2001 27.0 37.5 2000 25.0 29.7 1999 12.1 1.2 1998 29.0 31.9 1997 24.8 17.9 1996 18.6 25.8 1995 12.9 1.4 1994 22.2 21.5 1993 26.0 29.0 1992 No Plot No Plot 1991 26.0 32.4 Average 24.1 25.6 Average does not include 1992. Planting Date June 30 July 8 July 3 July 6 July 6 June 30 July 18 July 3 June 29 June 29 June 30 June 29 July 16 July 12 July 8 July 8 July 7 No Plot June 25

Source: Ken Scheeringa, Purdue Agronomy Dept. *Vincennes location.(Killing Frost = 32oF, Killing Freeze = 28oF). **Bloomington location.

Summary:

2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 1985

North

Central

South

Columbia City

Farmland Indianapolis

Washington

Oct. 17 Oct. 22 N/A Oct. 25 Oct. 29 Oct. 5 Oct. 2 Oct. 14 Oct. 7 Nov. 5 Oct. 21 Oct. 22 Oct. 23 Nov. 2 Sept. 23 Oct. 27 Oct. 10 Oct. 19 Sept. 28 Oct. 26 Oct. 4 Oct. 14 Oct. 12 Nov. 3 Nov. 20

Oct. 17 Oct. 22 Oct. 28 Oct. 15 Oct. 29 Oct. 5 Oct. 2 Oct. 14 Oct. 7 Nov. 5 Oct. 18 Nov. 4 Oct. 15 Nov. 2 Sept. 23 Oct. 27 Oct. 11 Oct. 19 Oct. 16 Oct. 26 Oct. 4 Oct. 6 Oct. 4 Nov. 3 Oct. 2

---Oct. 30 Nov. 7 Oct. 16 Nov. 16 Nov. 13 Nov. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 28 Nov. 15 Nov. 3 Nov. 5 Oct. 22 Nov. 2 Nov. 3 Nov. 23 Nov. 1 Oct. 19 Oct. 16 Oct. 27 Nov. 3 Oct. 12 Oct. 12 Nov. 10 Nov. 21

---Nov. 10 Nov. 7 Nov. 2 Nov. 17 Dec. 2 Nov. 8 Nov.2** Oct. 28 Nov. 15 Nov. 4 Nov. 7* Oct. 22 Nov. 2 Nov. 4 Nov. 23 Nov. 1 Oct. 19 Nov. 3 Oct. 26 Nov. 3 Oct. 12 Oct. 12 Nov. 12 Nov. 21

This year’s yields were 6.8 Bu./A. above our eighteen year average. The soil condition was not perfect when we planted this plot. This plot received adequate and timely rains to finish the soybeans for harvest.

70

Ft. Branch, IN has been home to our Southern Practical Farm Research program since 2005. This location hosts our annual Southern Field show in early August giving farmers in Southern Indiana, Southern Illinois, and Western Kentucky the opportunity to observe specialized research studies prior to the busy harvest season. The farm also provides an excellent location for product and agronomic training for Beck’s sales staff and dealers. Feel free to give Scott Ebelhar a call at anytime for a tour of this facility. Scott Ebelhar, CCA Southern PFR Director

Corn after Soybeans Show Plot – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Soil Type: Population: Yield Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 †

April 25, 2009 September 19, 2009 Three 30” rows Ragsdale Silt Loam 30,500 seeds/A.

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

Brand BECK 6197 BECK 7916VT3 BECK 5684VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 6288CL BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 5684CL BECK 5555VT3 BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5316HXR BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5779VT3 BECK 7916Hx1CL BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5716LL BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5616VT3 BECK 5716A3 BECK 5354HXR™* AVERAGE

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Soybeans Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator 3 qts. Harness Xtra 0.75 oz. Impact 6 oz. Artic Harvested Population 31,333 31,000 29,333 31,667 31,000 28,333 30,000 31,000 30,000 30,333 30,000 29,333 31,333 31,667 30,000 30,000 30,667 31,000 30,667 31,333 27,666 30,333 30,364

Test† Weight 57.2 58.5 57.9 61.3 58.3 63.1 56.7 60.6 58.9 57.9 61.8 58.6 60.5 58.8 56.3 62.9 58.2 62.3 59.6 60.4 57.6 57.8 59.3

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

Percent Moisture 21.5 22.1 17.8 20.2 20.1 18.3 18.3 18.8 18.0 18.6 18.3 19.6 18.6 19.0 21.2 17.9 18.6 19.4 18.0 18.7 19.0 17.1 19.1

Bushels† Per Acre 236.8 232.5 232.4 232.3 224.3 224.2 224.2 222.8 221.6 216.9 213.9 213.9 212.3 212.1 211.3 209.8 208.9 207.7 200.1 199.3 192.6 186.7 215.3

71

Corn after Corn Show Plot – 2009 RAINFALL

Planted: Harvested: Rows: Soil Type: Population: Yield Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 †

April 26, 2009 October 1, 2009 Six 30” rows Ragsdale Silt Loam 32,500 seeds/A.

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Pre: Post: Insecticide:

Corn Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator 3 qts. Harness Xtra 0.75 oz. Impact 6 oz. Artic

Harvested Population 28,000 28,667 29,000 28,333 29,000 29,333 29,333 28,000 28,333 29,333 29,333 27,667 27,000 28,333 27,667 27,333 27,667 27,667 28,333

Brand BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 6197 BECK 5555VT3 BECK 6288CL BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5616VT3 BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5684VT3 BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5716A3 BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5442VT3 BECK 7916VT3 BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5335HXR™* AVERAGE

April May June July August Total

Test† Weight 57.8 56.2 57.9 54.7 58.8 58.5 55.6 59.0 54.2 54.3 57.7 55.0 58.7 55.3 56.0 56.0 62.0 61.1 57.2

7.0 in. 5.9 in. 4.1 in. 7.2 in. 1.4 in. 25.6 in.

Bushels† Per Acre 218.9 217.5 215.3 212.9 212.8 211.4 210.1 209.4 208.2 208.1 202.4 202.1 200.5 200.2 198.5 195.7 191.2 190.0 205.8

Percent Moisture 21.2 21.3 20.2 21.5 20.7 19.9 19.5 21.3 20.0 19.1 19.0 20.3 19.3 18.7 19.4 23.5 19.2 18.7 20.2

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Corn Rootworm Control Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Soil Type: Population: Purpose:

Yield Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 †

May 19, 2009 October 15, 2009 Six 30” rows Ragsdale Silt Loam 34,200 seeds/A.

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

Pre:

Insecticide:

Corn Fall Disc & Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.5 qts. Harness Extra 1 qt. Atrazine 6 oz. Artic

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

This study was established to compare the different insect control options available to producers. These controls include traited technologies such as HXR for corn rootworm and corn borer control along with liquid insecticide applied directly to the seed with starter fertilizer. This study was also established to help monitor the movement of Western Corn Rootworm into Beck’s southern marketing area. Brand BECK 6733RR™* BECK 6733RR™* BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 6733RR™* BECK 6733RR™* BECK 6733RR™* BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 6733RR™* AVERAGE

Insecticide Treatment Force 3G 4 oz. Regent Poncho 250 + Force 3G Poncho 500 Poncho 1250 Poncho 250 Poncho 250 None

Test† Weight 57.5 58.0 58.2 57.3 57.6 57.7 57.5 58.0 57.7

Percent Moisture 22.3 22.6 22.1 22.6 22.7 22.7 22.6 22.3 22.5

Bushels† Per Acre 219.8 219.5 215.3 214.5 211.4 210.3 208.9 207.4 213.4

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

Due to the lack of pest pressure in 2009, this study did not show a significant advantage for using traited technology for controlling insects. There was no noticeable goose-necking in any of the RR entries that would suggest that any larvae feeding took place. Even if there had been light rootworm pressure, it is unlikely that there would be severe damage this past summer due to the unusually high amount of rainfall that we received at the Southern PFR farm this year. The three year average for this study shows a 10.6 Bu./A. advantage for the triple stack traited technologies over their straight RR counterparts. BECK 6733RR™* treated with Poncho 500 did out-yield the entry treated with Poncho 250 by 4.2 Bu./A.

72

300 Bushel Attempt – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Soil Type: Population: Fertilizer:

Purpose:

April 25, 2009 September 19, 2009 Ragsdale Silt Loam Various 30#N (2x2) 200#N Sidedress V3 70#N Sidedress V6 300#N Total

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Pre: Post: Insecticide:

Soybeans Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.5 qts. Harness Xtra 1 qt. Atrazine 32 oz. Cornerstone 6 oz. Artic

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

For this year’s attempt to reach 300 bushel corn, we looked at a combination of increasing nitrogen and seeding rates as well as using foliar fungicide and insecticide to obtain our goal. In the first rep, we looked at six different hybrids planted at 36,000 seeds per acre with 300 units of total nitrogen applied. The second rep was the same with an additional treatment of Headline® and Mustang Max™ applied at full tassel. The third rep was the same as the second, only the seeding rate was raised to 40,000 seeds per acre. Nitrogen applications were split with 30 units applied at planting, 200 units applied at V3, and 70 units applied at V6 to minimize nitrogen loss.

Planted Population

Test† Weight

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000

59.7 57.0 60.1 56.8 58.0 55.5 57.9

21.6 19.6 22.1 20.5 20.2 21.7 21.0

250.2 241.9 235.0 230.5 229.6 205.8 232.2

$612.96 $583.08 $558.24 $546.09 $860.24 $449.07 $601.61

36,000 POPULATION W/ 6 OZ. HEADLINE / 3 OZ. MUSTANG MAX @ FULL TASSEL 1 BECK 6363HXR™* 36,000 60.4 21.9 2 BECK 5779VT3 36,000 57.6 20.6 3 BECK 6733HXR™* 36,000 59.7 21.7 4 BECK 5442VT3 36,000 57.0 20.2 5 BECK 5454HXR™* 36,000 57.8 19.6 6 BECK 5716A3 36,000 54.8 22.5 AVERAGE 36,000 57.9 21.1

259.0 258.7 258.5 257.1 229.6 227.0 248.3

$617.13 $620.10 $615.33 $610.29 $511.29 $497.88 $578.67

40,000 POPULATION W/ 6 OZ. HEADLINE / 3 OZ. MUSTANG MAX @ FULL TASSEL 1 BECK 5442VT3 40,000 57.6 20.8 2 BECK 5779VT3 40,000 57.7 21.5 3 BECK 6363HXR™* 40,000 59.9 21.5 4 BECK 6733HXR™* 40,000 59.8 21.3 5 BECK 5716A3 40,000 56.2 23.1 6 BECK 5454HXR™* 40,000 58.2 21.1 AVERAGE 40,000 58.3 21.6

267.9 266.1 258.6 258.1 234.8 228.7 252.4

$638.33 $636.35 $604.85 $603.05 $514.67 $497.21 $582.41

Yield Rank

Brand

36,000 POPULATION (NO FOLIAR FUNGICIDE) 1 BECK 6733HXR™* 2 BECK 5442VT3 3 BECK 6363HXR™* 4 BECK 5779VT3 5 BECK 5454HXR™* 6 BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE

†

Net^ Return

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. th ^Net return based on 100 units ordered by September 15, 2008 and paid by January 10 , 2009 minus cost of nitrogen, fungicide, insecticide, and application. Headline price $350 per gallon. Mustang Max price $239.50 per gallon. 28% nitrogen price $355 per ton. Price of corn $3.60/Bu.

Summary:

Although we didn’t reach 300 bushel at the Southern PFR farm this year, we did break our previous record yield set in 2007 three times. This year’s highest yield and new record for the 300 bushel attempt at the Southern PFR farm is 267.9 Bu./A. This was achieved by planting BECK 5442VT3 at 40,000 seeds per acre and spraying it with Headline® and Mustang Max™ at full tassel. The second highest yield, 266 Bu./A., was achieved by BECK 5779VT3 using the same management practice. BECK 6363HXR™* recorded the third highest yield of 259.0 Bu./A. planted at 36,000 seeds per acre. It also received an application of Headline® and Mustang Max™. BECK 6733HXR™* proved to be the most consistent hybrid in the study with less than 9 bushel variation across all three reps.

73

Quality Trait Products® - 2009 April 25, 2009 October 4, 2009 Three 30” rows 30,500 seeds/A.

Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population:

Purpose:

Previous Crop: Tillage: Pre: Herbicide: Post: Insecticide:

Soybeans Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator (twice) 3 qts. Harness Xtra 0.75 oz. Impact 6 oz. Artic

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

This study shows the Quality Trait Products Beck’s is testing and/or offering for sale in the southern marketing area. Opportunities are available for customers in the south to participate in food grade, Non-GMO, and white corn programs.

Quality Trait Product Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade

Brand BECK 6733 BECK 5335™* BECK 5676™* BECK 5608 BECK EX 0980™* BECK 5435HXR™* BECK EX 0979™* BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5684CL BECK EX 1811

Non-GMO Non-GMO

Test† Weight 60.3 62.7 61.6 59.3 61.0 62.6 61.6 58.3

Percent Moisture 18.3 16.7 18.0 16.9 18.5 17.1 18.0 17.7

Bushels† Per Acre 241.6 240.7 239.3 200.4 198.1 196.8 189.1 185.9

+ or – Plot Avg. +35.3 +34.4 +33.0 -5.9 -8.2 -9.5 -17.2 -20.4

56.3 58.7

16.1 19.1

208.8 207.5

+2.5 +1.2

Non-GMO $0.20-$0.50

56.2 59.9

18.1 17.7

161.5 206.3

-44.8

White Corn $0.20 +

Potential Premiums

Food Grade $0.10-$0.60

(BECK 6288CL Genetics)

BECK 6218W AVERAGE

White Corn †

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Food Grade Corn - Used by dry millers to produce cereal and snack food products. The endosperm is much harder than commodity corn and is higher in test weight. Non-GMO – Non-genetically modified or conventional corn is quickly becoming the new specialty corn. Demand from export companies as well as domestic users demand for non-traited corn continues to be strong while trait adoption by the farmer continues to increase. This creates a deficient supply of Non-GMO grain. White Corn - White corn mainly used by grain millers to produce snack foods. ®

Quality Trait Products is a registered trademark of Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

“BECK 5335HXR™* is a hybrid that has had excellent early yield checks for my customers. We are currently showing 250 to 265 bushels per acre and the higher populations are proving to be the right fit for our customers. Performance like this is what is keeping competitors products out of my customer’s sheds.” Tom Logue Beck Dealer Liberty, IN

74

Fungicide Study on Corn – 2009 April 26, 2009 October 3, 2009 Six 30” rows Ragsdale Silt Loam 34,100 seeds/A. Two (averaged)

Planted: Harvested: Rows: Soil Type: Population: Replications:

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

Post: Insecticide:

Purpose:

Pre:

Corn Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator (three times) 1.5 qts. Harness Xtra 1 qt. Atrazine 32 oz. Cornerstone 6 oz. Artic

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

In recent years there has been a growing interest in controlling foliar diseases that can severely limit corn yields. This study was established to evaluate the benefits of applying foliar fungicides on the majority of the genetic families that Beck’s offers in the southern marketing area. Applications were made at full tassel with a Hagie highclearance sprayer using 15 gallons of water per acre. Diseases commonly seen at the Southern PFR location include Gray Leaf Spot, Southern Leaf Blight, and Northern Corn Leaf Blight along with occasional occurrences of Southern and Common Rust, Anthracnose, and Diplodia ear rot. The crop rotation for this study was 9th year continuous corn.

Application HEADLINE

Test† Weight

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

Yield Advantage vs. Untreated

BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 7916VT3 BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5716A3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5676HXR™* AVERAGE

59.7 56.6 56.9 55.9 55.9 55.3 59.3 56.9 58.3 59.3 57.4

20.5 23.4 17.7 19.7 20.2 19.1 20.6 18.7 18.7 21.0 20.0

226.5 238.3 217.7 224.7 217.3 211.3 221.2 208.3 222.7 204.6 219.3

19.7 15.6 11.7 9.2 5.7 4.0 3.4 3.0 -1.8 -3.2 +6.7

BECK 5608VT3 BECK 7916VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5716A3 BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5444VT3 BECK 5454HXR™* AVERAGE

58.6 56.7 58.8 55.4 55.4 59.9 55.2 59.9 55.8 57.0 57.3

18.1 23.6 20.8 18.8 20.4 20.8 19.0 20.3 17.2 19.0 19.8

224.5 222.7 217.8 215.5 211.6 207.8 207.3 206.8 206.0 205.3 212.5

Brand

Return on Investment^ $49.01 $34.25 $20.21 $11.21 -$1.39 -$7.51 -$9.67 -$11.11 -$28.39 -$33.43 $2.21

UNTREATED

†

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Hybrids, Inc. ^Return on Investment based on gross income minus the cost of fungicide and application. Headline price was based on $350 per gallon. Application charge for a self-propelled sprayer was $5.50 per acre. Corn price is based on average cash price of $3.60/Bu.

75

Fungicide Study on Corn – Continued †

Bushels per

Summary:

Cooler than average temperatures and an abundance of rainfall throughout the entire growing season resulted in significant foliar disease pressure this year. These weather conditions along with the amount of corn after corn and reduced tillage acres that are prominent in the south lead to significantly heavy Northern Corn Leaf Blight pressure. Gray Leaf Spot and Southern Rust could also be found on many hybrids in this year’s study. As in previous years’ testing, results varied significantly by genetic family. This year, BECK 5444VT3, BECK 5442VT3, BECK 6363HXRTM*, and BECK 7916VT3 showed a positive return on investment while the remaining entries did not show a high enough yield response to provide profits. The use of foliar fungicide did not result in a significant increase in moisture or test weight. Although higher commodity prices would have resulted in higher returns on investment, the only hybrid that would have shown a profit at $5.00/Bu. corn that did not at $3.60/Bu. was BECK 5716A3. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Hybrids, Inc.

Smith Farms, Pendleton, IN, harvesting BECK’S 5616wx.

76

20” vs. 30” Row Corn Population Study - 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Soil Type:

Purpose:

May 19, 2009 October 3, 2009 Three 20” rows Two 30” rows Various Ragsdale Silt Loam

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Pre: (30” rows) Post:

Soybeans Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.5 qts. Harness 1 qt. Atrazine 32 oz. Cornerstone

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

An increasing number of farmers have shown an interest in 20” corn rows. This study compares twelve hybrids in 20” and 30” row spacing at final populations ranging from 18,000 to 42,000 to determine the performance difference between 20” and 30” rows and to provide hybrid specific data for farmers planting Beck products in 20” rows.

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids.

77

20” vs. 30” Row Corn Population Study – Continued

Population Summary:

The last several years Beck’s Hybrids and the industry as a whole have been talking about higher populations equating to higher yields. This year’s population studies continue to show this trend. The overall summary at the top right of this page shows all hybrids across 20” and 30” rows yielding more at higher populations. The highest yields come from 33 – 39,000.

Summary for 20” vs. 30” Rows:

While the two yield lines trended very closely this year, the 30” rows out yielded the 20” rows by 4.1 bushels per acre across all populations (see all hybrids chart at the top left of this page). The 20” rows out yielded the 30” rows at the 42,000 population mirroring the idea that 20” rows may be the next step in increasing yields by increasing populations. The individual graphs for all 12 hybrids tested this year can be seen on the opposite page. Two hybrids (5668™* and 6363HXR™*) showed around a 10 bushel advantage for 20” rows. Please also refer to the 20” vs. 30” studies at our Illinois and Atlanta, IN PFR locations.

Summary for Triple Stack vs. RR Hybrids:

We looked at 3 base genetic families comparing the triple stack version to the RR version. This year the triple stack products showed a 5.1 bushel per acre advantage overall and an increased advantage at the higher populations (+8.1 Bu./A. at the 4 highest populations). This result is very similar to many of the studies we have conducted in the past, even at our southern PFR location. We also need to consider that the 20” rows were planted with a tractor set-up with 30” rows, so we planted into tire tracks. Also we harvested the 20” rows with a 30” row head. As we consider higher populations and narrow rows, we need to switch equipment to fit the program being used.

*XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

78

Corn Planting Date Study – 2009 RAINFALL

Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population:

Various Various Six 30” rows 32,000 seeds/A.

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Pre: Post:

Purpose:

Soybeans Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.5 qts. Harness Xtra 1 qt. Atrazine 32 oz. Cornerstone

April May June July August Total

7.0 in. 5.9 in. 4.1 in. 7.2 in. 1.4 in. 25.6 in.

To evaluate performance of a mid-season and a full-season product planted on several dates throughout the growing season. Brand BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* AVERAGE

Harvested Population 29,667 31,000 30,334

Test† Weight 56.2 59.3 57.8

Percent Moisture 20.7 21.0 20.9

Bushels† Per Acre 189.3 188.4 188.9

April 18 April 18

BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* AVERAGE

29,667 29,333 29,500

56.7 59.7 58.2

22.0 22.2 22.1

202.6 211.6 207.1

April 24 April 24

BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* AVERAGE

30,000 29,667 29,834

57.5 59.4 58.5

22.5 23.8 23.2

213.8 232.3 223.1

May 12 May 12

BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* AVERAGE

30,000 28,333 29,167

57.2 59.1 58.2

21.5 22.4 22.0

210.5 221.0 215.7

May 19 May 19

BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* AVERAGE

30,667 30,667 30,667

56.6 58.3 57.5

22.5 23.6 23.1

216.3 228.9 222.6

May 25 May 25

BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* AVERAGE

30,000 30,333 30,167

55.7 58.7 57.2

24.7 24.7 24.7

198.5 228.1 213.3

June 2 June 2

BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* AVERAGE

28,000 29,000 28,500

54.9 56.0 55.5

24.0 25.1 24.6

176.8 203.2 190.0

June 8 June 8

BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* AVERAGE

29,333 30,667 30,000

55.0 57.2 56.1

24.9 26.0 25.5

179.6 189.8 184.7

June 20 June 20

BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* AVERAGE

29,667 31,000 30,334

55.5 58.4 57.0

32.0 27.5 29.8

137.2 147.2 142.2

† Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Similar to the five year trend, this year’s highest yielding planting date was April th 24 . Yields continued to be very good through the end of May due to above average rainfall in July and September. Corn planted the first two weeks of June even faired pretty well in 2009. The five year summary chart represents the yield trend by planting date over that time period. The number of data points for each week varies due to when the weather and soil conditions allow for field work from one year to the next.

5 Year Optimum Corn Planting Date 220.0 200.0 Yield

Summary:

180.0 160.0 140.0 M ar ch W k1 M ar ch W k2 M ar ch W k3 M ar ch W k4 A pr il W k1 A pr il W k2 A pr il W k3 A pr il W k4 M ay W k1 M ay W k2 M ay W k3 M ay W k4 Ju ne W k1

Planting Date March 18 March 18

Planting Date

79

Replant Study on Corn – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Soil Type: Population: Rows: Product Tested: Purpose:

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Pre

Various Various Ragsdale Silt Loam Various Six 30” rows BECK 5608VT3

Post: Insecticide:

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

Corn Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.5 qts. Harness Xtra 1 lb. Atrazine 32 oz. Cornerstone 6 oz. Artic

To replant or not to replant…that is the question. This study’s purpose is to evaluate corn stands and determine whether or not it is profitable to replant. Replanting is a very tough decision for growers and this plot shows populations of corn at 22,000 seeds/A. versus 32,000 seeds/A. at various planting dates to show if replanting would have paid off given the low final populations. Planting Population

Test† Weight

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

April 18 May 12 (Replanted)

32,000 22,000 32,000

58.6 57.3 58.0

17.3 17.4 24.5

April 27 May 12 (Replanted)

22,000 32,000

57.7 58.5

May 12 May 25 (Replanted)

22,000 32,000

May 19 May 25 (Replanted)

Replant Advantage

$ Net Return**

Additional $/A.

187.8 158.0 217.7

+59.7

$675.99 $568.70 $758.34

----$189.64

19.5 24.0

126.9 219.7

+92.8

$456.66 $765.56

----$308.90

57.6 57.6

23.7 25.7

197.2 163.2

-34.0

$709.57 $562.09

-----$147.48

22,000 32,000

56.5 58.5

22.7 26.3

185.4 150.9

-34.5

$667.13 $517.79

-----$149.34

May 25 June 2 (Replanted)

22,000 32,000

57.7 56.6

26.3 24.9

164.6 227.2

+62.6

$592.11 $792.52

----$200.42

June 2 June 20 (Replanted)

22,000 32,000

56.8 56.5

24.9 33.4

208.1 146.3

-61.8

$748.76 $500.94

-----$247.82

Planting Date April 18 (Normal 1st planting)

†

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. ** Factor in drying costs and other replant costs of $25.00/A.

2009 SPFR Replant Study $400.00 Additional $/Ac.

$300.00

April 18th Replant

$200.00

April 27th Replant

$100.00

May 12th Replant

$0.00

May 19th Replant

-$100.00

May 25th Replant

-$200.00

June 2nd Replant

-$300.00 Replant Date

Summary:

This year’s replant study is a good reflection of challenges and extremes that many growers faced in the southern marketing area this past spring. Multiple, heavy rainfall events created many opportunities where growers had to decide whether or not to keep a thin stand of corn or replant. The thin stands that resulted from the April 27th and May 25th plantings, both of which received heavy rain within 24 hours or less, are prime examples. This created a scenario where it was more profitable to keep the thin stands that resulted from the May 12th and 19th plantings instead of replanting them on May 25th.

80

Tillage Study - 2009 Corn / Soybean and Continuous Corn Rotations Planted: Harvested: Soil Type: Population: Rows:

Purpose:

May 20, 2009 October 13, 2009 Uniontown Silt Loam/ Ragsdale Silt Loam 32,500 seeds/A. 30” rows

Previous Crop: Tillage: Pre: Herbicide: Post: Insecticide: Product Tested:

Soybeans / Corn Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.5 qts. Harness Xtra 1 qt. Atrazine 32 oz. Cornerstone 6 oz. Artic BECK 5716A3

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

Due to the wide variety of tillage practices utilized by growers in the south, there have been numerous studies conducted at the Southern PFR farm over the past five years to help our customers determine which system might work best for their farm. This is the second year for the tillage study in its current format, which compares conventional tillage to both no-till and strip-tillage systems. These tillage practices were compared in both a corn/soybean and continuous corn rotation. A comparison between banded and broadcast fertilizer applications was also made in the corn rotations while the fertilizer comparison was only made in the conventional and strip-till portions of the soybean rotation.

CORN AFTER SOYBEANS Fertilizer NO-TILL Broadcast 4-11-45 Banded Liquid AVERAGE STRIP-TILL Broadcast 4-11-45 Banded 4-11-45 AVERAGE CONVENTIONAL-TILL Broadcast 4-11-45 Banded 4-11-45 AVERAGE

Harvested Population

Test† Weight

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

28,333 30,000 29,167

55.1 55.0 55.1

22.4 22.0 22.2

205.2 214.1 209.7

27,000 28,667 27,834

55.3 54.9 55.1

21.9 21.7 21.8

211.8 216.3 214.1

31,000 31,667 31,334

55.2 55.6 55.4

21.6 21.6 21.6

213.9 205.5 209.7

Harvested Population

Test† Weight

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

28,000 30,000 29,000

53.7 52.9 53.3

22.6 21.6 22.1

207.8 206.4 207.1

31,000 28,667 29,834

53.5 53.8 53.7

21.1 21.8 21.5

205.6 208.5 207.1

30,667 30,333 30,500

54.6 54.3 54.5

21.6 23.2 22.4

207.3 201.0 204.2

CONTINUOUS CORN Fertilizer NO-TILL Broadcast 4-11-45 Banded Liquid AVERAGE STRIP-TILL Broadcast 4-11-45 Banded 4-11-45 AVERAGE CONVENTIONAL-TILL Broadcast 4-11-45 Banded 4-11-45 AVERAGE

†

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture.

81

No-Till vs. Strip-Till vs. Conventional-Till Corn / Soybean and Continuous Corn Rotations – Continued Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Product Tested: Previous Crop:

May 20, 2009 September 29, 2009 30” rows 128,000 seeds/A. BECK 399NR Corn

Tillage:

Conventional:

Herbicide: Pre: (No-Till/Strip-Till) Early Post: Post:

Chisel / Field Cultivator (three times) 32 oz. Cornerstone 4 oz. FirstRate 25 oz. Cornerstone 4 oz. Shadow 32 oz. Cornerstone

RAINFALL April 6.96 in. May 5.90 in. June 4.08 in. July 7.15 in. August 1.43 in. Total 25.52 in.

SOYBEANS AFTER CORN

†

Fertilizer NO-TILL Broadcast 4-11-45 No-Fertilizer AVERAGE STRIP-TILL Broadcast 4-11-45 Banded 4-11-45 AVERAGE CONVENTIONAL-TILL Broadcast 4-11-45 Banded 4-11-45 AVERAGE

Harvested Population

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

105,035 96,564 100,800

13.5 13.4 13.5

67.9 68.0 67.9

113,263 103,098 108,181

13.2 13.1 13.2

62.3 63.9 63.1

117,618 116,893 117,256

13.6 13.7 13.7

60.9 67.8 64.3

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture.

Summary:

Corn after Soybeans Although strip-till provided the highest average yields in this portion of the study for 2009, it was promising to see no difference between the average yield of the no-till and conventional-till entries. Banding fertilizer provided higher yields in both the no-till and strip-till comparisons this year while broadcasting fertilizer provided the highest yield in the conventional-till comparison. The two year average shows less than a 3 Bu./A. variation between conventional-till and strip-till yields for this rotation while no-till yields are approximately 10% lower. Continuous Corn Both no-till and strip-till provided an average 2.9 Bu./A. advantage over conventional-till in this year’s study. Broadcasting fertilizer continued to show an advantage to banding in the conventional-till comparison while there was little difference noted in the no-till and strip-till comparisons. The two year average shows less than a 3 Bu./A. variation between conventional-till and strip-till yields for this rotation while no-till yields are approximately 10% lower. Soybeans after Corn No-tilling soybeans into standing corn stalks provided the highest yields in this year’s study. Banding fertilizer provided a yield advantage in both the strip-till and conventionaltill comparisons. The two year average shows less than 1.5 Bu./A. variation in yields for all three tillage practices in soybeans.

82

Corn Nitrogen Timing Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Soil Type: Population: Previous Crop: Purpose:

April 26, 2009 October 13, 2009 Ragsdale Silt Loam 32,500 seeds/A. Corn

Tillage: Herbicide:

Insecticide: Product Tested:

Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.5 qts. Degree Xtra / 1 qt. Atrazine 32 oz. Cornerstone 6 oz. Artic BECK 7916VT3

Increased input prices have made us re-evaluate the way we fertilize our crops in recent years. In addition to studies that identify the optimum rate of nitrogen fertilizer, it appears that the timing of these applications may also affect the efficiency of the nitrogen applied to a crop. This study was conducted to see if yields could be raised by applying nitrogen at different times.

Application 200 lbs. Total N. (2 Replications) 200 lbs. Pre-plant NH3 200 lbs. 28% Sidedress V3 170 lbs. 28% Sidedress V3 + 30 lbs. 28% 2x2 170 lbs. 28% Sidedress V6 + 60 lbs. 28% 2x2 200 lbs. 28% Sidedress V6 170 lbs. Pre-plant NH3 + 30 lbs. 28% Dribbled V13 140 lbs. Pre-plant NH3 + 60 lbs. 28% Dribbled V13

†

Pre: Post:

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

230 lbs. Total N. (2 Replications) 230 lbs. Pre-plant NH3 230 lbs. 28% Sidedress V3 200 lbs. 28% Sidedress V3 + 30 lbs. 28% 2x2 200 lbs. 28% Sidedress V6 + 60 lbs. 28% 2x2 230 lbs. 28% Sidedress V6 200 lbs. Pre-plant NH3 + 30 lbs. 28% Dribbled V13 170 lbs. Pre-plant NH3 + 60 lbs. 28% Dribbled V13 AVERAGE

Harvested Population

Test† Weight

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

Net^ Return

29,834 29,000 28,834 28,500 27,667 28,000 27,500 28,476

58.1 57.3 57.3 57.9 57.5 57.7 57.0 57.5

21.8 21.7 21.8 21.4 21.6 21.0 21.7 21.6

214.5 238.2 237.0 225.0 224.0 207.9 205.4 221.7

$666.20 $731.52 $727.20 $684.00 $680.40 $639.44 $627.44 $679.46

29,167 28,834 29,667 29,167 29,334 30,333 28,333 29,262

57.2 57.2 57.4 56.8 57.8 57.1 57.1 57.2

21.8 21.8 21.6 21.7 22.0 20.9 20.9 21.5

212.6 228.0 236.9 233.0 231.6 212.7 204.1 222.7

$643.46 $675.90 $707.94 $693.90 $688.86 $637.82 $622.76 $667.23

Adv. Over Pre-plant N. -----

$65.32 $61.00 $17.80 $14.20 -$26.76 -$38.76

----$32.44 $64.48 $50.44 $45.40 -$5.64 -$20.70

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net Return based on $3.60/Bu. corn, $355/ton 28% nitrogen, $875/ton NH3.

Summary:

Nitrogen application equipment at the Southern PFR Farm.

Applying nitrogen at pre-plant with anhydrous ammonia (NH3) is a common practice for many growers in the southern marketing area. This is driven by the fact that NH3 is often the least expensive form of N available, the risk of weather delaying sidedress applications is eliminated, and irregular fields often make sidedressing more difficult. This year’s study shows that sidedress applications of 28% at both the V3 and V6 growth stage increased yields and profits significantly over the pre-plant NH3 applications regardless of rate. Splitting nitrogen by applying 30 lbs./A. with the planter (2x2) and sidedressing the balance at V3 provided an average additional profit of $62.74/A. across both rates applied. These results are similar to the data collected from the Nitrogen Rate Study over the past 3 years. Applying a portion of the crop’s nitrogen with the planter helps to manage the risk associated with the potential for weather delays with sidedressing.

83

Optimum Nitrogen Rate Study – 2009 (Corn after Corn vs. Corn after Soybeans) Planted: Harvested:

April 25, 2009 CAS: Sept. 18, 2009 CAC: Oct. 1 & 3, 2009 Ragsdale Silt Loam 32,500 seeds/A. 28% Liquid N @ V3

Soil Type: Population: Fertilizer:

Purpose:

Replications: Tillage: Herbicide:

Post:

Percent Moisture

18.5 18.3

†

Beck’s 6733HXR™*

Bushels Per Acre

Net Return^

78.6 187.6 207.2 213.5 211.6

$282.99 $596.47 $651.25 $658.10 $635.55

215.1 218.6

$632.38 $629.27

Corn After Soybeans:

†

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

This study is designed to help us find the economic optimum nitrogen rate (EONR); that is the rate of nitrogen that maximizes profitability. Although the study was originally based on the format used by both Purdue University and the University of Illinois, we have added a wider range of rates and narrowed the difference between rates to better pinpoint the EONR. This study will be conducted in both a corn after soybean and a continuous corn. Two hybrids were used to determine if there are potential differences in EONR between genetic families. All applications in this study were made as a V3 sidedress application.

Corn After Corn: 0 15.5 125 16.4 150 17.5 175 17.4 200 18.7 225 250

Pre:

Insecticide:

Beck’s 5608VT3 Lbs. of Nitrogen

Two (averaged) Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.5 qts. Harness Xtra 1 qt. Atrazine 32 oz. Cornerstone 6 oz. Artic

Lbs. of Nitrogen

Percent Moisture

Corn After Corn: 0 16.0 125 19.3 150 20.3 175 20.3 200 19.9 225 20.7 250 19.5

†

Bushels Per Acre

Net Return^

79.2 180.1 198.7 216.6 214.8 225.7 224.7

$284.97 $569.39 $620.59 $669.39 $647.05 $670.41 $651.15

Corn After Soybeans:

2 Hybrid Average Lbs. of Nitrogen

Percent Moisture

Corn After Corn: 0 15.8 125 17.9 150 18.9 175 18.9 200 19.3 225 250

19.6 18.9

†

Bushels Per Acre

Net Return^

78.9 183.8 202.9 215.0 213.2

$284.01 $583.04 $636.07 $663.90 $641.47

220.4 221.6

$651.58 $640.36

Corn After Soybeans:

0 100 125 150 175 200

17.7 17.9 18.4 18.0 19.6 18.9

110.8 184.0 191.6 202.5 215.9 214.5

$398.62 $599.15 $610.97 $634.37 $666.66 $645.92

0 100 125 150 175 200

19.2 20.9 21.1 21.3 21.5 21.7

114.2 200.1 206.0 222.9 228.7 227.6

$410.86 $657.22 $662.58 $707.85 $712.87 $693.12

0 100 125 150 175 200

18.5 19.4 19.8 19.7 20.6 20.3

112.5 192.0 198.8 212.7 222.3 221.0

$404.74 $628.18 $636.77 $671.11 $689.77 $669.52

225

20.9

221.4

$655.12

225

22.1

226.4

$673.17

225

21.5

223.9

$664.14

Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Hybrids, Inc. ^ Net Return based on gross income minus the cost of nitrogen and drying. Nitrogen price based on $355/ton 28% UAN solution. Corn price is based on average cash price of $3.60/Bu.

Summary:

Corn Following Soybeans: The EONR for both hybrids in the corn after soybean rotation for 2009 was 175 lbs. per acre. Although the three year summary from 2006 –2008 suggests that the EONR was 150 lbs. per acre for this rotation, we questioned whether or not that was high enough. The new format that was used this year shows that the EONR actually falls between 150 and 200 lbs. per acre. Yields increased only slightly at the 225 lbs. per acre rate for Beck’s 5608VT3, but not enough to provide a profitable return. Continuous Corn (9th Year Corn) Although higher rates of 225 and 250 lbs. of nitrogen were added to the study this year, the EONR for the average of both hybrids in this year’s corn after corn rotation was 175 lbs. per acre. The EONR for Beck 6733HXR™* was actually 225 lbs. per acre, but only provided an additional profit of $1.02 over the 175 lbs. rate. The three year summary from 2006 – 2008 suggests that the EONR was 200 lbs. per acre. Please remember that net return is the price of both nitrogen and corn and it will affect the EONR. As nitrogen prices decrease and/or corn prices increase, return on investment will increase. These figures are simply meant to show trends over time and as a guideline for determining return on investment for added nitrogen fertilizer. It is important to recalculate using your nitrogen purchase price and expected average corn price, as well as to conduct some on-farm testing to determine the optimum nitrogen rate for your operation.

84

PSNT Study – 2009 RAINFALL

April May June July August Total

7.0 in.

5.9 in. Soybeans 4.1 in. Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator (twice) 7.2 in. 1.5 qts. Harness Xtra 1.4 in. 1 qt. Atrazine 25.6 in. 6 oz. Artic Insecticide: Various nitrogen studies conducted at the Southern PFR farm have shown the potential for Purpose: nitrogen loss when nitrogen was applied as a pre-plant application. This study was designed to see if different tests could be used to determine if pre-plant nitrogen was lost by comparing test results to yield. V10 Yield PSNT Tissue Test† Percent Bushels† Brand Rank (ppm) Test Weight Moisture Per Acre 1 BECK 7916VT3 15.77 2.83% 58.8 28.7 233.2 2 BECK 7916VT3 9.79 2.86% 58.2 28.6 233.1 3 BECK 7916VT3 9.04 2.88% 58.6 29.6 232.2 4 BECK 7916VT3 27.48 2.77% 59.1 30.5 228.2 5 BECK 5676HXR™* 26.42 2.65% 59.0 26.6 226.5 6 BECK 5676HXR™* 20.51 2.75% 59.2 26.6 222.0 7 BECK 5676HXR™* 33.94 2.73% 57.9 26.8 201.4 AVERAGE 58.7 28.2 225.2

Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population:

†

May 22, 2009 October 1, 2009 Twelve 30” rows 33,000 seeds/A.

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

Pre-plant anhydrous ammonia (NH3) was applied on April 18th at a rate of 200 lbs./A. Planting was delayed until May 22nd due to excessive rainfall in late April through mid-May. Warm weather soil temperatures and continued heavy rains in mid-June and July should have provided a scenario where the potential for nitrogen loss was high. Pre-sidedress nitrate samples (PSNT) were taken when corn was at the V3 growth stage. This typically would be when we would begin side-dressing corn at the Southern PFR farm. No correlation could be found between yield and PSNT results. Leaf tissue samples were taken at the V10 growth stage. The upper most leaf with a visible collar was removed for sampling. Although all of the leaf samples showed the % of nitrate in the plant within the sufficient range, samples were slightly higher for the highest yielding entries. We will continue to look at different tests to see if there is an accurate way to determine potential nitrogen loss in the future. “What I like about Beck’s is that everyone is treated equally. The size of your operation doesn’t matter, you still receive the same service and you are treated as any other farmer working with Beck’s. You always know where you stand.” Darrin Bowling Dillsboro, IN

85

Torque Study on Corn – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Soil Type: Population: Product Tested: Replications: Purpose:

April 24, 2009 September 11, 2009 Uniontown Silt Loam 32,000 seeds/A. BECK 5676RR™* Two (averaged)

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Pre: Post: Insecticide:

Corn Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.5 qts. Harness Xtra 1 qt. Atrazine 32 oz. Cornerstone 6 oz. Artic

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

This study was designed to evaluate the use of a pop-up starter fertilizer both with and without Torque™. TM According to EMD Crop BioScience, Torque contains a LCO promoter that enhances root growth and shoot growth for improved nutrient and water uptake. This is similar to the Optimize seed treatment product for soybeans. The starter fertilizer used in this study was All-Plant 7-24-0. Rep 1

Rep 2

Average of 2 Reps Average Average Emerged Pop. Bu./A.

Emerged Population

Bushels† Per Acre

Emerged Population

Bushels† Per Acre

Starter w/ Torque

31,000

234.0

32,000

228.2

31,500

231.1

Starter

30,667

228.2

30,667

232.8

30,667

230.5

Untreated

30,333

230.9

30,667

229.7

30,500

230.3

Torque

31,333

219.7

30,667

224.3

31,000

222.0

30,833

228.2

31,000

228.8

30,917

228.5

Treatment

AVERAGE †

Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

The 2 rep average for both the starter entry and the starter with Torque™ entry provided only minimal yield increases compared to the untreated check. There was less than 4 bushel per acre variation between any of these two entries and the check. Although the entry of Torque™ alone showed significantly lower yields than the check, the average emerged stand for all entries containing Torque™ averaged approximately 750 plants per acre higher than the untreated check.

Gypsum Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Product Tested: Replications: Purpose:

May 19, 2009 October 12, 2009 Six 30” rows 34,200 seeds/A. BECK 5676HXR™* Five (averaged)

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

Pre: Post:

Insecticide:

Corn Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.5 qts. Harness Xtra 1 qt. Atrazine 32 oz. Cornerstone 6 oz. Artic

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

Gypsum (Calcium Sulfate) is a by-product from coal power plant scrubbers that can be applied to the soil to provide the nutrients, sulfur and calcium. It is also suggested that gypsum might be able to improve water infiltration by maintaining and improving soil structure. Gypsum was applied at 1 ton per acre in this study. Gypsum does not alter pH like calcium-containing products such as lime.

NO GYPSUM APPLIED GYPSUM APPLIED

Harvest Population 30,200 30,667

Test† Weight 59.0 59.0

Percent Moisture  22.4 22.2

Bushels† Per Acre 206.2 205.6

† Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

This year’s study did not show any differences between the entries treated with gypsum and those that were not treated at the Southern PFR farm. No visual differences were noted. We will continue this study to see if there are any long term benefits or effects from utilizing this product.

86

Herbicide Study on Corn – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Soil Type: Population: Replications: Purpose:

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

April 24, 2009 September 12, 2009 Three 30” rows Ragsdale Silt Loam 32,500 seeds/A. Two (averaged)

Soybeans Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator 2 qts. Atrazine 6 oz. Artic

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

In this study, we are comparing five common post-emergence herbicides that are being used in Beck’s southern marketing area. Integrity™, a new pre-emergence product from BASF, was also added this year. All entries were sprayed near the late side of the label limit. This was done to test crop safety as the corn plant begins to determine its yield potential. All entries were kept weed free to ensure that herbicide chemistry was the yield limiting factor in this trial.

Harvest Population

Test† Weight

Percent Moisture

2009 Bushels† Per Acre

% of Glyphosate Control

29,834 30,000 30,833 28,667 29,833

58.5 55.2 57.3 54.2 56.3

24.9 24.2 22.3 24.6 24.0

255.3 240.1 231.2 221.8 237.1

101.4% 101.0% 112.8% 101.5% 104.2%

SURESTART™ – 11” Corn 1 BECK 6733HXR™* 2 BECK 5779VT3 3 BECK 5608VT3 4 BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE

31.334 30,667 30,500 29,500 30,500

58.7 56.1 57.1 54.6 56.6

23.9 24.0 22.4 24.8 23.7

259.4 237.1 222.1 207.4 231.5

103.0% 99.7% 108.3% 94.9% 101.5%

GLYPHOSATE – V6 (CONTROL) 1 BECK 6733HXR™* 2 BECK 5779VT3 3 BECK 5608VT3 4 BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE

31,000 30,333 30,500 29,667 30,375

57.9 55.2 56.8 53.9 55.9

24.1 23.1 21.6 23.0 22.9

251.8 237.8 205.0 218.6 228.3

LAUDIS™ – V6 1 BECK 6733HXR™* 2 BECK 5779VT3 3 BECK 5608VT3 4 BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE

30,500 31,500 30,500 30,000 30,625

58.0 55.5 57.0 53.7 56.1

23.5 23.4 22.0 23.7 23.1

253.7 229.3 207.1 222.7 228.2

100.8% 96.4% 101.0% 101.9% 100.0%

STEADFAST® – V6 1 BECK 6733HXR™* 2 BECK 5779VT3 3 BECK 5608VT3 4 BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE

29,334 30,000 30,500 29,334 29,792

58.1 56.0 57.1 54.9 56.5

24.2 23.5 21.2 23.3 23.0

256.7 227.1 190.7 206.4 220.2

101.9% 95.5% 93.0% 94.4% 96.2%

CELEBRITY PLUS® – V6 1 BECK 6733HXR™* 2 BECK 5779VT3 3 BECK 5608VT3 4 BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE

30,500 31,167 30,667 30,833 30,792

58.1 55.8 56.7 54.7 56.3

24.2 23.6 21.3 23.7 23.2

249.7 218.0 211.2 204.4 220.8

99.2% 91.7% 103.0% 93.5% 96.9%

Yield Rank Brand / Growth Stage INTEGRITY™ – Pre-Emerge 1 BECK 6733HXR™* 2 BECK 5779VT3 3 BECK 5608VT3 4 BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE

† Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Integrity™ and Celebrity Plus® are trademarks of the BASF Corporation. Laudis™ is a trademark of Bayer Crop Science. Steadfast® is a registered trademark of DuPont. SureStart™ is a trademark of Dow AgroSciences.

87

Herbicide Study on Corn – Continued Summary:

The glyphosate treated entries were used as the control in this study due to the fact that all of the hybrids in this study carried some form of traited glyphosate resistance. Yields for all of the other entries were rated as a percentage of the control so that crop safety could be compared. The average yields for Integrity™, ® SureStart™, and Laudis™ entries were equal to or higher than the glyphosate control. Steadfast and ® Celebrity Plus , both Sulfonylurea herbicides, showed significantly lower yields compared to the control. The average yield loss for Steadfast® treated entries was 8.1 Bu./A. while the average yield loss for the Celebrity ® Plus entries was 7.5 Bu./A. Remember that “16” family hybrids are particularly sensitive to Sulfonylurea herbicides, as seen by the 12.2 Bu/A. and 14.2 Bu./A. yields loss that 5716A3 incurred when sprayed with Steadfast and Celebrity Plus respectively.

Invisible Yield Loss Study on Corn – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Soil Type: Population: Rows: Purpose:

April 24, 2009 Various Ragsdale Silt Loam 32,000 seeds/A. Six 30” rows

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

Soybeans Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.5 qts. Harness Xtra 1 qt. Atrazine 6 oz. Artic

To harvest corn at multiple dates and moistures to evaluate the yield differences as well as net revenues of harvesting wet corn versus dry corn. The goal of this study is to see if we sustain any dry matter weight loss that could cause lower yields at lower moisture rates. Net return will be calculated considering yield of the corn, 1.4% shrink and typical drying rates.

Harvest Harvest Date Moisture BECK 7916VT3 Sept. 11 25.3% Sept. 18 21.7% Sept. 30 20.0% Oct. 12 19.8% Oct. 22 17.6%

Test† Weight

Bushels† Per Acre

Yield Adv.

57.7 56.8 57.8 57.6 58.3

237.3 233.6 226.5 233.7 226.5

10.8 7.1 0.0 7.2 ----

$ Gross Revenue/ A.

$854.28 $840.96 $815.40 $841.32 $815.40

Commercial Drying Less Drying Net Cost/A.^ Revenue/A.

On-Farm Drying Less Drying Net Cost/A.^ Revenue/A.

$97.77 $62.60 $45.30 $44.87 $23.56

$48.88 $31.30 $22.65 $22.44 $11.78

$756.51 $778.36 $770.10 $796.45 $791.84

$805.40 $809.66 $792.75 $818.88 $803.62

†

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 13% moisture. ^Drying cost figured at $0.04/pt. of moisture per bushel above 15% for commercial drying and $0.02/pt. of moisture per bushel above 15% for on-farm drying.

Summary:

There was a significant yield advantage for harvesting at higher moistures compared to waiting for corn to field dry, but due to the cost of drying, revenues increased as drying cost decreased. Lodging did not play a role in the yield loss in this year’s study. Harvesting BECK 7916VT3 at 19.8% moisture provided the highest net revenue using both commercial and on-farm drying costs.

“We have been growing 100% Beck’s corn for 5 years and our farm averages are higher that they ever have been. The BECK 7916CBRR yield of 254 bushels per acre was phenomenal.” Wayne, Matt & Brandon Glenn Owensboro, KY

88

Soybean Show Plot – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate:

Yield Rank Brand EARLY GROUP III 1 2 3 4 5

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Pre:

May 21, 2009 September 30, 2009 Three 30” rows 130,000 seeds/A.

Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat

Bushels† Per Acre

3.4 3.4 3.2 3.2 3.3

1.5 1.5 2.0 4.5 4.0 2.7

72.6 71.7 71.5 61.9 61.2 67.8

3.6 4.4 4.9 3.5 4.0 3.7 3.8 3.9 3.9 3.8 3.4 4.1 4.7

1.5 1.5 2.0 1.5 3.0 3.0 2.5 2.5 3.5 3.0 2.0 3.5 4.5 2.6

78.2 76.2 75.1 74.2 72.1 72.0 70.7 69.2 66.4 64.2 64.1 61.8 57.5 69.4

Relative Maturity

BECK 342NR BECK 325NR™* BECK 322NR™* BECK 327 BECK 334NL AVERAGE

Soybeans Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator 1 oz. Sharpen 4 oz. Pursuit

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

MID GROUP III TO IV 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 †

BECK 362NR™* BECK 445NR BECK 491NR™* BECK 355R™* BECK 400NR™* BECK 376NL BECK 388NR™* BECK 399NR BECK 392NL BECK 381N BECK 343N BECK 414N BECK 474NR AVERAGE

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

LibertyLink & Conventional Soybeans – 2009 RAINFALL Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Product Tested:

June 24, 2009 October 26, 2009 Eleven 15” rows 220,000 seeds/A. Various

Previous Crop: Tillage: Pre: Herbicide: Post: Insecticide:

Purpose:

Brand BECK 414N BECK 430N BECK 392NL BECK 450NL †

Wheat No-Till 32 oz. Durango 1.5 pts. Ultra Blazer 9 oz. Shadow None

April May June July August Total

7.0 in. 5.9 in. 4.1 in. 7.2 in. 1.4 in. 25.6 in.

This study was designed to evaluate the performance of conventional and LibertyLink soybeans in a double crop scenario. Emerged Population 180,058 127,783 185,867 174,250 AVERAGE

Bushels Per Acre† 58.6 57.4 52.0 50.9 54.7

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture.

Summary:

Although glyphosate tolerant soybeans have become the standard on many farms, there are still many producers in the southern marketing area that grow conventional soybeans for double crop. The use of conventional herbicide chemistry helps to break the cycle of repetitive glyphosate applications in areas where resistance has become an issue. The remaining straw cover from the wheat crop minimizes weed pressure and lowers the cost of herbicide in the conventional system. LibertyLink soybeans also provide a similar option for fighting glyphosate resistance.

89

100 Bushel Soybean Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Product Tested:

Purpose:

May 21, 2009 October 5, 2009 Eleven 15” rows Various BECK 445NR

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Early Post: Post:

Corn Chisel / Field Cultivator (twice) 25 oz. Cornerstone 4 oz. Shadow 32 oz. Cornerstone

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

This is the second year that we have attempted to break our 100 bushel soybean goal at the Southern PFR farm. All of the entries in this year’s attempt started with a base seed treatment that contained Beck’s standard fungicide and insecticide treatments, Protinus™, (a seed-applied nutrient product containing zinc, manganese, and iron) and Optimize®. The first portion of the study is a population trial to target the optimum seeding rate for maximizing yield. The second portion is a test of various foliar treatments to help increase yield. These treatments include Ultra Blazer®, a diphenyl-ether herbicide, to attempt to shorten the plant, Ele-Max® ENC+Mn (5-4-2 + Mn foliar fertilizer), Headline® fungicide, and Mustang Max™ insecticide. An additional application of Headline® and Mustang Max™ was also applied to each entry in the foliar treatment portion at the R4 growth stage.

Population Test Average Emerged Population 150,000 175,000 190,000

Additional Treatment Headline / Mustang Max Headline / Mustang Max Headline / Mustang Max

Growth Stage R4 R4 R4

Rep 1 Bushels Per Acre† 78.1 84.9 84.0

Rep 2 Bushels Per Acre† 79.1 80.4 81.8

Average Bushels Per Acre† 78.9 82.7 82.9

Foliar Application Test Treatment Number 1 2 3 4 5 †

Additional Foliar Treatments Applied Headline / Mustang Max Ultra Blazer Ele-Max ENC 5-4-2 + Mn Treatments 1 & 3 Treatments 2 & 3

Growth Stage V6 V6 Pre-Bloom V6 / Pre-Bloom V6 / Pre-Bloom

160,000 Pop. Bushels Per Acre† 83.6 80.1 81.4 83.2 81.7 82.0

200,000 Pop. Bushels Per Acre† 77.9 80.1 83.7 77.5 81.1 80.1

Average Bushels Per Acre† 80.8 80.1 82.6 80.4 81.4

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture.

Summary:

Although this year’s attempt fell short of our goal, yields were still very good considering the excessive amount of rain that we received. The population portion of this study provided this year’s highest yielding entry. Beck 445NR treated with Headline and Mustang Max at R4 yielded 84.9 Bu./A. planted at 175,000 seeds per acre. The 175,000 and 190,000 seeds per acre provided similar yields, while lower seeding rates produced less. The addition of the Ele-Max ENC foliar fertilizer with manganese also performed well in the foliar application portion of the study and averaged 2 Bu./A. higher than any of the other foliar treatments. Our attempt to shorten the internodes of this year’s crop to improve standability by using a diphenyl-ether herbicide did not work as well as expected due to cool weather and low humidity that minimized the anticipated burn. An additional application of Headline and Mustang Max prior to flowering to promote better plant health did not provide additional yield either. Due to the excellent standability of Beck 445NR, lodging was not a significant factor in this year’s attempt.

90

Foliar Fungicide and Insecticide Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Product Tested:

Purpose:

May 21, 2009 October 5, 2009 Eleven 15” rows 148,000 seeds/A. BECK 400NR™*

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

Early Post: Early Post: Post:

Corn Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator (three times) 25 oz. Cornerstone 4 oz. Shadow 32 oz. Cornerstone

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

In recent years, interest in using fungicides to control foliar diseases in soybeans has grown, as the threat of Asian Soybean Rust moving into the southern United States has increased. Although rust was discovered in many counties throughout Beck’s southern marketing area this fall, it has yet to be detrimental to Beck’s growers. Testing of foliar fungicides in preparation for Rust control has led to the discovery that these products could be used for other yield enhancing qualities due to their ability to maintain plant health and seed quality. This test is our continued look into the usefulness of these products for our growers.

2009 Summary Insecticide and/or Fungicide Application Mustang Max Untreated Headline Headline/Mustang Max Mustang Max Untreated Headline Headline/Mustang Max Mustang Max Untreated Headline Headline/Mustang Max Mustang Max Untreated Headline Headline/Mustang Max Mustang Max Untreated Headline Headline/Mustang Max

Date Sprayed July 10

July 16

July 24

August 1

August 7

Growth Stage R2

R2

R3

R4

R5

Bushels Per Acre† 65.2 71.1 72.1 74.9 70.6 72.6 71.6 70.4 67.0 68.9 69.2 73.8 67.1 67.8 68.4 71.8 67.8 69.3 67.0 73.6

Yield Advantage -5.9

Return on Investment^ -$67.44

+1.0 +3.8 -2.0

-$12.36 $8.78 -$30.20

-1.0 -2.2 -1.9

-$31.46 -$48.52 -$29.25

+0.3 +4.9 -0.7

-$19.05 $19.28 -$19.05

+0.6 +4.0 -1.5

-$16.18 $10.69 -$25.43

-2.3 +4.3

-$43.88 $13.56

4 Year Summary Insecticide and/or Fungicide Application Headline/Pyrethroid Insecticide Headline Pyrethroid Insecticide Untreated Headline/Pyrethroid Insecticide Headline Pyrethroid Insecticide Untreated

Growth Stage R2 R2 R2 R2 R4 R4 R4 R4

Bushels Per Acre† 73.6 72.6 70.1 71.5 76.2 75.5 72.6 70.4

Yield Advantage 2.1 1.0 -1.4 ---4.7 4.0 1.1

† Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Return on Investment (ROI) based upon yield advantage of application minus the cost of product and application charge. Costs were based on $16.40/A. for 6 oz. of Headline, $5 for 2.5 oz. of Mustang Max, $2.00/A. for additives, and $5.50/A. average application charge. Soybean price based on $9.55/Bu. average.

Return on Investment^ -$7.69 -$11.92 -$24.80 ---$27.45 $26.45 $9.79

91

Foliar Fungicide and Insecticide Study – Continued Summary:

The data collected from the Southern PFR farm showed mixed results for using fungicides and insecticides on soybeans in 2009. Applications of a fungicide (Headline®) or pyrethroid insecticide (Mustang Max™) alone did not provide a positive return on investment this year, regardless of the growth stage in which they were applied. However, four out of the five applications where a fungicide and insecticide were applied together provided significant profits. The average yield advantage for the fungicide and insecticide combination was 3 Bu./A. Similar to historic data from this site, the application of a fungicide and insecticide together yielded less at the R2 growth stage than at the later R3, R4,and R5 stages. The four year summary shows only marginal yield gains that did not produce a profitable return, regardless of product applied at the R2 growth stage. Applications of a fungicide, insecticide, or the combination of the two have all provided significant returns on investment when applied at the R4 growth stage according to the four year average. Data collected over the past four years suggests that fungicides will provide more consistent returns in years with adequate to above normal rainfall. Insecticides, on the other hand, have shown more consistent returns when conditions are drier.

Soybean Foliar Feed Study – 2009 RAINFALL Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Previous Crop: Replications: Purpose:

May 21, 2009 October 5, 2009 Eleven 15” rows 130,000 seeds/A. Corn Two (averaged)

Tillage: Herbicide:

Early Post: Post:

Product Tested:

Chisel / Field Cultivator (three times) 24 oz. Cornerstone 4 oz. Shadow 32 oz. Cornerstone BECK 491NR™*

April May June July August Total

7.0 in. 5.9 in. 4.1 in. 7.2 in. 1.4 in. 25.6 in.

To evaluate the use of foliar fertilizers applied to soybeans at various growth stages.

Foliar Fertilizer Application Untreated 2 qts. Ele-Max® ENC 5-4-2 + Mn Untreated 1 gal. CoRoN® 10-0-10 + Boron

V6

Bushels † Per Acre 74.8 68.5

R4

70.3 71.6

Growth Stage

Yield Advantage

Return on Investment^

-6.3

-$73.67

+1.3

-$0.58

†

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Return on Investment (ROI) based upon yield advantage of application minus the cost of product and application charge. Costs were based on $8.00/A.for 2 qts. of Ele-Max® ENC 5-4-2 + Mn, $7.50/A. for 1 gallon of CoRoN® 10-0-10 + Boron, and $5.50/A. average application charge. Soybean price based on $9.55/Bu. average. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

® Although the application of 1 gallon of CoRoN at the R4 growth stage increased yields by 1.3 Bu./A., there wasn’t a high enough increase in revenue to pay for both the product and application. This product is a foliar nitrogen fertilizer that also contains potash and boron. The Ele-Max® ENC product did not provide a yield advantage in this study when sprayed at the pre-bloom (approximately V6) growth stage. It is a 5-4-2 foliar fertilizer that also contains manganese.

We have planted Beck’s the last 4 years and could not be happier with the service that we have received year round. Beck’s is different, the service doesn’t stop at the sale, it continues year round and no matter what information you need, a Beck’s representative is there to help. From the sales representative all the way to the top with Sonny Beck, everyone is treated as part of the team. No one can match Beck’s service, combined with the performance of the products and that is why we became a Beck’s dealer.” Donald & Kenda Myers Brownsville, IN

92

Fungicide and Insecticide Seed Treatment on Soybeans – 2009 RAINFALL Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate:

May 21, 2009 September 28, 2009 Eleven 15” rows 130,000 seeds/A.

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Product Tested:

Purpose:

April May June July August Total

7.0 in. 5.9 in. 4.1 in. 7.2 in. 1.4 in. 25.6 in.

In this study, we compare seed treated with fungicide only, to seed treated with both fungicide and insecticide.

Treatment Fungicide Only Fungicide & Insecticide †

Corn Chisel / Field Cultivator (twice) 25 oz. Cornerstone 4 oz. Shadow BECK 399NR

Emerged Population 165,538 159,729

Bushels Per Acre† 78.7 78.6

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture.

Summary:

In this study, there was no apparent benefit to adding the insecticide. As the comparison shows, yields are nearly equal. Our multi-year summaries across all testing locations indicate that adding insecticide normally improves yield by about 2 Bu./A. The four year summary from the Southern PFR farm shows an average yield increase of 1.5 Bu./A.

Optimize® on Soybeans – 2009 RAINFALL Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Replications: Purpose:

May 21, 2009 September 28, 2009 Eleven 15” rows 130,000 seeds/A. Two (averaged)

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Product Tested:

Corn Chisel / Field Cultivator (twice) 25 oz. Glyphosate 4 oz. Shadow BECK 399NR

April May June July August Total

7.0 in. 5.9 in. 4.1 in. 7.2 in. 1.4 in. 25.6 in.

To study the performance of Optimize seed treatment on soybeans. Optimize is a unique seed applied product that enhances natural growth processes essentially enabling soybeans to achieve full genetic potential by maximizing crop performance all season long. Optimize contains a Bradyrhizobium japonicum inoculant along with a LCO Promoter Technology that is a naturally occurring molecule (Lipo-chitooligosaccharide) that advances both root and shoot development and improves plant health independently of soil conditions. The result of this is healthier soybean plants that can withstand environmental stresses throughout the season. Treatment Optimize Control

Bushels Per Acre† 73.2 72.2

Bu. / A. Difference +1.0

Net Return^ $695.06 $689.51

AVERAGE †

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return based on $9.55/Bu. soybeans and $4/unit for Optimize®.

Summary:

Optimize seed treatment provided an advantage of 1 Bu./A. across both replications. This provided a profit of $5.55 per acre. Data from the Illinois PFR farm shows that Optimize seed treatment has increased net returns for the past 6 years.

93

Soybean Row Width & Population Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Product Tested:

May 22, 2009 October 5, 2009 Various BECK 445NR

Seeding Rate: Previous Crop: Tillage: Post: Herbicide: Post:

Purpose:

Various Corn Fall Chisel / Field Cultivator 25 oz. Cornerstone 4 oz. Shadow 32 oz. Cornerstone (30” rows)

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

In addition to selecting high yielding varieties, it is important to know the correct seeding in various row spacings to maximize yield and profitability. This study compares a wide range of seeding rates in two different row spacings to determine the most profitable seeding rate for each. Standability 1 = Erect Bushels† Approx. $ Net Net Return 5 = Flat Per Acre Seed Cost Return^ Rank

Target Population 15” ROWS 75,000 100,000 125,000 150,000 175,000 200,000 AVERAGE

2.5 2.0 2.5 2.5 2.5 3.0 2.5

66.3 68.1 66.0 70.7 67.0 72.0 68.4

$25.57 $34.09 $42.62 $51.14 $59.66 $68.18

$607.60 $616.26 $587.68 $624.05 $580.19 $619.42

4 3 5 1 6 2

30” ROWS 75,000 100,000 125,000 150,000 175,000 200,000 AVERAGE

1.0 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.0 2.5 1.7

70.8 72.0 65.8 72.1 66.7 68.8 69.4

$25.57 $34.09 $42.62 $51.14 $59.66 $68.18

$650.57 $653.51 $585.77 $637.42 $577.32 $588.86

2 1 5 3 6 4

† Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Soybean price used is $9.55/Bu. Seed cost based on 250 bag order with early order discounts, treated with FaStart, and January 10th cash discount.

$600.00

65

$550.00

65

$550.00

60

$500.00

60

$500.00

55

$450.00

55

$450.00

50

$400.00

50

$400.00

Seeding Rate

Summary:

Seeding Rate Net Return

20

17

15

12

10

Seeding Rate Net Return

0, 00 0

70

5, 00 0

$600.00

5, 00 0 0, 00 0

$650.00

70

0, 00 0

75 Yield

$650.00

75 ,0 00

$700.00

75

Net Return

80

Net Return

Optimum Seeding Rate - 30in Row Soybeans

$700.00

75 ,0 00 10 0, 00 0 12 5, 00 0 15 0, 00 0 17 5, 00 0 20 0, 00 0

Yield

Optimum Seeding Rate - 15in Row Soybeans 80

Seeding Rate

The optimum seeding rate to maximize profitability for 15” rows was 150,000 seeds per acre in 2009. For 30” rows the optimum seeding rate lowered to 100,000 seeds per acre. These have proven to be the optimum seeding rates for their respective row spacing for two out of the past three years at the Southern PFR Farm. 15” rows have out yielded 30” rows by an average of 2.0 bushel per acre when both row spacings were planted at their optimum seeding rate over the past three years.

94

Soybean Planting Date Study – 2009 RAINFALL Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Previous Crop:

Post: Product Tested:

Chisel / Field Cultivator (twice) 25 oz. Cornerstone 4 oz. Shadow 32 oz. Cornerstone BECK 399NR BECK 445NR

April May June July August Total

7.0 in. 5.9 in. 4.1 in. 7.2 in. 1.4 in. 25.6 in.

This study was established to evaluate how planting date effects yield from one year to the next. A late Group III and a mid-Group IV bean were selected to show how different soybean maturities yield when planted on various dates throughout the growing season.

Brand BECK 399NR BECK 445NR AVERAGE

Bushels† Per Acre 67.9 69.9 68.9

May 12 May 12

BECK 399NR BECK 445NR AVERAGE

67.1 69.8 68.4

May 20 May 20

BECK 399NR BECK 445NR AVERAGE

76.9 69.5 73.2

May 25 May 25

BECK 399NR BECK 445NR AVERAGE

63.0 67.3 65.1

June 2 June 2

BECK 399NR BECK 445NR AVERAGE

69.3 77.1 73.2

June 8 June 8

BECK 399NR BECK 445NR AVERAGE

71.9 79.8 75.9

June 20 June 20

BECK 399NR BECK 445NR AVERAGE

38.2 67.8 53.0

June 24 June 24

BECK 399NR BECK 445NR AVERAGE

60.5 68.2 64.3

Planting Date April 27 April 27

Early-Post:

5 Year Soybean Planting Date Trend 90.0 80.0 70.0 Yield

Purpose:

Tillage: Herbicide:

Various Various Eleven 15” rows 130,000 seeds/A. Corn

60.0 50.0 40.0 30.0

Ap ril W Ap k3 ril W k4 M ay W k1 M ay W k2 M ay W k3 M ay W k4 Ju ne W k1 Ju ne W k2 Ju ne W k3 Ju ne W k4 Ju ly W k1

20.0

Planting Date

†

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture.

Summary:

Beans planted June 8th produced the highest yields in this year’s study. This is quite a bit later than in years past. The five year data from this study would suggest that soybeans would typically yield the highest when planted between the 3rd week of April and the 4th week of May at the Southern PFR farm. Regular rainfall events in July and again in September provided the opportunity for beans planted in June to yield well above the five year trend. BECK 445NR, a mid Group IV maturity soybean, out-yielded the late Group III entry, BECK 399NR, by an average of 3.6 Bu./A. across all planting dates (June 20th planting date excluded due to thin stands).

95

P & K Study Soybeans after Corn and Corn after Soybeans – 2009 SOYBEANS AFTER CORN: Planted: May 20, 2009 Harvested: September 29, 2009 Rows: 30” rows Seeding Rate: 135,000 seeds/A. Product Tested: BECK 362NR™* Previous Crop: Corn

Tillage: Herbicide:

Pre: (Strip-Till) Early Post: Post:

CORN AFTER SOYBEANS: Planted: April 26, 2009 Harvested: October 4, 2009 Rows: 30” rows Seeding Rate: 32,500 seeds/A. Product Tested: BECK 5716A3 Purpose:

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Pre: Insecticide:

Soybeans Chisel, Field Cultivator (twice) 1.5 qts. Harness Xtra 1 qt. Atrazine 6 oz. Artic

This study was set up to evaluate the practice of banding fertilizer in a corn/soybean rotation over a long term period of time compared to broadcast applications. Both corn and soybeans were planted in 30” rows in order to place strips and plant between the rows from the previous crop in the strip-till replication. Soybeans After Corn

†

Planting Order Fertilizer CONVENTIONAL-TILL 1 400 lb. 4-11-45 2 300 lb. 4-11-45 3 200 lb. 4-11-45 4 100 lb. 4-11-45 5 No P & K Plow-down AVERAGE STRIP-TILL 6 400 lb. 4-11-45 7 300 lb. 4-11-45 8 200 lb. 4-11-45 9 100 lb. 4-11-45 10 No P & K Plow-down AVERAGE

††

††

Harvested Population

Bushels Per Acre

124,879 145,208 140,852 153,921 127,783 138,529

68.4 71.1 69.9 65.7 74.5 69.9

146,660 124,879 148,113 126,331 126,331 134,463

70.7 72.6 74.3 69.6 71.6 71.8

Corn After Soybeans

Yield Advantage

+1.3 +1.5 +4.4 +3.9 -2.9 +1.9

Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

Chisel / Field Cultivator (three times) 32 oz. Cornerstone 4 oz. FirstRate 25 oz. Cornerstone 4 oz. Shadow 32 oz. Cornerstone

In the conventional-till entries, dry fertilizer was applied with an air-boom truck prior to deep tillage. In the strip-till area, dry fertilizer was banded with a Remlinger strip-till bar in late November. Little difference was noted in yield as the rates of fertilizer changed regardless of crop or tillage practice in 2009. Soil tests pulled from this field in the fall of 2007 showed adequate to high levels of phosphorus and high to very high levels of potassium, therefore we don’t expect to see any consistent trends in regards to yield and the rate of fertilizer applied for several more years. The conventional-till portion of the corn study out yielded the strip-tilled portion by an average of 3.8 Bu./A. There was an average 1.9 Bu./A. advantage for the strip-till compared to the conventional-till in the soybean study.

Harvested Population

Bushels† Per Acre

Yield Advantage

31,500 31,000 30,250 31,000 30,250 30,800

219.8 218.4 215.0 219.9 224.5 219.5

+6.1 +0.2 +0.8 +1.2 +10.8 +3.8

31,250 30,000 31,250 30,000 30,250 30,550

213.7 218.2 214.2 218.7 213.7 215.7

96

Double Crop Soybean Population Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate:

Purpose:

June 24, 2009 October 26, 2009 Eleven 15” rows Various

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Pre: Early Post: Post:

This study was designed to look at eight different maturities of soybeans planted at various populations to use in a double crop system following wheat.

Yield Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Bushels† Per Acre 180,000 220,000 65.4 68.2 56.9 63.3 53.7 65.2 58.3 60.2 58.6 57.8 55.9 60.5 56.2 57.2 53.4 54.2 57.3 60.8

Brand BECK 445NR BECK 388NR™* BECK 420NR BECK 400NR™* BECK 460NR BECK 491NR™* BECK 399NR BECK 474NR AVERAGE 4 Year Average

†

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

Wheat No-Till 32 oz. Durango 32 oz. Cornerstone 32 oz. Cornerstone

53.1

2009 Average 66.8 60.1 59.5 59.3 58.2 58.2 56.7 53.8 59.1

55.1

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

BECK 445NR lead the way with an outstanding 66.8 Bu./A. average across both populations. This is the second year in a row that this variety has topped the study. Increasing planting population from 180,000 to 220,000 seeds per acre showed a 3.5 Bu./A. yield increase compared to the four year average of 2.0 Bu./A. A yield increase of less than 1.4 Bu./A. is required to pay for a 40,000 seed per acre population increase. Group IV soybeans out-yielded Group III’s by an average of 0.9 Bu./A. in 2009 compared to a four year advantage of 6.0 Bu./A.

Double Crop Soybean Foliar Feed Study – 2009 RAINFALL Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate:

Purpose:

June 24, 2009 October, 26 2009 Eleven 15” rows 220,000 seeds/A.

Previous Crop: Tillage: Pre: Herbicide: Early Post: Post: Product Tested:

Corn No-Till 32 oz. Durango 32 oz. Cornerstone 32 oz. Cornerstone BECK 445NR

April May June July August Total

7.0 in. 5.9 in. 4.1 in. 7.2 in. 1.4 in. 25.6 in.

To evaluate the use of foliar fertilizers applied to double crop soybeans at various growth stages.

Treatment Untreated 1 gal. CoRoN® 10-0-10 2 qts. Ele-Max® ENC 5-4-2 + Mn

Growth Stage R4 V6

Emerged Population 191,675 183,263 155,373

Bushels Per Acre† 73.2 74.0 73.4

Return on Investment^ ------$5.36 -$11.59

† Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Return on Investment (ROI) based upon yield advantage of application minus the cost of product and application charge. Costs were based on $8.00/A.for 2 qts. of Ele-Max® ENC 5-4-2 + Mn, $7.50/A. for 1 gallon of CoRoN® 10-0-10 + Boron, and $5.50/A. average application charge. Soybean price based on $9.55/Bu. average.

Summary:

The application of both of the foliar products used in this study produced only minimal yield increases. Neither product yielded high enough to pay for both the product and application. CoRon® is a foliar nitrogen fertilizer that also contains potash and boron. The Ele-Max® ENC product is a 5-4-2 foliar fertilizer that also contains manganese.

97

Double Crop Foliar Fungicide and Insecticide Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Product Tested:

June 24, 2009 October 26, 2009 Eleven 15” rows 220,000 seeds/A. BECK 400NR™*

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Pre: Early Post: Post:

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

Corn No-Till 32 oz. Durango 32 oz. Cornerstone 32 oz. Cornerstone

This study was developed after we began noticing significant yield and profit increases using foliar fungicides and insecticides in early planted soybeans. This study was designed to see if that same effect held true in a double crop soybean scenario.

Purpose:

2009 Summary Insecticide and/or Fungicide Application Untreated Headline® Mustang Max™

Date Sprayed August 7

Untreated Headline® Mustang Max™

August 14

Untreated Headline® Mustang Max™

August 20

Growth Stage R2

R3

R4

Emerged Population 174,250 188,771 156,825

Bushels Per Acre† 60.9 63.9 61.5

165,538 182,963 156,825 162,633 162,633 162,633

Yield Advantage

Return on Investment^

+3.0 +0.6

$6.60 -$5.37

62.7 63.3 62.9

+0.6 +0.2

-$16.32 -$9.19

58.0 62.6 57.4

+4.6 -0.6

$21.88 -$16.83

† Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Return on Investment (ROI) based upon yield advantage of application minus the cost of product and application charge. Costs were based on $16.40/A. for 6 oz. of Headline®, $5 for 2.5 oz. of Mustang Max™, $2.00/A. for additives, and $5.50/A. average application charge. Soybean price based on $9.55/Bu. average.

Summary:

Headline® applications at both R2 and R4 showed positive returns on investment. This is only the second year in the four year history of this study that a fungicide treatment showed a profit on double crop soybeans. This is most likely due to the above average rainfall that we have received late in the season the past two years. Disease pressure appeared to be minimal in this study, although Cercospora leaf blight was found on many leaves in neighboring studies which resulted in purple seed stain. The stand alone insecticide treatments were not profitable this year. Visual differences between fungicide treatments and the untreated check were minimal in 2009.

“No matter what question or concern I have the team of agronomist at Beck’s is able to help me. Whether it is an issue I might have out in the field or just to reassure me of the decisions I make.” Ken Wisehart Shirley, IN

98

Wheat / Double Crop Soybean Systems Study – 2009 Wheat Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate:

Various Various Sixty-six 7.5” rows 1.5 million seeds/A.

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

Corn Disc (twice) 0.9 oz Harmony (Spring) ® Cruiser

Soybeans Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate:

Various Various Eleven 15” rows 220,000 seeds/A.

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

Wheat No-Till 32 oz. Durango (3 applications)

Purpose:

This study was written with the intentions of answering the question of which combination of wheat and soybean maturities would return the most income per acre in a double crop system. The trial was set up using three different wheat maturities, all of which were planted on three different planting dates in the fall. Wheat entries were harvested as they reached full maturity and were then followed with three different maturities of soybeans for each wheat entry. WHEAT

†

RAINFALL April 7.0 in. May 5.9 in. June 4.1 in. July 7.2 in. August 1.4 in. Total 25.6 in.

Wheat and Soybeans

SOYBEANS

Brand

Fall 2008 Planting Date

Bushels† Per Acre

BECK 113

October 6

79.0

BECK 122

October 6

73.9

BECK 164

October 6

69.4

BECK 113

October 15

75.8

BECK 122

October 15

67.5

BECK 164

October 15

70.2

BECK 113

October 24

69.7

BECK 122

October 24

56.3

BECK 164

October 24

59.8

Brand BECK 400NR™* BECK 445NR BECK 474NR BECK 400NR™* BECK 445NR BECK 474NR BECK 400NR™* BECK 445NR BECK 474NR BECK 400NR™* BECK 445NR BECK 474NR BECK 400NR™* BECK 445NR BECK 474NR BECK 400NR™* BECK 445NR BECK 474NR BECK 400NR™* BECK 445NR BECK 474NR BECK 400NR™* BECK 445NR BECK 474NR BECK 400NR™* BECK 445NR BECK 474NR

Summer 2009 Planting Date

Bushels† Per Acre 57.6

Gross Income Per Acre^ $926.12

June 24

67.5 56.0 59.5 69.2 59.7 59.8 70.5 57.4 55.9 68.7 57.4 60.4 67.7 59.1 50.5 73.6 58.4 54.9 60.6 53.8 57.2 57.0 55.3 53.6 54.7 51.1

$1,020.67 $910.84 $919.99 $1,012.62 $921.90 $901.43 $1,003.62 $878.51 $894.65 $1,016.89 $908.98 $898.12 $967.84 $885.71 $816.43 $1,037.03 $891.87 $856.07 $910.50 $845.56 $814.25 $812.34 $796.10 $796.53 $807.03 $772.65

June 24

June 24

June 29

June 29

June 29

July 7

July 7

July 7

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Bold number indicates highest gross income per acre. ^Wheat price based on $4.76/Bu. average price. Soybean price based on $9.55/Bu. average price.

99

Wheat/ Double Crop Soybean System Study – Continued 2009 Summary WHEAT

SOYBEANS

Averages (All Planting Dates) Bushels† Gross Income Variety Per Acre Per Acre^ BECK 113 74.8 $356.21 BECK 122 65.9 $313.68 BECK 164 66.5 $316.38

Averages (All Planting Dates) Bushels† Gross Income Brand Per Acre Per Acre^ BECK 400NR™* 56.6 $540.53 BECK 445NR 65.5 $625.53 BECK 474NR 56.5 $539.26

Averages (All Varieties) Bushels† Gross Income Per Acre Per Acre^ Date 1st Week Oct 74.1 $352.72 2nd Week Oct 71.2 $338.75 3rd Week Oct 61.9 $294.80

Averages (All Varieties) Bushels† Gross Income Per Acre Per Acre^ Date June 24th 61.9 $591.25 June 29th 61.3 $585.42 th July 7 55.4 $528.65

4 Year Summary WHEAT

SOYBEANS

Averages (All Planting Dates) Bushels† Gross Income Maturity Per Acre Per Acre^ Early 70.1 $333.68 Early Mid 73.5 $350.02 Medium 72.7 $345.85

Averages (All Planting Dates) Bushels† Gross Income Maturity Per Acre Per Acre^ Late III - Early IV 48.8 $465.87 Early – Mid IV 53.6 $512.36 Mid – Late IV 55.5 $529.64

Averages (All Varieties) Bushels† Gross Income Date Per Acre Per Acre^ 1st Week Oct 73.8 $351.29 2nd Week Oct 70.9 $337.44 3rd Week Oct 71.6 $340.90

Averages (All Varieties) Bushels† Gross Income Date Per Acre Per Acre^ 1st Planting 52.6 $502.30 2nd Planting 53.3 $509.14 3rd Planting 52.3 $499.21

†

Bushels per acre corrected to 13.0% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Wheat price based on $4.76 per bushel average price. Soybean price based on $9.55 per bushel average price.

Summary:

Wheat The 2009 data suggests that the first week of October was the optimum planting date for wheat. Average yields for the 2nd and 3rd weeks of October are historically lower primarily due to rainfall events that led to thin stands. When rain events did not hurt stands, there was little variation in yield across all three weeks. BECK 113 had the highest average yield across all planting dates in 2009. The four year data suggests that early-mid maturity varieties have historically out yielded early and mid-maturity varieties. Double Crop Soybeans Similar to the four year historical data, a mid-Group IV variety yielded significantly higher than the early Group IV soybean. BECK 445NRR out-yielded all other varieties in this study by nearly 9 Bu./A.! Soybeans planted on June 24th and 29th into extremely heavy conditions averaged 6.2 Bu./A. more than those planted into more ideal conditions on July 7th. Heavy conditions and late planting that delayed early growth resulted in the premature death for both BECK 445NR and BECK 474NR planted on July 7th due to frost damage. BECK 474NR also showed signs of frost damage in the June 29th planting.

100

In 2006, Beck’s purchased 165 acres in McLean County to establish our newest Practical Farm Research location in Central Illinois. This site will better serve the growing demand for information relevant to our customers in the western part of our marketing area. Jason Webster, CCA Illinois PFR Director

Corn Show Plot – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Population: Rows:

May 10, 2009 October 25, 2009 34,000 seeds/A. Four 30” rows

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

Yield Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 †

Brand BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5244VT3 BECK 5244wx BECK 5319A3 BECK 5244VTwx BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 5335HXR™* BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5555VT3 BECK 5444VT3 BECK 4609HXR™* BECK 5323VT3wx BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 6288A3 BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5716A3 BECK 5435HXR™* BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 7916VT3 BECK 4413A3 AVERAGE

Test† Weight 57.4 57.2 57.2 57.3 58.3 58.1 58.6 58.4 58.8 57.8 56.5 58.6 57.0 58.0 58.8 57.4 58.3 57.8 59.3 57.0 57.4 58.6 57.7 57.9

Corn Chisel SureStart Guardsman Max Aztec 2.1

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

Percent Moisture 26.7 24.6 25.4 26.9 27.0 27.4 25.9 27.5 30.2 27.3 26.9 24.1 29.9 24.9 31.3 28.3 26.9 30.8 27.5 30.0 29.7 33.9 21.8 27.6

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Bushels† Per Acre 287.0 277.8 264.8 262.6 260.8 260.3 257.4 256.7 256.3 255.4 255.1 251.6 251.0 249.2 248.2 242.5 237.9 236.5 236.3 234.8 232.2 228.0 222.2 250.6

101

300 Bu. Attempt – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Population: Rows: Previous Crop: Purpose:

May 11, 2009 November 3, 2009 36,000 seeds/A. Eight 30” rows Corn

Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide: Fungicide:

Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.75 pts. SureStart 26 oz. Roundup Original Max None 6 oz. Headline at VT

To reach 300 bushel corn yields at the Illinois Practical Farm Research Center. This is our third year attempting to reach 300 bushel corn. This study evaluates six Beck corn hybrids with various rates of nitrogen and applications of Headline fungicide.

Percent Moisture 25.9 26.5 27.2 28.8 29.8 28.1 27.7

Bushels† Per Acre 281.4 275.9 271.2 270.7 268.4 266.5 272.4

Brand BECK 5442VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5716A3 BECK 5454HXR™* AVERAGE

Nitrogen / Fungicide 240# N 240# N 240# N 240# N 240# N 240# N

BECK 5442VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 5716A3 AVERAGE

240# N with Headline 240# N with Headline 240# N with Headline 240# N with Headline 240# N with Headline 240# N with Headline

26.7 27.8 28.2 29.6 26.4 29.8 28.1

291.6 281.6 279.0 275.5 271.6 268.9 278.0

BECK 5442VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5716A3 BECK 5454HXR™* AVERAGE

300# N 300# N 300# N 300# N 300# N 300# N

25.5 28.2 28.0 28.2 28.6 26.9 27.6

288.1 282.8 277.9 271.4 273.2 271.9 277.6

BECK 5442VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5716A3 BECK 5454HXR™* AVERAGE

300# N with Headline 300# N with Headline 300# N with Headline 300# N with Headline 300# N with Headline 300# N with Headline

27.2 28.5 29.1 29.3 30.4 27.7 28.7

297.7 292.5 287.7 279.3 276.9 277.9 285.3

†

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

Headline Advantage Bu./A.

60# Extra N Advantage Bu./A.

+10.2 +5.7 +7.8 +4.8 +5.1 +0.5 +5.7 +6.7 +6.9 +6.7 +0.7 +4.8 +5.4 +5.2 +9.6 +9.7 +9.8 +7.9 +3.7 +6.0 +7.8

Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

This year’s highest yield came from BECK 5442VT3 with a yield of 297.7 Bu./A. falling just short of our goal by only 2.3 Bu./A.! BECK 6733HXR™* also fell just short of 300 Bu. by only 7.5 Bu./A. with a yield of 292.5. Headline fungicide increased yields from 0.5 to 10.2 Bu./A. Increasing nitrogen rates an extra 60 lbs./A., in conjunction with Headline, increased fungicide response by an additional 2.1 Bu./A. 240 lbs. of nitrogen averaged 272.4 Bu./A. and increasing rates to 300 lbs./A. did increase yield, but by only 5.2 Bu./A.

102

Fungicide Study on Corn – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Population: Rows:

May 25, 2009 November 3, 2009 34,000 seeds/A. Four 30” rows

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide: Fungicide:

Purpose:

Soybeans Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.75 pts. SureStart 32 oz. Credit Extra None 6 oz. Headline

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

To evaluate the performance of Headline fungicide on twelve corn hybrids currently available in BECK’S corn line-up. In this study we try to analyze fungicide performance on both corn hybrids that are susceptible to leaf diseases, as well as other hybrids whose plant health and defensive characteristics make them somewhat tolerant to leaf disease. Fungicide treatments were made at the tassel growth stage with a 6500 John Deere ground applicator at 10 gallons of water per acre. No additives were used in this study with the fungicide.

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

HEADLINE (Two Replications) BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5244VT3 BECK 5319A3 BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5716A3 BECK 5608VT3 AVERAGE

28.2 26.0 25.3 25.8 26.9 27.5 26.6 24.9 27.9 28.6 28.2 27.5 27.0

221.7 250.0 229.9 227.9 228.1 232.6 242.1 219.5 231.1 216.2 211.4 173.6 223.7

UNTREATED (One Replication) BECK 5442VT3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5354HXR™* BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5319A3 BECK 5244VT3 BECK 6363HXR™* BECK 5716A3 BECK 5454HXR™* BECK 5608VT3 AVERAGE

23.9 27.4 26.0 25.9 25.4 23.8 24.5 24.3 27.4 27.0 25.7 26.5 25.7

231.4 231.2 228.4 221.7 216.4 215.5 215.3 214.8 213.5 210.4 202.2 174.0 214.6

Brand

† Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^ROI based on the cost of Headline = $16.40/A. Cost of application = $5.50/A. Corn price based on $3.60/Bu.

Yield Advantage vs. Untreated +19.5 +18.6 +15.1 +12.6 +11.7 +10.9 +10.9 +4.0 +2.7 +2.7 +1.0 -0.4 +9.1

Return on Investment^ $48.30 $45.06 $32.46 $23.46 $20.22 $17.34 $17.34 -$7.50 -$12.18 -$12.18 -$18.30 -$23.34 $10.89

103

Fungicide Study on Corn – Continued Summary:

Headline fungicide applications overall increased yields by an average of 9.1 Bu./A. with return on investment averaging $10.89/A. For economic return, fungicide applications needed to yield an additional 6.08 Bu./A. Seven of the twelve hybrids applied with Headline did in fact bring economic returns and those corn hybrids averaged an additional 14.2 Bu./A. with returns at $29.17/A. Hybrids such as BECK 6733HXR™*, 5716A3, 5135HXR™*, and 6363HXR™* are corn hybrids that have a “low fungicide response” rating in Beck’s product guide. These hybrids only showed a 2.6 Bu./A. yield response and consequently lost $12.54/A. This study once again proves that knowing how corn hybrids respond to leaf diseases can help make timely and practical management decisions to help determine which fields or hybrids need to be sprayed with a corn fungicide.

104

Surfactant Crop Injury – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Replications: Purpose:

May 26, 2009 October 29, 2009 Eight 30” rows 34,000 seeds/A. Two (averaged)

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide: Product Tested:

Soybeans Chisel 1.75 pts. SureStart 32 oz. Credit Extra None BECK 5335HXR™*

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

To evaluate the use of additives such as non-ionic surfactants (NIS) to determine if they cause corn ear arrestment and/or malformed ears when applied to corn at pre-tassel. NIS is frequently a tankmix additive to fungicides such as Headline to promote quicker fungicide uptake and slower evaporation rates. As the use of corn fungicides have been increasing over the last few years, it is important to know how certain tank-mix additives can assist or impair corn yields. This study was spurred by some corn ear arrestments that were being reported in many parts of Beck’s marketing area back in the summer of 2007. When some fungicides were tank-mixed with NIS products and applied before full VT growth stage, ear arrestments were very frequent.

This study evaluates V14 growth stage treatments of Headline fungicide, versus no application (control), and the use of a non-ionic surfactant as a stand alone treatment. This V14 growth stage timing simulated the early fungicide application timings that had occurred back in 2007 when ear arrestments were being reported. Percent Bushels† Bu./A. $ +/Treatment Moisture Per Acre Difference Return/A.^ Control Control 28.0 215.1 $774.18 6 oz Headline @ V14 29.1 225.0 9.9 $809.82 $35.64 NIS 1 PT / 100 @ V14 29.6 164.9 -50.2 $593.64 -$180.54 †

Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Net Return based on $3.60 corn

N.I.S. Summary:

Headline

Control

After making applications of treatments, evaluations were made 21 days after treatment. Each treatment was evaluated at the R5 dent stage and we found that NIS applications applied at V14 caused 56% ear arrestment and/or malformations. Headline did have 4% ear arrestments and the control had 0% damage. The 56% ear arrestment in NIS applications applied at V14 growth stage caused yield damage of 50.2 Bu./A. and losses of $180.54/A. Headline applied at the same growth stage, increased yield by 9.9 Bu./A. and returned an additional $35.64/A. This indicated that the Headline fungicide was not the factor in ear arrestments and the tank-mix additive of the NIS was causing damage to corn fields when applied prematurely. It is noteworthy that some fungicide labels have been changed recently to prohibit applications of fungicide no sooner than the full VT (tassel) stage in commercial corn. More research needs to be done to determine why NIS products cause ear arrestments, but in the meantime, growers need to be aware of what they are tank-mixing and what they are capable of doing.

105

Corn Ethylene Management Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Replications: Purpose:

May 25, 2009 November 3, 2009 Eight 30” rows 34,500 seeds/A. Three (averaged)

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Product Tested:

Soybeans Chisel / Field Cultivator 4 pts. Guardsman Max 32 oz. Glyphos Extra BECK 5779VT3

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

In this ethylene management study, we are evaluating the impact of treatments which are designed to alter the status or sensitivity to ethylene in plants. Ethylene is a toxic gas that is overproduced by a plant under stress conditions. Invinsa™ crop stress technology is sprayable 1-methylcyclopropene and is used to decrease the plants sensitivity to ethylene. By not responding to ethylene, a corn plant can reduce premature leaf senescance, extend photosynthesis, reduce stress induced kernel abortion, and can achieve larger ears with better kernel fill. Headline® fungicide is also used in this study as a strobilurin product and as a plant growth regulator. Strobilurins reduce the amounts of ethylene produced within a plant. Treatments

None (control) Invinsa @ V10 Headline @ VT †

AVERAGE

Percent Moisture 25.7 26.1 27.0 26.3

†

Bushels Per Acre 231.7 229.5 241.5 234.2

+/Control

Bu./A. $ Return

-2.2 +9.8 +3.8

-$7.92 $35.28

Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. ^$ Return based on $3.60 corn times Bu./A. difference. No costs were figured since Invinsa does not have a price associated with it.

Summary:

In this new first year ethylene management study in corn, Headline fungicide performed exceptionally well and increased corn yield by 9.8 Bu./A. over the control. However, V10 applications of Invinsa caused yield losses of 2.2 Bu./A. It is difficult to understand why the 1-methylcyclopropene caused yield loss, but more research needs to be done to fully interpret the role of ethylene in corn production. In our soybean ethylene management trial at IL PFR, Invinsa performed very similar to Headline fungicide and provided an average 5.3 Bu./A. increase in yield.

106

Row Width / Population Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Population: Rows: Soil Type: Purpose:

May 25, 2009 November 6, 2009 34,000 Four 30” rows Silty Clay Loam

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

Soybeans Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.75 pts. SureStart 32 oz. Credit Extra Aztec 2.1G

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

To evaluate 20” and 30” row widths with planting populations of 34,000 to 46,000. Planted Population

Percent Moisture

Test† Weight

Bushels† Per Acre

$ Net Return

BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5779VT3 AVERAGE

34,000 36,000 38,000 40,000 42,000 46,000

26.2 25.8 25.9 25.4 25.4 25.4 25.7

57.5 57.3 57.4 57.2 57.2 57.2 57.3

234.7 240.6 238.5 233.4 231.3 229.5 234.7

$729.82 $744.26 $730.00 $704.84 $690.48 $670.50

BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5608VT3 AVERAGE

34,000 36,000 38,000 40,000 42,000 46,000

25.9 25.9 25.7 26.1 25.9 26.0 25.9

56.4 56.4 56.3 56.4 56.4 56.4 56.4

223.1 224.5 228.6 223.9 206.6 203.2 218.3

$688.06 $686.30 $694.36 $670.64 $601.56 $575.82

BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5779VT3 BECK 5779VT3 AVERAGE

34,000 36,000 38,000 40,000 42,000

23.1 23.1 23.1 25.3 25.7 24.1

56.2 56.2 56.2 57.1 57.3 56.6

242.7 245.8 240.7 231.7 229.1 238.0

$758.62 $762.98 $737.92 $698.72 $682.56

BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5608VT3 AVERAGE

34,000 36,000 38,000 40,000 42,000

23.1 23.1 23.1 23.1 26.2 23.7

55.2 55.2 55.2 55.2 56.5 55.5

196.6 215.2 216.0 215.0 210.8 210.7

$592.66 $652.82 $649.00 $638.60 $616.70

Brand

20” ROWS

30” ROWS

†

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net return = Bu./A. x $3.60/Bu. - Cost of seed (2009 prices – normal discounts).

107

Row Width / Population Study – Continued

Summary:

5779VT3 offered its highest yields at 36,000 populations in both 20” and 30” rows. At each population over 36,000, yield dropped by an average of 7.4 Bu./A. in 20” rows and 12.0 Bu./A. in 30” rows. At economic optimum planting rates of 36,000, 30” rows out-yielded the 20” rows by 5.2 Bu./A.   5608VT3 offered its highest yields at 38,000 populations in 30” rows and 38,000 in 20” rows. At economic optimum planting populations, 20” rows out-yielded the wide rows by 13.4 Bu./A. and returned an additional $41.54/A. At each population over economic planting rates, yields dropped by an average of 17.4 Bu./A. in 20” rows and only 1.3 Bu./A. in 30” rows. We also need to consider that the 20” rows were planted with a tractor set-up with 30” rows, so we planted into tire tracks. Also we harvested the 20” rows with a 30” row head. As we consider higher populations and narrow rows, we need to switch equipment to fit the program being used.

Examples of 20” row corn in 2009

108

Corn Trait / Population Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Soil Type: Population: Rows: Purpose:

May 11, 2009 October 29, 2009 Ipava Silt Loam Various Four 30” rows

Insecticide:

Soybeans Chisel / Field Cultivator 3 qts. Degree Xtra 32 oz. Credit Extra Aztec 2.1G

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

Improved genetics and insect protection traits may allow farmers to improve yields by simply planting higher populations. This study compares RR to Triple-Stack hybrids at 30,000, 33,000 and 36,000.

Brand BECK 5135RR™* BECK 5135RR™* BECK 5135RR™* AVERAGE BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5135HXR™* AVERAGE BECK 5676RR™* BECK 5676RR™* BECK 5676RR™* AVERAGE BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5676HXR™* BECK 5676HXR™* AVERAGE BECK 6733RR™* BECK 6733RR™* BECK 6733RR™* AVERAGE BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 6733HXR™* AVERAGE BECK 5608RR BECK 5608RR BECK 5608RR AVERAGE BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5608VT3 BECK 5608VT3 AVERAGE †

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

Planted Population 30,000 33,000 36,000 30,000 33,000 36,000 30,000 33,000 36,000 30,000 33,000 36,000 30,000 33,000 36,000 30,000 33,000 36,000 30,000 33,000 36,000 30,000 33,000 36,000

Percent Moisture 25.9 25.6 25.2 25.6 26.4 26.6 26.2 26.4 29.6 30.1 30.0 29.9 30.5 30.2 30.6 30.4 29.8 29.8 30.0 29.9 30.8 31.6 30.6 31.0 30.0 30.1 29.4 29.8 29.7 29.9 29.9 29.8

Bushels† Per Acre 220.8 223.8 223.4 222.7 220.7 228.4 232.2 227.1 188.4 184.6 184.2 185.7 196.0 204.9 210.1 203.7 218.4 229.0 223.5 223.6 216.0 219.9 229.7 221.9 191.0 195.1 198.9 195.0 183.9 194.6 213.7 197.4

$ Net Return Per Acre^ $709.74 $713.40 $704.70 $696.36 $714.22 $718.05

$/A. Advantage vs. 30,000^^

Yield Advantage HXR/VT3

+$3.66 -$5.04

+$17.86 +$21.69 +4.4

$599.68 $579.74 $571.88

-$19.94 -$27.80

$607.36 $629.75 $638.44

+$22.39 +$31.08 +18.0

$707.94 $739.55 $713.37

+$31.61 +$5.43

$686.08 $691.13 $717.07

+$5.05 +$30.99 -1.7

$602.52 $610.20 $616.50

+$7.68 +$13.98

$560.51 $588.84 $647.55

+$28.33 +$87.04 +2.4

Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Net return/acre calculated at yield times $3.60/Bu. less $14.00/A. insecticide cost (if applied), less 2009 seed corn prices with typical discounts. ^^The $/A. Advantage versus 30,000 population shows the difference in return versus the return for 30,000 planting population.

109

Corn Trait / Population Study – Continued Summary:

Due to both above and below ground insect protection, this study proves that triple-stack corn hybrids can be planted at higher planting populations to increase both yield and net returns. On average, by increasing triple-stack planting populations to 36,000 seeds/A., yields increased by 17.2 Bu./A. and net returns improved by nearly $43/A. Roundup corn versions maximized yields and net returns at the 33,000 seeds/A. population. By increasing planting populations from 30,000 to 33,000, yields increased by 5.7 Bu./A. and net returns by only $3.40/A. When plant populations were increased even higher to 36,000 seeds/A., yields lowered by 0.6 Bu./A. and net returns fell nearly $10/A.

Triple Stack with Soil Applied Insecticide – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Replications: Purpose:

May 24, 2009 November 7, 2009 Six 30” rows 34,000 seeds/A. Two (averaged)

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Product Tested:

Corn Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.75 pts. SureStart 32 oz. Credit Extra BECK 5716A3

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

To evaluate the yield performance of two popular soil-applied insecticides (SAI) on triple stack corn. This trial studies any yield enhancements from the result of additional insect protection, particularly corn rootworm and secondary insects. Treatment

Control Force CS Counter 15G AVERAGE

Percent Moisture 31.1 31.1 31.1 31.1

Test† Weight 56.7 56.7 56.6 56.7

Bushels† Per Acre 225.6 226.3 227.2

+/Control +0.7 +1.6

†

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture.

Summary:

Soil applied insecticides were applied at two-thirds rates and if these products would cost on average $10/A., they would need a 2.8 Bu./A. yield increase to pay for themselves. Both products responded with under 2 Bu./A. yield increases to offer net losses from SAI treatments. Corn rootworm levels were very low due to multiple years of saturated soils, which may have lead to lower egg hatch and larval survival. In other studies at the Central IL PFR Center, SAI treatments did not offer a return on investment due to low insect populations.

“Thanks for giving farmers’ a choice when it comes to technologies especially, the Herculex technologies. Our area has been hit hard by the Western Bean Cutworm and if Beck’s didn’t offer choices in traits then farmers would be forced into a company that doesn’t provide them with the overall package that Beck’s does.” Tom DeYoung Saint Anne, IL

Herculex Xtra ear on left (no damage) VT3 ear on right shows Western Bean Cutworm damage.

110

Corn Planting Date Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Soil Type: Population: Rows: Previous Crop:

Various Oct 13, 18, 29, 2009 Silt Loam 34,000 seeds/A. Eight 30” rows Corn

Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

Chisel 3 qts. Degree Xtra 32 oz. Credit Extra None

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

Purpose:

To evaluate different planting dates of BECK 5135HXR™* and BECK 5716A3 during March, April, May, and June. This enables us to see how planting dates affect corn yield on an annual basis, as well as multiyear averages. Planting Percent Bushels† Date Brand Moisture Per Acre 4th Week of March BECK 5135HXR™* 22.1 226.0 4th Week of March BECK 5716A3 23.3 278.0 AVERAGE 22.7 252.0 rd

3 Week of April rd 3 Week of April AVERAGE

BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5716A3

22.0 24.3 23.2

251.5 275.0 263.3

2nd Week of May 2nd Week of May AVERAGE

BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5716A3

21.4 22.2 21.8

249.6 272.7 261.2

4th Week of May th 4 Week of May AVERAGE

BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5716A3

23.2 26.5 24.9

201.2 206.3 203.8

1st Week of June st 1 Week of June AVERAGE

BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 5716A3

28.9 32.1 30.5

166.8 168.6 167.7

†

Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

**Note: Data for each week does not always represent six years of information for a particular week.

Summary:

Highest yields from both hybrids came from the three earliest planting dates. BECK 5135HXR™* did not particularly like the March planting, as yields were off nearly 26 Bu./A. from the 3rd week of April planting. The March plantings took six weeks to fully emerge and had to endure two snow events on the soil surface. It is interesting to note that the 2nd week of May planting yielded no less than 3 Bu./A of the 3rd Week of April plantings. Plantings after the 2nd week of May tell the whole story for the 2009 planting season. After the 2nd week of May, yields for both corn hybrids plummeted on average of 46.7 Bu./A. Multiple rain events and saturated soils led to planting delays and much of the corn crop in central Illinois was planted after the 2nd week of May. The chart above shows that typically the whole month of April has given the highest corn yields, depending on temperature and moisture conditions over the last six years. If April is warm enough and soils are fit, the sooner we can plant usually equates to higher corn yields.

111

Replant Study on Corn – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Soil Type: Population: Rows:

Purpose:

Various November 5, 2009 Ipava Silt Loam Various Four 30” rows

Insecticide: Product Tested:

Corn Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.75 pts. SureStart 32 oz. Credit Extra None BECK 5716A3 BECK 5135HXR™*

To replant or not to replant…that is the question. This study’s purpose is to evaluate final corn populations, some of which may require replanting. Replanting is a very tough decision for growers and this study evaluates planted populations of corn at 20,000 versus 34,000 at various planting dates to show if replanting would have paid off given the low final population and replant date. These results show an average of two corn hybrids planted at various dates throughout the spring planting season.

Planting Date 4th Week of March 2nd Week of April (Replanted) nd

2 Week of April 2nd Week of May (Replanted) nd

2 Week of May 4th Week of May (Replanted) th

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

4 Week of May 1st Week of June (Replanted)

Planted Population 20,000 34,000

Percent Moisture 22.0 23.2

Bushels† Per Acre 190.6 263.3

20,000 34,000

23.2 21.8

20,000 34,000 20,000 34,000

Bu./A.† Difference

Net Return

+72.7

$236.72

198.4 261.2

+62.8

$200.90

21.7 24.9

214.6 203.8

-10.8

-$64.06

27.3 30.5

186.3 167.7

-18.6

-$91.78

†

Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ** Factor in drying costs and other replant costs of $25.00/A.

Summary:

For the second year in a row, early replant situations throughout the month of April provided higher yields of 62 to 73 Bu./A. IL PFR results have indicated that if a producer can replant low corn stands before May 1, yields can be improved and replanting can be beneficial. However after May 1, replantings did not offer any benefit in yield when we replanted the low 20,000 stands. A 20,000 final population after May 1 has provided more yield than tearing it up and replanting it with a normal 34,000 stand. As May 1 approaches, earlier planted corn has the advantage of more heat units and has provided more yield/acre even in somewhat low final corn stands.

112

Nitrogen Enhancement Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Replications: Purpose:

May 26, 2009 November 6, 2009 Twelve 30” rows 34,000 seeds/A. Two (averaged)

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide: Product Tested:

Soybeans Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.75 pt. SureStart 32 oz. Credit Extra None BECK 6733HXR™*

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

To evaluate nitrogen enhancing products that protect nitrogen from volatilization, nitrification, or providing efficiencies that allow for reduced rates of nitrogen. All products will be applied in conjunction to a 100% UAN 28% nitrogen program. The Control in this study is 200# of nitrogen applied in a 50% Pre-Emerge and a 50% V6 Side-dress application. NUTRISPHERE-N® for LIQUID NITROGEN FERTILIZERS prevents and reduces volatilization and nitrification of liquid nitrogen fertilizers and safeguards nitrogen throughout the entire growing season. Some soil bacteria work with enzymes to convert nitrogen fertilizer into nitrates that are prone to leaching and volatilization. Where urease typically encourages volatilization, NutriSphereN controls urease, keeping it from robbing your nitrogen or yield potential. Plants can do more with nitrogen in its ammonium form than they can with nitrates. NutriSphere-N protects nitrogen in its ammonium state before it gets converted, giving the greatest return on your nitrogen fertilizer investment. BIO-GOLD™ from Global Chem LLC, is an all-organic product containing a wide variety of microorganisms including those that are nitrogen-fixing. Bio-Gold™ produces natural hormones such as auxins, indoleacetic acid, and gibberellins (gibberellic acid) which support function of growth and maturity in plants. Since Bio-Gold™ contains both organic matter and microorganisms, it develops its own compost which contains humates. Bio-Gold™ Microbes convert atmospheric nitrogen to a usable form by the crop and metabolizes enzymes organically, assuring a constant supply for the plant. The Global Chem claims that with the use of BioGold™, commercial nitrogen rates can be reduced by 50% to 75% in corn. eNhance from Agro-Culture Liquid, is a nitrogen supplement designed to enhance a crops ability to efficiently utilize UAN solutions. Agro-Culture claims that by using eNhance in conjunction with UAN solutions, a producer can reduce their nitrogen requirements by 18% in a corn/soybean rotation. eNhance is applied in side-dress UAN solutions at a rate of 2 gallons/UAN ton.

†

Product Applied None (control) Bio Gold Nutrisphere Enhance

Lbs. N. 200 100 200 164

Bushels† Per Acre 219.5 218.5 219.3 216.4

Yield Difference -1.0 -0.2 -3.1

Net Return^ $664.20 $723.60 $663.48 $675.72

+/Control $59.40 -$0.72 $11.52

Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Net Return based on $3.60/Bu. corn, $355/ton 28% nitrogen.

113

Nitrogen Enhancement Study – 2009

Picture of BECK 6733HXR™* 200# N control.

Summary:

Bio-Gold nitrogen rates were applied at 50% (100#) of the Control and yield only suffered by 1.0 Bu./A! Considering cost of nitrogen and yield/acre, Bio-Gold topped this study with a $59.40/A. gross return. Bio-Gold just received registration and will be commercially available in 2010. eNhance nitrogen rates were applied at 82% (164#) of the Control and yield only lacked by 3.1 Bu./A. and grossed an additional $11.52/A. Nutrisphere applications were applied at the 200# nitrogen rate and yield was nearly identical of the Control at -0.2 Bu./A.

“Beck 5444VT3 has yet to be beat by the competitor side by side. I was asked by a competitor to put in their top hybrid, which was apples to apples, to the Beck 5444VT3. After harvesting the plot Beck 5444VT3 beat their hybrid by 12 bushels per acre and was a point dryer. Beck’s performance hasn’t let me down and that is why I am a 100% Beck corn user.” Jeff Pfaff Lewisville, IN

114

University of Illinois Nitrogen Rate Study – 2009 Corn After Corn (CAC) & Corn After Soybeans (CAB) Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population: Soil Type: Replications: Purpose:

May 25, 2009 November 3, 2009 Twelve 30” rows 34,000 seeds/A. Catlin Silt Loam Two (averaged)

Insecticide: Fungicide: Product Tested:

Chisel / Field Cultivate 1.75 pt. SureStart 26 oz. Roundup Orig. Max None 6 oz. Headline BECK 5608VT3

This study was set up to help gather nitrogen data for a state-wide database coordinated by the University of Illinois. Seven nitrogen rates ranging from 0 lb. to 250 lbs./A., were replicated to determine the optimum economic rates of nitrogen in a CAC and CAB rotation.

Lbs. of Nitrogen Corn After Corn: 250 lbs. 225 lbs. 200 lbs. 175 lbs. 150 lbs. 125 lbs. 0 lbs. AVERAGE

†

Tillage: Herbicide:

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

Corn After Soybeans: 225 lbs. 200 lbs. 175 lbs. 150 lbs. 125 lbs. 100 lbs. 0 lbs. AVERAGE

Return on Additional 25 lbs. of N

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

Net Income/A.

33.2 32.8 32.5 32.6 31.8 31.0 33.2 32.4

209.1 210.6 214.9 200.7 180.5 143.4 117.2 182.3

$595.26 $616.23 $647.64 $612.27 $555.12 $437.49 $421.92

$157.50 $141.75 $126.00 $110.25 $94.50 $78.75 $0.00

-$20.97 -$31.41 $35.37 $57.15 $117.63 -------

26.4 26.2 26.0 25.7 25.4 25.2 25.4 25.8

204.1 210.0 207.3 211.1 210.2 198.2 129.5 195.8

$593.01 $629.82 $635.85 $665.28 $677.97 $650.34 $466.02

$141.75 $126.00 $110.25 $94.50 $78.75 $63.00 $0.00

-$36.81 -$6.03 -$29.43 -$12.69 $27.63 -------

Cost of Nitrogen

Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. ^Gross income based on $3.60/Bu. Corn. Nitrogen price based on $355/ton for 28% liquid nitrogen.

115

University of Illinois Nitrogen Rate Study – Cont. Summary:

In the CAC nitrogen study, the 200 lbs. nitrogen rate gave us the highest yield of 214.9 Bu./A. and also netted the highest return at $647.64 per acre. In the CAB nitrogen study, the 150 lbs. nitrogen rate gave us the highest yield of 211.1 Bu./A., but after taking into account the cost of nitrogen, price of corn, and yield/A., the 125 lbs. nitrogen rate netted the highest return at $677.97 per acre. In comparing the crop rotations, corn after corn needed an additional 50 lbs./A. of nitrogen over corn after soybeans.

Avail® Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Replications: Purpose:

May 25, 2009 November 5, 2009 Six 30” rows 34,500 seeds/A. Two (averaged)

Insecticide: Product Tested:

Soybeans Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.75 pts. SureStart 32 oz. Credit Extra None BECK 5779VT3

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

AVAIL for LIQUID PHOSPHATE FERTILIZERS is designed to be mixed into liquid phosphate fertilizers (i.e.10-34-0 and other liquid phosphate fertilizers), to reduce tie-up of phosphate and make phosphate more available to the plant. AVAIL increases phosphate availability through all stages of plant growth, including the early development period crucial for increasing yield potential. AVAIL is a patented technology that surrounds phosphorus fertilizer in a water-soluble “shield”. By blocking the bonds of attraction of chemical elements in the soil to the phosphorus, more of the phosphorus is available for your crop. When phosphorous fertilizer is applied, it is a negative charged material in the soil. When this fertilizer is applied, the positive ions in the soil attach to the phosphorous fertilizer and can make it unavailable to plants. Avail is a negative charged product and thus attracts the positive charges in the soil and leaves the phosphate free and available for plant uptake.

Treatment Control with 2 gal. Starter Avail P with 2 gal. Starter †

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

Percent Moisture 26.6 26.3

Bushels Per Acre† 233.7 240.4

+/- Control +6.7

Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture.

Summary:

Starter fertilizer applied with Avail increased yields by 6.7 Bu./A. in this study. This is encouraging, as other starter fertilizer studies at the Central Illinois PFR Center did not show any yield response. This is the first year of testing Avail at this research site and more work needs to be done to analyze the product.

116

Corn after Soybeans Nitrogen Timing Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Soil Type: Population: Previous Crop:

April 25, 2009 November 6, 2009 Ipava Silt Loam 34,500 seeds/A. Soybeans

Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide: Product Tested:

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

Chisel 3 qts. Degree Xtra 32 oz. Glyphos Extra None BECK 5135HXR™*

Purpose:

To evaluate various nitrogen timings in a corn after soybean crop rotation. Timings will consist of a 100% nitrogen program with a fall 82-0-0 application with and without N-Serve®, a 100% nitrogen program with spring 28% UAN, and a split application providing 50% nitrogen in spring 28% UAN and then being followed with 50% being provided in a V4 side-dress. Percent Bushels† +/$ Cost of Net^ Application Moisture Per Acre NH3 Return N Return Difference Fall NH3 180 lbs. 23.3 203.4 $732.24 $95.40 $636.84 Fall NH3 180 lbs. with N-Serve 23.5 213.4 10.0 $768.24 $105.40 $662.84 $26.00 180 lbs. 28% Preplant 22.9 210.8 7.4 $758.88 $113.40 $645.48 $8.64 223.1 19.7 $803.16 $113.40 $689.76 $52.92 100 lbs. 28% Pre fb 80 lbs. Sidedress 23.4 AVERAGE 23.3 212.7 12.4 $765.63 $106.90 $658.73 Summary: The split application of 50% spring applied followed by a 50% sidedress application took top yields and returns in this study. Sidedressing is an excellent way to minimize nitrogen losses, especially in a wet year like we encountered in 2009. Fall NH3 without N-Serve®, had the lowest yields and suffered a 19.7 Bu./A. loss compared to the preplant/sidedress program. Adding N-Serve® to the fall applied NH3 increased yields by exactly 10 Bu./A. 2008 saw similar results with N-Serve adding 11.2 Bu./A. N-Serve keeps nitrogen in the stable ammonium form by slowing the conversion to nitrate. This reduces leaching and makes more nitrogen available to corn plants. Spring applied 28% UAN yielded 7.4 Bu./A. higher than fall NH3, but 12.3 Bu./A. under the preplant/sidedress application.

Corn after Corn Nitrogen Timing Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Population: Rows: Previous Crop: Purpose:

May 25, 2009 November 6, 2009 34,500 seeds/A. Six 30” rows Soybeans

Tillage: Herbicide: Fungicide: Nitrogen:

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

Chisel 3 qts. Degree Xtra 32 oz. Glyphos Extra 6 oz. Headline 225# Actual N with 28% UAN

This study evaluates different nitrogen application timings on Beck 6733HXR™*, 5779VT3, and 5608VT3. The timings evaluated are a 100% spring preplant 28% UAN application versus a 50% UAN preplant followed by a 50% sidedress. Corn after corn requires a different approach to nitrogen management. Corn residue is a heavy carbon load and needs to go thru a period of decomposition. This process can “tie up” nitrogen that is intended for plant consumption. Having heavier loads of nitrogen in an upfront form such as pre-plant applications can help offset this carbon:nitrogen ratio. In conjunction with pre-plant applications, sidedresssing ensures season long nitrogen availability and helps “feed” those corn hybrids that appear to respond to late nitrogen applications.

Brand 6733HXR™* 6733HXR™*

Application 225# N Pre 28% 112# N Pre followed by 112# Sidedress

Test† Weight 60.3 60.2

Percent Moisture 25.8 25.6

Bushels† Per Acre 237.3 245.5

5779VT3 5779VT3

225# N Pre 28% 112# N Pre followed by 112# Sidedress

57.7 58.4

24.3 24.2

253.1 250.5

$911.16 $901.80

5608VT3 5608VT3

225# N Pre 28% 112# N Pre followed by 112# Sidedress AVERAGE

56.8 56.8 58.4

24.3 24.0 24.7

210.7 221.7 236.5

$758.52 $798.12

† Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Net Return based on $3.60/Bu. corn, $355/ton 28% nitrogen.

Summary:

Net^ Return $854.28 $883.80

100% pre-plant nitrogen programs were only advantageous on Beck 5779VT3, indicating that it may prefer more nitrogen amounts in early crop development stages. However, sidedress applications in 6733HXR™* and 5608VT3 increased yields by 8.2 to 11 Bu./A. respectively. Side-dressing continues to offer the safest way to minimize nitrogen losses and protect yields.

117

Torque™ Corn Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Replications: Purpose:

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

Various 11/5/2009 Six 30” rows 34,000 seeds/A. Six

Product Tested:

Corn Chisel 3 qts. Degree Xtra 26 oz. Roundup Original Max BECK Ex 0916Hx1RR™* (BECK 5668™* genetics)

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

To evaluate the product Torque™ IF from EMD Crop Biosciences, Inc. Torque contains LCO Promoter ® Technology for corn and is an in-furrow treatment that was applied through seed firmers on the planter. Torque is a crop enhancing technology focused on improving plant health and yield. LCO Promoter Technology is a unique molecule that enhances growth in both root and shoots leading to improved plant health for stronger, healthier, and higher-yielding plants. This study compares the current Torque™ IF that is commercially available for sale, as well as a new experimental product that is currently under review. †

†

Test Weight 58.1

Percent Moisture 24.0

Bushels Per Acre 199.1

Yield Advantage

Gross Return $716.76

$Advantage

Torque™ IF

58.3

24.4

201.9

+2.8

$726.84

$10.08

EXP

58.1

24.0

205.7

+6.6

$740.52

$23.76

Product Control

†

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Corn price = $3.60. Torque and LCO Promoter Technology are registered trademarks of EMD Crop Bioscience, Inc.

Summary:

Torque™ IF applications averaged 2.8 Bu./A. better than the untreated control over three replications. With an average cost of treatment at $9.18/A., Torque just paid for itself and returned $0.90/A. The Experimental product under review out yielded the control by 6.6 Bu./A. and 3.8 Bu./A. over Torque. Return on investment for the Experimental would be $14.58/A. considering the same cost of treatment.

Starter Fertilizer Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Population: Rows: Previous Crop: Replications: Purpose:

May 25, 2009 November 6, 2009 34,000 seeds/A. Eight 30” rows Corn Three (averaged)

Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide: Product Tested:

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

Field Cultivator 1.75 pts. SureStart 32 oz. Credit Extra None BECK 5779VT3

To evaluate starter fertilizer treatments from Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizer. Starter was directly applied thru a “Y” splitter on Rebounder seed firmers. Starter rates consisted of a mixture of the following: ProGerminator- Highly usable phosphate product specifically designed for planter placement with row crops. ProGerminator is an organically chelated combination of ortho and long-chain polymer phosphates. It is resistant to nutrient “tie-up” that reduces the effectiveness of most phosphates. The gradual nutrient release enabled by the chelated long chain polymers provide phosphate availability through the entire growing season. The low salt index encourages early root development and provides improved seed vigor. Sure K potassium fertilizer is unique to the industry- it offers highly usable potassium and is chloride-free. With its low salt index, it is an ideal companion for ProGerminator in planter time combinations. Sure K gives superior performance in no-till and strip till environments, and is highly effective in foliar applications. Micro 500 is a highly usable combination of the five commonly needed micros, Zinc, Manganese, Iron, Copper, and Boron.

Starter Fertilizer Control 3.4 gal. Starter 9.4 gal. Starter AVERAGE †

Percent Moisture 26.0 25.9 26.0 26.0

Bushels† Per Acre 227.0 228.5 227.0 227.5

Test† Weight 57.5 57.5 57.5 57.5

Starter Cost $0.00 $30.00 $51.00

$ Net Return^ $817.27 $792.47 $766.30

$ Return Advantage -$24.80 -$50.97

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. ^Corn Price = $3.60/Bu.

Summary:

Starter fertilizer applications at 3.4 gal./A. gave an average yield increase of 1.5 Bu./A. and heavier rates at 9.4 gal./A. gave no additional yield response over the control. Obviously with the lack of yield response, return on investment gave losses of -$24.80 to -$50.97/A. Soil test results indicate that fertility levels are optimum to high in this trial area, which could be a logical reason why starter fertilizer rates did not increase yields.

118

Gypsum Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Product Tested:

Purpose:

May 12, 2009 November 4, 2009 Eight 30” rows 34,000 seeds/A. BECK 6733HXR™*

Insecticide:

Corn Chisel 1.75 pts.SureStart 26 oz. Roundup Original Max None

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

To evaluate applications of Gypsum (Calcium Sulfate). Gypsum has typically been used to improve soil structure and add the micronutrient, sulfur.

Treatment 1000 lbs. Gypsum Spring Applied Control (No Gypsum) AVERAGE

† Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

Test† Weight 59.5 59.5

Percent Moisture 23.3 23.2

Bushels† Per Acre 219.6 211.0 +8.6

In this first year study at the IL PFR Center, Gypsum applications increased yield by 8.6 Bu./A. More research needs to be done with Gypsum to fully understand its agronomic performance and consistency.

119

AirForce™ Planter Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Product Tested: Purpose:

May 25, 2009 November 6, 2009 Four 30” rows 34,000 seeds/A. 5779VT3

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

Soybeans Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.75 pts. SureStart 32 oz. Credit Extra None

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

Beck’s Central IL PFR teamed up with Precision Planting® and its 20/20 AirForce™ system to conduct this automatic down force adjustment trial. Down force adjustments allow the amount of weight on a planter row unit to maintain constant ground contact and planting depth. If we set our planter row units for too much down force pressure, we can produce sidewall compaction, uneven emergence, and poor root development. Conversely, too little down force pressure leads to shallow planting depth. In both cases, yield loss occurs. Setting the amount of down force pressure depends on planting conditions and planting speed. Most planters have either a spring tension device or airbags on the planter row units. These can be adjusted manually by increasing or decreasing air pressure or by adjusting the amount of spring tension. In both cases, these are manual adjustments that have to be made on a field by field basis. Determining the amount of down force can be difficult because of varying soil types, tillage conditions, soil moisture, and seed quantity in boxes.

Precision Planting’s 20/20 SeedSense™ system can measure ground contact and the total row unit weight to make automatic adjustments needed to maintain ideal down force regardless of planting conditions, while maintaining the ground contact that assures uniform seeding depth. Bushels Bu./A. $/A. Per Acre† Loss Loss % Difference Air Force Variable Rate 244.1 0 lbs. 235.0 -9.1 -$32.76 -4.0 125 lbs. 243.7 -0.4 -$1.44 -0.2 250 lbs. 235.1 -9.0 -$32.40 -3.7 375 lbs. 230.2 -13.9 -$50.04 -5.7 AVERAGE 237.6 -8.1 -$29.16 -3.4 †

Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. AirForce is a trademark of Precision Planting.

Summary:

Highest yields in this study came from the automatic variable rate 20/20 AirForce™ system at 244.1 Bu./A. and the 125 lbs. manual setting at 243.7 Bu./A. As down force decreased to 0 lb., yields fell by 9.1 Bu./A. As down force increased to 250 lbs., yields fell 9.0 Bu./A. and decreased almost 14 Bu./A. when down force increased even higher to 375 lbs. Not having correct down force settings caused losses/A. to average $32 to $50/A.

120

Crop Rotation Tillage Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested:

Soybeans: Corn:

Rows: Seeding Rate: Purpose:

May 20, May 25 October 13, 2009 November 3, 2009 Twenty Four 30” rows 34,500/160,000

Tillage: Herbicide: Products Tested:

Chisel / Field Cultivate 4 pts. Guardsman Max 26 oz. Roundup OMax BECK 5135HXR™* BECK 257NR

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

To evaluate different forms of tillage in both 1st year and continuous corn rotations. Tillage methods included no-till, strip-till, and conventional-till. Conventional-till consisted of deep chisel plowing in the fall followed by two field cultivator passes in the spring. Strip-till was completed with a Remlinger strip-till toolbar in the fall, and the no-till consisted of a JD 7200 planter equipped with no-till cutters and residue cleaners.

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

12.8 12.6 12.8 12.7

56.5 58.6 56.5 57.2

Corn After Corn: Conventional Till No-Till Strip-Till AVERAGE

23.5 23.8 23.8 23.7

209.6 200.4 205.2 205.1

Corn After Soybeans: Conventional Till No-Till Strip-Till AVERAGE

23.3 23.3 23.6 23.4

214.2 210.0 217.0 213.7

Tillage Soybeans After Corn: Conventional Till No-Till Strip-Till AVERAGE

† Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

For the second year in a row, field cultivators ran wild this spring working wet soils and creating soil density layers. Fortunately for conventional-till, it kept raining throughout the growing season to feed the shallow rooted crops. In soybeans, no-till offered the highest yield at 58.6 Bu./A. and strip-till and conventional-till soybeans lagged behind by 2.1 Bu./A. Continuous corn yielded on average 8.6 Bu./A. less than 1st year corn, with conventional tillage offering the highest yield and no-till the lowest. Strip-till 1st year corn performed very well and out yielded the conventional and no-till by 2.8 and 7.0 Bu./A. respectively.

“Beck’s performance is always constant on our farms. No matter which field we plant in, at harvest we are not disappointed. We are now 100% Beck’s and it is all because of the performance, quality and constant support, that we choose Beck’s for our farming operation.” Dave Schaefer Bluffton, IN

121

Frost Simulation Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Population: Rows: Previous Crop:

Purpose:

April 28, 2009 October 6, 2009 38,000 seeds/A. Four 30” Rows Corn

Tillage: Herbicide: Fungicide: Product Tested:

Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.75 pts. SureStart 32 oz. Credit Extra 6 oz. Headline Beck 5608VT3

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in Total 27.1 in.

To simulate and evaluate a frost environment in Beck 5608VT3. Frost simulations were made beginning at the V2 growth stage and continued through V5. Frost is simulated by “burning the corn” using a propane burner torch. The purpose of this study is to monitor crop responses including plant health, death loss, and recovery. Test† Weight 58.6

Percent Moisture 26.5

Bushels† Per Acre 325.2

Bu./A. Difference

% of Control (Bu./A.)

V2 Frost

57.0

27.5

304.1

-21.1

93.6%

V3 Frost

57.8

29.5

253.8

-71.4

78.1%

V4 Frost

57.0

30.1

253.7

-71.5

78.1%

V5 Frost Frost AVERAGE

56.0 57.8

30.0 28.1

240.2 263.0

-85.0

73.9%

Timing / Degree of Damage Control AVERAGE

†

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture.

Summary:

In this frost study, the lowest amounts of yield loss came from the early frost events. As the frost damage occurred at later stages, yield losses became much more significant. The V4 and V5 frost events gave an average of an 78.3 bushel yield loss. In most years, corn at growth stages of VE – V2 can withstand frost events fairly well. The later it occurs, the higher the risk of yield loss. Beck 5608VT3 performed very well in this study with the control averaging 325.2 Bu./A. Due to leaf defoliation at early growth stages, the controls may have received a benefit from having more sunlight interception and air movement. This may help explain the very high yields from this study. .

IL PFR summer interns frosting corn using a propane burner torch.

122

Hail Simulation Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Population: Rows: Previous Crop: Purpose:

April 27, 2009 October 6, 2009 38,000 seeds/A. Four 30” Rows Corn

Tillage: Herbicide: Fungicide: Product Tested:

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.75 pts. SureStart 32 oz. Credit Extra 6 oz. Headline Beck 5608VT3

To simulate and evaluate a hail and corn defoliation environment in Beck 5608VT3. Hail simulations were made beginning at V6 and ended at the blister growth stage. Hail damage is manually created by hand stripping leaves from the corn plant along with the use of a string trimmer to simulate bruising on the stalk and ears.

Hail Timing / Degree of Damage V6 Low V6 High V10 Low V10 High V12 Low V12 High V14 Low V14 High VT Low VT High Blister Low Blister High Hail AVERAGE Control AVERAGE

Test† Weight 57.4 55.9 57.3 56.3 56.9 56.7 56.7 56.7 57.0 56.9 58.0 57.8 57.0

Percent Moisture 26.1 24.7 25.8 24.3 24.9 24.3 26.3 24.1 25.4 24.6 26.2 26.8 25.3

Bushels† Per Acre 276.1 196.4 259.2 192.4 237.1 182.4 224.8 156.3 209.4 140.3 225.1 190.9 207.5

58.5

26.2

315.8

Bu./A.* Difference -39.7 -119.4 -56.6 -123.4 -78.7 -133.4 -91.0 -159.5 -106.4 -175.5 -90.7 -124.9

% of Control (Bu./A.) 87.5% 62.2% 82.1% 60.9% 75.1% 57.8% 71.2% 49.5% 66.3% 44.4% 71.3% 60.4%

†

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *Calculated by using average of control.

Summary:

This hail simulation study shows the devastating effects of hail storms. Hail defoliations showed a range of yield losses from 39.7 Bu./A. to 175.5 Bu./A. The low hail defoliations averaged a 77.2 Bu./A. loss, while high defoliations averaged a 139.4 bushel loss. Normally, early hail events at V6-V10 can recover enough to minimize yield losses. Even though V6-V10 hail simulations had the lowest yield losses in this study, they still only yielded 44.4% to 87.5% of the controls. VT growth stage hail events gave the highest yield loss at 175.5 Bu./A. During reproductive stages, high rates of defoliation can significantly reduce yield by removing green tissue and photosynthetic capability. Beck 5608VT3 performed very well in this study with the controls averaging 315.8 Bu./A.! Due to leaf defoliation at various crop stages, the controls more than likely received benefit from more sunlight interception and air movement. This may help explain the very high yields from this study.

Simulated Hail Damaged Corn Ears

Simulated Hail Damaged Corn at Harvest next to Controls

123

Waxy Show Plot – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate:

May 10, 2009 November 6, 2009 Four 30” rows 34,000 seeds/A.

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

Yield Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

Corn Chisel / Field Cultivator 1.75 pts. SureStart 4 pts. Guardsman Max Aztec 2.1

Test† Weight 55.8 55.1 55.3 55.4 55.2 54.7 54.5 54.4

Percent Moisture 25.0 27.7 26.3 25.7 26.3 28.9 30.0 30.0

Bushels† Per Acre 229.0 229.7 223.6 217.4 213.4 217.0 217.7 200.3

$ Revenue/A^. $870.20 $848.05 $838.05 $820.03 $799.82 $790.75 $783.72 $721.08

Trait Waxy Waxy Waxy Waxy Waxy Waxy Waxy Waxy

Brand BECK 5244wx Pioneer 34P91 AgriGold A6426 BECK 5166wx BECK 5616wx BECK 5323wx BECK 5818wx BECK 6722wx

VT Waxy

BECK 5244VTwx

55.4

26.3

211.3

$791.95

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19

Conventional Conventional Conventional Conventional Conventional Conventional Conventional Conventional Conventional Conventional

BECK 5135™* BECK 5335™* Pioneer 33W82 BECK 6733 BECK 5608 Pioneer 35K02 Pioneer 33A82 BECK 5244 AgriGold A6634 AgriGold A6633

57.2 56.2 56.0 55.0 56.1 56.8 55.8 56.3 54.7 54.3

21.6 24.0 24.5 27.7 24.1 22.8 24.9 23.5 28.7 30.3

232.4 238.5 237.8 247.0 232.7 224.6 226.7 214.4 227.5 195.9

$775.29 $772.74 $765.72 $763.72 $753.02 $738.48 $726.35 $698.94 $694.33 $585.35

20 21

VT3 VT3

AgriGold A6533 Dekalb DKC63-42 AVERAGE

55.2 55.1 55.5

26.1 26.6 26.2

233.7 231.3 223.9

$737.56 $729.06 $762.11

9

†

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^$Revenue/A. calculated at yield times $3.60/Bu., plus $.60 premium for waxy. Drying costs are $0.04 per point of moisture per bushel.

“It is great to work with Beck’s because of the detail in the waxy program and that they continue to strive to have hybrids that are suitable for the waxy market. The selection of waxy hybrids that Beck’s continues to bring to the market shows their dedication to the specialty market.” Dave Duttlinger Wheatfield, IN

124

Quality Trait Products® - 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Population:

May 10, 2009 November 4, 2009 Three 30” rows 34,000 seeds/A.

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide:

Purpose:

Quality Trait Product Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade Food Grade H.F.C. H.F.C. Non-GMO Waxy Waxy Waxy Waxy Waxy Waxy Waxy White Corn

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

Corn Chisel 1.75 pts. SureStart 4 pts. Guardsman Max Aztec 2.1G

This study shows the Quality Trait Products Beck’s is testing and/or offering for sale in the Illinois marketing area. Opportunities are available for customers to participate in food grade, Non-GMO, and white corn programs. We are also evaluating products that we have identified as High Fermentable Corn. Harvested Population 36,000 33,000 35,000 34,000 31,000 33,000 33,000 32,000 31,000

Test† Weight 56.9 56.0 56.1 56.1 56.4 55.3 55.7 54.1 56.4

Percent Moisture 24.8 23.6 22.9 22.7 23.6 23.3 21.7 22.8 21.2

2009 Bushels† Per Acre 307.4 298.3 297.9 295.5 295.2 290.1 283.4 276.3 272.4

BECK EX 1811 (BECK 6288CL Genetics) BECK 5444

36,000

56.9

24.7

281.8

-0.9

37,000

55.3

23.4

275.7

-7.0

BECK 5244

32,000

53.9

22.2

269.0

-13.7

BECK 5244VTwx BECK 5323VT3wx BECK 5323RRwx BECK 5616wx BECK 6722wx BECK 5166wx BECK 5012wx

32,000 34,000 34,000 31,000 33,000 34,000 33,000

54.4 55.3 55.3 55.1 55.8 56.6 56.7

23.4 25.8 25.5 23.6 26.0 23.5 23.8

296.0 294.2 281.8 279.7 273.9 272.2 260.3

+13.3 +11.5 -0.9 -3.0 -8.8 -10.5 -22.4

BECK 6218W

34,000 33,400

55.8 55.7

24.3 23.6

252.5 282.7

-30.2

Brand BECK 6733 BECK EX 0979™* BECK 5354™* BECK 5335™* BECK 5676™* BECK EX 0980™* BECK 5135™* BECK 5608 BECK 5435™*

†

+ or – Plot Avg. +24.7 +15.6 +15.2 +12.8 +12.5 +7.4 +0.7 -6.4 -10.3

Potential Premiums

Food Grade $0.10-$0.60

H.F.C None at this time

Waxy $0.60-$0.80

White Corn $0.20+

Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Food Grade Corn - Used by dry millers to produce cereal and snack food products. The endosperm is much harder than commodity corn and is higher in test weight. Non-GMO – Non-genetically modified or conventional corn is quickly becoming the new specialty corn. Demand from export companies as well as domestic users for non-traited corn continues to be strong while trait adoption by the farmer continues to increase. This creates a deficient supply of Non-GMO grain. High Fermentable Corn (H.F.C.) - Hybrids identified as High Fermentable are those that will produce a higher percentage of ethanol per bushel. Once identified, ethanol producers will use these hybrids to increase ethanol yields and plant efficiencies. Waxy Corn - Unlike normal corn, it does not contain any amylose starch, only amylopectin. It is used by processors to produce specialty starches used in food and industrial products. White Corn - White corn mainly used by grain millers to produce snack foods. ®

Quality Trait Products is a registered trademark of Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

125

Soybean Show Plot – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate:

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

May 20, 2009 November 11, 2009 Four 30” rows 160,000 seeds/A.

Insecticide:

Yield Rank GROUP II 1 2 3 4 5 6

†

Brand

BECK 299NR™* BECK 282R™* BECK 244NR™* BECK 257NR BECK 274NR BECK 284L AVERAGE GROUP III / IV 1 BECK 362NR™* 2 BECK 342NR 3 BECK 388NR™* 4 BECK 322NR™* 5 BECK 376NL 6 BECK 325NR™* 7 BECK 445NR 8 BECK 399NR 9 BECK 400NR™* 10 BECK 359NRV 11 BECK 381N 12 BECK 392NL 13 BECK 355R™* 14 BECK 414N 15 BECK 343N 16 BECK 326RV 17 BECK 327 18 BECK 334NL AVERAGE †

Corn Chisel 32 oz. Credit Extra 22 oz. Ignite / 8 oz. Cobra 5 oz. Select Aztec 2.1G

Bushels Per Acre 67.5 58.2 57.9 56.3 53.5 49.5 57.2 66.3 65.6 65.5 63.9 63.5 63.1 62.2 61.4 61.0 60.9 60.2 60.1 57.9 57.8 55.6 53.9 53.8 41.5 59.7

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

2009 IL Field Show Soybean Show Plot photos.

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

126

100 Bushel Soybean Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Replications: Purpose:

May 25, 2009 Oct. 20, 2009 Eleven 15” rows Various Two (averaged)

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Early Post: Post: Product Tested:

Corn Chisel / Field Cultivator (twice) 32 oz. Credit Extra 32 oz. Credit Extra BECK 362NR™*

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

This is our second attempt at 100 bushel soybeans at the Illinois PFR Center. The base treatment (the CONTROL) in this study is Beck 362NR™* with fungicide and insecticide seed treatments, Protinus™ and ® Optimize . All the treatments were planted at a planting population of 160,000 seeds/A., however two additional planting populations of 200,000 and 225,000 were also evaluated. A foliar treatment of a fungicide application was also made at the R3 growth stage. Cobra® herbicide was used in this study at the R1 growth stage in the attempt to shorten internode length. Sugar treatments were used to add a carbohydrate food source to the soybeans and to help offset the damaging defoliation of the Cobra herbicide. Both Sable and Coron™ were used as foliar nitrogen treatments. Invinsa was used as an ethylene management enhancing product.

Population Test Average Emerged Population 160,000 200,000 225,000

Average Bushels Per Acre† 72.8 72.5 71.8

Additional Treatment 6 oz./A. Headline (CONTROL) 6 oz./A. Headline 6 oz./A. Headline

Foliar Application Test

†

Foliar Treatments 2# Sugar + Headline 8 oz Cobra + Headline 8 oz Cobra + 2# Sugar +Headline Invinsa 2 Gal. Sable + Headline 2 Gal. Coron + Headline

Growth Stage R1,R3 R1,R3 R1,R3 R3 R4,R3 R4,R3

Yield† 73.9 74.7 77.5 75.8 72.7 72.9

+/- Control +1.1 +1.9 +4.6 +3.0 - 0.1 +0.1

% Yield Increase 1.5 2.6 6.4 4.1 -0.1 0.1

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Glyphosate

Cobra

Glyphosate

Cobra + Sugar

Cobra

Figure 1

Cobra + Sugar

127

100 Bushel Soybean Study – Continued Summary:

All entries in this 100 bushel attempt averaged 73.8 Bu./A., falling significantly short of our goal. However, these are excellent yields and BECK 362NR™* performed very well. Planting populations of 160,000 seeds/A. provided the highest yield and increasing populations over this level did not increase yield. Cobra herbicide (lactofen) provided a 1.9 Bu./A. yield increase by shortening internodes and plant height. Adding glucose or a carbohydrate food source with sugar along with the Cobra, increased yields even higher to 4.6 Bu./A. It was very noticeable that the sugar application caused less plant injury and defoliation when added to the Cobra herbicide (See Figure 1). Both Sable and Coron foliar nitrogen treatments did not offer yield benefits. Applications were made later at the R4 growth stage and this may have been too late for these products. Invinsa was used as an ethylene management tool and increased yields by 3.0 Bu./A. or 4.1%.

Soybean Max Grow Study – 2009 RAINFALL May 28, 2009 October 13, 2009 Four 30” rows 165,000 seeds/A.

Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate:

Purpose:

Corn Chisel / Field Cultivator 32 oz. Glyphos Extra BECK 342NR

April May June July August Total

10.0 in. 4.9 in. 4.6 in. 4.0 in. 3.6 in. 27.1 in.

To evaluate a foliar feed fertilizer/PGR product called Max Grow manufactured by NCA Biotech Inc. Max Grow is a plant growth regulator that stimulates the rooting system and increases pod set in soybeans. Max Grow also contains a blend of 8.5-0.0-1.6 with Mo, Mn, B, S, and Fe.

Treatment None (control) Max Grow Difference

Bushels Per Acre† 63.8 64.9 +1.1

† Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Soybean price used is $9.55/Bu.

Summary:

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Product Tested:

Net Return^ $609.30 $619.80 $10.50

Soybean Max Grow increased yields by an average of 1.1 Bu./A. This product is not available for commercial sales yet and pricing has not been determined. More research needs to be done on this product to determine any yield enhancing abilities.

“BECK 274NR has been a terrific, as well as our favorite, soybean variety on our farm. Last year we reached 73 bushels per acre and we were very happy with the performance. The quality and the seed treatment on Beck’s soybeans, sets them apart from their competition.” Roger Greeson Kokomo, IN

128

Soybean Plant Health Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Population: Rows: Previous Crop:

Purpose:

May 25, 2009 October 20, 2009 150,000 seeds/A. Eight 30” rows Corn

Tillage: Herbicide: Fungicide: Product Tested:

Chisel / Field Cultivator 32 oz. Credit Extra V4 32 oz. Credit Extra R2 6 oz. Headline Beck 325NR™*

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

This trial is a soybean plant health study where we are evaluating three different foliar compounds. Sable is 28-0-0 non-burning nitrogen fertilizer solution containing slow and quick release forms of nitrogen. Proaxis is a micro-encapsulated synthetic pyrethroid insecticide that controls insects by contact and ingestion. Headline fungicide, or pyraclostrobin, is a member of the strobilurin class of chemistry and is derived from a natural antifungal substance. Preventive applications optimize disease control, resulting in improved plant health.

Treatment Control Sable + Headline + Proaxis Sable + Headline Sable + Proaxis Headline Headline + Proaxis Proaxis Sable AVERAGE

Percent Moisture 13.5 13.5 13.5 13.4 13.5 13.4 13.4 13.5 13.5

Bushels† Per Acre 60.7 65.7 64.1 63.3 66.1 65.6 62.8 62.3 63.8

Bu./A. Difference 5.0 3.4 2.6 5.4 4.9 2.1 1.6 3.6

Net $ Return $579.69 $591.53 $582.85 $585.02 $614.85 $603.47 $593.14 $582.07 $591.58

Net $ Advantage +11.84 +3.16 +$5.33 +$35.16 +$23.79 +$13.45 +$2.38 $13.59

†

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Costs/A. used were Headline $16.40/A. Soybean price used is $9.55/Bu. Sable calculated at $12.90/A., and Proaxis at $6.60/A. Application costs are not included in this study. All treatments received 1/5 pt/A. Diplomat Crop Oil Concentrate and 1.4 lbs./A. Array AMS.

Summary:

All treatments in this study gave an average yield increase of 3.6 Bu./A. Headline treatments gave the highest yield increase of 5.4 Bu./A., as well as the highest net return at $35.16/A. Proaxis insecticide and Sable nitrogen treatments gave yield increases of 1.6 to 2.1 Bu./A. with return on investments of $2.38 to $13.45/A. In general, Headline gave the highest response in this plant health study. Adding additional treatments of Sable and Proaxis did not increase yield over a standard Headline application. Special thanks to Rosen’s Inc. for supplying products for this study.

129

®

®

LibertyLink Soybean Stratego / Leverage® Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Population: Rows: Replications: Previous Crop:

Purpose:

May 25, 2009 October 13, 2009 150,000 seeds/A. Four 30” Rows Five (average) Corn

Tillage: Herbicide: Fungicide: Insecticide: Product Tested:

Chisel / Field Cultivator 22 oz. Ignite V4 22 oz. Ignite R2 10 oz. Stratego 3.8 oz. Leverage BECK 284L & BECK 376NL

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

This study evaluates tank-mix applications of Stratego fungicide and Leverage insecticide on BECK 284L and 376NL. Leverage contains Imidacloprid (the active ingredient in Gaucho) and Cyfluthrin (the active ingredient in Baythroid). All applications were made at the R3 growth stage. Bayer CropScience promoted this fungicide and insecticide program company-wide for the 2009 growing season, which guaranteed a grower’s investment be refunded back if the fungicide/insecticide treatment did not increase both yield and returns. The values below represent averages of five replications for each variety and treatment.

Percent Moisture

Bushels† Per Acre

Bu./A. Difference

Net $ Return

Net $ Advantage

BECK 284L Stratego+Leverage

14.3

52.5

+1.8

$471.38

-$12.81

BECK 284L Control

14.4

50.7

BECK 376NL Stratego+Leverage

14.3

69.9

BECK 376NL Control

14.2

62.0

Treatment

$484.19 +7.9

$637.55

+$45.45

$592.10

†

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Costs/A. used were Stratego $15.63/A., $8.87/A. for Leverage, and application cost of $5.50/A.. Soybean price used is $9.55/Bu.

Summary:

BECK 284L received a yield benefit of 1.8 Bu./A., but due to the $30/A. program cost, suffered a net loss of -$12.81/A. Beck 284L suffered high amounts of Sudden Death Syndrome, which could help explain the yield difference and lower response from a fungicide/insecticide application. BECK 376NL received a yield benefit of 7.9 Bu./A. and netted an additional $45.45/A. over and above the controls. The average advantage for applying Stratego and Leverage = 4.9 Bu./A. which netted an additional $32.64/A. This study helps explain that fungicide and insecticide performance can vary based upon soybean varieties, maturity, planting date, weather, and insect or disease pressure.

130

Ethylene Management Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Population: Rows: Previous Crop:

Purpose:

May 25, 2009 October 20, 2009 140,000 Seeds/A. Eight 30” Rows Corn

Tillage: Herbicide: Insecticide: Product Tested:

Chisel / Field Cultivator 32 oz. Credit Extra @ V5 32 oz. Credit Extra @ R2 None BECK 399NR

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in Total 27.1 in.

In this ethylene management study, we are evaluating the impact of treatments which are designed to alter a plants sensitivity to ethylene. Ethylene is a toxic gas that is overproduced by a plant under stress conditions. Invinsa™ crop stress technology is sprayable 1-methylcyclopropene and is used to decrease the plants sensitivity to ethylene. By not responding to ethylene, a soybean plant can prevent flower and pod abortion, extend photosynthesis, and prevent premature leaf senescence which can lead to increased yields. Headline® fungicide is also used in this study as a strobilurin product and as a plant growth regulator. Strobilurins reduce the amounts of ethylene produced within a plant.

Percent Moisture 14.2 14.2 14.6

Bushels* Per Acre 61.4 62.3 64.9

Control Invinsa R3 Headline R3

14.3 14.9 14.7

61.7 71.0 70.2

Control Invinsa R4 Headline R4

14.2 14.5 14.8

62.4 68.1 70.7

Treatment/Growth Stage Control Invinsa R2 Headline R2

+0.9 +3.5

Gross Dollar Return^ $586.37 $594.97 $619.80

+9.3 +8.5

+5.7 +5.6

+/Control

$Advantage

% Yield Increase

$ 8.60 $33.43

1.5% 5.7%

$589.24 $678.05 $670.41

$88.81 $81.18

15.1% 13.8%

$595.92 $650.36 $649.40

$54.43 $53.48

9.1% 9.0%

† Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Soybean price used is $9.55/Bu. Cost of Treatment not used in this study

Summary:

Overall Invinsa applications resulted in an average 5.3 Bu./A. yield increase, while Headline averaged a 5.9 Bu./A. increase. R3 growth stage applications offered the best performance for both products, while R2 offered the lowest response. R3 applications of Invinsa increased yield by 15.1% and applications of Headline 13.8% respectively. Due to Invinsa not being commercially available at this time, pricing is not established. Therefore, cost of treatment is not calculated in this study. However, in our 2009 PFR studies, Headline cost on average is $21.91/A. This would necessitate a 2.3 Bu./A. break-even yield. Headline provided yields above 2.3 Bu./A. in all treatments, while Invinsa provided break-even yields or higher in all treatments except for the early R2 application. More research needs to be done to fully understand the role of ethylene in regard to soybean plant health and yields.

131

Soybean Foliar Fertilizer Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Population: Rows: Previous Crop: Replications:

Purpose:

May 20, 2009 October 13, 2009 150,000 Seeds/A Eight 30” Rows Corn Two (averaged)

Tillage: Herbicide: Fungicide: Product Tested:

Chisel 32 oz. Credit Extra @ V5 32 oz. Credit Extra @ R2 6 oz. Headline Beck 325NR™*

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in Total 27.1 in.

To evaluate two foliar feed fertilizers on Beck 325NR™* soybeans. AgriGuardian Micro Mix is a blend of sugar based chelated micronutrients including Mn, Fe, Cu, B, Mo, and Co, designed to overcome subtle micronutrient deficiencies and to offset any negative effects of post-emergent herbicide use. Agri-Gro Foliar Blend contains micronutrients N, Co, Fe, Mo, and Zn and triggers benefical soil bacteria growth which speeds up the breakdown of crop residue, builds humus, and improves soil structure. Both foliar feed fertilizers were tankmixed with Gylphosate at the V7 growth stage.

Treatment Control^^ AgriGuardian Micro Mix Agri-Gro Foliar Blend Micro Mix+Foliar Blend Combo Average of Two Replications

Bushels* Per Acre 63.7 64.8 64.6 65.7

+/- Control

Cost of Treatment

+1.1 +0.8 +2.0

$2.50 $10.00 $12.50

Net Dollar Return^ $608.34 $616.34 $606.45 $614.94

$ Advantage +$8.00 -$1.89 +$6.60

64.7

†

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Soybean price used is $9.55/Bu. ^^Only one control replication

Summary:

Micro Mix increased yields by 1.1 Bu./A. and returned an additional $8.00/A. AgriGro Foliar Blend showed a 0.8 Bu./A. response, but due to the higher cost of the product, suffered a net loss of -$1.89/A. The combination tank mix of both products gave the highest yield response of 2 Bu./A., and offered a $6.60/A. return on investment. Micro Mix offered a nice yield increase in both individual and tank mix treatments. It also has a really affordable price, which may make it a viable option for producers looking for a micronutrient mix to apply with glyphosate or other post-emerge herbicides.

“I was very pleased with my farm average on soybeans for 2009. I averaged 62.66 bushels per acre over 251 acres. The BECK 399NR and BECK 403NR™* varieties looked good all year. I plan to use 100% Beck’s on all my corn and soybean acres for 2010.” James Schrock Shelbyville, IL

132

Soybean Row Width & Population Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Product Tested:

Purpose:

May 28, 2009 October 13, 2009 Various BECK 325NR™*

Seeding Rate: Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

Various Corn Chisel / Field Cultivator 64 oz. Glyphos Extra

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

In this study, we compared three row widths (15”, 20”, and 30”) at multiple populations to determine net return when additional seed costs are incurred with higher seeding rates. Bushels† Per Acre

Approx. Seed Cost

$ Net Return^

Net Return Rank

66.5 69.1 70.5 71.6 72.6 73.1 71.6 72.5 70.9

$23.75 $31.67 $39.59 $47.50 $55.42 $63.34 $71.26 $79.17 $51.46

$611.32 $628.24 $633.69 $636.28 $637.91 $634.77 $612.52 $613.20 $625.99

8 5 4 2 1 3 7 6

20” ROWS 75,000 100,000 125,000 150,000 175,000 200,000 225,000 250,000 AVERAGE

65.6 67.5 68.2 67.7 69.7 69.4 68.9 68.4 68.2

$23.75 $31.67 $39.59 $47.50 $55.42 $63.34 $71.26 $79.17 $51.46

$602.73 $612.96 $611.72 $599.03 $610.21 $599.43 $586.74 $574.05 $599.61

4 1 2 6 3 5 7 8

30” ROWS 75,000 100,000 125,000 150,000 175,000 200,000 225,000 250,000 AVERAGE

59.3 61.8 62.1 65.4 66.6 68.0 64.4 66.2 64.2

$23.75 $31.67 $39.59 $47.50 $55.42 $63.34 $71.26 $79.17 $51.46

$542.56 $558.52 $553.47 $577.07 $580.61 $586.06 $544.76 $553.04 $561.89

8 4 5 3 2 1 7 6

Planted Population 15” ROWS 75,000 100,000 125,000 150,000 175,000 200,000 225,000 250,000 AVERAGE

† Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Soybean price used is $9.55/Bu. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

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Soybean Row Width & Population Study – Continued

Summary:

Considering all plant populations, 15” rows averaged 70.9 Bu./A. and out yielded 20” and 30” rows by 2.7 and 6.7 Bu./A. respectively. 15” rows received the highest yield at 200,000 population, but after the figuring the cost of seed, 175,000 population obtained the highest return on investment. Six year data would suggest that 150,000 population on average is the most economic planting rate. 20” rows were very consistent, only varying 4.1 Bu./A. in all populations, but received the highest yield of 69.7 Bu./A. at 175,000 population. Due to low yield differences and consistent yields, 100,000 population obtained the highest return on investment. 30” rows varied 8.7 Bu./A. in all populations and received the highest yield of 68 Bu./A. at 200,000 seeds/A. This yield was high enough to justify the higher seed cost and obtained the highest return on investment for this row width. Six year data would suggest that 200,000 population on average is an economic planting rate. This seems very high for 30” rows, but it has been a trend that has been noticeable in Illinois PFR trials. All three row widths received the highest yields at the 175,000 to 200,000 population level, but only the 30” rows had their most economic return at that rate. In comparing all three row widths at their best economic planting rates, 15” rows returned an additional $24.95/A. compared to 20” rows, and $51.85/A. compared to 30” rows.

“Beck’s has a great program when it comes to their seed treatment. This treatment protects against a lot of secondary pests that we don’t necessarily have time to go and scout for every day. It’s like an extra insurance on your seed. Also helps to establish your stand because no matter what the stand, your input cost will remain the same. This helps to get a great stand the first time around.” Mike Swackhamer Anderson, IN

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Soybean Planting Date Study – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate:

Various Various Four 30” rows 165,000 seeds/A.

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide:

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

To evaluate different planting dates of BECK 244NR™* and BECK 325NR™* during April, May, June and July. This enables us to see how planting dates affect soybean yield on an annual basis, as well as multi-year averages. The July planting date is used to simulate double crop soybeans in wheat.

Purpose:

Brand BECK 244NR™* BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

Bushels† Per Acre 64.2 81.4 72.8

April 24 April 24

BECK 244NR™* BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

65.2 72.0 68.6

May 11 May 11

BECK 244NR™* BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

68.2 70.9 69.6

May 24 May 24

BECK 244NR™* BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

64.9 67.8 66.4

June 3 June 3

BECK 244NR™* BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

61.1 64.4 62.8

June 15 June 15

BECK 244NR™* BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

54.1 47.3 50.7

June 22 June 22

BECK 244NR™* BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

41.4 44.1 42.8

July 10 July 10

BECK 244NR™* BECK 325NR™* AVERAGE

23.2 17.4 20.3

Planting Date April 17 April 17

Corn Chisel / Field Cultivator 32 oz. Glyphos Extra V6 and R2

†

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

Summary:

This year Beck 325NR™* came ready to play with 81.4 Bu./A. at the first planting date of April 17 and yields fell by an average of 1.5 Bu./week thereafter to June 15. Beck 244NR™* was very consistent with yields ranging only 4 Bu./A. from April 17 thru May 24. Over the past 5 years in central Illinois, soybean yields have been on average the highest during the 4th week of April to the 1st week of May. Yields have been stable thru April and May until planting dates exceed the 1st week of June. After the 1st week of June, yields have averaged a 19.8% yield decrease and fell 7.4% per week on average thereafter, excluding all double-crop planting dates. The July 10th planting represents a simulation of double crop soybeans and yields ranged from 17 to 23 Bu./A. BECK 325NR™*, a later maturing soybean, yielded 5.8 Bu./A. less than Beck 244NR™* due to multiple small frost events.

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Manganese Study – 2009 RAINFALL Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate:

Purpose:

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Product Tested:

May 26, 2009 October 13, 2009 Eight 30” rows 165,000 seeds/A.

April May June July August Total

10.0 in. 4.9 in. 4.6 in. 4.0 in. 3.6 in. 27.1 in.

To evaluate a foliar manganese application on soybeans. In this trial we are foliar applying MAN-GRO DF foliar manganese at a rate of 3 lbs./A. MAN-GRO DF, from Tetra Micro-Nutrients, is a highly concentrated water soluble manganese powder designed for foliar application to treat Glyphosate Induced Manganese Deficiency (GMID). Man-Gro in this study was applied as a tank mix with normal glyphosate applications and then evaluated as an additional stand alone treatment 10 days after the glyphosate application.

Treatment Roundup Roundup + MAN-GRO DF MAN-GRO DF 10 Days after Roundup Application

Bushels Per Acre† 67.4 68.2 68.8

† Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Soybean price used is $9.55/Bu. Man-Gro cost = $2.10/lb. Application Cost = $5.50/A.

Summary:

Corn Chisel / Field Cultivator 32 oz. Glyphos Extra BECK 322NR™*

Bu./A. +/- Control

Cost of Treatment ----$6.30 $11.80

0.8 1.4

Net $ Return^ $643.67 $645.01 $645.24

+/- Control $1.34 $1.57

MAN-GRO foliar applications tank-mixed with glyphosate increased yield by less than 1 Bu./A. Treatments 10 days after the glyphosate application resulted in increased yields of 1.4 Bu./A. After the cost of the foliar manganese and/or application, manganese treatments resulted in minimal returns.

Optimize® Study on Soybeans – 2009 Planted: Harvested: Rows: Seeding Rate: Replications: Purpose:

†

Control Optimize® AVERAGE

Previous Crop: Tillage: Herbicide: Product Tested:

May 25, 2009 October 1, 2009 Eight 30” rows 150,000 seeds/A. Three (averaged)

RAINFALL April 10.0 in. May 4.9 in. June 4.6 in. July 4.0 in. August 3.6 in. Total 27.1 in.

Corn Chisel / Field Cultivator 32 oz. Credit Extra BECK 287NR™*

To study the performance of Optimize seed treatment on soybeans. Optimize is a unique seed applied product that enhances natural growth processes essentially enabling soybeans to achieve full genetic potential by maximizing crop performance all season long. Optimize contains a Bradyrhizobium japonicum inoculant along with a LCO Promoter Technology that is a naturally occurring molecule (Lipo-chitooligosaccharide) that advances both root and shoot development and improves plant health independently of soil conditions. The result of this is healthier soybean plants that can withstand environmental stresses throughout the season. Bushels† Per Acre 66.1 67.1 1.0

Net Return^ $631.26 $636.89

+/Control

Beck's IL PFR 6 yr Optimize Study: $Net Return/Acre $14.0 $12.0 $10.0

+$5.64

Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return based on $9.55 per bushel soybeans and Optimize Treatment cost at $3.39/unit Optimize is a registered trademark of EMD Crop BioScience, Inc. *XL Brand is distributed by Beck’s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

$8.0 $6.0 $4.0 $2.0 $0.0 2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

Optimize

Summary:

Optimize seed treatments increased yield by 1.0 Bu./A. which led to an increased net return of $5.96/A. This is the sixth year in a row that Optimize seed treatments have increased net return. The six year average net return increase is $7.20/A.

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BECK’S CROP HEALTH IMAGING PROJECT - 2009 Becks Practical Farm Research evaluated the use of Crop Health Imaging in both growing seasons of 2008 and 2009. Beck’s Crop Health Imaging Program uses aerial photography and light source reflectance to give georeferenced crop health images. Airplanes with Crop Health Imaging cameras are used to acquire digital, infrared, and near-infrared aerial pictures of crops. When used appropriately, this remote sensing with aerial imagery can reveal a great deal about soil and crop conditions. The “birds eye” view an aerial image provides combined with field knowledge allows growers to better understand factors that affect yield. This technology enhances the ability to be proactive and identify site-specific problematic areas before yield loss possibly occurs. Crop Health Imaging identifies variability in crop health and biomass which can be used to pinpoint crop stressors and accurately have the ability to monitor crop health and yield. Beck’s Crop Health Imaging offers accurate detail by utilizing imagery at one meter resolution. The following is an overview of the some of the farms that participated with Beck’s Crop Health Imaging Program: Farm 1.

This field of soybeans in McLean County, IL was imaged (Figure 1.) on September 23, 2009. In this particular field, both Stratego and Headline fungicide were applied at the R3 growth stage. Beck’s Crop Health Imaging was able to very accurately reveal where the control (no spray) and where each fungicide product was applied. Each control is one full width of the grower’s 90’ field sprayer. The GPS yield map (Figure 2.) indicates that the Crop Health Image not only revealed crop health variability, but that the variability led to a yield difference. By predicting potential yield differences while the crop is actively growing, a grower could better manage additional inputs or perhaps the grain marketed.

-9.7 Bu./A -9.3 Bu./A

Figure 1. Crop Health Image

Figure 2. GPS Yield Map

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Farm 2.

This farm was a corn fungicide trial that tested both the efficacy of both Quilt and Headline fungicides. As depicted in the crop health image, there were four corn hybrids planted in this field. Notice the detailed resolution indicating where each hybrid is planted in the field. The corn was planted east and west, while the fungicide was sprayed north and south. This enabled both fungicides to be applied to all four corn hybrids. The crop health image revealed that the area sprayed with Headline appeared to have better plant health than the Quilt application.

HEADLINE FUNGICIDE

QUILT FUNGICIDE

DK 64-24

BECK 6733HXR™* BECK 5608VT3

DK 63-42

The next three farms are corn fields that experienced wind damage from August storms. Farm 3 is shown with the NDVI (normalized difference in vegetative index) map on the left and the NIR (near-infrared) map on the right. The NDVI is created to reveal somewhat of a “yield map” with red, yellow, and green colors depicted varying levels of crop health. The NIR map breaks the crop health image into a different light spectrum and shows in detail where the wind damage is in this field. The light “blue” areas on the NIR map reflect exactly where the corn suffered the worst wind damage. Notice the “streaking” on both images. The grower in this field indicated that they spring field cultivated this farm in wet field conditions. The center of the streaks is where the tractor drove thru the field, causing soil compaction and density layers. As a result, the corn had shallow roots and suffered more significant wind damage.

138

Farm 3.

Farm 4.

Farm 5 experienced wind damage in the southwest corner of the field to the north. Again notice the clear and accurate resolution revealing where the “down” corn is located within this field.

139

Farm 5.

This farm in Ford County, Illinois was planted to 6733HXR™* and the east half was sprayed with 6 oz./A. of Headline fungicide. The crop health image clearly shows a plant health difference between the control and the Headline treated acres.

CONTROL

Farm 6.

HEADLINE FUNGICIDE

This farm was also sprayed with Headline fungicide. The corn was planted in a north to south direction and the fungicide was sprayed east to west across the corn rows.

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Farm 6.

This is a farm where the grower and Beck’s DSM were able to isolate areas of nitrogen applicator malfunction. The streaking on this map reveals where the anhydrous applicator had a plugged ammonia knife.

Plugged NH3 Knife

Beck 6733RRTM* Plugged NH3 Knife

Beck 6733HXR™*

Farm 7.

This farm shows competitor products in Headline and Quilt fungicides. This was sprayed at VT growth stage with a ground applicator. In evaluating GPS yield data, fungicide performance ranged from 7-18 Bu./A. Beck’s Crop Health Imaging isolated each of the treatments to the very row, showing the differences in plant health.

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In summary, year two of our testing with remote sensing proved that Beck’s Crop Health Imaging can reveal areas of both high and low yield environments with a very high level of accuracy. Combined with ground-truthing and scouting, imaging can be an excellent approach to monitoring fields during the growing season.

The main question with this type of technology is “How do I use this Information”? This technology could be used for the following agronomic practices: • • • • • • • • • •

Management zone creation for soil testing Prescription recommendations such as variable rate planting or fertilizer Tile mapping or exploration Nutrient monitoring such as nitrogen management Hybrid performance Manure management Scouting Moisture stress management Equipment evaluation Yield estimation prior to harvest

Beck’s Crop Health Imaging combines the benefits of a sound agronomic program along with economic affordability. Beck’s is currently evaluating farmer interest to determine future plans for working with farmers to utilize Crop Health Imaging.

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BECK’S SOYBEAN FUNGICIDE PROJECT - 2009

Beck’s Hybrids Practical Farm Research conducted soybean fungicide research trials throughout Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky. These fungicide trials were developed to analyze the performance of fungicides at growth stages of R2 through R4. Weather data was collected at each trial site to monitor leaf wetness, humidity, temperature, and rainfall using a weather station shown in Figure 1. Over 30 Beck’s Hybrid’s customers participated in this study, allowing PFR to expand fungicide research to a greater capacity.

Figure 1. Beck’s Hybrid’s Weather Station

The protocol for this study required each trial site to spray a fungicide beginning at R2 growth stage. Thereafter, fungicide applications were made weekly through the R4 growth stage. Products used in this study were Headline®, a strobulurin fungicide manufactured by BASF, and Stratego®, a strobulurin/triazole combination fungicide manufactured by Bayer CropScience. As producers made weekly fungicide applications, weather data was summarized and calculated for a period of seven days for each treatment, with the spray date being the nucleus. Yields of each week’s treatment were then calculated and compared for general fungicide performance and correlation to any weather variables at 32 locations. Typical fungicide costs in Beck’s 2009 studies averaged $16.40/A. Combined with $5.50/A. ground application cost, break-even yields for fungicides were 2.3 Bu./A., considering $9.55/Bu. soybeans. Evaluating all thirty two locations in our four state study, (Figure 2.) highest fungicide gains for both fungicide products occurred at the R2 growth stage with average yield increases of 2.4 Bu./A., falling just over break-even yields.

R3 applications gave similar yield responses of 2.2 Bu./A. and R4

fungicide applications only saw yield increases of 1.4 Bu./A., thus both growth stages encountered

143

negative returns on investment. Indiana showed R2 applications proved more positive, while Illinois and the Southern location resulted in more profitable returns at R3 growth stage.

2009 RESULTS 32 LOCATION AVERAGE

locations (Figure 2.) and all three growth stages

Leaf Wetness Avg / Day

LEAF WETNESS: YIELD 20.0

3

averaged very high levels of 9.8, 10.8 and 11.3

2.5

hours/day, indicating that the soybean leaves in

2

15.0

Leaf wetness data was analyzed at all trial

the canopy were in fact wet for a lengthy period of

1.5 10.0 1 5.0 0.0 R2

R3 Growth Stage

Leaf Wetness Yield

the day. The purpose of evaluating leaf wetness

0.5

values is to determine if high leaf moisture levels in

0

the canopy could be an indicator of a favorable

R4 (32) LOCATIONS

environment for leaf disease outbreaks.

Figure 2. Four State Average Fungicide Yields

Leaf wetness values were very high on average and did not differ much from each growth stage. Disease levels on average were very low and few reports indicated that leaf diseases were apparent. Illinois reported areas of Sclerotinia White Mold disease, and one trial location was lost due to the variability that the disease caused. Overall, even though moisture levels were very high in most trial locations, disease pressure was very low. Low average daily temperatures may have been the reason

Figure 3. Leaf Wetness Sensor and Data Logger

why more leaf diseases did not develop in the high moisture conditions. Both temperature and moisture are two components of the disease triangle, but temperature was not normal due to a record cool summer. With leaf wetness values as high as they were this year, what growth stage was most beneficial to spray a fungicide? Given low variation of leaf wetness and the general high levels, R2 and R3 growth stages outperformed R4 in most situations. Although overall average leaf wetness values from our weather stations did not indicate the ideal time to spray a soybean fungicide, certain trial locations did in fact reveal that leaf wetness could possibly be a factor in determining when or if to a spray a soybean fungicide. Figure 4 shows a trial location in East Central Illinois where Stratego was sprayed from R2 – R4 growth stages. Dry soil conditions persisted in the early R2 growth stages with leaf wetness values averaging only 3 hours/day. However, as rainfall and leaf wetness levels increased to nearly 10 hours/day, yields were elevated near 2.5 Bu./A.

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East Central Illinois Trial Location

Another trial location in Kentucky revealed similar yield results (Figure 5.) where the highest leaf wetness values occurred during the R3 growth stage. Yields in this study ranged from 5 – 12.2 Bu./A., with R3 offering the highest yield response from Headline fungicide. Very few trial locations offered stressful environments due to droughty conditions. However, Figure 6 illustrates a study located in Ohio that revealed very dry conditions during the R3 and

Figure 4. East Central Illinois Trial Location

R4 growth stages. As Stratego fungicide applications were

applied during these dry stages, no yield response was noted. As rainfall entered into the R4 growth

Kentucky Trial Location

stage, fungicide application were in fact able to increase yields up to 3 Bu./A. This is a prime example of how weather and/or environmental conditions can factor into leaf disease and fungicide application management.

Figure 5. Kentucky Trial Location

Currently, more research needs to be done to fully realize the correlation, if any, between leaf diseases, weather data, and fungicide yield response. This study in Beck’s Practical Farm Research shows that work is being evaluated to determine the value and economics of soybean fungicide applications. Thank you to the many Beck’s Dealers, Customers, and District Sales Managers who participated in this project. Figure 6. Ohio Soybean Fungicide Response to Rainfall

W

hen I started Brown Seed Enterprises, Inc. in 1983, I quickly discovered that Southern Illinois was largely being ignored by plant breeders and genetic providers. This fact lead my company down the path of building an extensive research and testing program dedicated to the more challenging Southern Illinois growing environment. In June of 2009, Brown Seed Enterprises, Inc. and Beck’s Superior Hybrids formed a long-term alliance. With this alliance, Beck’s is handling all of Brown’s former sales and marketing operations under the Beck’s brand, and Brown is focusing all of its efforts on research and production for Beck’s behalf. Beck’s has shown its dedication to Southern Illinois with this alliance, and Dennis Brown recognizes the need to continue and build upon the research efforts that Southern Illinois Brown started twenty-six years ago. PFR Director I am very excited about the new Beck’s Southern Illinois PFR Site at Brown’s Neoga facility. This allows me to devote more time to my passion of research and discovery, and the opportunity to make a positive impact on your bottom line. This PFR location will focus on corn, soybean, and wheat studies, including various treatments, row widths, populations, stress mitigation, fertility management, soil management, and high yield attempts. In addition, we are welcome to your ideas for research studies. I don’t know of any other seed company putting this kind of effort into Southern Illinois, and I am proud to serve with Beck’s first-class staff and fellow PFR directors. Our goal is to increase your profitability!