January 17, 2008

ASA and BASF invite soy growers for field trial programmes

The American Soybean Association (ASA) and BASF Corporation are currently encouraging soy producers to sign up for the 2008 Secure Optimal Yield (SOY) Field Trials programme.

More than 100 growers across the US joined the 2007 SOY programme to reap greater profits. Many of whom used the methods and products described in the programme to conduct their own "unofficial" field trials.

The SOY program allows producers to make use of the the latest knowledge to their soy crop.

Farmers and researchers previously thought that 100 bushels/acre is beyond the limits of soy yields. Yet, ASA member Kip Cullers, who set another new world record for soy production last year with a yield of 154.74 bushels/acre, said ultra high yields are well within reach of many growers.

Cullers explained that the two most important things a farmer can do to maximize yield is to pay attention to plant genetics and be proactive about protecting his crop from diseases.

Cullers' progressive approach to farming and his focus on innovative products has not only helped him achieve record-breaking yields, but has shown other growers that soy possess far more genetic yield potential than people thought.

Participants in the 2008 Secure Optimal Yield Field Trials programme must be members of ASA. The association is offering a free one-year membership (approximate value US$70.00) when growers sign up for the programme.