The U.S. produced more than 4 billion bushels of soybeans in 2023. A major threat to soybean production is soybean cyst nematode (SCN)—estimated at $1.5 billion in U.S. yield loss annually.1 Nematodes, like SCN, feed on the roots during root development. Plant growth, and ultimately yield, is a direct reflection of crop health during development, and management is essential for growers.
Invisible Destruction
With stunted root development, the root loses the ability absorb water, nutrients, and minerals important to plant vigor and stand establishment. Soybean plants produce fewer root nodules to synthesize nitrogen, negatively impacting overall crop health and making the crop even more susceptible to other soil-borne plant pathogens. Nematodes also vector a host of diseases that can further negatively impact the plant’s already weakened immune system.
What You See, When It’s Too Late
The most challenging part of combatting SCN is that the impact of this early season infestation doesn’t show up until plants emerge. Growers may notice fewer plants during emergence, followed by yellow spots on leaves and lower plant height. The final diagnosis of SCN requires soil testing. Once present in the soil, the battle is just beginning as SCN eggs stay intact for several years affecting future crops.
Fighting Back
The best line of defense for battling SCN includes is leveraging a seed treatment that will not only protect your yield, but also increase it. Tidal Grow® GENMAX® is a biologically based seed treatment that protects roots during early growth and boosts germination. Thanks to its compatibility, incorporating GENMAX into existing seed enhancement programs can improve the bottom line.
GENMAX seed treatment utilizes chitosan, a naturally occurring active ingredient that Tidal Grow AgriScience upcycles from seafood byproducts. In addition to its sustainable source, chitosan’s unique properties make it safe for seeds and applicators2, a sharp contrast to many traditional options. Tidal Grow AgriScience leverages the many benefits of chitosan to precisely formulate GENMAX for compatibility, direct pathogen control, and elicitor effects.
Key Benefits
Sharpen Seed Treatment Programs
Beyond its specific SCN-fighting qualities, GENMAX works with other active ingredients to serve as a biostimulant. It is compatible with other seed treatments, and this sharpening effect can provide enhanced efficacy.
Ease of Use
GENMAX is formulated for an ultra-low use rate at just 0.1 fl oz/CWT. With such a low rate, GENMAX can easily be incorporated into seed treatment slurries. Additionally, using GENMAX with your existing mix require no additional personal protection equipment (PPE) or safety concerns for applicators2. The active ingredient in GENMAX, chitosan, was recently designated as Safer Choice by the EPA.3
Natural boost
Compared to its traditional counterparts, GENMAX offers a secondary unique mode of action that fortifies plant defense mechanisms to support a healthier crop. In fact, introducing GENMAX to the plant early triggers natural plant responses, promoting resilient crops with increased tolerance to abiotic stress.
Results
On its own, GENMAX has proven its ability to reduce nematodes and nematode eggs. When paired with standard treatments, the results are further multiplied, reducing female nematodes per root by 35% (Fig. 1).
Not All Chitosan is Created Equal
Chitosan has several uses across industries—beyond agriculture. Chitosan formulations can vary widely, and, if not formulated properly, can actually promote pest and pathogen pressure. Simply using any chitosan-based product will not produce the same results. GENMAX is precisely formulated to maximize the impact and efficacy.
Return on Investment
GENMAX has demonstrated a reduced risk of yield loss from SCN at or below the cost of traditional seed treatments. The added benefits of GENMAX induces a yield bump by enhancing overall treatment programs and increasing the natural immunity of the crop. Seed professionals can lead the way in management by incorporating a new approach to seed treatment.For more information, contact Levi Tipton, Seed Treatment Account Manager at Levi.Tipton@tidalgrowag.com or (515) 321-9274.
1“New Data-Based Calculator Estimates Economic Yield Loss from SCN in Individual Fields | Integrated Crop Management.” Iastate.edu, 2023, crops.extension.iastate.edu/cropnews/2023/11/new-data-based-calculator-estimates-economic-yield-loss-scn-individual-fields. Accessed 18 Oct. 2024.
2 Low classification of EPA approval (i.e. Caution signal word) requiring minimal PPE to handle.
3 Safe when used as directed. Chitosan, the active ingredient in GENMAX, designated Safer Choice by EPA in 2024.
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