Use Response-to-Fungicide Scores to Make Data-Based Decisions

One of the considerations you may approach differently this year is fungicide applications. When deciding which acres to spray and which products to use, response-to fungicide (RTF) scores can help you make tailored, hybrid-specific choices based on years of reliable yield data.
 

The Value of RTF Scores 

RTF scores are based on randomized, replicated research trials conducted at WinField^® United Answer Plot^® locations where more than 200 hybrids are tested each year, including every hybrid in the CROPLAN^® lineup as well as many in our partners’ lineups and even those of competitors. Each hybrid is managed two different ways: one group receives a fungicide application, and one does not. Then, yield data of the two groups is compared to delineate the exact difference between treated and non-treated acres.
 
This yield data allows us to determine how a hybrid responds to fungicide, which determines its score. Unlike typical disease ratings that are widely available and largely anecdotal, RTF scores are based on reliable yield data. They can be considered on their own to make specific decisions or can be considered alongside other response-to scores, such as response-to population, response-to nitrogen and response-to continuous corn for a more comprehensive plan of attack.
 

Using RTF Scores In-Season 

RTF scores not only help you determine which acres to spray, they can also help you determine which fungicides to choose. About 10-15 different fungicides are sprayed each year at Answer Plot locations to evaluate their performance. One of the questions I get most often from growers is which fungicide to spray: a premium or standard product? That’s when I turn to RTF scores. Hybrids with high RTF scores respond greatly to a fungicide application, which means you’re likely to see a satisfactory return if you treat those acres, and it’s a good idea to invest in a premium product. Those with low- to medium-RTF scores will likely result in a smaller yield advantage, so you can get away with a lower cost option.
 

Maximize Performance With MasterLock

Once you’ve decided to make an application and have chosen your product, it’s important to ensure the spray droplet will reach the target and get the job done. MasterLock^® Adjuvant is a drift and deposition aid that’s been proven to increase corn yields by an average of 5.7 bushels/acre when tank mixed with a fungicide. Especially when making aerial applications, it’s critical to do everything possible to get the spray to the ear leaf.
 

Enhance Hybrid Decisions With RTF Scores

RTF scores can also be a helpful factor to consider when making hybrid selections for next season. For example, if you’re planning to have some non-rotated acres, you know they’ll be facing more disease pressure. In those instances, it’s recommended to select hybrids with a lower RTF score because it indicates more natural disease tolerance. If you do choose a higher RTF, be sure to account for higher fungicide costs in your budget.
 
RTF scores are a reliable, helpful tool to use for both in-season management decisions and hybrid selections. To learn the RTF scores of your hybrids and discuss potential strategies, talk with your agronomist today!