Breaking Barriers with R&D

How do you choose the right hybrids, maximize yield potential and make better decisions with your harvest data? On this episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, Randy Dowdy and David Hula welcome Alex Peterson of Pioneer to discuss the science and strategy behind higher-yielding crops. The conversation explores phantom yield loss in corn, the impact of harvest moisture on test weight, and why yield monitor data doesn't always tell the whole story. Peterson also shares insights on evaluating hybrid performance, using paired comparison trials, managing disease pressure and understanding the role of genetics in yield stability. Plus, the group discusses the future of seed technology, including multi-disease resistance, faster emergence and the importance of looking beyond yield when selecting hybrids. From better data collection to smarter management decisions, this episode offers practical insights to help farmers unlock more yield potential and improve ROI.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Breaking Barriers, Randy Dowdy and David Hula discuss the decisions that can make or break a growing season, from establishing successful cover crops to selecting the right corn hybrids for next year. The conversation covers cover crop planting methods, managing weed pressure, and why proper seed-to-soil contact matters. Randy and David also share lessons from this year's hybrid performance, explaining why farmers should evaluate on-farm strip trials, compare seed brands, and avoid putting too much acreage into unproven hybrids. Plus, they discuss tightening wheat seed supplies, changing grain market conditions, harvest results, and the importance of making informed marketing decisions. As harvest season ramps up, Randy shares a personal accident that serves as a powerful reminder to prioritize safety around farm equipment and in the field. Tune in for practical insights on managing risk, making smarter agronomic decisions, and staying safe during one of the busiest times of the year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Randy Dowdy and David Hula sit down for another wide-ranging conversation about harvest, crop performance and the lessons they’re taking into next season. With corn harvest underway, the pair discuss strong yields, genetics and fungicide performance, managing grain handling challenges and what this year’s crop is teaching them. They also dive into an intriguing question: Can wheat be planted with a precision planter instead of a traditional grain drill to improve depth control and emergence? Randy and David explore 15-inch-row wheat, singulation, starter fertilizer, biological products and the potential impact of more uniform emergence and tillering. The conversation also looks ahead to 2027, including wheat and double-crop soybean opportunities, phosphorus management, grain sorghum, equipment decisions and the importance of challenging conventional thinking. Plus, Randy shares updates from the deer operation, including fawn vaccinations, weaning and the challenges of handling mature bucks. From harvest headaches to new planting strategies, this episode is all about learning from the field, testing new ideas and finding the next opportunity to push yields and profitability forward.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Potassium is often overlooked compared with nitrogen, but it plays a critical role in water management, nutrient movement, photosynthesis, stalk strength and overall crop performance. In this episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, Randy Dowdy and David Hula are joined by Dr. Karl Wyatt, Director of Agronomy at Nutrien, for a deep dive into potassium and potash management. The discussion covers soil testing, base saturation vs. parts-per-million measurements, fertilizer sources including potash, potassium sulfate and potassium nitrate, application timing, chloride sensitivity, variable-rate applications and the role of potassium in nitrogen-use efficiency. The group also explores how high-yield growers can use yield maps and soil fertility data to build more customized fertility programs for their farms. As growers begin making fertility decisions for 2027, this conversation offers practical insight into how potassium fits into a complete nutrient-management strategy—and why understanding what's already in your soil is the first step. Breaking Barriers with R&D is hosted by Randy Dowdy and David Hula and focuses on the agronomic practices, technology and management strategies helping growers push yield and improve ROI.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Randy Dowdy and David Hula dive into the challenges farmers are seeing in the field, from long and drooping ear shanks to inconsistent planting depth and hybrid performance. They discuss why farmers should look beyond yield when selecting seed, the importance of planter setup and emergence, and how harvest timing, soybean maturity and desiccation can help protect yield and grain quality. Plus, the two share insights from recent field visits across the Midwest and Southeast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.