Welcome to the 2011 Practical Farm Research results publication. Before

Transcription

1 Welcome to the 2011 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 2010 to September 2011) of our local markets near our four 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. Corn... $5.90 per bushel (Waxy corn premium... $0.70 per bushel) Soybeans... $12.75 per bushel (Vistive Soybean premium... $0.55 per bushel) Drying costs... $0.04 per point of moisture per bushel 28% nitrogen... $330 per ton Other costs and inputs specific to a study will be listed on the page of the study. The Summary Comparison pages near the front of this book contain data from Farmer Plots, Beck s PFR and Replicated testing, and University and third party testing. You may obtain copies and/or view the individual farmer plots in the following ways: Visit our website research or contact Beck s main office at Base Nitrogen rates used in our corn studies are as follows: CIN SIN CIL SIL 1st Year Corn: 220 lbs. 175 lbs. 175 lbs. 175 lbs. Corn After Corn: 220 lbs. 230 lbs. 230 lbs. 200 lbs or your District Sales Manager for a printed copy or a CD containing farmer plots for specific regions that are of interest.

2 Central Indiana PFR Review At the Central Indiana Practical Farm Research location we got the first planting date entry planted on March 31st. The 8 plus inches of rain that we received in April kept us from planting until May 9th. Even though it rained 18 days in May we were able to plant around the rain and plant 90% of the corn plots and over 88% of the soybean plots at the CINPFR location. While we dodged the rain in May, the month of June brought many challenges for the crop and getting field work completed. Once again June left its mark, especially in the 300 Bushel plot area where we had a significant amount of water standing for over thirty-six hours. This moisture affected the 300 Bushel plot area to the point that we had four pumps pumping water off the fields. After the June 20th, rain we had to replant beans and had the challenge of getting double crop beans drilled in the mud. Although rain events were frequent and challenging early in the spring and summer, the crop yields still looked to be very favorable in The extremely dry and hot spell that we had in July did the most damage to the crop yields by affecting its ability to pollinate. The timely late season rains that we received in August helped the soybean pods to fill out. The crops grew rapidly with the amount of heat that we received this summer. We would have liked more rain in July to help the corn pollinate and fill ears. Even with the adverse weather conditions, we have had very good yields. We started corn harvest by hitting Bu./A with Ex 2060 (6175 Genetics) along with having soybeans hit yields of 90 Bu./A. The beans dried down early and we were able to harvest them while the corn was drying in the field. Harvest started on September 22nd and the last corn plot was harvested on October 25th. There are several key studies to observe as you take a look through this year s results. A few corn studies not to miss are the Nitrogen Utilization Study, 300 Bushel Attempt, Corn Nitrogen Rate Studies, Corn Population and Row Width Study and the Sub-Irrigation study. Make sure to browse through soybean research studies such as 100 Bushel Attempt, Escalate vs. Untreated, Foliar Fungicide study, and the Drowned out vs. Replant study. Be sure to take a look at all four PFR locations data along with wheat data and the multi-location data in the back section of this PFR book. Enjoy reading this year s research 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 PFR Review The 2011 crop year at the Southern IN PFR farm actually began in the fall of 2010 with wheat being planted on October 14th into very dry conditions. Rains in early November allowed wheat to germinate, but dry conditions persisted throughout most of the winter. Rainfall in March helped to replenish soil moisture. Our first corn planting date entry was on March 28th. Two more studies were planted on April 7th & 8th. A sudden change in the weather pattern resulted in over 10 inches of rainfall in April; delaying the planting of nearly all our corn studies this year. Corn planting resumed on May 10 and continued through May 13th. Two soybean studies were also planted on May 11th. Another rainfall event interrupted planting on May 14th. Field work soon resumed, and we finished planting corn and first crop soybeans on May 18th and 19th respectively.

3 Rainfall continued to delay field work through the rest of May. The first week of June saw the completion of most of the side-dressing in corn. On June 5th, a significant hail event struck the farm resulting in stand losses in any corn planted in March and April; most of which was at the V7-V8 growth stage. The May planted corn, ranging from the V3 V5 growth stages, fared much better. Although post herbicide applications were delayed until the damage could be evaluated, this presented us with the rare opportunity to test the effectiveness of foliar fungicides on hail damaged corn. Wheat harvest began on June 10th. Rainfall continued to plague wheat harvest, which wrapped up on June 21st. Double-crop soybeans were planted into heavy conditions on June 24th. The remainder of June and the first week of July saw intermitted thunderstorms with high winds that resulted in at least 4 different green snap events in the Fort Branch area. July 12th witnessed the significant rainfall event of the month. Dry weather continued until August 6th, when a much needed 3 inch rainfall event took place. The Southern Indiana Field Show was held on August 11th and attended by yet another recorded setting crowd. We would like to thank everyone who came out and helped make that day such a great success! Harvest began on September 6th. Corn harvest resumed on Sept. 13th and continued through October 6th. Overall corn yields were average to slightly below average, but considering the delay in planting, late summer heat, and number of excessive wind events that hit the farm this year, we were pleased with the outcome. First crop soybeans were harvested between September 30th and October 12th. Double crop soybeans were harvested on October 12th and 24th. Soybean yields were surprisingly high this year. Although we experienced record heat in July and limited rainfall during that time, the soil moisture reserves that were in place were adequate to carry the soybean crop until timely rains fell in August and September. Double crop yields were some of the highest that have been recorded over the past seven years at the Fort Branch farm. We hope that the information presented in this publication will help our customers in accessing the many different agronomic practices that could be implemented on their farms. Feel free to contact us at any time with questions or ideas for studies that you would like to see tested in the future! Central Illinois PFR Review At the Central Illinois Practical Farm Research Center, 2011 was a very challenging year, but overall we ended up with some excellent yields. As spring roared in, April rainfall totaled 7.39 which did not allow for too many corn planting days. Once the weather improved, much of the corn in Central Illinois finally got planted from May 5th - 20th in good dry conditions. However, temperatures dropped in late May and heavy rains slowed planting down and even offered some replant situations in both corn and soybeans. Our fear at that point was that the rains would shut off and we would be dry after a wet spring. As July and August arrived, our fears were realized with very hot temperatures and only 1.36 and 1.24 of rain for each respective month. This did cause severe stress on both the corn and soybean crops, but what rain we did receive saved the crop and allowed for some very good yields. Corn yields averaged near 200 Bu./A. at CILPFR with a range of Bu./A.! Beck s corn hybrids managed the heat and dry weather very well and it was amazing to see such a large crop considering the adverse weather that we endured.

4 Soybean yields were excellent as well this year and it was very common to see yields ranging from Bu./A. on many acres. These high yields in soybeans prove that soybeans do not like wet saturated soils during the growing season. Leaf diseases were virtually eliminated with the dry heat and insect pressure was low, other than a few locations that encountered high bean leaf beetle populations. All in all, 2011 once again had its weather challenges, but it was a very exciting year for Beck s Practical Farm Research. Our PFR team continues to test agronomic studies that our customers find valuable and even expanded research to obtain some on-farm customer testing. We hope you enjoy our agronomic research results and I look forward to hosting meetings throughout the winter months explaining and showcasing our PFR data. Southern Illinois PFR Review We had a successful season at the Southern Illinois PFR Farm, but got off to a late start. The dry fall of 2010 gave us the opportunity to perform deep ripping across the farm to relieve compaction issues. The late winter and spring of 2011 was very wet, and fields that were ripped the previous fall did not want to dry enough for field traffic. This condition, along with frequent rain events, prevented us from planting until May 19th. All corn studies were planted in a three day window, but the rains started again and created the need for some of the studies to be replanted on the first available opportunity on June 3rd. The soybean studies were also planted at that time. Rains continued through June and July, making nitrogen and other treatment applications challenging. August saw a hot and dry pattern. The heat caused some pollination issues and a fair amount of tip-back. Shallow root systems and two wind events in August created some lodging issues, especially in the later planted corn. Much needed rains returned in September, giving the later planted crops a real boost. Overall, corn and soybean yields were respectable, and generated a very good data set. Wheat yields on the farm were tremendous. The rain events missed the critical pollination time, and levels of fusarium were very low. Double-crop soybean studies were not planted until July 7 due to muddy conditions, and even then planting conditions were far from good. The late crop and late rains were a great combination; however, double-crop yields were some of the best we have seen at this location on the northern edge of the double-cropping zone. We feel we have a great set of data for you, and hope you can use it to be more profitable. As always, we are open and interested in your ideas for future studies.

5 Strong Past. Strong Future. Chances are you have a strong old chain on your farm that has been passed down from generation to generation. You rely on that chain from time to time and will continue to do so in the future. For 75 years, just like a chain, farmers have relied on the strength of Beck s Hybrids to serve their seed needs. In fact, Beck s has grown to become the largest familyowned seed company in the United States. Join the thousands of farmers who trust Beck s to deliver the best in seed quality, field performance and service. Experience 75 Years of Difference. Plant Beck s. BecksHybrids.com

6 TABLE OF CONTENTS 2011 INDEPENDENT TEST RESULTS Page F.I.R.S.T. Results 8 Purdue University 8 University of Illinois 8 MULTI-YEAR COMPARISONS Page Corn Summary 9-26 Soybean Summary CENTRAL INDIANA PRACTICAL CORN RESEARCH Page Office Corn Plot 34 Arcadia Corn Plot 35 Atlanta Corn Plot 36 Genetic Supplier Plot 37 US 31 Show Plot 38 Advanced Hybrid Corn Plot in HP Soils Bushel Attempt Corn Fungicide Study 42 Corn Replant Study 43 Corn Planting Date Study Sub-Irrigation 20" Rows Irrigated vs. Non-Irrigated Corn 47 Corn Row Width & Population Study Zone-Till vs. Conv.-Till Long-Term Study (CAB) 50 Zone-Till vs. Conv.-Till Continuous Corn 51 Strip-Till vs. Conv.-Till Study (CAB & CAC) Purdue CAB & CAC Nitrogen Rate Study Nitrogen Timing Study 55 Corn Lime Study Soil Plus II Study 57 Quality Trait Products 58 Corn Silage Study 59 Gypsum Study 60 CENTRAL INDIANA PRACTICAL SOYBEAN RESEARCH Page Office Soybean Variety Plot 61 Arcadia Soybean Plot 62 Atlanta Soybean Show Plot 63 15" Show Plot & Specialty Beans 64 Experimental Soybean Show Plot 65 High School Educational Plot 66 Foliar Fungicide Study 67 Advanced Soybeans in No-Till & Conv. Till RR vs. LL Showdown Bushel Soybean Management Study Escalate vs. Untreated Soybeans 72 Lime Study on Soybeans 73 No-Till vs. Conv.-Till Long Term Study Strip-Till vs. Conv.-Till Study (BAC) 76 Row Spacing & Population Study 77 Planting Date Study Drowned Out vs. Replant Study 79 SOUTHERN INDIANA PRACTICAL CORN RESEARCH Page Corn after Soybeans Show Plot 80 Corn after Corn Show Plot Bushel Attempt Study 82 Corn Fungicide Timing Study 83 Corn Fungicide Study Fungicide/Hail Damage Study 86 Corn Nitrogen Timing Study 87 Optimum Nitrogen Rate Study Corn Row Width & Population Study Corn Replant Study 92 Corn Planting Date Study 93 Tillage Study (C&B & Continuous Corn Rotation) P & K Study (BAC & CAB) Sulfur & Zinc Study 97 RES 16 Study 98 SOUTHERN INDIANA PRACTICAL SOYBEAN RESEARCH Page Soybean Show Plot Bushel Attempt Study Herbicide Systems Study 102 Planting Date Study 103 Row Spacing & Population Study Foliar Fungicide Study Double Crop Foliar Fungicide Study 108 Double Crop Population Study 109 Double Crop Micro Mix Study 109 Intensive vs. Low Management Wheat & Double Crop Soybean Study CENTRAL ILLINOIS PRACTICAL CORN RESEARCH Page Corn Show Plot Bushel Attempt 113 Corn Fungicide Timing Study Corn Row Width & Population Study Corn Planting Date Study 118 Corn Replant Study 119 CAC Nitrogen Timing Study 120 CAB Nitrogen Timing Study 121 Nitrogen Rate Study (CAC & CAB) 122 Nitrogen Stabilizer Study 123 Starter Fertilizer Study on Corn 124 Avail Study 125 N-Serve Study 125 Sable Nitrogen Foliar Feed Study 126 Evito In-Furrow Study 126 Phosphate Efficiency Study 127 AirForce Planter Study 128 Priaxor Fungicide Study 129 Crop Rotation Tillage Study 130 Pinch Row Study 131 Corn Cover Crop Study 132

7 TABLE OF CONTENTS CENTRAL ILLINOIS PRACTICAL CORN RESEARCH - CONTINUED Page Carbon Penalty Study 133 Hail Simulation Study 134 Frost Simulation Study 135 Nutri-Pel Study 136 CENTRAL ILLINOIS PRACTICAL SOYBEAN RESEARCH Page Soybean Show Plot Bushel Soybean Attempt 138 RR vs. LL Showdown 139 LibertyLink, Stratego, & Leverage Study 140 Planting Date Study 141 Row Width & Population Study 142 Late Planting Date Maturity/Population Study 143 Micro Mix Study 144 Optimize/Vault Study 145 Soybean Defoliation/Glucose Study 146 Evito Fungicide Study 147 Fungicide Seed Size Study 147 Incognito Study 148 Calcium Nitrate Study 149 VersaMax Soybean Study 150 Sable Nitrogen Foliar Feed Study 151 Starter Fertilizer Study 151 SOUTHERN ILLINOIS PRACTICAL CORN RESEARCH Page Corn Show Plot East Bushel Attempt 153 VT Fungicide Trial 154 Fungicide Timing Study 155 Nitrogen Rate Study (CAC & CAB) 156 Nitrogen Timing Study 157 Nitrogen Stabilizer Study 158 Tillage Study (CAB & Cont. Corn) 159 Tillage Study (CAC & BAC) Corn Row Width & Population Study Gypsum Study 164 SOUTHERN ILLINOIS PRACTICAL SOYBEAN RESEARCH - CONTINUED Page Double-Crop Population Study 175 Double-Crop Fungicide Study 176 MULTI-LOCATIONS PRACTICAL RESEARCH Page Corn Nitrogen Utilization Study 177 Bio-Red Study 178 Nitrogen Rate Study Fungicide Timing & Leaf Wetness Study On Farm Nitrogen Testing Study Crop Health Imaging Project SOUTHERN INDIANA PRACTICAL WHEAT RESEARCH Page Wheat Show Plot 197 Harvest Date Study 198 Fungicide Study 199 Nitrogen Inhibitor Study Intensive vs. Low Management Study SOUTHERN ILLINOIS PRACTICAL WHEAT RESEARCH Page Wheat Nitrogen Study 204 Fungicide Study 205 Intensive vs. Low Management Study TRAIT IDENTIFICATION INDEX 208 SOUTHERN ILLINOIS PRACTICAL SOYBEAN RESEARCH Page 30" Show Plot Bushel Soybean Attempt Bushel Product Testing Study 167 RR vs. LL Showdown 168 Foliar Fungicide Study " Row Width & Population Study " Row Width & Population Study 171 Physical Damage Study Gypsum Study 173 Soybean Mpact Study 174

8 2011 Independent Test Results Purdue University CORN Brand Test/Location %Mois. Bu./A. Rank Phoenix 6848A3** Central Late - Lafayette th out of 42 BECK 6179VT3 Central Late - Lafayette th out of 42 BECK 6179VT3 Southern Early - Butlerville th out of 53 BECK 5246HR * Northern Early - Wanatah th out of 36 BECK 4817HXR * Northern Early - DeMotte th out of 36 BECK 5269HXR * Northern Early - DeMotte th out of 36 Phoenix 5642A4** Central Mid - Farmland th out of 57 Phoenix 5642A4** Northern Late - Milford st out of 39 Phoenix 5385A3** Northern Mid - Milford rd out of 46 F.I.R.S.T. CORN Brand Test/Location %Mois. Bu./A. Rank BECK 5442VT3 Virden, IL - Early th out of 72 BECK 5442VT3 Macomb, IL - Early th out of 72 BECK 5269HXR * Grand Ridge, IL - Early th out of 63 Phoenix 5552A4** Grand Ridge, IL - Full th out of 72 Phoenix 4613A4 Mazon, IL - Ultra Early th out of 63 Phoenix 4613A4 Walnut, IL - Ultra Early th out of 63 BECK 5442VT3 Watseka, IL - Early th out of 72 BECK 6175AMX * Watseka, IL - Full nd out of 90 BECK 5442VT3 Rossville, IL - Early st out of 72 Phoenix 5552A4** Forsyth, IL - Early rd out of 72 BECK 5442VT3 Towanda, IL - Early th out of 72 BECK 5442VT3 ILEC Summary nd out of 72 Phoenix 5552A4** ILEC Summary rd out of 72 University of Illinois CORN Brand Test/Location %Mois. Bu./A. Rank Phoenix 5552A4** North Region Summary nd out of 113 Phoenix 5552A4** Mt. Morris rd out of 113 BECK 5442VT3 East Region Summary nd out of 126 BECK 5442VT3 Dwight th out of 126 BECK 5442VT3 Goodfield rd out of 126 Phoenix 5642A4** Goodfield th out of 126 BECK 6175AMX * Urbana th out of 126 BECK 6733HXR * St. Peter rd out of 92 BECK 6179VT3 Elkville th out of 92 BECK 4817HXR * Dekalb - CAC st out of 27 BECK 6626HXR * Monmouth - CAC th out of 24 **Phoenix brand seed is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 8

9 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 $5.90/Bu. pricing and drying costs of $0.04 per point of moisture per bushel. Waxy dollar advantage per acre is calculated using $6.60/Bu. BECK 5269HXR * Comparisons Phoenix 5385A3** Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 5269HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $25.92 BECK 4817HXR * BECK 5244VT BECK 5269HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $28.32 BECK 5244VT BECK 5269HXR * BECK 5269HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $48.95 BECK 5354HXR * BECK 5354HXR * BECK 5269HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $86.70 BECK 5435HXR * BECK 5377HR * BECK 5269HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $97.49 AgriGold A AgriGold A BECK 5269HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $66.78 AgriGold A6389VT AgriGold A6389VT BECK 5269HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $2.34 Dekalb DKC AgriGold A6458VT BECK 5269HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $78.66 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5269HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $74.41 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5269HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $ Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5269HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $7.06 GH H GT GH H GT BECK 5269HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $35.69 Pioneer P0717HR Pioneer P0717HR BECK 5269HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $37.84 Pioneer P0891XR Pioneer P0891XR BECK 5269HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $52.94 Pioneer P0916XR Pioneer P0916XR BECK 5269HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $60.74 Pioneer P1395XR Pioneer P1395XR BECK 5269HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $97.51 Pioneer 35F Pioneer 35F BECK 5269HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $ Pioneer 35K Pioneer 35K **Phoenix brand seed is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 9

10 CORN SUMMARY (continued) Phoenix 5552A4** Comparisons BECK 5442VT3 Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK 5442VT $38.34 BECK 5354HXR * BECK 5716A Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK 5442VT $26.28 BECK 5435HXR * BECK 6077HR * Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK 5442VT $40.12 BECK 5716A BECK 6179VT Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK 5442VT $30.17 Phoenix 6442A4** BECK 6733HXR * Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK 5442VT $39.03 AgriGold A6384VT3Pro AgriGold A6458VT Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK 5442VT $17.41 AgriGold A6458VT AgriGold A6476VT Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK 5442VT $26.59 AgriGold A6476VT AgriGold A6533VT Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK 5442VT $33.46 Channel STX Dekalb DKC Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK 5442VT $42.85 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK 5442VT $35.03 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK 5442VT $11.20 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK 5442VT $26.34 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK 5442VT $1.56 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK 5442VT $ GH H GT Pioneer P0891XR Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK 5442VT $90.82 Pioneer P0891XR Pioneer P0916XR Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK 5442VT $22.47 Pioneer P1018XR Pioneer P1184XR Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK 5442VT $58.08 Pioneer P1395XR Pioneer P1395XR **Phoenix brand seed is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 10

11 CORN SUMMARY (continued) BECK 6077HR * Comparisons BECK EX 2060 * (6175) Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX2060 * $65.42 BECK 5435HXR * Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX2060 * $38.43 BECK 6077RR * BECK 6077HR * BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX2060 * $9.56 BECK 6179VT BECK 6179VT BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX2060 * $36.58 BECK 6733HXR * BECK 6626HXR * BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX2060 * $48.47 Dekalb DKC BECK 6733HXR * BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX2060 * $37.88 Dekalb DKC AgriGold A6458VT BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX2060 * $6.95 Dekalb DKC AgriGold A6533VT BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX2060 * $39.01 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX2060 * $54.57 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX2060 * $7.54 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX2060 * $67.01 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX2060 * $32.07 Dekalb DKC Garst 84U BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX2060 * $64.54 Dekalb DKC GH H-9173CB/LL BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX2060 * $95.68 Pioneer P0891XR Pioneer P0916XR BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX2060 * $31.21 Pioneer P0916XR Pioneer P1184XR BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX2060 * $93.18 Pioneer P1184XR Pioneer P1395XR BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX2060 * $ Pioneer P1395XR Pioneer P1567XR **Phoenix brand seed is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 11

12 CORN SUMMARY (continued) BECK 6272HR * Comparisons BECK 6626HXR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 6272HR * $ BECK 6626HXR * $3.73 Phoenix 5552A4** Phoenix 5552A4** BECK 6272HR * $ BECK 6626HXR * $21.97 BECK 5676HXR * Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6272HR * $ BECK 6626HXR * $5.94 Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6077HR * BECK 6272HR * $ BECK 6626HXR * $1.02 BECK 6077HR * BECK 6179VT BECK 6272HR * $ BECK 6626HXR * $29.61 BECK 6464HR * BECK 6288A BECK 6272HR * $ BECK 6626HXR * $3.09 BECK 6626HXR * BECK 6464HR * BECK 6272HR * $ BECK 6626HXR * $80.06 BECK 6733HXR * BECK 6722VT BECK 6272HR * $ BECK 6626HXR * $25.11 AgriGold A6458VT BECK 6733HXR * BECK 6272HR * $ BECK 6626HXR * $6.06 Dekalb DKC BECK 7988RR BECK 6272HR * $ BECK 6626HXR * $23.45 Dekalb DKC BECK 8603HR * BECK 6272HR * $ BECK 6626HXR * $0.03 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 6272HR * $ BECK 6626HXR * $55.38 Garst 84U Dekalb DKC BECK 6272HR * $ BECK 6626HXR * $43.62 GH H-9173CB/LL Dekalb DKC BECK 6272HR * $ BECK 6626HXR * $6.93 Pioneer P0916XR Pioneer P1184XR BECK 6272HR * $ BECK 6626HXR * $0.10 Pioneer P1184XR Pioneer P1395XR BECK 6272HR * $ BECK 6626HXR * $54.04 Pioneer P1395XR Pioneer P1567XR BECK 6272HR * $ BECK 6626HXR * $90.86 Pioneer P1567XR Pioneer 33F **Phoenix brand seed is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 12

13 CORN SUMMARY (continued) Phoenix 6442A4** Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv Phoenix 6442A4** $ Phoenix 6442A4** $58.35 BECK 5716A NK N77P Phoenix 6442A4** $ Phoenix 6442A4** $58.35 BECK 6722VT Pioneer P0916XR Phoenix 6442A4** $ Phoenix 6442A4** $15.04 BECK 6733HXR * Pioneer P1184XR Phoenix 6442A4** $ Phoenix 6442A4** $62.92 BECK 6903HR * Pioneer P1395XR Phoenix 6442A4** $ Phoenix 6442A4** $ Dekalb DKC Pioneer P1567XR Phoenix 6442A4** $ Phoenix 6442A4** $17.61 Dekalb DKC Pioneer P1615HR Phoenix 6442A4** $ Phoenix 6442A4** $21.17 Dekalb DKC Pioneer P1745HR Phoenix 6442A4** $ Phoenix 6442A4** $91.82 GH H-9173CB/LL Pioneer 33F Phoenix 6848A3** Comparisons BECK 7988RR Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv Phoenix 6848A3** $ BECK 7988RR $14.03 BECK 6288A BECK 5442VT Phoenix 6848A3** $ BECK 7988RR $ Phoenix 6442A4** BECK 7916RR Phoenix 6848A3** $ BECK 7988RR $38.83 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC Phoenix 6848A3** $ BECK 7988RR $56.50 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC Phoenix 6848A3** $ BECK 7988RR $31.50 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC Phoenix 6848A3** $ BECK 7988RR $12.36 Dekalb DKC Pioneer P1395XR Phoenix 6848A3** $ BECK 7988RR $65.87 Pioneer P1567XR Pioneer P1567XR **Phoenix brand seed is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 13

14 CORN SUMMARY (continued) BECK 4613A4 Comparisons BECK 5246HR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 4613A $ BECK 5246HR * $71.40 BECK 4413A BECK 4817HXR * BECK 4613A $ BECK 5246HR * $30.59 BECK 4530HXR * BECK 5354HXR * BECK 4613A $ BECK 5246HR * $47.20 BECK 4613A AgriGold A6389VT BECK 4613A $ BECK 5246HR * $68.20 BECK 5135HXR * Dekalb DKC BECK 4613A $ BECK 5246HR * $91.27 BECK 5377RR * Pioneer P0377XR BECK 4613A $ BECK 5246HR * $36.57 Dekalb DKC Pioneer P0891XR BECK 4613A $ BECK 5246HR * $83.17 Pioneer 35K Pioneer 35K BECK 5354HXR * Comparisons BECK 5435HXR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 5354HXR * $ BECK 5435HXR * $55.14 BECK 4817HXR * BECK 4817HXR * BECK 5354HXR * $ BECK 5435HXR * $7.82 BECK 5377HR * BECK 5354HXR * BECK 5354HXR * $ BECK 5435HXR * $89.90 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5354HXR * $ BECK 5435HXR * $22.39 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5354HXR * $ BECK 5435HXR * $52.25 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5354HXR * $ BECK 5435HXR * $53.26 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5354HXR * $ BECK 5435HXR * $40.87 Pioneer P0891XR Pioneer P0891XR BECK 5354HXR * $ BECK 5435HXR * $3.24 Pioneer 35K Pioneer P0916XR **Phoenix brand seed is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 14

15 CORN SUMMARY (continued) BECK EX 0854 (5642) Comparisons Phoenix 5726A4** Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK EX $ Phoenix 5726A4** $4.71 BECK 5555VT BECK 5716A BECK EX $ Phoenix 5726A4** $39.85 BECK 6179VT BECK 6288A BECK EX $ Phoenix 5726A4** $ Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK EX $ Phoenix 5726A4** $35.08 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK EX $ Phoenix 5726A4** $13.04 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK EX $ Phoenix 5726A4** $87.66 Pioneer P0916XR Pioneer P1253AM BECK EX $ Phoenix 5726A4** $50.22 Pioneer P1184XR Pioneer P1395XR BECK EX $ Phoenix 5726A4** $23.09 Pioneer P1395XR Pioneer 33F BECK 6733HXR * Comparisons BECK 6187wx * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 6733HXR * $ BECK 6187wx * $ BECK 5716A BECK 5887HXR * BECK 6733HXR * $ BECK 6187wx * $ BECK 6179VT BECK 6722wx BECK 6733HXR * $ BECK 6187wx * $ Dekalb DKC AgriGold A6533VT BECK 6733HXR * $ BECK 6187wx * $ Dekalb DKC AgriGold A6553VT BECK 6733HXR * $ BECK 6187wx * $ Pioneer P1184XR Dekalb DKC BECK 6733HXR * $ BECK 6187wx * $ Pioneer P1395XR Dekalb DKC BECK 6733HXR * $ BECK 6187wx * $ Pioneer P1567XR Pioneer P1615HR **Phoenix brand seed is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 15

16 CORN SUMMARY (continued) BECK 6111HR * Comparisons BECK 6179VT3 Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 6111HR * $ BECK 6179VT $16.76 BECK 6077HR * BECK 5435HXR * BECK 6111HR * $ BECK 6179VT $9.27 BECK 6464HR * BECK 5887HXR * BECK 6111HR * $ BECK 6179VT $8.04 Dekalb DKC AgriGold A6458VT BECK 6111HR * $ BECK 6179VT $36.26 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 6111HR * $ BECK 6179VT $10.06 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 6111HR * $ BECK 6179VT $34.12 Pioneer P0916XR Dekalb DKC BECK 6111HR * $ BECK 6179VT $22.62 Pioneer P1395XR Pioneer P0916XR BECK 6111HR * $ BECK 6179VT $7.14 Pioneer P1567XR Pioneer P1395XR BECK 6903HR * Comparisons BECK 8603HR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 6903HR * $ BECK 8603HR * $10.32 BECK 6733HR * BECK 6288A BECK 6903HR * $ BECK 8603HR * $ BECK 8733HR * BECK 7916RR BECK 6903HR * $ BECK 8603HR * $12.92 Dekalb DKC BECK 8733HR * BECK 6903HR * $ BECK 8603HR * $0.82 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 6903HR * $ BECK 8603HR * $44.52 Pioneer P1184XR Dekalb DKC BECK 6903HR * $ BECK 8603HR * $26.54 Pioneer P1395XR GH H-9173CB/LL BECK 6903HR * $ BECK 8603HR * $36.62 Pioneer P1567XR Pioneer P1567XR **Phoenix brand seed is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 16

17 Phoenix 5385A3** Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv Phoenix 5385A3** $ BECK 5442VT $72.89 BECK 5354HXR * Agrigold 6533VT Phoenix 5385A3** $ BECK 5442VT $76.31 Agrigold 6389VT Dekalb DKC Phoenix 5385A3** $ BECK 5442VT $69.84 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC Phoenix 5385A3** $ BECK 5442VT $11.34 Pioneer P0891XR Pioneer P1184XR Phoenix 5385A3** $ BECK 5442VT $ Pioneer P0916XR Pioneer P1395XR Phoenix 5552A4** Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv. 1 8 Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK EX $96.81 Agrigold BECK 6179VT Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK EX $37.29 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK EX $2.93 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK EX $ Dekalb DKC Pioneer P0916XR Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK EX $83.03 Pioneer P0916XR Pioneer P1184XR BECK EX 2060 (6175) * Comparisons Northern Illinois Regional Summary BECK 5442VT3 Comparisons BECK EX 0854 (5642) Comparisons BECK 6179VT3 Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6179VT $14.54 BECK 5269HXR * BECK 5354HXR * BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6179VT $ BECK 6733HXR * Agrigold BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6179VT $ Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6179VT $56.51 Pioneer P0916XR Dekalb DKC BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6179VT $14.77 Pioneer P1395XR Pioneer P0916XR **Phoenix brand is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 17

18 Phoenix 5385A3** Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv Phoenix 5385A3** $ BECK 5442VT $79.11 BECK 5354HXR * Agrigold 6458VT Phoenix 5385A3** $ BECK 5442VT $22.02 Agrigold 6458VT Channel VT3P Phoenix 5385A3** $ BECK 5442VT $37.33 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC Phoenix 5385A3** $ BECK 5442VT $73.23 Pioneer 0916XR Pioneer 1184XR Phoenix 5552A4** Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK EX $42.88 BECK 5435HXR * BECK 5555VT Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK EX $ Agrigold 6384VT3Pro Dekalb DKC Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK EX $15.36 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC Phoenix 5552A4** $ BECK EX $19.83 Pioneer 1018XR Pioneer 1395XR BECK EX 2060 (6175) * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6179VT $80.77 Agrigold 6458VT Phoenix 5726A4** BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6179VT $28.18 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6179VT $22.58 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6179VT $42.62 Pioneer 1184XR Pioneer 1395XR BECK 6626HXR * Comparisons Central Illinois Regional Summary BECK 5442VT3 Comparisons BECK EX 0854 (5642) Comparisons BECK 6179VT3 Comparisons BECK 6733HXR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 6626HXR * $ BECK 6733HXR * $10.60 BECK 6733HXR * BECK 6179VT BECK 6626HXR * $ BECK 6733HXR * $15.14 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 6626HXR * $ BECK 6733HXR * $7.84 Pioneer 1184XR Dekalb DKC BECK 6626HXR * $ BECK 6733HXR * $36.22 Pioneer 1395XR Pioneer 33F **Phoenix brand is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 18

19 Phoenix 5726A4** Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv Phoenix 5726A4** $ BECK 6077HR * $33.02 BECK 5435HXR * BECK 5555VT Phoenix 5726A4** $ BECK 6077HR * $22.70 Agrigold 6458VT BECK 6288A Phoenix 5726A4** $ BECK 6077HR * $25.53 Agrigold 6533VT Garst 84U Phoenix 5726A4** $ BECK 6077HR * $53.82 Pioneer 1395XR Pioneer 0891XR BECK EX 2060 (6175) * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6272HR * $34.82 BECK 5442VT BECK 6111HR * BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6272HR * $38.09 Agrigold 6533VT BECK 6288A BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6272HR * $55.18 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6272HR * $16.06 Pioneer 1395XR Pioneer 0916XR Phoenix 6442A4** Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv Phoenix 6442A4** $ BECK 6626HXR * $20.64 BECK 6626HXR * BECK 5435HXR * Phoenix 6442A4** $ BECK 6626HXR * $16.15 BECK 6733HXR * BECK 6288A Phoenix 6442A4** $ BECK 6626HXR * $6.63 Dekalb DKC BECK 6903HR * Phoenix 6442A4** $ BECK 6626HXR * $64.78 Pioneer 1184XR Pioneer 1745HR Phoenix 6848A3** Comparisons Southern Illinois Regional Summary BECK 6077HR * Comparisons BECK 6272HR * Comparisons BECK 6626HXR * Comparisons BECK 7988RR Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv Phoenix 6848A3** $ BECK 7988RR $40.66 BECK 5442VT BECK 6179VT Phoenix 6848A3** $ BECK 7988RR $34.53 BECK 5716A BECK 7988BR Phoenix 6848A3** $ BECK 7988RR $12.28 BECK 6288A Dekalb DKC Phoenix 6848A3** $ BECK 7988RR $31.44 Pioneer 1567XR Pioneer 1745HR **Phoenix brand is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 19

20 Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 5246HR * $ BECK 5269HXR * $24.95 BECK 4817HXR * BECK 4817HXR * BECK 5246HR * Comparisons 2 14 BECK 5246HR * $ BECK 5269HXR * $81.26 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5246HR * $ BECK 5269HXR * $37.87 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5246HR * $ BECK 5269HXR * $59.00 Pioneer P0377XR Pioneer P0377XR BECK 5246HR * $ BECK 5269HXR * $46.88 Pioneer 35K Pioneer 34R BECK 5354HXR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 5354HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $87.92 BECK 5269HXR * BECK 5377HR * BECK 5354HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $12.36 Dekalb DKC BECK 5435HXR * BECK 5354HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $ Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5354HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $66.74 Pioneer P0891XR Pioneer P0916XR BECK 5354HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $85.52 Pioneer P0916XR Pioneer 34R BECK 5435HXR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 5435HXR * $ BECK 5442VT $73.65 BECK 6179VT Phoenix 5552A4** BECK 5435HXR * $ BECK 5442VT $14.39 Dekalb DKC Agrigold 6458VT BECK 5435HXR * $ BECK 5442VT $50.37 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5435HXR * $ BECK 5442VT $91.18 Pioneer P0891XR Dekalb DKC BECK 5435HXR * $ BECK 5442VT $72.92 Pioneer P0916XR Pioneer P1184XR **Phoenix brand is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. Michigan and North Performance Summary BECK 5269HXR * Comparisons Phoenix 5385A3** Comparisons BECK 5442VT3 Comparisons 20

21 BECK 5246HR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 5246HR * $ BECK 5269HXR * $17.23 BECK 4817HXR * BECK 5244VT BECK 5246HR * $ BECK 5269HXR * $44.34 Agrigold 6384VT3P Dekalb DKC BECK 5246HR * $ BECK 5269HXR * $72.15 Pioneer P0448XR Pioneer P0891XR BECK 5246HR * $ BECK 5269HXR * $48.11 Pioneer 35K Pioneer P0916XR BECK 5354HXR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 5354HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $44.56 BECK 5244VT Agrigold 6389VT BECK 5354HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $58.53 Dekalb DKC Agrigold 6458VT BECK 5354HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $82.06 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5354HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $96.48 Pioneer 35F Pioneer P0916XR BECK 5435HXR * Comparisons Northern Indiana Regional Summary BECK 5269HXR * Comparisons Phoenix 5385A3** Comparisons BECK 5442VT3 Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 5435HXR * $ BECK 5442VT $36.31 BECK 6179VT Agrigold 6458VT BECK 5435HXR * $ BECK 5442VT $66.67 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5435HXR * $ BECK 5442VT $42.80 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5435HXR * $ BECK 5442VT $88.70 Pioneer P0891XR Pioneer P0916XR BECK 6077HR * Comparisons BECK EX 2060 (6175) * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv. 1 4 BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX 2060 * $49.87 Agrigold 6476VT BECK 6179VT BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX 2060 * $83.24 Dekalb DKC Agrigold 6458VT BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX 2060 * $56.96 Pioneer P1184XR Dekalb DKC BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX 2060 * $ Pioneer P1395XR Pioneer P1184XR **Phoenix brand is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 21

22 BECK 5354HXR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 5354HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $42.16 BECK 5435HXR * Agrigold 6458VT BECK 5354HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $ Agrigold 6389VT Dekalb DKC BECK 5354HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $19.02 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5354HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $ Pioneer 0891XR Pioneer 35K BECK 5442VT3 Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 5442VT $ Phoenix 5552A4** $66.47 Dekalb DKC BECK 6179VT BECK 5442VT $ Phoenix 5552A4** $52.22 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5442VT $ Phoenix 5552A4** $17.79 Pioneer 1184XR Dekalb DKC BECK 5442VT $ Phoenix 5552A4** $64.75 Pioneer 1395XR Pioneer 1184XR Phoenix 5726A4** Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv Phoenix 5726A4** $ BECK 6077HR * $50.63 BECK 5716A BECK 6733HXR * Phoenix 5726A4** $ BECK 6077HR * $40.79 Agrigold 6458VT Dekalb DKC Phoenix 5726A4** $ BECK 6077HR * $40.35 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC Phoenix 5726A4** $ BECK 6077HR * $34.60 Pioneer 1395XR Pioneer 1184XR BECK EX 2060 (6175) * Comparisons Central Indiana Regional Summary Phoenix 5385A3** Comparisons Phoenix 5552A4** Comparisons BECK 6077HR * Comparisons BECK 6626HXR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6626HXR * $22.93 BECK 6179VT BECK 6733HXR * BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6626HXR * $41.39 Agrigold 6533VT Dekalb DKC BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6626HXR * $35.30 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6626HXR * $49.81 Pioneer 1395XR Pioneer 1395XR **Phoenix brand is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 22

23 BECK 5442VT3 Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 5442VT $ Phoenix 5726A4** $54.81 BECK 5716A BECK 5716A BECK 5442VT $ Phoenix 5726A4** $0.57 BECK 6733HXR * BECK 6077HR * BECK 5442VT $ Phoenix 5726A4** $37.06 Dekalb DKC BECK 6288A BECK 5442VT $ Phoenix 5726A4** $43.94 Pioneer 1395XR Pioneer 1567XR BECK 6077HR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6179VT BECK 6733HXR * BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX 2060 * $43.64 BECK 6733HXR * Dekalb DKC BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX 2060 * $25.35 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX 2060 * $16.28 Pioneer 1395XR Pioneer 1615HR BECK 6272HR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 6272HR * $ Phoenix 6442A4** $31.12 Phoenix** 5726A BECK 6733HXR * BECK 6272HR * $ Phoenix 6442A4** $67.77 BECK 6111HR * Agrigold 6533VT BECK 6272HR * $ Phoenix 6442A4** $88.62 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 6272HR * $ Phoenix 6442A4** $ Pioneer 1184XR Pioneer 1395XR BECK 6626HXR * Comparisons Southern Indiana Regional Summary Phoenix 5726A4** Comparisons BECK EX 2060 (6175) * Comparisons Phoenix 6442A4** Comparisons BECK 7988RR Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 6626HXR * $ BECK 7988RR $ BECK 6733HXR * BECK 6288A BECK 6626HXR * $ BECK 7988RR $94.42 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 6626HXR * $ BECK 7988RR $82.49 Dekalb DKC Pioneer 1395XR BECK 6626HXR * $ BECK 7988RR $48.04 Dekalb DKC Pioneer 1615HR **Phoenix brand is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 23

24 BECK 5442VT3 Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 5442VT $ BECK EX 2060 * $30.35 BECK 6077HR * BECK 6272HR * BECK 5442VT $ BECK EX 2060 * $17.44 BECK 6288A BECK 6733HXR * BECK 5442VT $ BECK EX 2060 * $11.30 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5442VT $ BECK EX 2060 * $43.10 Pioneer 1395XR Pioneer 1184XR Phoenix 6442A4** Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv. 1 7 Phoenix 6442A4** $ BECK 6626HXR * $13.17 BECK 6111HR * Phoenix** 5726A Phoenix 6442A4** $ BECK 6626HXR * $2.20 BECK 6288A Phoenix** 6442A Phoenix 6442A4** $ BECK 6626HXR * $37.37 BECK 6733HXR * BECK 8733HR * Phoenix 6442A4** $ BECK 6626HXR * $3.54 Pioneer 1184XR Pioneer 1184XR BECK 6733HXR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 6733HXR * $ Phoenix 6848A3** $23.05 BECK 5716A BECK 6272HR * BECK 6733HXR * $ Phoenix 6848A3** $75.10 BECK 8733HR * BECK 6288A BECK 6733HXR * $ Phoenix 6848A3** $27.43 Dekalb DKC BECK 8603HR * BECK 6733HXR * $ Phoenix 6848A3** $23.62 Pioneer 1395XR Pioneer 1184XR BECK 6903HR * Comparisons Kentucky Regional Summary BECK EX 2060 (6175) * Comparisons BECK 6626HXR * Comparisons Phoenix 6848A3** Comparisons BECK 7988RR Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv. 1 8 BECK 6903HR * $ BECK 7988RR $1.80 Phoenix 5726A4** Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6903HR * $ BECK 7988RR $6.52 BECK 8733HR * BECK 5887HXR * BECK 6903HR * $ BECK 7988RR $31.80 Agrigold 6632VT3PRO BECK 6464HR * BECK 6903HR * $ BECK 7988RR $24.88 Dekalb DKC BECK 8733HR * **Phoenix brand is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 24

25 BECK 5246HR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 5246HR * $ BECK 5269HXR * $21.00 BECK 4817HXR * BECK 5244VT BECK 5246HR * $ BECK 5269HXR * $39.04 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5246HR * $ BECK 5269HXR * $10.28 Pioneer 0891XR Dekalb DKC BECK 5246HR * $ BECK 5269HXR * $41.65 Pioneer 35K Pioneer 35K BECK 5354HXR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv. 2 6 BECK 5354HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $98.62 Agrigold 6458VT BECK 4817HXR * BECK 5354HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $57.11 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 5354HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $78.16 Pioneer 0891XR Pioneer 0717HR BECK 5354HXR * $ Phoenix 5385A3** $ Pioneer 0916XR Pioneer 0916XR BECK 5435HXR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 5435HXR * $ BECK 5442VT $59.74 BECK 5442VT Phoenix** 5552A BECK 5435HXR * $ BECK 5442VT $11.13 Dekalb DKC Agrigold 6458VT BECK 5435HXR * $ BECK 5442VT $23.82 Dekalb DKC Agrigold 6533VT BECK 5435HXR * $ BECK 5442VT $15.00 Pioneer 0891XR Pioneer 1395XR BECK 6077HR * Comparisons North & Central Ohio Regional Summary BECK 5269HXR * Comparisons Phoenix 5385A3** Comparisons BECK 5442VT3 Comparisons BECK EX 2060 (6175) * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX 2060 * $36.64 BECK 6464HR * BECK 5442VT BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX 2060 * $ Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX 2060 * $24.12 Pioneer 0916XR Dekalb DKC BECK 6077HR * $ BECK EX 2060 * $ Pioneer 1395XR Pioneer 1567XR **Phoenix brand is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 25

26 BECK 5435HXR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 5435HXR * $ BECK 5442VT $1.14 BECK 5442VT BECK 6272HR * BECK 5435HXR * $ BECK 5442VT $81.13 Dekalb DKC BECK 6288A BECK 5435HXR * $ BECK 5442VT $38.66 Pioneer 0891XR Agrigold 6458VT BECK 5435HXR * $ BECK 5442VT $21.99 Pioneer 0916XR Agrigold 6533VT Phoenix 5726A4** Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv Phoenix 5726A4** $ BECK 6077HR * $64.08 BECK 6733HXR * BECK 6179VT Phoenix 5726A4** $ BECK 6077HR * $67.64 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC Phoenix 5726A4** $ BECK 6077HR * $67.29 Pioneer 0916XR Dekalb DKC Phoenix 5726A4** $ BECK 6077HR * $77.42 Pioneer 1314XR Pioneer 1395XR BECK 6272HR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv BECK 6272HR * $ BECK EX 2060 * $41.46 BECK 6077HR * BECK 5442VT BECK 6272HR * $ BECK EX 2060 * $ BECK 6111HR * BECK 6733HXR * BECK 6272HR * $ BECK EX 2060 * $22.24 Pioneer 1567XR Agrigold BECK 6272HR * $ BECK EX 2060 * $15.52 Pioneer 1567XR Dekalb DKC Phoenix 6442A4** Comparisons South & Central Ohio Regional Summary BECK 5442VT3 Comparisons BECK 6077HR * Comparisons BECK EX 2060 (6175) * Comparisons BECK 6626HXR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. % Moist. $/Acre Adv. Yrs Plots Brand % Bu./A. Moist. $/Acre Adv. 1 6 Phoenix 6442A4** $ BECK 6626HXR * $54.29 BECK 5887HXR * BECK 6733HXR * Phoenix 6442A4** $ BECK 6626HXR * $12.74 Dekalb DKC Dekalb DKC Phoenix 6442A4** $ BECK 6626HXR * $75.17 Golden Harvest Dekalb DKC Phoenix 6442A4** $ BECK 6626HXR * $17.62 Pioneer 1567XR Pioneer 1395XR **Phoenix brand is distributed by Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 26

27 SOYBEAN COMPARISONS SUMMARY Multi-Year Yield Comparisons of Various Products (Includes Farmer Plots, BECK'S Research, and University Data) BECK 241NR * Comparisons BECK 244NR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield 2 59 BECK 241NR * BECK 244NR * BECK 244NR * 57.6 Asgrow AG BECK 241NR * BECK 244NR * Asgrow AG Channel 2903R BECK 241NR * BECK 244NR * Asgrow AG Dairyland DSR-2727R2Y BECK 241NR * BECK 244NR * Asgrow AG Pioneer 92M BECK 241NR * BECK 244NR * NK S27-C Pioneer 92M BECK 241NR * BECK 244NR * Pioneer 92M Pioneer 92M BECK 241NR * BECK 244NR * Pioneer 92Y Pioneer 92Y BECK 241NR * BECK 244NR * Pioneer 92Y Stine 23RA BECK 263NR * Comparisons BECK 289NR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield 2 54 BECK 263NR * BECK 289NR * BECK 229NR * 57.7 BECK 242NR * BECK 263NR * BECK 289NR * BECK 244NR * 58.0 BECK 244NR * BECK 263NR * BECK 289NR * Asgrow AG BECK 263NR * BECK 263NR * BECK 289NR * Pioneer 92M BECK 322NR * BECK 263NR * BECK 289NR * Pioneer 92M Pioneer 92M BECK 263NR * BECK 289NR * Pioneer 92Y Pioneer 92M BECK 263NR * BECK 289NR * Pioneer 92Y Pioneer 92Y BECK 263NR * BECK 289NR * Stine 23RA Pioneer 92Y

28 SOYBEAN COMPARISONS (continued) Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield BECK 294NR * BECK 322NR * BECK 275NR * 57.4 BECK 342NR BECK 294NR * Comparisons BECK 322NR * Comparisons BECK 294NR * BECK 322NR * BECK 322NR * 60.5 BECK 357NR * BECK 294NR * BECK 322NR * Asgrow AG BECK 388NR * BECK 294NR * BECK 322NR * Asgrow AG Asgrow AG BECK 294NR * BECK 322NR * Asgrow AG Asgrow AG BECK 294NR * BECK 322NR * Asgrow AG Asgrow AG BECK 294NR * BECK 322NR * Channel 3000R Asgrow AG BECK 294NR * BECK 322NR * NK S27-C Channel 3000R BECK 294NR * BECK 322NR * Pioneer 92M NK S27-C BECK 294NR * BECK 322NR * Pioneer 92Y Pioneer 92Y BECK 294NR * BECK 322NR * Pioneer 92Y Pioneer 93M BECK 294NR * BECK 322NR * Pioneer 92Y Pioneer 93Y BECK 294NR * BECK 322NR * Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 93Y BECK 294NR * BECK 322NR * Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 93Y BECK 294NR * BECK 322NR * Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 93Y BECK 294NR * BECK 322NR * Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 93Y BECK 294NR * BECK 322NR * Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 93Y

29 SOYBEAN COMPARISONS (continued) 30 BECK 325NR * Comparisons BECK 362NR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * BECK 322NR * 60.2 BECK 322NR * BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * BECK 362NR * 60.8 BECK 357NR * BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * Asgrow AG BECK 388NR * BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * Asgrow AG Asgrow AG BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * Asgrow AG Asgrow AG BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * Asgrow AG Asgrow AG BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * Asgrow AG Asgrow AG BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * Asgrow AG Asgrow AG BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * Asgrow AG Channel 3801R BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * Channel 3404R NK S31-H BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * NK S31-L Pioneer 93Y BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * Pioneer 93M Pioneer 93Y BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 93Y BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 93Y BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 93Y BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 93Y BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 93Y

30 SOYBEAN COMPARISONS (continued) BECK 375NR * Comparisons BECK 398NR Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR BECK 325NR * 59.8 BECK 325NR * BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR BECK 362NR * 57.8 BECK 362NR * BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR BECK 398NR 58.9 BECK 399NR BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR BECK 400NR * 56.9 BECK 400NR * BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR Asgrow AG Asgrow AG BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR Asgrow AG Asgrow AG BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR Asgrow AG Asgrow AG BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR Asgrow AG Asgrow AG BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR Asgrow AG Asgrow AG BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR Asgrow AG Asgrow AG BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR NK S35-T NK S35-T BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR NK S37-P NK S37-P BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR NK S39-A Pioneer 93M BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 93Y BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 93Y BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 93Y BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 93Y

31 SOYBEAN COMPARISONS (continued) BECK 400NR * Comparisons BECK 432NR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield BECK 400NR * BECK 432NR * BECK 362NR * 59.0 BECK 400NR * BECK 400NR * BECK 432NR * Asgrow AG BECK 445NR BECK 400NR * BECK 432NR * Asgrow AG Asgrow AG BECK 400NR * BECK 432NR * NK S39-A Channel 4505R BECK 400NR * BECK 432NR * Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 94Y BECK 400NR * BECK 432NR * Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 94Y BECK 400NR * BECK 432NR * Pioneer 94Y Pioneer 94Y BECK 400NR * BECK 432NR * Pioneer 94Y SCS 9450RR 47.7 BECK 451NR Comparisons BECK 495NR * Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield 2 36 BECK 451NR BECK 495NR * BECK 375NR * 52.8 BECK 398NR BECK 451NR BECK 495NR * BECK 388NR * 54.5 BECK 400NR * BECK 451NR BECK 495NR * BECK 393NR 52.1 BECK 451NR BECK 451NR BECK 495NR * BECK 399NR 50.8 Asgrow AG BECK 451NR BECK 495NR * Asgrow AG Dairyland DSR 4810RR BECK 451NR BECK 495NR * Asgrow AG Pioneer 94Y BECK 451NR BECK 495NR * NK S39-A Pioneer 94Y BECK 451NR BECK 495NR * Pioneer 94Y SCS 9480RR

32 SOYBEAN COMPARISONS (continued) BECK 306NL Comparisons BECK 356NL Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield 1 7 BECK 306NL BECK 356NL BECK 289NR * 64.5 BECK 294NR * BECK 306NL BECK 356NL BECK 294NR * 58.1 BECK 306NL BECK 306NL BECK 356NL BECK 322NR * 62.2 BECK 325NR * BECK 306NL BECK 356NL BECK 362NR * 66.5 BECK 362NR * BECK 306NL BECK 356NL BECK 372NL 64.4 BECK 388NR * BECK 306NL BECK 356NL BECK 392NL 64.1 Asgrow AG BECK 306NL BECK 356NL Asgrow AG Pioneer 93Y BECK 306NL BECK 356NL Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 93Y Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield 3 28 BECK 372NL BECK 392NL BECK 325NR * 57.2 BECK 325NR * BECK 372NL Comparisons 2 28 BECK 372NL BECK 392NL BECK 356NL 51.9 BECK 356NL BECK 372NL BECK 392NL BECK 362NR * 55.6 BECK 362NR * BECK 372NL BECK 392NL BECK 376NL 55.7 BECK 445NR BECK 372NL BECK 392NL BECK 388NR * 52.6 BECK 450NL BECK 372NL BECK 392NL BECK 392NL 56.3 Asgrow AG BECK 372NL BECK 392NL Asgrow AG Asgrow AG BECK 372NL BECK 392NL Pioneer 93Y Pioneer 93Y BECK 392NL Comparisons

33 SOYBEAN COMPARISONS (continued) BECK 276NL Comparisons BECK 476NL Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield 1 5 BECK 276NL BECK 476NL BECK 229NR * 62.6 Asgrow AG BECK 276NL BECK 476NL BECK 244NR * 61.2 Pioneer 94Y BECK 276NL BECK 476NL BECK 263NR * 59.6 SCS 9480RR BECK 276NL BECK 476NL BECK 325NR * 60.4 Stine 47RC BECK 426NL Comparisons BECK 456NL Comparisons Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield Yrs Plots Brand Bu./A. Difference in Yield 2 29 BECK 426NL BECK 456NL BECK 362NR * 50.5 BECK 362NR * BECK 426NL BECK 456NL BECK 372NL 49.9 BECK 372NL BECK 426NL BECK 456NL BECK 392NL 50.7 BECK 375NR * BECK 426NL BECK 456NL BECK 398NR 51.7 BECK 376NL BECK 426NL BECK 456NL BECK 445NR 50.6 BECK 392NL BECK 426NL BECK 456NL Asgrow AG BECK 400NR * BECK 426NL BECK 456NL Asgrow AG BECK 426NL BECK 426NL BECK 456NL Asgrow AG BECK 432NR * BECK 426NL BECK 456NL Pioneer 94Y BECK 445NR BECK 426NL BECK 456NL Pioneer 94Y BECK 466NR * BECK 426NL BECK 456NL Pioneer 94Y Asgrow AG BECK 426NL BECK 456NL SCS 9450RR 45.6 Pioneer 94Y

34 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Corn Plot - Office Location: N2 plot Previous Crop: Soybeans Planted: May 10, 2011 Tillage: V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: September 22, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: 30,136 seeds/a. Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Three 30 rows Insecticide: Force 3G on non-rw hybrids Yield Rank Brand Harvested Population Test Weight Broken Stalks April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. 1 BECK 6903HR * 29, BECK 5335HRwx * 31, BECK 7988RR 28, BECK 6733HXR * 31, BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) 30, BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * 30, BECK 5246HR * 30, Phoenix 5726A4** 27, Phoenix 6442A4** 33, BECK 5269HXR * 31, BECK 6111HR * 29, BECK 6626HXR * 30, BECK 5442VT3 30, Phoenix 6848A3** 29, BECK 4530HXR * 30, BECK 5435HXR * 27, BECK 6272HR * 30, Phoenix 5385A3** 33, BECK 6179VT3 29, Phoenix 5552A4** 32, BECK 4613A4 31, BECK 6077HR * 28, BECK 5354HXR * 30, BECK 4817HXR * 28, AVERAGE 30, Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. 34

35 BECK S Corn Plot - Arcadia Central Indiana PFR Location: 1/2 Mile West of Arcadia Previous Crop: Soybeans Planted: June 2, 2011 Tillage: Disc / V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: October 24, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qt. Bicep Population: 33,674 seeds/a. 1 qt. Princep Rows: Four 30 rows Insecticide: Force 3G on non-rw hybrids Replications: Two (averaged) April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. Yield Rank Brand Harvested Population Test Weight Broken Stalks 1 BECK 6111HR * 33, BECK 6077HR * 34, BECK EX 1014 * 32, BECK 5246HR * 33, BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) 34, Phoenix 5552A4** 32, BECK EX 0150 * 32, BECK 5354HXR * 32, BECK 6272HR * 34, BECK 6175AMX * 33, BECK 5269HXR * 30, BECK 5442VT3 34, BECK 5435HXR * 33, Phoenix 6848A3** 31, BECK 6179VT3 32, BECK EX 2072 * 30, BECK EX , BECK 6733HXR * 32, BECK 7988RR 34, BECK 6626HXR * 32, BECK 4817HXR * 33, Phoenix 6442A4** 33, AVERAGE 32, Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. 35

36 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Corn Plot - Atlanta Location: SR 19 West of Atlanta Previous Crop: Wheat Planted: May 13, 2011 Tillage: Disc / V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: September 22, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: 33,674 seeds/a. Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Four 30 rows Insecticide: Force 3G on non-rw hybrids April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. Yield Rank Brand Harvested Population Test Weight Broken Stalks 1 Phoenix 6848A3** 36, BECK EX 0150 * 32, BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) 33, BECK 5442VT3 34, BECK EX , BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * 34, Phoenix 5385A3** 34, BECK 5354HXR * 33, BECK 5269HXR * 32, BECK 6111HR * 31, Phoenix 5552A4** 30, BECK 6077HR * 34, Phoenix 6442A4** 36, BECK EX 2072 * 31, BECK EX , BECK 6626HXR * 34, BECK 5246HR * 33, BECK 7988RR 32, BECK 5435HXR * 36, BECK 6272HR * 32, BECK 6179VT3 34, Phoenix 5726A4** 34, BECK 6733HXR * 36, BECK 4817HXR * 34, AVERAGE 33, Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. 36

37 BECK S Genetic Supplier Study Location: Hoch (N) plot Previous Crop: Corn Planted: May 24, 2011 Tillage: Disk / V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: October 25, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: 33,674 seeds/a. Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Four 30 rows Central Indiana PFR April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. This study is designed to showcase the variety of genetics that Beck s offers. This plot showcases some of our leading genetics with traits like Agrisure Viptera, Herculex Xtra with Roundup Ready, YieldGuard VT Triple, and our latest edition Optimum AcreMax Xtra. We also evaluated some of our leading experimental hybrids and a few competitor hybrids for comparisons. Yield Rank Brand Test Weight Broken Stalks 1 BECK EX 0150 * BECK 5442VT BECK EX 0155 * Phoenix 5385A3** BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * BECK 5269HXR * BECK 6626HXR * Phoenix 6848A3** Pioneer P1395XR BECK EX 1014 * BECK 6175AMX * BECK 5716A BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) BECK 4817HXR * BECK 6733HXR * BECK 4530HXR * Dekalb DKC BECK 6288A BECK 6179VT BECK 7988RR Dekalb DKC BECK EX Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6464HR * BECK 6188Bt Phoenix 6442A4** BECK 6077HR * BECK 6111HR * BECK 5246HR * BECK EX 1003 * Pioneer P0916XR BECK 5888Bt BECK 5435HXR * BECK 4613A Phoenix 5552A4** BECK 8603HR BECK 5354HXR * BECK 6272HR * BECK EX 2059 * BECK 6903HR * Pioneer P1615HR AVERAGE Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Agrisure Viptera is a trademark of Syngenta Group Company. Herculex is a registered trademark of Dow AgroSciences. Roundup Ready and YieldGuard VT Triple are registered trademarks of Monsanto Technology, LLC. Optimum and AcreMax are registered trademarks of Pioneer Hi-Bred. 37

38 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Show Plot Location: US 31 Previous Crop: Soybeans Planted: May 21, 2011 Tillage: No-Till Harvested: October 17, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: 33,674 seeds/a. Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Four 30 rows 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Insecticide: Force 3G on non-rw hybrids April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. Yield Rank Brand Harvested Population Test Weight Broken Stalks 1 Phoenix 5552A4** 28, BECK 5442VT3 34, BECK 6626HXR * 30, BECK 6077HR * 30, Phoenix 5726A4** 30, BECK 6733HXR * 31, BECK 6175AMX * 34, BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) 32, BECK 5435HXR * 32, BECK 6179VT3 30, AVERAGE 31, Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. I m really happy with my corn so far. I planted it May 14, which is two weeks later than normal and it was tasseling by July 12, which is only two days later than normal. Last year I had some Pioneer seed and the Beck s variety I had, made seven bushels an acre better. Beck s replant policy is a great deal, and I really like the discounts that they offer on the seed. Jerry Palmer Anderson, IN 38

39 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Advanced Hybrid Corn Plot in HP Soils Location: & 4 (N) plots Previous Crop: Soybeans Planted: May 12, 2011 Tillage: V-Rip/S-Tine Harvested: October 3, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: 33,674 seeds/a. Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Two 30 rows Insecticide: Force 3G on non-rw hybrids April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. This study normally shows how our most popular hybrids as well as some leading experimental hybrids perform in HP (Highly Productive) and MP (Medium Productive) soil types. This year, due to adverse weather conditions we only have the HP soil type results. Brand Harvested Population Test Weight Broken Stalks BECK 6077HR * 35, BECK EX , BECK 7988RR 35, BECK 5442VT3 34, Phoenix 6848A3** 33, BECK 6733HXR * 35, Phoenix 5552A4** 34, BECK 6272HR * 34, BECK 5354HXR * 33, BECK EX 0153 * 36, BECK 6626HXR * 31, BECK 5676HXR * 33, BECK EX 0155 * 35, BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * 34, Phoenix 5385A3** 31, BECK 5435HXR * 35, Phoenix 5726A4** 33, BECK 5269HXR * 33, BECK EX 0158 * 34, Phoenix 6442A4** 26, BECK EX 0159 * 34, BECK EX 2059 * 32, BECK EX , BECK 4817HXR * 35, BECK EX 2072 * 32, BECK EX 0150 * 34, BECK EX 0154 * 33, BECK 5246HR * 32, BECK EX 1003 * 29, BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) 33, AVERAGE 33, Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Summary: When we began this study, in 1999, 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 82 Bu./A. In years with normal or excess rainfall, an average of 20 Bu./A. separated the two soil types. Excessive rainfall early last year flooded the HP soils for at least 36 hours and left the soils saturated for days. We saw an average benefit of 16.1 Bu./A. advantage for the MP soils compared to the HP soils for the first time in the history of this study. This year, we saw too much variability in the MP soil plot because of the dry and hot month of July. It was a very good year for our HP soil plot, which averaged Bu./A. with 6077HR leading the way at Bu./A. 39

40 Central Indiana PFR BECK S 300 Bushel Attempt Location: & 3 S plots Previous Crop: 20 : Soybeans Planted: May 10, : Soybeans Harvested: September 22, 2011 Tillage: V-Rip / S-Tine Population: 20 : 41,200 seeds/a. Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, 30 : 37,636 seeds/a. Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: 20 : Six 20 rows Insecticide: Force 3G on non-rw hybrids 30 : Four 30 rows April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. In our attempt to reach 300 bushels per acre, we have tried several different approaches in the past 31 years. In earlier years, we increased our populations and applied extremely high rates of fertilizer as well as some micronutrients. In the mid to late 80s, we tried using different tillage methods like v-rip, chisel and moldboard plow. From 1991 to 2002, we tested zone-till vs. conv.-till. In 2003, we tested ultra-high populations and twin rows using conv.-till practices. Since 2004, we have compared the following crop rotations: continuous corn, two-year corn/one-year soybean, and corn/soybean rotations. In 2011, we are comparing 20" rows to 30" rows in corn after soybeans along with 30" rows in the 11th year of continuous corn. Brand Harvested Population Test Weight Broken Stalks Root Lodging CORN AFTER SOYBEANS - 20 ROWS BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * 39, BECK 7988RR 41, BECK 6626HXR * 38, BECK 6733HXR * 35, BECK 5442VT3 38, BECK 6077HR * 39, BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) 38, Phoenix 5726A4** 38, AVERAGE 38, CORN AFTER SOYBEANS - 30 ROWS (10 oz. Headline AMP & 3.2 oz. Mustang Full Tassel) BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * 36, BECK 7988RR 34, BECK 6626HXR * 37, BECK 6733HXR * 32, BECK 5442VT3 34, BECK 6077HR * 37, BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) 38, Phoenix 5726A4** 34, AVERAGE 35,

41 BECK S 300 Bushel Attempt - Continued Central Indiana PFR Location: S plot Previous Crop: Corn Planted: May 10, 2011 Tillage: Disk, S-Tine & V-Rip Harvested: September 22, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: 37,636 seeds/a. Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Four 30 rows Insecticide: Force 3G on non-rw hybrids Fungicide: 10 oz. Headline AMP 3.2 oz. Mustang Max April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. Broken Stalks Root Lodging Brand Harvested Population Test Weight CONTINUOUS CORN (11th YEAR) (10 oz. Headline AMP & 3.2 oz. Mustang Full Tassel) BECK 6733HXR * 38, BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * 32, BECK 5442VT3 34, BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) 37, BECK 7988RR 36, BECK 6077HR * 38, Phoenix 5726A4** 37, BECK 6626HXR * 32, AVERAGE 35, Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Summary: After four straight years of breaking the 300 Bu./A. barrier we fell short in 2011, however, we had higher yields than expected. After 36 to 48 hours of standing water in late June and an accumulation of nearly 19 inches of rain from April - June, BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * achieved the highest overall yield at Bu./A. in the 20 inch rows, and placed second in both 30 inch row sections of the 300 Bushel Attempt. The flooding reduced yields by damaging corn plants and causing additional loss of nitrogen. This year we evaluated 20 inch rows in first year CAB, 30 inch row first year CAB and 11 year CAC in 30 inch rows. We saw the highest individual yield and section average in the 20 inch row section. However, the 30 inch row CAB averaged only 3.7 bushels less. One of the biggest yield differences we saw was when we compared the CAC section to the CAB, where the CAB showed an advantage of 29.8 Bu./A. over the CAC. 41

42 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Corn Fungicide Study Location: S1 (S) plot Previous Crop: Soybeans Planted: June 1, 2011 Tillage: No-Till Harvested: October 17, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: 30,136 seeds/a. Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Four 30 rows 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Insecticide: Force 3G on non-rw hybrids April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. This study compares six corn products with and without Headline AMP fungicide applied at full tassel (VT). Test Weight Yield Advantage Vs. Untreated Return^ on Investment Brand 10 OZ. HEADLINE AMP BECK 5442VT $43.29 BECK 6077HR * $50.85 BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) $92.37 BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * $12.64 BECK 6272HR * $32.94 BECK 6626HXR * $64.07 AVERAGE $49.36 UNTREATED BECK 5442VT BECK 6077HR * BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * BECK 6272HR * BECK 6626HXR * AVERAGE Bushels per acre and test weight are corrected to 15% moisture. ^Return on investment is net return for fungicide application minus net return for the control. Headline AMP cost of $239/gal., $6.50 application cost and drying cost of $0.04/point of moisture above 15%/Bu. Headline AMP is a trademark of BASF. Summary: This year, several hybrids tested had a poor yield response by applying Headline AMP at the VT growth stage. Note that moistures were higher where Headline AMP was applied. We typically observe higher moistures at harvest when Headline AMP is applied due to the plant staying healthier longer. With all hybrids averaged, we saw a -$49.36/A. net return by applying fungicide at full tassel. In conclusion, it is very important to scout every field because every year is different in terms of disease pressure. 42

43 BECK S Corn Replant Study Central Indiana PFR Location: E5 (N) & E6 (N) plots Previous Crop: Corn Planted: Various Tillage: V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: Various Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: Various Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Four 30 rows 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. To evaluate final corn populations and determine whether or not it is profitable to replant. We used two genetic families at multiple planting dates at high and low populations to determine if replanting would have been beneficial. Replanting can be a tough decision with varying weather conditions from year to year. This year, due to a wet spring and spotty weather conditions, the need to replant was higher in central Indiana. Planting Population Replant Advantage Net^ Return Additional $/A. Planting Date BECK 5435HXR * April 14 (Normal 1st Planting) 35, $ April 14 21, $ May 9 (Replanted) 35, $ $ May 9 21, $ May 20 (Replanted) 35, $ $5.39 May 20 21, $ June 2 (Replanted) 35, $ $60.07 June 2 21, $1, June 25 (Replanted) 35, $1, $ BECK 5442VT3 April 14 (Normal 1st Planting) 35, $ April 14 21, $ May 9 (Replanted) 35, $ $ May 9 21, $ May 20 (Replanted) 35, $ $ May 20 21, $1, June 2 (Replanted) 35, $1, $38.07 June 2 21, $1, June 25 (Replanted) 35, $1, $ Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net return is based on $5.90/Bu. corn. Summary: This year, due to a wet spring and spotty weather conditions, the need to replant was higher in central Indiana. Due to the late planting season, we weren t able to get a replant in until May 9 th. Replanting offered an overall benefit of 16.4 Bu./A. with a net return of $71.85/A. in the month of June. However, replanting the in May resulted in an average loss of 11.1 Bu./A. with a -$90.48 net return. This year we saw a unique pattern in benefit with the late planting dates giving the largest yield advantage. Typically we would see the opposite and have the highest yield in April. 43

44 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Corn Planting Date Study Location: E5 (N) & E6 (N) Previous Crop: Corn Planted: Various Tillage: V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: Various Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: Various Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar, 1 qt. Class Act & Rows: Four 30 rows 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. To evaluate performance of BECK 5435HXR * and BECK 5442VT3 planted on several dates throughout the growing season. This enables us to see how planting dates affect corn yield on an annual basis and to compare multi-year averages. Planting Date Brand Harvested Population April 14 BECK 5435HXR * 28, April 14 BECK 5442VT3 33, AVERAGE 31, May 9 BECK 5435HXR * 35, May 9 BECK 5442VT3 33, AVERAGE 34, May 12 BECK 5435HXR * 36, May 12 BECK 5442VT3 36, AVERAGE 36, May 20 BECK 5435HXR * 28, May 20 BECK 5442VT3 36, AVERAGE 32, May 25 BECK 5435HXR * 29, May 25 BECK 5442VT3 32, AVERAGE 30, June 2 BECK 5435HXR * 35, June 2 BECK 5442VT3 35, AVERAGE 35, June 8 BECK 5435HXR * 34, June 8 BECK 5442VT3 35, AVERAGE 34, June 25 BECK 5435HXR * 34, June 25 BECK 5442VT3 35, AVERAGE 34, Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. 44

45 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Corn Planting Date Study - Continued Corn Planting Dates Yield and Population of Mean % % % 95.00% 90.00% 85.00% 80.00% 75.00% 70.00% % March 21- April % April 4-April % April 15-April % 98.07% May 1-May 13 May 14-May % May 29-June % June 10-June 25 Planting Dates 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 June 25 th. Corn planted between April 14 th and May 25 th pollinated during the very hot, dry growing environment we had in July. The bar graph to the right, reflects the percent of the average yield for each date range for the past 11 years. The line graph on the next page, 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. 45

46 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Sub-Irrigation 20 Rows Location: S1 plot Previous Crop: Soybeans Planted: May 14, 2011 Tillage: Disc / S-Tine Harvested: October 5, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep & 1 qt. Princep Population: 41,200 seeds/a. 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Rows: Soil Type: Six 20 rows Crosby Silt Loam & Miami Silt Loam April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. To be able to control the water table level with a sub-irrigation system, in an attempt to increase yields and to compare that data to a non-irrigated system. We decided to use the sub-irrigation system to push more water to corn with a higher population, which could potentially struggle in dryer conditions. 46 Brand Harvested Population Test Weight Broken Stalks NON-IRRIGATED BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * 41, BECK 6626HXR * 37, BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) 40, BECK 5442VT3 37, BECK 6733HXR * 39, BECK 5246HR * 37, Phoenix 5726A4** 38, BECK 6077HR * 35, Phoenix 6442A4** 41, BECK 6272HR * 41, BECK 5354HXR * 37, Phoenix 5385A3** 39, BECK 5269HXR * 38, BECK 5435HXR * 41, AVERAGE 39, IRRIGATED Phoenix 5385A3** 32, BECK 5246HR * 40, BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * 33, BECK 5442VT3 43, BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) 29, BECK 5354HXR * 39, BECK 6077HR * 43, BECK 5269HXR * 38, BECK 6626HXR * 38, BECK 6272HR * 30, Phoenix 5726A4** 37, BECK 5435HXR * 33, Phoenix 6442A4** 32, BECK 6733HXR * 38, AVERAGE 36, Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc.

47 BECK S Sub-Irrigation 20 Rows - Continued Central Indiana PFR Summary: This is the second year for this study; however, this is the first year testing corn. With the dry conditions we received this growing season, we were able to pump water to the sub-irrigated section 12 times. In doing so, we were able to keep the water table where we wanted it in an attempt to help increase yields. With the exception of 6733HXR, the sub-irrigation produced higher yields. With the 20 rows and a 40,000+ population, the sub-irrigation system proved to be able to keep the plants healthier and increase our overall yields by over 32 Bu./A. on average. At $6/Bu. corn, 32 Bu./A. returns nearly $200/A. towards paying off a sub-irrigation system cost of $2,300 to $2,400/A. BECK S Irrigated vs. Non-Irrigated Corn Location: (S) plot Previous Crop: Soybeans Planted: May 13, 2011 Tillage: S-Tine Harvested: October 12, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: 33,409 seeds/a. Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Three 30 rows 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Replications: Two (averaged) Treatment This drip tape study is designed to evaluate multiple hybrids in both irrigated and non-irrigated environments. The growing season was very hot and dry during the month of July at our Central IN PFR location. When rainfall wasn t received, irrigation was used at a rate of one inch per acre on a weekly basis to offset any negative drought effects. Harvested Population Test Weight Broken Stalks April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. Irrigation Advantage Bu./A. Gross^ Return IRRIGATED BECK 6733HXR * 24, $1, BECK 5442VT3 26, $1, BECK 6077HR * 24, $1, BECK 6179VT3 28, $1, BECK 5435HXR * 21, $1, AVERAGE 25, $1, NON-IRRIGATED BECK 6733HXR * 23, $1, BECK 5442VT3 27, $1, BECK 6077HR * 27, $1, BECK 5435HXR * 26, $1, BECK 6179VT3 25, $1, AVERAGE 25, $1, Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. ^Gross return based on $5.90/Bu. corn. Does not include the cost of irrigation. Summary: Irrigation offered an average yield advantage of 5.5 Bu./A. while returning an additional average gross return of $32.33/A. The cost of irrigation has not been figured. The addition of water during the hot dry stretch in July proved to offer yield advantages. Every hybrid tested except BECK 5435HXR * had a positive yield response in the irrigation portion of our study. 47

48 Central Indiana PFR BECK S 20" vs. 30" Row Width / Population Study Location: D1 plot Previous Crop: Soybeans Planted: May 12, 2011 Tillage: S-Tine Harvested: October 5, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: Various Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Three 20 rows Two 30" rows Replications: Two (averaged) April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. This study compares 15 hybrids in 20 and 30 row spacing at final populations ranging from 24,000 to 48,000 to evaluate population trends and row width configurations. 30" row 20" row Bu/A HR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A HXR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A HXR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A A3** Population (x1000) Bu/A HXR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A VT Population (x1000) Bu/A EX 0854 (5642 Gen.) Population (x1000) Bu/A A4** Population (x1000) Bu/A HR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A EX 2060 (6175 TM * Gen.) Population (x1000) Bu/A HR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A HXR TM * Population (x1000) **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. 48

49 BECK S 20" vs. 30" Row Width / Population Study - Continued Central Indiana PFR 30" row 20" row Bu/A HXR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A A3** Population (x1000) Bu/A RR Population (x1000) Bu/A All Hybrids Population (x1000) $/A All Hybrids Population (x1000) Population Summary: Summary for 20 vs. 30 Rows: We were unable to consistently achieve 48,000 final stands across all hybrids in this year s study so we only included up to 44,000 final stand. Higher populations have definitely been showing an increase in yield in our PFR studies the last several years. While yields were not as high in this year s population study at Central IN PFR, the trends and optimum populations were very close to what previous years have shown. When looking at the All Hybrids line graph above you see that 20 rows held the advantage on average across all populations and were above the 30 row yields in the 4 highest populations in the study. 20 rows also maintained their yield level very well at the higher populations whereas 30 rows began to decrease yield level at the highest populations. As we have seen at our other PFR locations and across years it was still more profitable to have 40,000 final population in either row width than having a less than desired population. This year at Central IN PFR was the year for 20 rows. 20 rows out yielded 30 rows by 6.1 Bu./A. across all population levels. They also returned an additional $36 per acre when averaged across all populations. This return per acre (the bar graph above) is calculated by taking the yield and seed costs into consideration at each of the harvest populations. The majority of the advantage came from the 40,000 and 44,000 final populations where 20 rows showed their ability to spread the plants out and maintain the yield level. 20 rows captured the highest yield and return at a single population at 36, rows also showed their highest yield and return at 36,000. Keep in mind these populations are final stands as we overplant and thin to a uniform stand. 49

50 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Zone-Till vs. Conventional-Till Long-Term Corn After Soybeans (Also Fungicide Trial Study) Location: E7 (S) & E8 (S) plots Previous Crop: Soybeans Planted: May 14, 2011 Tillage: Zone-Till / Conv.-Till Harvested: October 5, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: 35,077 seeds/a. Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Four 30 rows 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. This is the twenty-first year for evaluating zone-till vs. conventional-till practices in a corn/soybean rotation. We are also evaluating the use of a fungicide application in a portion of the plot in each tillage method. Harvested Population Test Weight Broken Stalks Bu./A. Advantage Headline Net^ Return Brand Notes ZONE-TILL STUDY BECK 5442VT3 Headline Tassel 35, Phoenix 5726A4** Headline Tassel 34, BECK 6077HR * Headline Tassel 37, BECK 5354HXR * Headline Tassel 33, AVERAGE 35, $ BECK 5442VT3 28, Phoenix 5726A4** 34, BECK 6077HR * 34, BECK 5354HXR * 31, AVERAGE 31, $ Zone-Till Average 33, CONVENTIONAL-TILL STUDY BECK 5442VT3 Headline Tassel 37, BECK 5354HXR * Headline Tassel 35, Phoenix 5726A4** Headline Tassel 34, BECK 6077HR * Headline Tassel 38, AVERAGE 36, $ BECK 5442VT3 33, BECK 5354HXR * 37, BECK 6077HR * 36, Phoenix 5726A4** 34, AVERAGE 35, $ Conventional-Till Average 35, Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Net return is based on $5.90/Bu. corn, $6.50 application cost, Headline AMP cost $239/gal. and drying cost figured at $0.04/pt. of moisture per bushel. Headline AMP is a trademark of BASF. 50 Tillage Summary: Fungicide Summary: Zone-till vs. conv.-till corn following soybeans for 21 years has produced higher corn yields in the zone-till areas in the majority of recent years. This year was no different. We saw an amazing 50.7 Bu./A. advantage in a zone-till system. This soil type is conducive to reduced till conditions and we have been able to prove that multiple years. This year, we looked at an application of Headline AMP at full tassel. We received no response in yield with the use of fungicide in the zone-till system and an increase in the conv.-till system. When averaged, we had a yield increase in the conv.-till section of 14.7 Bu./A., with a net return of $59.93/A. from applying Headline AMP. When evaluating each hybrid individually, three out of four benefited from a Headline AMP application in the conv.-till section. We would have expected fungicide to have produced a positive response in the reduced till environment.

51 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Zone-Till vs. Conventional-Till Continuous Corn (Also Fungicide Trial Study) Location: E5 (S) & E6 (S) plots Previous Crop: Corn Planted: May 14, 2011 Tillage: Zone-Till / Conv.-Till Harvested: October 5, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: 35,077 seeds/a. Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Four 30 rows 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Fungicide: 10 oz. Headline AMP April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. This study is similar to our long-term zone-till vs. conventional-till study on the previous page except this is continuous corn. This is the eighth year for having a corn after corn section of our zone-till vs. conv.-till study. It also analyzes the effects of fungicide application on each tillage method. Harvested Population Test Weight Broken Stalks Bu./A. Advantage Headline Net^ Return Brand Notes ZONE-TILL STUDY BECK 5442VT3 Headline Tassel 26, BECK 6077HR * Headline Tassel 30, Phoenix 5726A4** Headline Tassel 31, BECK 5354HXR * Headline Tassel 25, AVERAGE 28, $ BECK 5442VT3 33, Phoenix 5726A4** 33, BECK 6077HR * 29, BECK 5354HXR * 31, AVERAGE 31, $ Zone-Till Average 29, CONVENTIONAL-TILL STUDY BECK 5442VT3 Headline Tassel 33, BECK 5354HXR * Headline Tassel 32, Phoenix 5726A4** Headline Tassel 34, BECK 6077HR * Headline Tassel 32, AVERAGE 33, $ BECK 5442VT3 25, BECK 5354HXR * 27, Phoenix 5726A4** 32, BECK 6077HR * 35, AVERAGE 30, $ Conventional-Till Average 31, Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Net return is based on $5.90/Bu. corn, $6.50 application cost, Headline AMP cost $239/gal. and drying cost figured at $0.04/pt. of moisture per bushel. Headline AMP is a trademark of BASF. Tillage Summary: With the record setting number of 90+ degree days in the month of July this season, the zone-till method out yielded conv.-till by 27 Bu./A. This doesn t follow the trends we saw when we first began this continuous corn rotation. The wet conditions we faced in April pushed back our planting season further than previous years, so zone-till may have gotten a faster start and was perhaps affected less by compaction than we experienced in conv.-till. Fungicide Summary: In the zone-till portion of this plot, half of the hybrids responded better to an application of Headline AMP. However, after averaging all four hybrids and taking out chemical and application costs, not applying Headline AMP netted us an additional $45.72/A. The conv.-till section also had a better return with no fungicide application, which isn t what we have seen much of in past years. 51

52 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Strip-Till vs. Conventional-Till Corn After Soybeans / Corn After Corn Studies Location: B2 & B3 plots Previous Crop: Soybeans / Corn Planted: May 20, 2011 Tillage: Strip-Till / Conv.-Till Harvested: October 4, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: 33,674 seeds/a. Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Four 30 rows 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Fertilizer Analysis: 300 lbs lbs April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. 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. CORN AFTER SOYBEANS Brand Lbs. of Dry Fert./A. Rate of Fert. Harvested Population Test Weight STRIP-TILL (Banded Dry Fertilizer) BECK 5716A3 500 lbs. 34, BECK 5442VT3 500 lbs. 34, Base BECK 4817HXR * 500 lbs. 35, BECK 6733HXR * 500 lbs. 36, AVERAGE 35, BECK 5442VT3 330 lbs. 33, BECK 5716A3 330 lbs. 35, % of Base BECK 4817HXR * 330 lbs. 36, BECK 6733HXR * 330 lbs. 36, AVERAGE 35, BECK 4817HXR * 165 lbs. 34, BECK 5442VT3 165 lbs. 34, % of Base BECK 5716A3 165 lbs. 36, BECK 6733HXR * 165 lbs. 31, AVERAGE 33, Strip-Till Average 34, CONVENTIONAL-TILL (Broadcast Fertilizer) BECK 4817HXR * 500 lbs. 35, BECK 5716A3 500 lbs. 35, Base BECK 5442VT3 500 lbs. 33, BECK 6733HXR * 500 lbs. 35, AVERAGE 34, BECK 5442VT3 330 lbs. 33, BECK 5716A3 330 lbs. 34, % of Base BECK 4817HXR * 330 lbs. 33, BECK 6733HXR * 330 lbs. 34, AVERAGE 34, BECK 5442VT3 165 lbs. 36, BECK 4817HXR * 165 lbs. 35, % of Base BECK 5716A3 165 lbs. 33, BECK 6733HXR * 165 lbs. 34, AVERAGE 34, Conventional-Till Average 34,

53 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Strip-Till vs. Conventional-Till Corn After Soybeans / Corn After Corn Studies - Continued CORN AFTER CORN Lbs. of Dry Fert./A. Harvested Population Test Weight Brand STRIP-TILL (Banded Dry Fertilizer) BECK 5442VT3 500 lbs. 34, BECK 4817HXR * 500 lbs. 34, BECK 5716A3 500 lbs. 35, BECK 6733HXR * 500 lbs. 33, AVERAGE 34, BECK 5442VT3 330 lbs. 34, BECK 4817HXR * 330 lbs. 30, BECK 5716A3 330 lbs. 34, BECK 6733HXR * 330 lbs. 33, AVERAGE 33, BECK 5442VT3 165 lbs. 33, BECK 4817HXR * 165 lbs. 32, BECK 6733HXR * 165 lbs. 33, BECK 5716A3 165 lbs. 33, AVERAGE 33, Strip-Till Average 33, CONVENTIONAL-TILL (Broadcast Fertilizer) BECK 5442VT3 500 lbs. 34, BECK 5716A3 500 lbs. 34, BECK 6733HXR * 500 lbs. 33, BECK 4817HXR * 500 lbs. 35, AVERAGE 34, BECK 5442VT3 330 lbs. 33, BECK 5716A3 330 lbs. 32, BECK 6733HXR * 330 lbs. 32, BECK 4817HXR * 330 lbs. 35, AVERAGE 33, BECK 5442VT3 165 lbs. 33, BECK 5716A3 165 lbs. 34, BECK 4817HXR * 165 lbs. 33, BECK 6733HXR * 165 lbs. 35, AVERAGE 34, Conventional-Till Average 33, Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. Summary: Crop Rotation Summary: As we evaluate the yields, you can see the corn after corn yields are much higher than the corn/bean rotation. We didn't have as much disease pressure this year, particularly in our corn after corn plots, as we have seen in the past. Tillage Summary: Overall, we saw an advantage of 15.5 Bu./A. in the conv.-till compared to strip-till across both crop rotations. One of the more noticeable reasons for this is because of the erosion we faced this year. The yields in the corn after beans strip-till section seemed to be very low compared to everything else this year. Fertilizer Summary: With the data collected this year, we have seen a variety of different trends. When averaged, the 500 lbs. section had the lowest yields. There also seems to be a higher response to the fertilizer in a corn after corn rotation. Surprisingly enough, the highest yield came from the strip-till 165 lbs. fertilizer section. Summary: One key factor to consider when implementing a strip-till system is having the proper equipment and soil type. You can be much more accurate in a strip-till system with the use of auto-guidance technology. It can be very difficult to distinguish some strip-till areas due to residue moving back into the strips, especially in a corn after corn rotation. In addition, strip-tilled areas on sloping ground were subject to more erosion, which created a nonuniform seed bed at planting time. The last three years we have seen the washing out of strips due to the slope of the ground. 53

54 54 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Purdue CAB Nitrogen Rate Study Location: Field K plot Previous Crop: Soybeans Planted: May 11, 2011 Tillage: V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: October 4, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: 33,674 seeds/a. Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Eight 30 rows Product Tested: BECK 5442VT3 Replications: Two (averaged) Lbs. of Nitrogen Broken Stalks Harvested Population Gross Income Gross Minus Nitrogen & Drying Cost April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. This study was set up to help gather nitrogen data for a state-wide database coordinated by Purdue University. This is our second year for a corn after beans study at our central Indiana location using the current protocol. Return on Additional Lbs. of N , $ $ $ , $ $ $ , $ $ $ , $ $ $ , $ $ $ , $ $ $ , $ $ , Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. Gross income based on $5.90/Bu. corn. Drying cost figured at $0.04/point of moisture above 15%. Nitrogen price based on $330/ton 28% liquid nitrogen. Summary: In this second year attempt at a corn after soybean nitrogen study, we saw our highest yield at the nitrogen application of 225 lbs. Furthermore, after accounting for the cost of the extra nitrogen and the drying cost of each entry, we found this rate to give us the third highest net return. This year, applying 175 lbs. of nitrogen gave us our highest net return at $824.18/A. For more information on CAB nitrogen rates please refer to pages of the multi-location section. BECK S Purdue CAC Nitrogen Rate Study Location: A6 plot Previous Crop: Corn Planted: May 11, 2011 Tillage: No-Till Harvested: September 23, 2011 Herbicide: Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Population: 33,674 seeds/a. 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Rows: Eight 30 rows Product Tested: BECK 5442VT3 Replications: Two (averaged) Lbs. of Nitrogen This study was set up in 2006 to help gather nitrogen data for a state wide database coordinated by Purdue University. Broken Stalks Harvested Population Gross Income Gross Minus Nitrogen & Drying Cost Return on Additional Lbs. of N , $ $ $ , $ $ $ , $ $ $ , $ $ $ , $ $ $ , $ $ $ , $ $ , Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. Gross income based on $5.90/Bu. corn. Drying cost figured at $0.04/point of moisture above 15%. Nitrogen price based on $330/ton 28% liquid nitrogen.

55 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Purdue CAC Nitrogen Rate Study - Continued Summary: The past two years, we have evaluated nitrogen rates in 25 lbs. increments from 125 to 250 in a cornafter-corn situation. Testing smaller nitrogen increments should allow us to pinpoint the most economical application rate in a given growing season. This year, 250 lbs. of nitrogen provided the highest yield and a the second highest net return. However, applying 175 lbs. gave us our highest return at $415.92/A. For more information on CAC nitrogen rates please refer to pages of the multi-location section. BECK S Nitrogen Timing Study Location: Field C (S) plot Previous Crop: Corn Planted: June 1, 2011 Tillage: Disk / V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: October 24, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: 35,077 seeds/a. Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Four 30 rows Product Tested: BECK 6733HXR * Replications: Two (averaged) April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. 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. All treatments in this study received a total of 230 lbs./a. of nitrogen. Harvested Population Test Weight Net^ Return Brand 230 LBS. TOTAL N 100% Sidedress V6 34, $ gal. 2x2 UAN f/b Balance Sidedress V3 35, $ % Pre-Plant Incorporated UAN f/b 50% Sidedress V4-V5 36, $ % Sidedress V3 36, $ % Pre-Plant Incorporated UAN 36, $ AVERAGE 35, $ Bushels per acre and test weight are corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net return based on $5.90/Bu. corn, $330/ton 28% nitrogen, drying cost of $0.04/point of moisture. Summary: This year nitrogen loss was significant for all pre-plant N applications due to the excessive and numerous heavy rainfall events in April and June. The results of this study clearly show those N losses and the effect on final yield. The lowest yield was the treatment that relied 100% on a pre-plant application, while the highest yield received all of its N sidedressed at V6, for a $86.84/A. advantage over the 100% pre-plant. Similar to previous years, we continue to see another good advantage to split applications at $61.58/A. and $17.66/A. over 100% pre-plant. 55

56 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Corn Lime Study Location: plot Previous Crop: Soybeans Planted: May 13, 2011 Tillage: V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: October 12, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: 33,409 seeds/a. Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Four 30 rows Insecticide: As needed Force 3G April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. This is the eighteenth year of a long-term study to determine the effects of High Calcium lime on corn and soybean production. In April 1993 and planted corn. We have rotated the crops over the years, and applied additional lime 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 2010, we reapplied all of the initial rates except the 10 ton/a. lime section. Yield Rank Treatment Harvested Population Test Weight Broken Stalks 5 TONS/A. BECK 5442VT3 25, BECK 6077HR * 24, BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * 27, Pheonix 5726A4** 25, AVERAGE 25, TON/A. + 3 TONS/A. BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * 27, Pheonix 5726A4** 26, BECK 6077HR * 25, BECK 5442VT3 25, AVERAGE 25, NO ADDED LIME BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * 27, BECK 5442VT3 26, Pheonix 5726A4** 24, BECK 6077HR * 26, AVERAGE 26, TONS/A. BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * 25, Pheonix 5726A4** 23, BECK 5442VT3 23, BECK 6077HR * 26, AVERAGE 24, TONS/A. Pheonix 5726A4** 25, BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * 28, BECK 6077HR * 26, BECK 5442VT3 24, AVERAGE 26, Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. 56

57 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Corn Lime Study - Continued 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 , 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 Bu./A. more yield. However, our advantage in 2005 was only 11.0 Bu./A. The past two corn years (2007 and 2009), corn yields were nearly the same between limed and un-limed areas, so it appeared that the effects of lime were diminishing. However, this year the 4 different lime sections had an average of 17 Bu./A. advantage over the no lime section. BECK S Soil Plus II Study Location: Hoch (S) plot Previous Crop: Corn Planted: June 3, 2011 Tillage: Disk / V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: October 25, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: 33,674 seeds/a. Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Soil Type: Four 30 rows Brookston Silty Clay Loam April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. This study is a first year evaluation of the product Soil Plus II. Soil Plus II is a unique combination of plant substances in a humic acid base intended for root growth by providing supplemental plant nutrients. Soil Plus II contains 5% nitrogen, 10% phosphorus, 5% potash, and.6% zinc. Soil Plus II is distributed by Cropchem in Decatur, IL. We applied Soil Plus II pre-emergence mixed with 28%. Brand Treatment Yield Difference Net^ Return +/- Control BECK 5676HXR * 1 qt. Soil Plus II $1, $40.86 BECK 4817HXR * 1 qt. Soil Plus II $ $9.35 AVERAGE $ $16.12 BECK 5676HXR * Control $ BECK 4817HXR * Control $ AVERAGE $ Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return is based on $5.90/Bu. corn, $44/gal. Soil Plus II, $6.50/A. application cost and $0.04/point drying cost. Soil Plus II is a trademark of Cropchem Research, Inc. Summary: This study offered an average yield increase of 9 Bu./A. with Soil Plus II. With BECK 5676HXR * we saw a 13.9 Bu/A. increase with a $40.86/A. advantage over the BECK 5676HXR * control. After analyzing this year s data we plan to continue testing Soil Plus II so we can compare multi-year data. 57

58 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Quality Traits Products Location: N3 plot Previous Crop: Soybeans Planted: May 11, 2011 Tillage: S-Tine Harvested: October 3, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: 33,674 seeds/a. Post: 1.67 qts. Lexar & 1 qt. Class Act Rows: Four 30 rows 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Insecticide: Force 3G on non-rw hybrids April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. This study shows the Quality Trait Products Beck s is testing and/or offering for sale. Our purpose is to evaluate the products that are the most profitable for our customers. Quality Trait Product Brand Harvested Population Test Weight Food Grade BECK 6733HXR * 33, Food Grade BECK 6626HXR * 32, Food Grade BECK EX 1129 * 33, Food Grade BECK 6272HR * 34, Food Grade BECK 5246HR * 34, Food Grade BECK EX 1130 * 31, Food Grade BECK 5435HXR * 31, Food Grade BECK 6111HR * 31, Food Grade BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * 34, Food Grade BECK 5269HXR * 33, Waxy BECK 5335wx * 33, Waxy BECK 5335HXRwx * 33, Waxy BECK 6187wx * 33, Waxy BECK 5244VTwx 35, Waxy BECK 5323VT3wx 33, Waxy BECK 5323RRwx 34, Waxy BECK 5774VT3wx 36, Waxy BECK EX 1120 * 34, AVERAGE 33, Potential Premiums Food Grade $0.20 Waxy $ $0.80 Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. 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. 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. Quality Trait Products is a registered trademark of Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. 58

59 BECK S Corn Silage Study Central Indiana PFR 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. Brand Lbs. of Milk/A. Lbs. of Milk/Ton 65% Moist. Tons/A. ADF NDF Adj. Crude Protein Starch Crude Fat NEL NEG BECK 6175AMX * 33,445 2, BECK 5246HR * 32,486 2, BECK 6903HR * 31,846 2, BECK 5716A3 31,641 2, BECK 7988BR 31,602 2, BECK 6733HXR * 31,474 2, BECK 5269HXR * 30,844 2, BECK 5354HXR * 30,293 2, BECK 6077HR * 30,115 2, BECK 6111HXR * 29,727 2, BECK 5435HXR * 29,457 2, BECK 5442VT3 28,656 2, 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/A. & Ton Calculated using the University of Wisconsin s Milk 2006 Program Top Five Hybrids for Silage North Rm (Days) Central Rm (Days) South Rm (Days) BECK 6175AMX * 112 BECK 6077HR * 111 BECK 6903HR * 115 BECK 5716A3 111 BECK 6175AMX * 112 BECK 6733HXR * 114 BECK 6077HR * 111 BECK 5716A3 111 BECK 7988BR 117 BECK 5269HXR * 106 BECK 6733HXR * 114 BECK 8603HR * 118 BECK 5354HXR * 107 BECK 6111HXR * 112 BECK 5716A3 111 Summary: Beck's continues to not only look at tonnage, but also take into account the nutritional factors that contribute to silage quality. All of the tested hybrids are excellent for corn silage. Use the above chart to make selections for your specific geography. 59

60 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Gypsum Study Location: Field K (S) Previous Crop: Corn Planted: May 14, 2011 Tillage: No-Till Harvested: October 4, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 1.67 qts. Bicep, 1 qt. Princep, Population: 33,674 seeds/a. Products Tested: BECK 5435HXR * Rows: Four 30 rows BECK 6733HXR * Soil Type: Miami Silt Loam & Shoals Silt Loam April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. To evaluate the application rates and soil amendment properties of Gypsum (Calcium Sulfate) in a no-till corn situation. We wanted to determine the residual benefits of a gypsum application. We did this by making an initial application of 2000 lbs. in 2009 and then comparing it to strips with consecutive applications for multiple years. Gypsum has been used to improve soil structure and add sulfur. The gypsum that we evaluated is a by-product from power plants. It has a guaranteed analysis of 21.5% calcium and 16.5% sulfur. Applications Harvested Population Test Weight 2,000 LBS. GYPSUM APPLIED IN 2009 (CONTROL - NO GYPSUM IN 2011) BECK 5435HXR * 33, BECK 6733HXR * 32, AVERAGE 32, ,000 LBS. GYPSUM APPLIED IN 2011 & 900 LBS. GYPSUM IN 2010 BECK 5435HXR * 34, BECK 6733HXR * 32, AVERAGE 33, ,500 LBS. GYPSUM APPLIED IN 2011, 900 LBS. GYPSUM IN 2010 & 2,000 LBS. APPLIED IN 2009 BECK 5435HXR * 34, BECK 6733HXR * 32, AVERAGE 33, Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. Summary: In 2009, we used a spreader truck to apply product to the testing area. All hybrids tested in the 2009 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. In 2010, we saw both hybrids respond with a yield increase where we applied gypsum in the spring. We saw the maximum response to gypsum in this plot in the area that had gypsum spread both in 2009 and In this plot,we didn t see a positive response to gypsum in The yield results that we have seen throughout this three year study shows a large response in the first year which we contributed to the added sulfur. 60

61 BECK S Soybean Variety Plot - Office Central Indiana PFR Location: N1 plot Previous Crop: Corn Planted: May 10, 2011 Tillage: V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: Various Herbicide: Pre: 10 oz. Domain Population: 128,537 seeds/a. Post Spray 1: 3 oz. Raptor, 2.4 oz. PowerHouse, Rows: Three 30" rows 3 oz. Cobra & 6 oz. Clethodim Spray 2: 1 qt. Class Act, 1 qt. Basagran & 6 oz. Clethodim April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. Yield Rank GROUP II Brand Plant Height (Inches) Pod Height (Inches) Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat 1 BECK 244NR * BECK 241NR * BECK 276NL BECK 229NR * BECK 263NR * BECK 289NR * BECK 294NR * AVERAGE GROUP III & IV 1 BECK 356NL BECK 400NR * BECK 414N BECK 372NL BECK EX BECK 331N BECK 306NL BECK 362NR * BECK 375NR * BECK 387N BECK 398NR BECK 319N BECK 432NR * BECK 322NR * BECK 392NL BECK 357NR * BECK 325NR * AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. 61

62 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Soybean Plot - Arcadia Location: 1/2 Mile West of Arcadia Previous Crop: Corn Planted: June 6, 2011 Tillage: Disk / V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: October 11, 2011 Herbicide: Post: 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Population: 133,294 seeds/a. 6 oz. Clethodim Rows: Four 30 rows Replications: Two (averaged) April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. Yield Rank Brand Relative Maturity Plant Height (Inches) Pod Height (Inches) Standability Rating 1 = Erect 5 = Flat GROUP II 1 BECK 294NR * BECK 241NR * BECK EX 6140 * BECK 244NR * BECK 229NR * BECK 289NR * BECK EX 6035 * BECK 263NR * AVERAGE GROUP III & IV 1 BECK EX 6153 * BECK 325NR * BECK 398NR BECK EX 6145 * BECK EX 6148 * BECK EX 6147 * BECK EX 6142 * BECK 375NR * BECK 362NR * BECK EX 6151 * BECK EX 6143 * BECK 322NR * BECK 400NR * BECK EX 6154 * BECK EX 6144 * BECK 357NR * AVERAGE Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 13% moisture. 62

63 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Soybean Show Plot - Atlanta Location: SR 19 West of Atlanta Previous Crop: Corn Planted: May 13, 2011 Tillage: Disk / V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: October 6, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 10 oz. Domain Population: 133,294 seeds/a. Post: 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Rows: Four 30 rows 6 oz. Clethodim April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. Yield Rank GROUP II Brand Relative Maturity Plant Height (Inches) Pod Height (Inches) Standability Rating 1 = Erect 5 = Flat 1 BECK 241NR * BECK 289NR * BECK 294NR * BECK EX 6140 * BECK 263NR * BECK EX 6035 * BECK 244NR * BECK 229NR * AVERAGE GROUP III & IV 1 BECK EX 6148 * BECK EX 6145 * BECK EX 6143 * BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * BECK 322NR * BECK EX 6147 * BECK 375NR * BECK EX 6153 * BECK EX 6144 * BECK 357NR * BECK 398NR BECK EX 6151 * BECK 400NR * BECK EX 6142 * BECK EX 6154 * AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. 63

64 Central Indiana PFR BECK S 15" Show Plot & Specialty Beans Location: N4 plot Previous Crop: Corn Planted: May 11, 2011 Tillage: Disk / V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: October 6, 2011 Herbicide: Post: 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Population: 160,000 seeds/a. 6 oz. Clethodim Rows: Five 15 rows April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. Yield Rank Brand Special Characteristic Relative Maturity Plant Height (Inches) Pod Height (Inches) Two Yr. Average '10 - '11 GROUP II 1 BECK 241NR * BECK 294NR * BECK 289NR * BECK 244NR * BECK 229NR * BECK 263NR * AVERAGE GROUP III & IV 1 BECK EX 6153 * BECK EX 6144 * BECK 398NR BECK 375NR * BECK 322NR * BECK EX 6148 * BECK 362NR * BECK 331N Traditional (Non-GMO) BECK 325NR * BECK 357NR * BECK 387N Traditional (Non-GMO) BECK 372NL BECK 392NL BECK 319N Traditional (Non-GMO) BECK 356NL BECK 359NRV Visitive Low-Linolenic BECK 326RV Visitive Low-Linolenic AVERAGE Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 13% moisture. 64

65 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Experimental Soybean Show Plot Location: Field C plot Previous Crop: Corn Planted: June 1, 2011 Tillage: V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: October 15, 2011 Herbicide: RR Post: 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Population: 133,294 seeds/a. 6 oz. Clethodim Rows: Four 30" rows LL Post: 22 oz. Ignite Replications: Two (averaged) 6 oz. Clethodim April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. This plot was designed to showcase our top experimental soybeans along side our current soybean lineup. We also compared our overall average for Group II versus Group III and IV soybeans. Plant Height (Inches) Pod Height (Inches) Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat Yield Rank Brand GROUP II 1 BECK 294NR * BECK 289NR * BECK EX 6035 * BECK EX 6140 * BECK 263NR * BECK 241NR * BECK 229NR * BECK 244NR * BECK 276NL AVERAGE GROUP III & IV 1 BECK 375NR * BECK EX 6145 * BECK 398NR BECK EX 6142 * BECK 325NR * BECK EX 6148 * BECK EX 6151 * BECK 362NR * BECK EX 6143 * BECK EX 6144 * BECK 306NL BECK EX 6147 * BECK 357NR * BECK EX 6153 * BECK 392NL BECK 322NR * BECK 432NR * BECK EX 6154 * BECK 400NR * BECK EX BECK 372NL BECK 356NL AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. 65

66 Central Indiana PFR BECK S High School Educational Plot Location: SR 19 across from Previous Crop: Corn Hamilton Heights High School Tillage: No-Till Planted: May 21, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 10 oz. Domain Harvested: October 15, 2011 Post: 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Population: 153,884 seeds/a. (twice) Rows: Eleven 15" rows 6 oz. Clethodim Replications: Two (averaged) April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total 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-guidance and other general equipment used to plant, harvest, and gather data. Yield Rank Brand Plant Height (Inches) Pod Height (Inches) Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat 1 BECK 398NR BECK 294NR * BECK EX 6148 * BECK 375NR * BECK 289NR * BECK 362NR * BECK EX 6153 * BECK 400NR * BECK 325NR * BECK 322NR * BECK EX 6151 * BECK EX 6143 * BECK EX 6142 * BECK EX 6145 * BECK 357NR * BECK 263NR * BECK EX 6144 * BECK EX 6147 * BECK 244NR * BECK EX 6140 * AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. 66

67 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Foliar Fungicide Study Location: F2 & F3 plots Previous Crop: Corn Planted: May 12, 2011 Tillage: Disk / V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: October 6, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 10 oz. Domain Population: 166,196 seeds/a. Post: 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Rows: Eleven 15 rows 6 oz. Clethodim Replications: Two (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 325NR * Treatment April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. This study was designed to demonstrate the use of insecticides and fungicides at two growth stages to protect the growth and yield of soybeans. Gross Revenue Foliar^ Costs Net Revenue $/A. Benefit vs. Control APPLICATION STAGE R2 Control 61.5 $ $ Headline 72.7 $ $26.47 $ $ Headline + Mustang Max 73.1 $ $33.02 $ $ Mustang Max 76.8 $ $13.05 $ $ AVERAGE 71.0 $ $24.18 $ $ APPLICATION STAGE R4 Control 62.2 $ $ Headline 75.8 $ $26.47 $ $ Headline + Mustang Max 71.3 $ $33.02 $ $83.06 Mustang Max 74.9 $ $13.05 $ $ AVERAGE 71.0 $ $24.18 $ $ Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 13% moisture. ^Foliar cost = application cost $6/50/A., Headline $19.97/A., Mustang Max $6.55/A. Soybean price = $12.75/Bu. Headline is a registered trademark of BASF. Mustang Max is a trademark of FMC Corp. Escalate is a trademark of Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. Summary: In 2010 and this year, the R2 & R4 application stages showed a yield increase regardless of application timing. The insecticide alone has shown a positive net return versus the control at both the R2 & R4 stage for the past two crops. Typically we see a benefit with the R4 application of a fungicide in this study. Overall, every application at both growth stages had a positive net return over our control segments. 67

68 Central Indiana PFR Location: No-Till: H3 plot Previous Crop: Corn Conv.: (N) & (N) plots Tillage: No-Till / Conv.-Till Planted: May 24, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 10 oz. Domain Harvested: October 8, 2011 Post: 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Population: 153,884 seeds/a. 6 oz. Clethodim Rows: Soil Type: BECK S Advanced Soybeans in No-Till (MP Soil) and Conventional-Till (HP Soil) Five 15" rows MP: Miami Silt Loam HP: Shoals Silt Loam & Miami Silt Loam April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. This study compares some of our advanced experimental varieties against some of our leading products in our current line-up. We evaluate yield as well as agronomic characteristics by replicating this test on medium productivity, no-till soil and on high productivity, conventional-till soil. Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 13% moisture. 68 Plant Height (Inches) Pod Height (Inches) Standability Rating 1 = Erect 5 = Flat Yield Rank Brand Relative Maturity MP SOIL - NO-TILL (TWO REPLICATIONS) 1 BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * BECK EX 6148 * BECK EX 6145 * BECK EX 6153 * BECK 322NR * BECK EX 6151 * BECK 294NR * BECK EX 6143 * BECK EX 6144 * BECK EX 6147 * BECK 400NR * BECK 244NR * BECK 289NR * BECK 357NR * BECK 263NR * AVERAGE HP SOIL - CONVENTIONAL-TILL (ONE REPLICATION) 1 BECK 294NR * BECK 244NR * BECK EX 6148 * BECK 362NR * BECK EX 6153 * BECK 263NR * BECK 398NR BECK EX 6145 * BECK 375NR * BECK 322NR * BECK EX 6144 * BECK 400NR * BECK 289NR * BECK 325NR * BECK EX 6143 * BECK 357NR * BECK EX 6151 * BECK EX 6147 * AVERAGE Advantage in MP Soil

69 Summary: Central Indiana PFR BECK S Advanced Soybeans in No-Till (MP Soil) and Conventional-Till (HP Soil) - Continued This year s advanced soybean variety study gave very competitive results. We saw the MP soil (no-till) out-yield the HP soil (conventional-till) by 1.9 Bu./A. This is the third year in a row that the MP no-till soil has averaged higher than the HP conventional type. The no-till ground is on higher ground and the conventional-till is on bottom ground that has had excess moisture for longer periods in the season which could have led to lower yields the last two years. In 2011, the conventional-till plot suffered from water damage that occurred in June. At one point in time we actually discussed whether or not to replant the conventional-till plot. We are glad we didn t. BECK S RR vs. LL Showdown Location: E1 & E2 plots Previous Crop: Corn Planted: May 11, 2011 Tillage: S-Tine Harvested: October 5, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 10 oz. Domain Population: 160,040 seeds/a. Post RR: 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax (twice) Rows: Eleven 15 rows 6 oz. Clethodim Replications: Three (averaged) Post LL: 22 oz. Ignite (twice) & 6 oz. Clethodim Yield Rank In this study we compare some of the top yielding RR and LL soybeans in each maturity from an early Group III to a late Group III soybean to see which system will take Top Honors. We are also striving to reach the 100 Bu./A. mark by adding special seed treatments. We planted three replications of each variety and have published the average of each variety. Brand Emerged Population Plant Height (Inches) Pod Height (Inches) Standability Rating 1 = Erect 5 = Flat ROUNDUP READY SYSTEM 1 BECK 375NR * 145, BECK 398NR 137, BECK 325NR * 118, AVERAGE 133, April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. 3 Year Average '09 - '11 RR = 71.1 Bu./A. LIBERTYLINK SYSTEM 1 BECK 372NL 138, BECK 392NL 128, BECK 356NL 144, AVERAGE 137, Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 13% moisture. Roundup Ready is a registered trademark of Monsanto Company. LibertyLink is a registered trademark of Bayer. LL = 68.4 Bu./A. Summary: In this year s head-to-head showdown, Roundup Ready soybeans took top honors at this location by yielding an average of 5.7 Bu./A. more than LibertyLink soybeans. However, the three year average shows only a 2.7 Bu./A. advantage for Roundup Ready soybeans. Even though the Roundup Ready soybeans achieved the highest yield, LibertyLink soybeans are a crucial ingredient in the recipe for keeping weed resistance off your farm. By respecting the rotation of herbicides we can extend the life of the valuable herbicides that we currently have in the industry. 69

70 Central Indiana PFR BECK S 100 Bushel Soybean Management Study Location: F1 plot Previous Crop: Corn Planted: May 12, 2011 Tillage: Disk / V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: October 7, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 10 oz. Domain Population: 166,196 seeds/a. Post: 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Rows: Eleven 15 rows April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total 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. Brand Base Treatment HIGH INPUT TRIAL BECK 362NR * Escalate + Protinus + Optimize (Control) 62.8 Advantage for Treatment Bu./A. BECK 362NR * Escalate + Protinus + 2x Optimize (Treated) BECK 398NR Escalate + Protinus + Optimize (Control) 67.7 BECK 398NR Escalate + Protinus + 2x Optimize (Treated) AVERAGE 67.3 Pre-planned Treatments June 30 th 15 gal. water, 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax, 8 oz. Clethodim, 17 lb./100 gal water AMS, 2 qt./a , 1 pt. Agra-Mix 2, 3.8 oz. Leverage, 4 oz. Headline, 21 g./a. WECO-1090 July 11 th 15 gal. water, 1 gal , ½ pt./a. Boron(10%), 2 qt./a. Manganese July 20 st 15 gal. water, 1 gal. Nitamin, 1 pt. Agra-Mix 2, 2 qt./a , 4 oz. Stratego YLD, 1 pt./a. Govern, 21 g./a. WECO-1090 August 5 th 15 gal. water, 1 qt./a. Govern, 6 oz. Headline, 2 gal. Nitamin, 1 pt. Agra-Mix 2, 1 gal , ½ pt./a. Boron(10%), 21 g./a. WECO-1090 August 16 th - 15 gal. water, 2 gal. Nitamin, 1 pt. Agra-Mix 2, 1 gal , 21 g./a. WECO-1090 August 29 th - 15 gal. water, 3 gal. Nitamin, 1 gal SCOUTING TRIAL BECK 362NR * Escalate + Protinus + Optimize (Control) 75.6 BECK 362NR * Escalate + Protinus + Optimize (Treated) BECK 398NR Escalate + Protinus + Optimize (Control) 74.7 BECK 398NR Escalate + Protinus + Optimize (Treated) AVERAGE 75.0 Treatments based on Scouting June 30 th 15 gal. water, 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax, 8 oz. Clethodim, 17 lb./100 gal. water AMS August 5 th 15 gal. water, 1 qt./a. Govern, 6 oz. Headline Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. 70

71 BECK S 100 Bushel Soybean Management Study - Continued Central Indiana PFR Summary: This year we tried many different products as well as many different applications in our attempt to break the 100 Bu./A. milestone. With the help of a very hot and dry month of July, we were unsuccessful with our attempt. However, we saw a 6.0 Bu/A. increase with BECK 398NR in the treated high-input trial compared to the control. BECK 362NR * responded to the high-input treatments well, but not to the scouting trial treatments. Overall, this year s results favored more scouting with fewer inputs by a margin of 7.7 Bu./A. Leverage : Protinus : Insecticide that has two modes of action against sucking and chewing pests one delivers fast knockdown, the other extends residual control. 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. Optimize : Stratego YLD: A seed applied inoculant and LCO product to promote natural root and shoot development, improving plant health. A new fungicide for corn and soybeans, featuring the latest in triazole technology. Offering two different modes of action, it provides both preventive and curative activities along with improved surface coverage and systemic movement to provide broad-spectrum, long-lasting disease control and higher yield potential. Stratego YLD will be available for use in corn and soybeans for the 2011 growing season. Krystal Klear Agra Mix: Foli-Gro Triple 7: WECO-1090: Foliar micronutrient solution containing: 2% copper, 2% Manganese, 2% Zinc,.5% Boron. A unique blend of chelated micronutrients designed to promote plant growth and yields of a wide variety of agricultural and ornamental crops. An experimental foliar plant stress reduction product. Leverage and Stratego YLD are registered trademarks of Bayer CropScience. Protinus is a trademark of Wolf Trax. Nitamin is a registered trademark of Georgia-Pacific. Optimize is a registered trademark of EMD Crop BioScience. Krystal Klear Agra Mix is a registered trademark of Performance Nutrition, Foli-Gro Triple 7 is a registered trademark of Wilbur-Ellis Company. 71

72 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Escalate vs Untreated Location: A9 plot Previous Crop: Corn Planted: May 10, 2011 Tillage: Disk / V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: October 12, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 10 oz. Domain Population: 160,040 seeds/a. Post: 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Rows: Five 15 rows April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. This study compares six different varieties of Escalate treated soybeans with untreated soybeans in mid May planting conditions. In this study we evaluate seed emergence, standability, and other plant characteristics. Emerged Population Bushels Escalate Advantage Brand Escalate Untreated Escalate Untreated Bu./A. BECK 432NR * 139, , BECK 322NR * 135, , BECK 325NR * 130, , BECK 294NR * 126, , BECK 400NR * 121, , BECK 362NR * 151, , AVERAGE 134, , Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 13% moisture. Escalate is a trademark of Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. 72 Summary: This year Escalate yield enhancement system had a very favorable yield advantage of 4.6 Bu./A. when compared to the untreated version of the same genetics. Individually, we had 5 out of 6 varieties show an increase with the treatment of our Escalate yield enhancement system. For comparison sake, we have included the last 15 years of data evaluating the use of Sure Gro (fungicides applied to the seed to protect seedling health, stands and yield). As you can see, Escalate, which includes seed-applied insecticide, has really provided extra yield punch while maintaining increased population and seedling health from the fungicides. Advantage for Escalate Year Planting Date Final Population Bu./A April 2 May 10 +4,356 +3, The two years of Escalate yield enhancement system complements the 15 year long fungicide data very well. Advantage for Sure Gro Year Planting Date Final Population Bu./A April , April 18 +6, April 17 +8, April , April 12-2, April 1 +23, April 3 +10, April 17 +2, April 2-4, April April 5-1, April 10-5, April 3 +8, April 17 +5, April , AVERAGE +8,

73 BECK S Lime Study on Soybeans Location: (S) plot Previous Crop: Corn Planted: May 13, 2011 Tillage: V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: October 7, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 10 oz. Domain Population: 133,636 seeds/a. Post: 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Rows: Four 30" rows Plant Height (Inches) Pod Height (Inches) Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat Central Indiana PFR April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. This study compares four BECK soybean products planted where 3 ton/a. of the following lime types were applied in the Spring of 1998 and Fall of 2010: High Calcium Lime, High Magnesium Lime and Bed Ash (Calcium Sulfate). 5 Year Average '02, '04, '07, '09, '11 Yield Rank Brand BED ASH (CALCIUM SULFATE) 1 BECK 398NR * BECK 375NR * BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * AVERAGE HIGH CALCIUM LIME 1 BECK 362NR * BECK 398NR * BECK 325NR * BECK 375NR * AVERAGE HIGH MAGNESIUM LIME 1 BECK 362NR * BECK 375NR * BECK 325NR * BECK 398NR * AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. SOIL TEST RESULTS (LBS./A.) ph P K Mg Ca C.E.C. 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 , FALL 2010 Bed Ash , High Calcium , High Magnesium , Soil test conducted by A&L Great Lakes Labs, Inc. Summary: Our 1998 results were inconclusive due to spring flooding. The results showed lower yields where High Magnesium Lime was applied. This year s study produced the highest yields in the High Magnesium Lime environment, which is similar to the results from 04 and 07. Overall, our five year average shows the High Magnesium Lime environment having a 3.2 Bu./A. advantage over Bed Ash and a 1.6 Bu./A. advantage over High Calcium Lime. 73

74 Central Indiana PFR BECK S No-Till vs. Conventional-Till Long-Term Soybean Study Location: E9 (S) & E10 (S) plots Previous Crop: Corn Planted: May 14, 2011 Tillage: No-Till / Conv.-Till Harvested: October 8, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 10 oz. Domain Population: 153,884 seeds/a. Post: 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Rows: Five 15 rows 6 oz. Clethodim April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. From , 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 now we plant 15" rows with a White eleven row planter. Plant Height (Inches) Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat Yield Rank Brand NO-TILL 1 BECK 322NR * BECK 325NR * BECK 398NR BECK 375NR * BECK 362NR * BECK 241NR * BECK 263NR * BECK 400NR * BECK 357NR * BECK 294NR * AVERAGE CONVENTIONAL-TILL 1 BECK 241NR * BECK 375NR * BECK 263NR * BECK 398NR BECK 322NR * BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * BECK 400NR * BECK 357NR * BECK 294NR * AVERAGE Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 13% moisture. *XL brand seed is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. XL is a trademark of Pioneer Hi-Bred. Yield +/- Conv.-Till Beck s is a very customer-oriented company and the people there go the extra mile to make sure you re doing things right. The seed treatments are a great add-in to the seed and it is nice to know that I am getting them at no extra cost. Along with the seed treatments, the 100% free replant policy really helps out in trying planting seasons. Experience The Difference. Plant Beck s. Mike House Atlanta, IN STANDARD IN EVERY BAG OF CORN Poncho and VOTiVO are trademarks of Bayer. BecksHybrids.com 74

75 BECK S No-Till vs. Conventional-Till Long-Term Soybean Study - Continued No-Till vs Conventional-Till Soybean Study Twenty-One Year Comparison ( ) N C Central Indiana PFR Summary: No-till out yielded conv.-till this year by 2.1 Bu.A., however, after twenty-one years of testing no-till vs. conventional-till practices in this same location, the overall average shows a 1.2 Bu./A. difference between the two practices with conventional-till winning twelve out of twenty-one years. Conv.-Till = 57.6 Bu./A. No-Till = 56.4 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. Remember Using This? For nearly 15 years, farmers have enjoyed the power and convenience of glyphosate resistant soybeans. But, like most great things, it can t last forever without proper care. The threat of serious weed resistance is a real problem. Glyphosate resistant weeds have been documented around the world and in the United States. Therefore, Respect the Rotation and plant Beck s LibertyLink resistant soybeans. When you combine the new programs and high yields of Beck s LibertyLink soybeans, Respecting the Rotation makes sense. Otherwise, you might want to sharpen that rusty old bean hook! Experience 75 Years of Difference. Plant Beck s. BecksHybrids.com

76 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Strip-Till vs. Conventional-Till Soybeans After Corn Study Location: B2 plot Previous Crop: Corn Planted: May 20, 2011 Tillage: Strip-Till / V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: October 7, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 10 oz. Domain Population: 133,294 seeds/a. Post: 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Rows: Four 30 rows 6 oz. Clethodim Fertilizer Analysis: 120 lbs lbs April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. This study compares strip-till with conventional-till practices in a corn/soybean rotation to compare differences from emergence to final yield. SOYBEANS AFTER CORN Plant Height (Inches) Pod Height (Inches) Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat Brand Lbs. of Fertilizer Rate of Fert. STRIP-TILL BECK 432NR * 285 lbs BECK 362NR * 285 lbs. Base BECK 357NR * 285 lbs BECK 294NR * 285 lbs AVERAGE Yield +/- Conv.-Till 76 BECK 357NR * 188 lbs BECK 294NR * 188 lbs. 66% of BECK 432NR * 188 lbs. Base BECK 362NR * 188 lbs AVERAGE BECK 362NR * 94 lbs BECK 432NR * 94 lbs. 33% of BECK 357NR * 94 lbs. Base BECK 294NR * 94 lbs AVERAGE CONVENTIONAL-TILL BECK 432NR * 285 lbs BECK 357NR * 285 lbs Base BECK 362NR * 285 lbs BECK 294NR * 285 lbs AVERAGE BECK 432NR * 188 lbs BECK 362NR * 188 lbs. 66% of BECK 294NR * 188 lbs. Base BECK 357NR * 188 lbs AVERAGE BECK 432NR * 94 lbs BECK 362NR * 94 lbs. 33% of BECK 294NR * 94 lbs. Base BECK 357NR * 94 lbs AVERAGE Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 13% moisture. Summary: This is the fifth year for this study; however, this is only the second year that we have applied fertilizer since the start of this long term study. The fertilizer was banded with the strip-till bar and was broadcast in the conventional-till. Over the years, we have seen higher overall yields with our strip-till system, except in This year was no different, except when applying 285 lbs. of fall fertilizer, the conv.-till system had a 0.8 Bu./A. increase over the strip-till. It is interesting that the lowest rate of fertilizer gave the biggest response to banding and strip-till. With this being a long term study, it will be interesting to see if the overall trend stays in favor of the strip-till system.

77 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Soybean Row Spacing & Population Study Location: A5 plot Previous Crop: Corn Planted: June 2, 2011 Tillage: Disk / V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: October 12, 2011 Herbicide: Post: 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Population: Various Product Tested: BECK 325NR * & Rows: Eleven 7.5" rows BECK 432NR * Five 15" Four 30 rows Replications: Two (averaged) Brand Target Population 7.5" Rows Bu./A. 15" Rows Bu./A. 30" Rows Bu./A. Average Bu./A. April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. Soybean variety and row spacing can greatly affect their ability to branch and yield. Selecting the correct variety for your soil types and knowing how they respond to various populations and row spacing is critical for maximizing yields. This study compares two different varieties in three separate spacing s, 7.5, 15, and 30. Finally, we put these in at six different seeding rates. Net^ Return BECK 325NR * 75, $ , $ , $ , $ , $ , $ BECK 432NR * 75, $ , $ , $ , $ , $ , $ OVERALL AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return is based on yield multiplied by $12.75 minus the cost of 2010 seed with typical discounts. Thirteen Year Average (Bu./A.) Summary: Average yield differences between all row widths varied by 10.1 Bu./A. in 2011 and 7.5 rows produced the highest yields. However, our thirteen year average shows only a 0.3 Bu./A. difference between all row spacings, with slightly higher yields in 15 rows compared to 7.5 and 30 rows. Interestingly enough, over the last two years there has been an average yield increase of 18.2 Bu./A. with BECK 325NR when planted at 200,000 compared to 175,000 in 7.5 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 the 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 highest 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 four of the past thirteen years Average

78 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Soybean Planting Date Study Location: T1 & T2 plots Previous Crop: Corn Planted: Various Tillage: S-Tine Harvested: Various Herbicide: Pre: 10 oz. Domain Population: 128,357 seeds/a. Post: 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Rows: Four 30 rows 6 oz. Clethodim April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July 0.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. 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 ten planting dates ranging from March 31 to June 30. Plant Height (Inches) Pod Height (Inches) Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat Planting Date Brand March 31 BECK 294NR * ^ March 31 BECK 325NR * AVERAGE April 14 BECK 294NR * April 14 BECK 325NR * AVERAGE May 9 BECK 294NR * May 9 BECK 325NR * AVERAGE May 12 BECK 294NR * May 12 BECK 325NR * AVERAGE May 20 BECK 294NR * May 20 BECK 325NR * AVERAGE May 25 BECK 294NR * May 25 BECK 325NR * AVERAGE June 2 BECK 294NR * June 2 BECK 325NR * AVERAGE June 8 BECK 294NR * June 8 BECK 325NR * AVERAGE June 25 BECK 294NR * June 25 BECK 325NR * AVERAGE June 30 BECK 294NR * June 30 BECK 325NR * AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Escalate is a trademark of Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Due to early planting and adverse weather conditions, we saw a reduced population in this planting date. 78

79 Central Indiana PFR BECK S Soybean Planting Date Study - Continued Summary: 110% of Average Yield 105% 100% 95% 90% 85% 80% 75% This year s planting date results showed a 6.9 Bu./A. difference in yield on average between March 31 and June 30. In terms of yield, May 20 th was our top planting date this year. This year we weren t able to plant as many entries in the month of April due to the excessive amount of rainfall. Historically, we have seen 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 below reflects 14 years of research on planting dates. Escalate TM yield enhancement system makes it possible for farmers to minimize the risk of planting earlier in the season. 99% 107% Soybean Planting Date % 103% 102% Mar 21-Mar 31 April 2-6 April 9-14 April May 1-12 May May 29-June 2 June 4-17 June % 95% 88% 91% Planting Dates BECK S Drowned Out vs. Replant Study Location: (S) plot Previous Crop: Corn Planted: May 12, 2011 Tillage: Disk / V-Rip / S-Tine Harvested: October 25, 2011 Herbicide: Pre: 10 oz. Domain Population: 109,491 & 203,861 seeds/a. Post: 22 oz. Roundup WeatherMax Rows: Eight 30 rows 6 oz. Clethodim Product Tested: BECK 362NR * This study was originally our 100 bushel attempt in 30 rows. We had every intention of trying different management practices in order to hit 100 Bu./A. On June 20 th we received a large amount of rain in a short period of time and our plot was under water for 36+ hours. As a result, we decided to replant part of the plot and left the rest in order to compare our drowned out soybeans vs. replanted beans. Planted Population Base^ Treatment DROWNED Base 109, Base 203, AVERAGED 156, REPLANT Base 161, April 8.15 in. May 4.66 in. June 6.18 in. July.78 in. August 4.36 in. Total in. Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Base = Poncho/Votivo + Escalate + Optimize + Protinus Poncho and Votivo are trademarks of Bayer. Escalate is a trademark of Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. Prontinus is a trademark of Wolf Trax. Optimize is a trademark of EMD Crop BioScience. Summary: This plot was very exciting to watch mature throughout the growing season. Our results showed that the drowned out soybeans planted at 109,491 population had a 1.3 Bu./A. advantage over the replant. However the replants had 1.4 Bu./A. advantage over the drowned out soybeans planted at 203,861 population. Overall, the drowned out soybeans averaged the same as the replant soybeans. 79

80 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Corn After Soybeans Show Plot Planted: May 11, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: September Tillage: Disk / Disk-Rip / Field Cultivator (twice) Population: 30,500 seeds/a. Herbicide: 2 qts. Degree Extra, Rows: Three 30 rows 1 qt. Atrazine & 3 oz. Callisto Insecticide: 6 oz. Artic April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. Yield Rank Brand Emerged Population Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Test Weight 1 Phoenix 6442A4** 30, BECK 8603HR * 29, BECK 6626HXR * 29, BECK 7988RR 30, BECK 6179VT3 30, BECK 6733HXR * 30, Phoenix 6848A3** 28, BECK 6272HR * 31, BECK 6111HR * 30, BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * 30, BECK 6288A3 31, BECK 6077HR * 28, BECK 6903HXR * 30, BECK 6464HR * 29, BECK 5716LL 23, AVERAGE

81 BECK S Corn After Corn Show Plot Southern Indiana PFR Planted: May 12, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: September 28, 2011 Tillage: Disk / Disk-Rip / Field Cultivator (twice) Population: 34,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 2 qts. Degree Extra, Rows: Six 30 rows 1 qt. Atrazine, 3 oz. Callisto & 32 oz. Glyphosate (RR only) Insecticide: 6 oz. Artic April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. Yield Rank Brand Emerged Population Test Weight 1 BECK 7988RR 33, BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) 34, BECK 6733HXR * 33, BECK 5442VT3 34, BECK 6626HXR * 32, Phoenix 6442A4** 34, Phoenix 6848A3** 32, BECK 6179VT3 33, BECK 6111HR * 33, BECK 6272HR * 34, Phoenix 5385A3** 32, BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * 33, BECK 6077HR * 34, BECK 6188Bt1 34, Phoenix 5726A4** 32, BECK 6464HR * 34, BECK 5435HXR * 34, AVERAGE 33, Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. 81

82 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S 300 Bushel Attempt Study Planted: May 12, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: September 28, 2011 Tillage: Disk / Disk-Rip / Field Cultivator (twice) Population: 40,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 2 qts. Degree Extra, 1 qt. Atrazine, Rows: Six 30" rows 3 oz. Callisto & 32 oz. Glyphosate Insecticide: 6 oz. Artic April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. For this year's attempt to break 300 bushel corn, we looked at a combination of increasing nitrogen, planting a high seeding rate, and applying a two pass foliar fungicide and insecticide program to obtain our goal. Each entry received a total of 260 units of nitrogen. Nitrogen applications were split applied with 35.2 units applied as a 2x2 starter treatment at planting, 35.2 units pre-plant incorporated, and the balance sidedressed at V4 to minimize nitrogen loss. The 2x2 starter treatment also contained 2 gal. of Thio-Sul and 1 qt. zinc. This year's entries were planted at approximately 40,000 seeds/a., received 3 oz. of Headline fungicide and 3 oz. of Mustang Max at V7, and an application of 10 oz. Headline AMP with 2 oz. of Mustang Max at R1. Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return based on 100 units ordered by Sept. 15, 2010 and paid by Jan. 10, 2011 minus cost of nitrogen, fungicide, insecticide and application. Headline $426/gal. Headline AMP $239/gal. Mustang Max $262/gal. 32% nitrogen $383/ton. Thio-Sul $2.197/gal. Zinc $8.31/qt. Price of corn $5.90/Bu. Thio-Sul is a registered trademark of Tessenderlo Kerley, Inc. Headline is a registered trademark of BASF. Mustang Max is a trademark of FMC Corp. 82 Summary: Final Stand Test Weight Net^ Return Treatment REP. 1 BECK 6733HXR * 40, $1, BECK 7988RR 41, $1, BECK EX , $1, BECK 6077HR * 41, $1, BECK 6903HR * 40, $1, BECK 5442VT3 41, $ AVERAGE 40, $1, REP. 2 BECK 6733HXR * 40, $1, BECK 5442VT3 41, $1, BECK 7988RR 40, $1, BECK EX , $1, BECK 6077HR * 40, $1, BECK 6903HR * 41, $1, AVERAGE 40, $1, REP. 3 BECK 5442VT3 41, $1, BECK 6733HXR * 40, $1, BECK 6077HR * 41, $1, BECK EX , $1, BECK 6903HR * 41, $ AVERAGE 40, $1, Considering the wet start to the season followed by an extended period of hot, dry weather during grain fill, this year's 300 Bu. results are very encouraging. A new record yield was set at this location with BECK 5442VT3 coming in at Bu./A. In fact, we broke the 2009 record of Bu./A. five times this year! This year's success began with the highest, most uniform stands that we have had in the seven year history of this study at the Southern IN PFR farm. By split applying our nitrogen, we were able to take advantage of a rare, early August rain to ensure proper grain fill in a season that saw many shallow kernels throughout the southern marketing area. Although disease pressure was relatively low this year, the good plant health that was visually evident in this study provided an opportunity to take advantage of the late rain event.

83 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Corn Fungicide Timing Study Planted: May 13, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 6, 2011 Tillage: Various Rows: Four 30 rows Herbicide: 2 qts. Degree Extra, 1 qt. Atrazine, Population: 34,000 seeds/a. 3 oz. Callisto & 32 oz. Glyphosate Replications: Two (averaged) Insecticide: 6 oz. Artic April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. This study was designed to evaluate the performance of foliar fungicides on corn at various timings. This includes a look at two single application programs and a two pass program. Two single pass programs were evaluated: 10 oz. of Quilt Xcel applied at the R1 growth stage and 6 oz. of Quadris applied at V5. The two pass program had an application of 6 oz. of Quadris sprayed at V5 followed by 14 oz. of Quilt Xcell at R1. In addition to evaluating the effectiveness of this product in the presence of various foliar diseases, this study has been planted into a 11 year continuous corn rotation to evaluate the products effectiveness on Diplopia Ear Rot. Bu./A. Difference Gross Return Cost of Treatment Return on^ Investment Brand BECK 6179VT3 Control $1, $ oz. V $1, $ $ oz. Quadris oz. Quilt R $1, $ $ oz. Quilt R $1, $ $18.61 AVERAGE BECK 6733HXR * Control $1, $ oz. V $1, $ $ oz. Quadris oz. Quilt R $1, $ $ oz. Quilt R $1, $ $65.67 AVERAGE BECK 5716A3 Control $1, $ oz. V $1, $ $ oz. Quadris oz. Quilt R $1, $ $ oz. Quilt R $1, $ $22.59 AVERAGE TREATMENT SUMMARY Control $1, $ oz. V $1, $ $ oz. Quadris oz. Quilt R $1, $ $ oz. Quilt R $1, $ $35.62 AVERAGE Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. ^Return on investment is gross return minus cost of fungicide, insecticide and application. Quadris $462.64/gal. Quilt Xcel $303.67/gal. $6.50/A. application fee. Quilt Xcel and Quadris are trademarks of Syngenta Group Company. Summary: This year's growing season began with above average moisture and temperatures that set the stage for the potential for high disease pressure. However, that was followed by prolonged hot, dry weather that limited the severity of foliar disease in This resulted in minimal yield response to the use of foliar fungicides on hybrids such as BECK 6733HXR * and BECK 5716A3 that have medium to low susceptibility to foliar disease. BECK 6179VT3, a variety with higher susceptibility to foliar disease, did show a profitable response to both the single application of Quadris at V5 as well as the two pass program with both Quadris at V5 followed by Quilt Xcel at R1. Although the hybrid with higher susceptibility to disease did show higher profitability with the single application of Quadris at V5, this year's data suggested that the likelihood of making a profitable foliar fungicide application of corn should be based more on the susceptibility of the hybrids than the timing of the fungicide application. The 2010 summary showed that single applications of Quilt Xcel at the R1 growth stage were more profiable than the two pass program in a year with higher gray leaf spot pressure. A later than average planting date, and hot, dry conditions during flowering resulted in very low diplodia pressure in

84 84 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Corn Fungicide Trial Study Planted: May 12, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 5, 2011 Tillage: Disk / Disk-Rip / Field Cultivator (twice) Population: 34,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 2 qts. Degree Extra, 1 qt. Atrazine, Rows: Four 30" rows 3 oz. Callisto & 32 oz. Glyphosate Insecticide: 6 oz. Artic April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total 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 high-clearance sprayer using 15 gal. of water/a. 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 11th year continuous corn. Test Weight Yield Advantage vs. Untreated Return on^ Investment Treatment HEADLINE AMP BECK 5442VT $6.43 BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) $19.97 BECK 6077HR * $17.81 BECK 6111HR * $2.64 BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * $62.08 BECK 6272HR * $42.50 Phoenix 6442A4** $62.11 BECK 6626HXR * $9.26 Phoenix 6848A3** $31.31 BECK 7988RR $40.84 BECK 8733HR * $27.99 AVERAGE $16.23 QUILT XCEL BECK 6179VT $18.13 BECK 6733HXR * $64.14 BECK 5716A $22.13 AVERAGE $34.80 UNTREATED BECK 5442VT BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) BECK 6077HR * BECK 6111HR * BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * BEKC 6272HR * Phoenix 6442A4** BECK 6626HXR * Phoenix 6848A3** BECK 7988RR BECK 8733HR * BECK 6179VT BECK 6733HXR * BECK 5716A AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Return on investment based on gross income minus drying charges and the cost of fungicide and application. Headline AMP is $18.67/A. Quilt Xcel is $24.91/A Application charge is $6.50/A. Drying cost was $.04/point on moisture above 15%. Corn price is $5.90/Bu.

85 BECK S Corn Fungicide Trial Study Southern Indiana PFR Summary: 2011 was an interesting year for evaluating foliar disease in corn. After starting off the season with above average moisture and temperatures the stage looked to be set for high disease pressure. However; the weather trend then turned to hot and dry for a prolonged period of time, thus limiting the severity of disease. Scattered showers in August and early September trigger some Gray Leaf Spot and Northern Corn Leaf Blight pressure late season, but it had little effect on yield. It should be noted that susceptible hybrids such as BECK 5442VT3 and BECK EX0854 (5642 genetics) continue to show profitable returns even in a moderate to low disease pressure year. This proves the importance of basing the decision to spray for foliar disease on the disease susceptibility of the each hybrid and the likelihood of disease infestation based on environmental conditions. 85

86 Southern Indiana PFR 86 BECK S Fungicide/Hail Damage Study Planted: May 10, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: September 22, 2011 Tillage: Disk / Disk-Rip / Field Cultivator (twice) Population: 34,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 2 qts. Degree Extra, Rows: Three 30 rows 1 qt. Atrazine 32 oz. Glyphosate Application April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. The study was designed to evaluate the effects of applying a foliar fungicide on corn that had recently been damaged by hail. In this particular study, a hail event hit the Southern IN PFR farm in early June when the corn was at the V5 growth stage. No plants were lost, but defoliation was severe in this area of the farm. Fungicide applications were made at various rates after some regrowth could be seen; approximately 8 days after the damage occurred. This also gave us the opportunity to look at a new product called Priaxor. This is a new fungicide from BASF that contains a new active ingredient (fluxapyroxad) along with pyraclostrobin (Headline). Test Weight Yield Advantage Vs. Untreated Return on ^ Investment BECK 5442VT3 Control oz. Headline, 8 Days After Hail $ oz. Headline, 8 Days After Hail $ oz. Priaxor, 8 Days After Hail oz. Headline AMP, VT $1.22 BECK 5716A3 Control oz. Headline, 8 Days After Hail $ oz. Headline, 8 Days After Hail $ oz. Priaxor, 8 Days After Hail oz. Headline AMP, VT $4.85 BECK 6179VT3 Control oz. Headline, 8 Days After Hail $ oz. Headline, 8 Days After Hail $ oz. Priaxor, 8 Days After Hail oz. Headline AMP, VT $61.20 THREE HYBRID SUMMARY Control oz. Headline, 8 Days After Hail $ oz. Headline, 8 Days After Hail $ oz. Priaxor, 8 Days After Hail oz. Headline AMP, VT $18.37 Bushels per acre and test weight are corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Return on investment = application $6.50/A., 3 oz. Headline $9.98/A., 10 oz. Headline AMP $18.67/A., 6 oz. Headline $19.97/A., corn price $5.90/Bu. Headline and Priaxor are trademarks of BASF. Summary: Results from this study showed a 3.7 Bu./A. improvement in yield when spraying 3 oz. of Headline shortly after the hail event occurred. This provided a profit of approximately $5.34/A. Although the 6 oz. rate of Headline provided a significant yield increase, this increase was not high enough to provide additional profits Cost analysis for Priaxor could not be performed since it has not been released for sale at this time. No visual differences were noted in either fungal or bacterial disease pressure when disease ratings were taken during late grain fill.

87 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Corn Nitrogen Timing Study Planted: May 17, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 6, 2011 Tillage: Disk / Disk-Rip / Field Cultivator (twice) Population: 34,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 2 qts. Degree Extra, 1 qt. Atrazine, Rows: Six 30" rows 3 oz. Callisto & 32 oz. Glyphosate Replications: Two (averaged) Insecticide: 6 oz. Artic Product Tested: BECK 7988RR Application April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. 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 is critical that we understand how the timing of these applications 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. All treatments in this study received a total of 230 lbs./a. of nitrogen. Harvested Test Net^ Population Weight Return Adv. Over Pre-Plant NH3 230 lbs. Pre-Plant NH 3 w/ N-Serve 34, $ $ lbs. Pre-Plant NH 3 34, $ lbs. PPI UAN 34, $ $ lbs. Pre-Plant Incorporated lbs. Sidedress V4/5 35, $ $ lbs. 32% UAN 2x V3 UAN 34, $ $ lbs. Sidedress V3 34, $ $ lbs. Sidedress V6 34, $ $ lbs. 32% UAN 2x lbs. Topdress Super V7 34, $ $ lbs. 32% UAN 2x lbs. Topdress V7 33, $ $7.94 Bushels per acre and test weight are corrected to 15% moisture. ^ Net return based on gross income minus cost of drying and nitrogen. Drying $0.04/point moisure. NH3 $783/ton. 32% UAN $383/ton. Super U $595/ton. ESN $616/ton. N-Serve $44.10/gal. N-Serve is a registered trademark of Dow AgroSciences. Summary: Applying nitrogen at pre-plant with anhydrous ammonia (NH 3 ) is a common practice for many growers in the southern marketing area. This is driven by the fact that NH 3 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 32% at both the V3 and V6 growth stage increased yields and profits significantly over the pre-plant NH 3 applications. Splitting nitrogen applications provided the largest additional gain over pre-plant NH3 at $112.54/A. in The advantage seen with split applications over 100% pre-plant NH 3 correlates with both the two year and four year data sets collected at the Southern IN PFR location. A new addition to the study this year was broadcast applications of Super U and ESN, a common practice used by no-tillers in areas where access to UAN and NH 3 is limited. Split applications of UAN proved to be the most profitable methods of applications. 87

88 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Optimum Nitrogen Rate Study Planted: May 12, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: September 22 & 23, 2011 Tillage: Disk / Disk-Rip / Turbo Disk / Population: 34,000 seeds/a. Field Cultivator Rows: Six 30" rows Herbicide: 2 qts. Degree Extra, Replications: Two (averaged) 1 qt. Atrazine, 3 oz. Callisto & 32 oz. Glyphosate Insecticide: 6 oz. Artic April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. This study is designed to help us find the economic optimum nitrogen rate (EONR); the rate of nitrogen that maximizes profitability. Although the study was orignially 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 corn after soybean and continuous corn. Two hybrids were used to determine if there are potential differences in EONR between genetic families. All entries, with the exception of the 0 lbs./a. control, received 10 gal. of 32% at planting with the balance applied at V3 growth stage to meet the total amount of N for each treatment. BECK 5442VT3 BECK 6733HXR * 2 HYBRID AVERAGE Lbs. of N Mositure Net^ Return Lbs. of N Mositure Net^ Return Lbs. of N Mositure Net^ Return CORN AFTER CORN: CORN AFTER CORN: CORN AFTER CORN: $ $ $ $ $ $ $1, $ $ $1, $ $1, $1, $ $1, $1, $ $1, $1, $ $1, CORN AFTER SOYBEANS: CORN AFTER SOYBEANS: CORN AFTER SOYBEANS: $ $ $ $1, $ $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net return based on gross income minus nitrogen and drying costs. Nitrogen $383/ton 32% UAN solution. Drying cost $0/04/pt. Corn price $5.90/bu. Corn After Soybeans Summary: Based on $5.90/Bu. corn and $0.59/lb. nitrogen, the EONR for both hybrids in the corn after soybean rotation for 2011 was 150 lbs./a. However, the seven year data trend from the Southern IN PFR farm suggested that the EONR ranges from lbs./a. depending on the cost of nitrogen. Continuous Corn Summary: The 2011 results show that the EONR for both hybrids in a corn after corn rotation was 225 lbs./a. This correlates very closely to the seven year data trend from the Southern IN PFR farm that suggests that the EONR ranges from lbs./a. depending on the cost of nitrogen. 88

89 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Optimum Nitrogen Rate Study - Continued Net Return Yr CAB: Economic Optimum N Rate Lbs. N/A. $5.90/Bu. Corn $0.50/Lbs. N. $0.60/Lbs. N. $0.70/Lbs. N. Net Return Yr CAC: Economic Optimum N Rate $5.90/Bu. Corn $0.50/Lbs. N. $0.60/Lbs. N. $0.70/Lbs. N Nitrogen Rate 89

90 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S 20" vs. 30" Row Width / Population Study Planted: May 17, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 11, 2011 Tillage: Disk / Disk-Rip / Turbo Disk / Population: 52,3000 seeds/a. Field Cultivator Rows: Three 20 rows Herbicide: 2 qts. Degree Extra, Two 30" rows 1 qt. Atrazine, 3 oz. Callisto & 32 oz. Glyphosate Insecticide: 6 oz. Artic April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. This study compares thirteen hybrids in 20, 30 and twin row spacing at final populations ranging from 24,000 to 48,000 to evaluate population trends and row width configurations. Twin row 30" row 20" row Bu/A HXR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A VT Population (x1000) Bu/A EX 0854 (5642 Gen.) Population (x1000) Bu/A A4** Population (x1000) Bu/A HR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A EX 2060 (6175 TM * Gen.) Population (x1000) Bu/A HR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A A4** Population (x1000) Bu/A HXR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A HXR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A A3** Population (x1000) Bu/A HR TM * Population (x1000) **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. 90

91 BECK S 20" vs. 30" Row Width / Population Study - Continued Southern Indiana PFR Twin row 30" row 20" row Bu/A RR Population (x1000) Bu/A All Hybrids Population (x1000) $/A All Hybrids Population (x1000) Bu/A 230 Twin Rows Bu/A " Rows Bu/A " Rows Population (x1000) Population (x1000) Population (x1000) Population Summary: Summary for 20 vs. 30 vs. Twin Rows: We were unable to consistently achieve 48,000 final stand across all hybrids in this year s study so we only included up to 44,000 final stand. Higher populations have definitely been showing an increase in yield in our Southern IN PFR studies the last several years. This year we saw slightly less returns for the highest populations when compared to 2009 and 2010 results. It is important to consider that the highest populations did not result in the highest yield or return per acre, but in all three row width configurations, the 44,000 final stand still outperformed the 24,000 and 28,000 final stands. In 2010 at our Southern IN PFR site, 20 rows were the clear winner with 30 rows outyielding the twin row configuration. This year however, it was a much closer race between the three configurations. 20 rows had the highest overall yield in the study at Bu./A coming from 36,000 final population. This also yielded the highest overall return per acre in the study. This return per acre (the bar graph above) is calculated by taking the yield and seed costs into consideration at each of the harvest populations. 30 rows showed their highest yield at the 40,000 population, while the highest return came in at the 32,000. Twin rows were much more representative this year of what we would expect to see in that they closely followed the general trend of the 30 rows, however, the twin row winner in both yield and return came from the 36,000 population. 91

92 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Corn Replant Study Planted: Various Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: Various Tillage: Disk / Disk-Rip / Field Cultivator (twice) Population: Various Herbicide: 2 qts. Degree Extra, Rows: Six 30 rows 1 qt. Atrazine, 3 oz. Callisto & 32 oz. Glyphosate Insecticide: 6 oz. Artic Product Tested: BECK 6903 * April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. To replant or not to replant...that is the question. Often times, the decision to replant can be a tough one for growers. The purpose of this study is to evaluate corn stands and determine whether or not it is profitable to replant. This is done by evaluating the yield performance of corn planted at 20,000 seeds/a. with variable spacing versus 34,000 seeds/a. at various planting dates. Planting Date Planted Population Test Weight Replant Advantage Net^ Return Additional $/A. March 28 (Normal 1 st Planting) 34, $1, March 28 20, $ April 7 (Replanted) 34, $ $ April 7 20, $ May 10 (Replanted) 34, $ $ May 10 20, $ May 18 (Replanted) 34, $ $ May 18 20, $ May 30 (Replanted) 34, $1, $ May 30 20, $1, June 9 (Replanted) 34, $ $ Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. Summary: This year's results show how important it is to obtain an optimum stand to achieve high yields. Replanting stands in the 20,000 plants per acre range with variable spacing proved to be profitable in 2011 for corn planted through May18. This is most likely due to timely rains that were received the second week of August and in mid-september. The three year summary from this study suggests that it is profitable to replant variable stands through May 15. After that date, it was more profitable to keep the existing stand of approximately 20,000 plants per acre. $ Year SINPR Replant Return/A. $ $ $ $0.00 3/31 4/7 4/14 4/21 4/28 5/5 5/12 5/19 -$100.00

93 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Corn Planting Date Study Planted: Various Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: Various Tillage: Disk / Disk-Rip / Field Cultivator (twice) Population: Various Herbicide: 2 qts. Degree Extra, Rows: Six 30 rows 1 qt. Atrazine, 3 oz. Callisto & 32 oz. Glyphosate Insecticide: 6 oz. Artic April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. To evaluate the performance of a mid-season and a full-season hybrid planted on several dates throughout the growing season. Planting Date Harvest Date Brand Harvested Population Test Weight March 28 Sept. 6 BECK 6077HR * 31, March 28 Sept. 6 BECK 6903HR * 32, AVERAGE 32, April 7 Sept. 6 BECK 6077HR * 30, April 7 Sept. 6 BECK 6903HR * 27, AVERAGE 28, May 10 Sept. 6 BECK 6077HR * 32, May 10 Sept. 6 BECK 6903HR * 33, AVERAGE 33, May 18 Sept. 6 BECK 6077HR * 33, May 18 Sept. 6 BECK 6903HR * 33, AVERAGE 33, May 30 Sept. 28 BECK 6077HR * 32, May 30 Sept. 28 BECK 6903HR * 34, AVERAGE 33, June 9 Oct. 6 BECK 6077HR * 30, June 9 Oct. 6 BECK 6903HR * 30, AVERAGE 30, Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. Summary: The seven year trend shows the optimum planting dates for corn at the Southern Indiana PFR farm fall between the 3rd and 4th weeks of April. However, this year's results show that corn planted on May 30th produced the highest yielding corn. This was due to a variety of weather related events including excessive rainfall from mid-april to early May that delayed planting and hurt stand establishment, and a hail event that resulted in erratic final stands in corn planted through mid-may. Continued heavy rains in June and early July followed by 5-6 weeks with no rainfall, led to limited nutrient availability; resulting in shallow kernel depth and lower than average yields. Although we experienced a record number of days above 90 degrees in July, the June 9th planting date was the only one that showed signs of poor kernel set. Bu/A Year Corn Yield by Planting Date /24 3/31 4/7 4/14 4/21 4/28 5/5 5/12 5/19 5/26 6/2 6/9 Planting Date 93

94 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Tillage Study Corn / Soybean & Continuous Corn Rotation Planted: CAC/CAB: May 18, 2011 Previous Crop: CAC/CAB: Soybeans BAC: May 19, 2011 BAC: Corn Harvested: CAC/CAB: September 28, 2011 Tillage: Various BAC: October 4, 2011 Herbicide: CAC/CAB: 2 qts. Degree Extra, Population: CAC/CAB: 34,000 seeds/a. 1 qt. Atrazine, 3 oz. Callisto BAC: 140,000 seeds/a. & 32 oz. Glyphosate Rows: Six 30" rows BAC: 3 qts. Extreme, 8 oz. Glyphosate 32 oz. Glyphosate Insecticide: CAC/CAB: 6 oz. Artic Product Tested: BECK 6626HXR * & 400NR April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total 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 seven years to help our customers determine which system might work best for their farm. This is the fourth 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 after soybean and 11th year continuous corn rotation. All fertilizer was applied as a broadcast application the previous fall. Net returns were calculated using 2010 custom machinery rates from recent surveys collected by Ohio State University TILLAGE STUDY Tillage / Rotation Harvested Population Test Weight Yield vs. Conv.-Till Net^ Return Profit vs. Conv.-Till CORN AFTER SOYBEANS Conventional Tillage 1 32, $1, No-Till 2 31, $1, $1.62 Strip-Till 3 33, $1, $58.07 CONTINUOUS CORN Conventional Tillage 1 33, $1, No-Till 2 33, $1, $92.69 Strip-Till 3 33, $1, $69.49 SOYBEANS AFTER CORN Conventional Tillage 1 139, $ No-Till 2 97, $ $16.85 Strip-Till 3 126, $ $18.68 Bushels per acre and test weight are corrected to 15% moisture for corn and 13% for soybeans. ^ Net return based on gross income minus cost of tillage, planting, and burn-down herbicide pass. Cost for tillage, planting and burn-down herbicide pass were taken from the results of the 2010 Ohio Farm Custom Rates Survey published by Ohio State University. Conventional Tillage 1 : Corn after soybeans = a primary tillage pass in the fall followed by two passes with a field cultivator in the spring; conventional-till planter. Corn affer corn = disk and primary tillage in the fall followed by two passes with a field cultivator in the spring; conventional-till planter. Soybeans after corn = disk and primary tillage in the fall followed by one pass with a field cultivator in the spring, conventional-till planter. No-Till 2 : Extra burn-down pass with the sprayer, planter with attachment. Strip-Till 3 : Extra burn-down pass, strip-till bar with dry fertilizer and no-till planter with attachments. I ve planted Beck s for the last 10 years. I ve liked the family-owned part of Beck s. They have integrity and have the farmers interest in mind at all times. They try to please the farmers and not the stockholders. I have peace of mind when planting Beck s. They have the best seed treatment in the industry, top genetics, and free replant. Richard Arnold Bluffton, IN 94

95 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Tilllage Study - Continued Corn / Soybean & Continuous Corn Rotation 4 YEAR TILLAGE STUDY SUMMARY Tillage / Rotation Harvested Population Test Weight Yield vs. Conv.-Till Net^ Return Profit vs. Conv.-Till CORN AFTER SOYBEANS Conventional Tillage 1 31, $1, No-Till 2 28, $1, $62.40 Strip-Till 3 30, $1, $11.31 CONTINUOUS CORN Conventional Tillage 1 32, $1, No-Till 2 28, $1, $34.31 Strip-Till 3 31, $1, $49.72 SOYBEANS AFTER CORN Conventional Tillage 1 125, $ No-Till 2 109, $ $9.05 Strip-Till 3 119, $ $4.43 Corn After Soybeans Summary: The conventional-tillage entry out yielded the no-till entry by 5.2 Bu./A. However, due to fewer trips across the field, the no-till entry showed an additional profit of $1.62/A. Strip-till showed a 7.3 Bu./A. advantage over conventional tillage resulting in an additional profit of $58.07/A. The four year trend shows less than a 0.5 Bu./A. difference between conventional tillage and strip-till, with strip-till providing an additional profit of $11.31/A. No-till has yielded an average of 16.1 Bu./A. less than conventional tillage over the same period of time, resulting in a loss of approximately $62.40/A. Continuous Corn Summary: Strip-till provided the highest yields for the continuous corn rotation for the fourth year in a row with a 7.1 Bu./A. increase in yield and $69.49/A. in additional profits over conventional tillage. No-till also shows a yield gain of 8.1 Bu./A. resulting in $92.69/A. in additional profit in The four year summary shows a similar advantage for strip-till, but the no-till entry has averaged a 13.4 Bu./A. yield loss resulting in $34.31/A. in lost profits compared to conventional tillage. Soybeans After Corn Summary: Conventional till soybeans out yielded no-till soybeans by 2 Bu./A. in 2011 while giving up 0.1 Bu./A. to the strip-till entry. Both no-till and strip-till soybeans provide additional profits at $16.85 and $18.68/A. respectively. Over the past four years, no-till soybeans have yielded an average of 2 Bu./A. less than conventional till soybeans, but provided a profit increase of $9.04/A. Strip-till soybeans have yielded an average of 1.7 Bu./A. less with a profit loss of $4.43/A. Conventional Tillage 1 : Corn after soybeans = a primary tillage pass in the fall followed by two passes with a field cultivator in the spring; conventional-till planter. Corn affer corn = disk and primary tillage in the fall followed by two passes with a field cultivator in the spring; conventional-till planter. Soybeans after corn = disk and primary tillage in the fall followed by one pass with a field cultivator in the spring, conventional-till planter. No-Till 2 : Extra burn-down pass with the sprayer, planter with attachment. Strip-Till 3 : Extra burn-down pass, strip-till bar with dry fertilizer and no-till planter with attachments. Bushels per acre and test weight are corrected to 15% moisture for corn and 13% for soybeans. ^ Net return based on gross income minus cost of tillage, planting, and burn-down herbicide pass. Cost for tillage, planting and burn-down herbicide pass were taken from the results of the 2010 Ohio Farm Custom Rates Survey published by Ohio State University. 95

96 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S P & K Study Soybeans After Corn & Corn After Soybeans SOYBEANS AFTER CORN: Planted: May 11, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 6, 2011 Tillage: Various Population: 140,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 3 pts. Extreme Rows: Six 30 rows 8 oz. Glyphosate Product Tested: BECK 357NR * CORN AFTER SOYBEANS: Planted: May 11, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: September 13, 2011 Tillage: Various Population: 34,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 2 qts. Degree Extra, Rows: Various 1 qt. Atrazine, 3 oz. Callisto & 32 oz. Glyphosate Product Tested: BECK 6111HR * April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. This study was set-up to evaluate the practice of banding fertilizer in a strip-tillage system compared to broadcast fertilizer applications in a conventional tillage system over a long-term period of time in a corn/ soybean rotation. 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 P & K STUDY 96 SOYBEANS AFTER CORN Yield Advantage Population CORN AFTER SOYBEANS Yield Advantage Fertilizer Population Conv.-till / Broadcast Fert. No P & K Plow Down 133, , lbs , , lbs , , lbs , , lbs , , Strip-Till / Banded Fert. No P & K Banded 127, , lbs , , lbs , , lbs , , lbs , , YEAR P & K STUDY SUMMARY SOYBEANS AFTER CORN Yield Advantage Net^ Return Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. CORN AFTER SOYBEANS Yield Advantage Net^ Return Fertilizer Conv.-till / Broadcast Fert. No P & K Plow Down $ $1, lbs $ $1, lbs $ $1, lbs $ $1, lbs $ $1, Strip-Till / Banded Fert. No P & K Banded $ $1, lbs $ $1, lbs $ $1, lbs $ $1, lbs $ $1,055.54

97 Summary: Southern Indiana PFR BECK S P & K Study - Continued Soybeans After Corn & Corn After Soybeans This year's results show minimal differences in yield between broadcast fertilizer treatments on corn and soybeans as well as banded treatments in soybeans. However, both the 300 lbs. and 400 lbs. banded treatments in corn showed an increase in yield compared to the untreated check. This is a similar trend to the 2010 results from this study. The multi-year summary shows little difference in yield between treatments in soybeans; while showing some increase in yield in corn as fertilizer rates increased. To date, the use of P & K fertilizer has not provided a profitable return on investment; primarily due to the fact that we began with above average soil test levels for P & K when this study began. It should be noted that even though profitable returns have not been documented, soil test levels of P & K have decreased signficantly when comparing soil tests from 2007 to those pulled this fall. Therefore, we will continue this long-term study in an effort to evaluate any correlation there may be between soil test levels, yield, and the method of fertilizer application. BECK S Sulfur & Zinc Study Planted: May 10, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: Various Tillage: Disk / Disk-Rip / Turbo Disk / Field Cultivator Population: 34,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 2 qts. Degree Extra, 1 qt. Atrazine & Rows: Six 30" rows 32 oz. Glyphosate Insecticide: 6 oz. Artic Product Tested: BECK 5716A3 April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the benefits of adding sulfur and zinc nutrients to a 2x2 starter treatment in corn. The application of 10 gal. of 28% or 32% UAN solution placed 2" to the side and 2" below the seed is a standard part of the nitrogen fertilizer program used at the Southern IN PFR farm. Application Test Weight Yield Difference Net^ Return Control - 10 gal. 32% 2x $1, gal. 32% + 2 gal. Thio-Sul 2x $1, gal. 32% + 2 gal. Thio-Sul gal. Hyda-Hume 2x $1, gal. 32% + 3 pts. Trafix Zn 2x $1, Bushels per acre and test weight are corrected to 15% moisture. ^ Net return based on gross income minus cost of treatment. Thio-Sul $2.19/gal. Trafix Zn $6/A. Hydra-Hume $15/A. Thio-Sul is a registered trademark of Tessenderlo Kerley, Inc. Hyda-Hume and Trafix Zn are registered trademarks of Helena Holding Company. Summary: This year's results showed little difference between treatments where sulfur or zinc were added to the control. The addition of 2 gal. of Thio-Sul resulted in a 1.4 Bu./A. advantage across three replications adding an average profit of $3.59/A. The remaining treatments did not result in a yield increase. Hydra-Hume is a humic acid that is used to increase both sulfur and nitrogen availability to the plant. 97

98 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S RES 16 Study Planted: CAC/CAB: May 18, 2011 Previous Crop: CAC/CAB: Soybeans BAC: May 19, 2011 BAC: Corn Harvested: CAC/CAB: September 28, 2011 Tillage: Various BAC: October 4, 2011 Herbicide: CAC/CAB: 2 qts. Degree Extra, Population: CAC/CAB: 34,000 seeds/a. 1 qt. Atrazine, 3 oz. Callisto BAC: 140,000 seeds/a. & 32 oz. Glyphosate Rows: Six 30" rows BAC: 3 qts. Extreme, 8 oz. Glyphosate 32 oz. Glyphosate Rotation / Tillage April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. As producers have adapted conservation tillage practices and increased plant populations, the increase in crop residue that is left from year to year has created some challenges with stand establishment and nutrient tie up. RES 16 is a bio-stimulant liquid enzyme that accelerates the decomposition of crop residue by stimulating soil micro-organisms to break down organic matter. Although it is recommended that this product be sprayed as soon after harvest as possible, in this study RES 16 was applied prior to planting this past spring due to its recent release into the marketplace. Treatment Harvested Population Test Weight RES 16 Adv. Net^ Return/A. CONTINUOUS CORN Conventional Tillage RES 16 33, $51.59 Untreated 32, No-Till RES 16 33, $21.83 Untreated 33, Strip-Till RES 16 33, $33.38 Untreated 32, AVERAGE RES 16 33, $35.60 Untreated 32, SOYBEANS AFTER CORN Conventional Tillage RES , $7.92 Untreated 137, No-Till RES 16 94, $11.95 Untreated 101, Strip-Till RES , $20.91 Untreated 127, AVERAGE RES , $13.59 Untreated 121, Bushels per acre and test weight are corrected to 15% moisture. ^ Net return based on gross income minus $9.50/A. for RES 16. RES 16 is a trademark of Bio-Enzyme, LLC. Continuous Corn Summary: Insecticide: CAC/CAB: 6 oz. Artic Product Tested: BECK 6626HXR * & 400NR An application of RES 16 provided an average yield advantage of 8.7 Bu./A. across all types of tillage. This resulted in an average profit of $33.10/A. Both yield and profit increased in response to applications of RES 16 as the amount of tillage increased. This is most likely due to the fact that a higher concentration of RES 16 came in contact with soil micro-organisms thus increasing the level of activity. Soybeans After Corn Summary: 98 The conventional tillage and no-till systems showed a slight yield response to an application of RES 16 in this crop rotation. However, the yield increase was not high enough to provide additional profits. It should be noted that tillage was not performed for several weeks after the application of RES 16 in the soybean following corn rotation, therefore there was no mixing of the product with the soil until the time of planting.

99 BECK S Soybean Show Plot Southern Indiana PFR Planted: May 11, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: Various Tillage: Disk-Rip / Field Cultivator (twice) Population: 130,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: Pre: 16 oz. Authority MTZ Rows: Three 30" rows April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. Yield Rank Brand Relative Maturity Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat EARLY GROUP III 1 BECK 322NR * BECK 325NR * AVERAGE MID GROUP III TO IV 1 BECK 432NR * BECK 430N BECK 426NL BECK 362NR * BECK 495NR * BECK 477NR * BECK 356NL BECK 387N BECK 451NR BECK 414N BECK 398NR BECK 466NR * BECK 456NL BECK 392NL BECK 400NR * BECK 372NL BECK 476NL BECK 375NR * BECK 357NR * AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. 99

100 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S 100 Bushel Attempt Study Planted: May 19, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 4, 2011 Tillage: Disk / Disk-Rip / Field Cultivator (twice) Population: Various Herbicide: Pre: 3 pts. Extreme Rows: Eleven 15 rows 8 oz. Glyphosate Post: 32 oz. Glyphosate Product Tested: BECK 432NR * Treatments Applied Prior to Flowering Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat Rep. 1 Rep. 2 April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. This is the fourth year that we have attempted to break our 100 Bu. soybean goal at the Southern IN PFR farm. All of the entries in this year's attempt started with a base seed treatment that contained Beck's standard Escalate seed treatment along with Protinus (a seed applied nutrient product containing zinc, manganese, and iron), Poncho /VOTiVO and Optimize. All treatments received an application of Headline fungicide and Leverage 360 insecticide at the R4 growth stage. To evaluate the use of higher seeding rates, all entries were planted at both 130,000 seeds/a. and 200,000 seeds/a. The goal of the various treatments tested in this study was to evaluate their use prior to flowering to encourage the plant to develop more nodes and to help with flower and pod retention. These treatments include using a nitrogen fertilizer application at planting to encourage early vegetative growth, a diphenyl-ether herbicide to attempt to shorten the internodes of the plant, AgriGuardian Micro Mix (a foliar micro-nutrient package containing Mn, Cu, B, Mo, Fe, and Co), Bio-Forge applied as a seed treatment to minimize early season stresses, and Soy Soap (a nano-surfactant), that helps with translocation of nutrients within the plant. Average 130,000 SEEDS/A. Base Base + UAN Base + Mico Mix + Sugar Base + Bio-Forge Base + V Base + UAN + Bio-Forge + Flexstar + Soy Soap + Micro Mix + Sugar Base + Soy Soap Base + UAN + Bio-Forge + Soy Soap + Micro Mix + Sugar AVERAGE ,000 SEEDS/A. Base Base + UAN Base + Mico Mix + Sugar Base + Bio-Forge Base + V Base + UAN + Bio-Forge + Flexstar + Soy Soap + Micro Mix + Sugar Base + Soy Soap Base + UAN + Bio-Forge + Soy Soap + Micro Mix + Sugar AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. Escalate is a trademark of Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. Prontinus is a trademark of Wolf Trax. Optimize is a Headline is a registered trademark of BASF. Leverage, Poncho and VOTiVO are trademarks of Bayer. Bio-Forge is a registered trademark of Stoller, USA. 100

101 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S 100 Bushel Attempt Study - Continued Treatments Applied Prior to Flowering Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat Rep. 1 Rep. 2 Average TREATMENT SUMMARY Base Base + UAN Base + Mico Mix + Sugar Base + Bio-Forge Base + V Base + UAN + Bio-Forge + Flexstar + Soy Soap + Micro Mix + Sugar Base + Soy Soap Base + UAN + Bio-Forge + Soy Soap + Micro Mix + Sugar AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. Summary: This year s attempt resulted in a high yield of 89.4 Bu./A. This year s highest yielding entry was the base treatment of Beck s standard Escalate seed treatment with additional Protinus, Poncho/VOTiVO and Optimize seed treatments planted at 200,000 seeds per acre sprayed with an application of Headline fungicide and Leverage 360 insecticide at R4. In previous years, the lower seeding rate of 130,000 seeds per acre provided yields equal to or higher than the 200,000 seed per acre rate. However, in 2011, the 200,000 seed per acre rep out yielded the lower seeding rate by 2.8 Bu./A. The base treatment with an application of Flexstar at V3 had the highest average yield across all reps regardless of seeding rate. This was the only treatment that out yielded the base across all reps. Historically, the base treatment has performed very well in this study. This shows that many of the additional treatments that we often use in our attempts to raise yield may add a bushel here or there, but standard practices such as proper variety selection, the use of seed treatments to achieve uniform and vigorous stands, a balanced fertility program, planting earlier in the season to maximize the number of nodes, and utilizing foliar fungicides and insecticides are tools that set the stage to maximize yield when the environment allows for high yields. Although we didn't break any records this year, the entire 2011 soybean crop at the Southern IN PFR is one of the best on record. This is partly due to the utilization of these practices on a wider scale. We look forward to breaking the 100 bushel goal in the near future! 101

102 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Soybean Herbicide Systems Study Planted: May 18, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: September 30, 2011 Tillage: Disk / V-Rip / Population: 140,000 seeds/a. Field Cultivator (twice) Rows: Twenty-two 15" rows Herbicide: Various Replications: Two (averaged) Products Tested: LL: BECK 372NL RR: BECK 375NR * April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. This study was designed to evaluate the differences in yield performance of the Roundup Ready and LibertyLink soybean systems. The Roundup Ready system was evaluated both as a residual followed by post treatment system as well as a two-pass, glyphosate only system. System First Herbicide Pass Second Herbicide Pass Net^ Return LibertyLink 16 oz. Authority MTZ - Pre 29 oz. Ignite - Post $1, Roundup Ready 16 oz. Authority MTZ - Pre 32 oz. Glyphosate - Post $ Roundup Ready 32 oz. Glyphosate - Post 32 oz. Glyphosate - Post $1, Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return is based on gross income minus herbicide system cost. Authority MTZ $23.82/lb. Glyphosate $22/gal. Ignite $62/gal. LibertyLink and Ignite are registered trademarks of Bayer. Roundup Ready is a registered trademark of Monsanto Company. Authority is a registered trademark of FMC Corp. Summary: Although the data from this study shows some variability, it is interesting to note that the LibertyLink system is competitive with the Roundup Ready system in both yield and net return when a pre-emerge followed by a single post treatment herbicide program is utilized. This type of two-pass program is recommended to minimize the likelihood of developing weed resistance. It should be noted that the glyphosate only entries were under much heavier weed pressure at the time the first post treatment was made (see pictures below). Generally this would lead to a decrease in yield, however we were not able to document that in this year s study. 102

103 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Soybean Planting Date Study Planted: Various Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: Various Tillage: Disk / Disk-Rip / Field Cultivator (twice) Population: 140,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 3 pts. Extreme Rows: Eleven 15 rows 8 oz. Glyphosate April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. To evaluate performance of a mid-season and a full-season product planted on several dates throughout the growing season. Planting Date Brand May 12 BECK 398NR 90.0 May 12 BECK 451NR 86.0 AVERAGE 88.1 May 18 BECK 398NR 93.5 May 18 BECK 451NR 91.0 AVERAGE 92.3 May 30 BECK 398NR 87.3 May 30 BECK 451NR 86.3 AVERAGE 86.8 June 9 BECK 398NR 86.3 June 9 BECK 451NR 81.9 AVERAGE Soybean Planting Date Study BECK 398NR BECK 451NR June 16 BECK 398NR 83.5 June 16 BECK 451NR 74.9 AVERAGE 79.2 June 24 BECK 398NR 77.9 June 24 BECK 451NR 72.3 AVERAGE 75.1 July 1 BECK 398NR 71.2 July 1 BECK 451NR 60.5 AVERAGE 65.8 Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Bu./A Year Soybean Planting Date Trend /17 4/27 5/7 5/17 5/27 6/6 6/16 6/26 7/6 Planting Date Summary: This year s highest yielding planting date was May 18 th. Yields continued to be very good throughout the entire season considering that rainfall was well below average from July through September. A strong soil moisture reserve followed by timely rains during the second week of August and in September made this year s soybean crop. The long-term summary chart represents the yield trend by planting date over the past seven years. This data shows the highest yield potential for soybeans being those planted by mid-may. BECK 398NR out-yielded BECK 451NR by an average of 5.1 Bu./A. across all planting dates in This is the first year in the seven year history of this study at the Southern IN PFR farm that the group III variety out-yielded the group IV variety across all planting dates. 103

104 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Row Spacing & Population Study Planted: May 19, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 11, 2011 Tillage: Disk / Disk-Rip / Field Cultivator (twice) Population: Various Herbicide: Pre: 3 pts. Extreme Rows: Various 8 oz. Glyphosate Post: 32 oz. Glyphosate Product Tested: BECK 451NR April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. In addition to selecting high yielding varieties, it is important to know the correct seeding rate in various row spacings to maximize yield and profitability. This study compares a wide range of seeding rates in both 15" and 30" rows to determine the most profitable seeding rate for each SUMMARY Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat Target Seeding Rate Emerged Population Approx. Seed Cost Net^ Return 15" ROWS 75,000 83, $23.45 $ ,000 90, $31.26 $ , , $39.08 $ , , $46.89 $ , , $54.71 $ , , $62.52 $ AVERAGE Net^ Return Rank 30" ROWS 75,000 74, $23.45 $ , , $31.26 $ , , $39.08 $ , , $46.89 $ , , $54.71 $ , , $62.52 $ AVERAGE YEAR SUMMARY Standability 1 = Erect 5 = Flat Target Seeding Rate Emerged Population Approx. Seed Cost Net^ Return 15" ROWS 75,000 87, $23.45 $ , , $31.26 $ , , $39.08 $ , , $46.89 $ , , $54.71 $ , , $62.52 $ AVERAGE Net^ Return Rank 30" ROWS 75,000 82, $23.45 $ , , $31.26 $ , , $39.08 $ , , $46.89 $ , , $54.71 $ , , $62.52 $ AVERAGE

105 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Row Spacing & Population Study - Continued Summary: Since adopting the current protocol where we test a wider range of seeding rates (75, ,000 seeds/a.) three years ago, the results from the row spacing and population study at the Southern IN PFR farm have suggested that the optimum seeding rate for soybeans is much lower than what many of our growers are currently using. The three year summary shows less than a 3 Bu./A. difference in yield, regardless of the target seeding rate used. At this time, we have not been able to record enough variance in yield to determine the economic optimum seeding rate from this data set. It should be noted, however, that final stands have averaged at least 80,000 plants per acre. Similar research conducted by the University of Kentucky suggests that evenly spaced, final stands of 80, ,000 plants per acre are adequate to achieve high yields. Therefore, the question should be asked, "how many seeds does one need to plant in order to achieve 80, ,000 plants per acre?" To answer this, growers will have to take tillage practice, the type of planter or drill they are using, planting date, and soil conditions at the time of planting into consideration. This study is generally planted into conventionally tilled soils, in the early to mid-may timeframe, when soil conditions are optimum. Therefore, it makes sense that our data suggests that our seeding rates should be much lower than what we have historically planted. The standard seeding rate that we currently use at the Southern IN PFR farm for conventionally tilled soybeans is 140,000 seeds/a. in 15" rows. We look forward to testing each of the aforementioned variables in the future to determine how they affect the economic optimum seed rate for soybeans. Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return based on gross income minus approximate seed cost. 105

106 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Foliar Fungicide Study Planted: May 19, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 12, 2011 Tillage: Disk / Disk-Rip / Field Cultivator (twice) Population: 140,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 3 pts. Extreme Rows: Eleven 15 rows 8 oz. Glyphosate Product Tested: BECK 432NR * April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. In recent years, interest in using fungicides to control foliar diseases in soybeans has grown, as the recurrence of Asian soybean rust in the far southern states has increased. 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 effectiveness of both foliar fungicides and insecticides for our growers. This data is also part of Beck's ongoing soybean leaf wetness study. Insecticide and/or Fungicide Application Date Sprayed Growth Stage Yield Advantage Return on Investment^ 2.8 oz. Leverage 360 July 14 R $19.75 Untreated oz. Headline $ oz. Headline oz. Leverage $ oz. Leverage 360 July 21 R $18.48 Untreated oz. Headline $ oz. Headline oz. Leverage $ oz. Leverage 360 July 29 R $9.55 Untreated oz. Headline $ oz. Headline oz. Leverage $ oz. Leverage 360 Aug. 4 R $18.50 Untreated oz. Headline $ oz. Headline oz. Leverage $ oz. Leverage 360 Aug. 12 R $7.00 Untreated oz. Headline $ oz. Headline oz. Leverage $52.50 Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^ Return on investment based on yield advantage times $12.75 per Bu. minus the cost of fungicide, insecticide, and application. Headline $426/gal. Leverage 360 $315/gal. Application $6.50/gal. Headline is a registered trademark of BASF. Leverage is a trademark of Bayer. 106

107 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Foliar Fungicide Study - Continued 6 YEAR SUMMARY Insecticide and/or Fungicide Application Growth Stage Yield Advantage Return on Investment^ Fungicide / Insecticide R2 / R $1.06 Fungicide Only R2 / R $9.70 Insecticide Only R2 / R $12.74 Untreated - R2 / R Fungicide / Insecticide R4 / R $16.41 Fungicide Only R4 / R $11.53 Insecticide Only R4 / R $5.64 Untreated - R4 / R Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Summary: The 2011 data shows profitable yield advantages when using a foliar fungicide both alone or in combination with a pyrethroid insecticide when applications were made on July 21 (late R2), July 29 (R3), and August 4 (R4). The R2 growth stage also showed a profitable response when using fungicide alone on July 14. Stand alone applications of insecticide proved to be profitable on every spray date with the exeption of August 4. The six year summary suggests that the likelihood of seeing profitable results from the use of foliar fungicide and insecticide applications are higher during the R4/R5 growth stage. However, studies conducted in recent years trend toward a close correlation between the timing of application and rainfall events. 107

108 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Double-Crop Soybean Foliar Fungicide Study Planted: June 24, 2011 Previous Crop: Wheat Harvested: October 12, 2011 Tillage: No-Till Population: 220,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: Pre: 3 oz. Pursuit & 32 oz. Glyphosate Rows: Eleven 15 rows Post: 32 oz. Glyphosate Product Tested: BECK 400NR * April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. 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. Date Sprayed Growth Stage Emerged Population Yield Advantage Return on^ Investment Application R2 Leverage 360 Aug. 4 R2 176, $4.60 Untreated Aug. 4 R2 187, Headline Aug. 4 R2 151, $46.17 Headline / Leverage 360 Aug. 4 R2 181, $85.47 R3 Leverage 360 Aug. 12 R3 185, $59.79 Untreated Aug. 12 R3 170, Headline Aug. 12 R3 178, $27.29 Headline / Leverage 360 Aug. 12 R3 181, $35.83 R4 Leverage 360 Aug. 20 R4 187, $31.32 Untreated Aug. 20 R4 160, Headline Aug. 20 R4 154, $4.43 Headline / Leverage 360 Aug. 20 R4 164, $16.22 Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^ Return on investment based on yield advantage times $12.75 per Bu. minus the cost of fungicide, insecticide, and application. Headline $426/gal. Leverage 360 $315/gal. Application $6.50/gal. Headline is a registered trademark of BASF. Leverage is a trademark of Bayer. Summary: The only entry that increased profits in 2011 was Leverage 360 applied at the R2 growth stage. The five year history of this study has shown similar results from the use of a foliar insecticide at the R2 growth stage, particularly in summers with dry weather patterns (four out of five years). The use of Headline fungicide both alone and in combination with a foliar insecticide did not provide a profitable return. No foliar disease could be found in this year's study. 108

109 BECK S Double-Crop Soybean Population Study Planted: June 24, 2011 Previous Crop: Wheat Harvested: October 24, 2011 Tillage: No-Till Population: Various Herbicide: Pre: 3 oz. Pursuit & 32 oz. Glyphosate Rows: Eleven 15 rows Post: 32 oz. Glyphosate Brand Southern Indiana PFR April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. 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 Average 180, ,000 BECK 400NR * BECK 432NR * BECK EX BECK 451NR BECK 466NR * BECK 477NR * BECK 495NR * AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. 7 YEAR SUMMARY Seeding Rate Net^ Return 180, $ , $ Summary: For the seventh year in a row, increasing planting population from 180,000 to 220,000 seeds/a. provided profitable yield increases. The seven year average shows the average increase in profits to be $18.31/A. BECK 466NR * led all of the commercial entries with an average yield of 66.7 Bu./A. Experimental BECK EX 6156 recorded this year's highest double-crop yield at 69.7 Bu./A. and an average of 69.4 Bu./A. across both reps. BECK S Double-Crop Soybean Micro Mix Study Planted: June 24, 2011 Previous Crop: Wheat Harvested: October 24, 2011 Tillage: No-Till Population: 220,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 3 oz. Pursuit & 32 oz. Glyphosate Rows: Eleven 15 rows Product Tested: BECKS 466NR * Treatment August 2.30 in. Total in. To evaluate a foliar fertilizer on double-crop 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. Harvested Population April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. Untreated 176, Micro-Mix with Glyphosate 185, Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net Return is based on $12.75/Bu. soybeans and Micro Mix cost of $2.50/A. AgriGuardian is a trademark of AgriGuardian Marketing, LLC. Summary: The three rep average showed no advantage to using the Micro-Mix product on double-crop soybeans in Over the past five years, a variety of foliar feed products have been tested on double crop soybeans at the Southern IN PFR resulting in little to no yield benefit. 109

110 Southern Indiana PFR 110 BECK S Intensive vs. Low Management Wheat, Double-Crop Soybean Study Planted: June 24, 2011 Previous Crop: Wheat Harvested: October 24, 2011 Tillage: No-Till Population: 220,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: Pre: 3 oz. Pursuit & 32 oz. Glyphosate Rows: Eleven 15 rows Post: 32 oz. Glyphosate Brand Wheat Row Spacing Wheat Treatment Wheat Wheat Soybean April in. May 5.81 in. June 5.27 in. July 6.12 in. August 2.30 in. Total in. In the fall of 2010, a wheat study was planted to compare both high management and low management approaches to growing wheat using various tillage practices and row spacing. The soybean portion of this study was designed for double-crop beans planted into the stubble that remained from the previous wheat study. The goal is to evaluate both the effect on wheat and double-crop soybean yield. Soybean Net^ Return BECK 432NR * (CONVENTIONAL-TILL WHEAT) BECK " Low Management $1, BECK " Low Management $1, BECK " Low Management $1, AVERAGE $1, BECK " High Management $1, BECK " High Management $1, BECK " High Management $1, AVERAGE $1, BECK 87 15" Low Management $1, BECK " Low Management $1, BECK " Low Management $1, AVERAGE $1, BECK 87 15" High Management $1, BECK " High Management $1, BECK " High Management $1, AVERAGE $1, BECK 451NR (NO-TILL WHEAT) BECK " Low Management $1, BECK " Low Management $1, BECK " Low Management $1, AVERAGE $1, BECK " High Management $1, BECK " High Management $1, BECK " High Management $1, AVERAGE $1, BECK 87 15" Low Management $1, BECK " Low Management $1, BECK " Low Management $1, AVERAGE $1, BECK 87 15" High Management $1, BECK " High Management $1, BECK " High Management $1, AVERAGE $1, Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return is gross income minus cost of fungicides, nitrogen inhibitors, spray application, tillage and planting costs. Spray application cost based on $6.50/A. All other tillage and planting costs based on "Custom Rates Applicable to Kentucky (2011)," University of KY, AEC

111 Southern Indiana PFR BECK S Intensive vs. Low Management Wheat, Double-Crop Soybean Study - Continued SUMMARY YEAR Net^ Return Net^ Return BECK 432NR * BECK 451NR Soybeans After Low Management Wheat $1, $1, Soybeans After High Management Wheat $1, $1, Soybeans After 7.5" Row Wheat $1, $1, Soybeans After 15" Row Wheat $1, $1, Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return is gross income minus cost of fungicides, nitrogen inhibitors, spray application, tillage and planting costs. Spray application cost based on $6.50/A. All other tillage and planting costs based on "Custom Rates Applicable to Kentucky (2011)," University of KY, AEC Summary: BECK 135 provided the highest net return in the high management system with an average net return of $1,294.61/A. in However, BECK 113 provided the highest net returns in the low management wheat/ double-crop soybean system with an average net return of $1,255.26/A. in Adequate soil moisture at planting and timely rainfall events in August and September resulted in very high double crop soybean yields at the Southern IN PFR farm for the second year in a row. Both BECK 432NR * and BECK 451NR performed very well again this year, with BECK 432NR * yielding an average of 1.8 Bu./A. better over the last two years. There was less than a bushel difference in yield for soybeans following 7.5 inch rows compared to those following 15 inch row wheat. However, the two year average shows a 1.3 Bu./A. advantage for soybeans planted into 7.5 inch row stubble. Although soybean yields have been slightly higher following highly managed wheat, the low management wheat followed by double-crop soybean system provided an additional profit of $17.69/A. over the past two years. For more details on the wheat portion of this study, see page 202 &

112 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Corn Show Plot Planted: May 8, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: September 28, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 34,500 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Four 30 rows April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. Yield Rank Brand Harvested Population Test Weight Broken Stalks 1 BECK 5442VT3 32, BECK 6903HR * 33, BECK 6626HXR * 32, Phoenix 6848A3** 32, Phoenix 5385A3** 34, BECK 6733HXR * 31, BECK 5269HXR * 33, BECK 5435HXR * 33, BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * 31, BECK 4613A4 32, BECK 5246HR * 32, BECK 7988RR 32, BECK 5354HXR * 31, BECK 6272HR * 32, Phoenix 5552A4** 32, BECK 4530HXR * 33, BECK 4817HXR * 33, Phoenix 5642A4** 33, Phoenix 6442A4** 33, Phoenix 5726A4** 31, BECK 6179VT3 30, BECK 6111HXR * 32, BECK 6077HR * 31, BECK 5335HRwx * 32, AVERAGE 32, Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. 112

113 BECK S 300 Bushel Attempt Central Illinois PFR Planted: May 8, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: September 25, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 37,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Four 30 rows April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. Treatment BECK 5442VT3 Control Bu./A. Difference 3 oz. / 10 oz. Headline VT oz. Stratego V5 / 5 VT AVERAGE BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) Control oz. / 10 oz. Headline VT oz. Stratego V5 / 5 VT AVERAGE BECK 6077HR * Control oz. / 10 oz. Headline VT oz. Stratego V5 / 5 VT AVERAGE BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * Control oz. / 10 oz. Headline VT oz. Stratego V5 / 5 VT AVERAGE BECK 6733HXR * Control oz. / 10 oz. Headline VT oz. Stratego V5 / 5 VT AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. Summary: To reach 300 bushel corn yields at the Central Illinois Practical Farm Research Center. This year s study evaluates five corn hybrids with applications of Headline AMP and Stratego YLD fungicides. All treatments received 275 lbs. of nitrogen with 50% of the nitrogen pre-plant, 25% side-dressed at V3, and the remaining 25% side-dressed at V10 with a high-clearance Hagie tractor equipped with a nitrogen tool bar. At planting, all entries received 10 gallon/a. of as a liquid 2X2 starter. Due to hot and dry weather in July, we were unsuccessful in raising 300 Bu./A. corn at the Central Illinois PFR Center. Even though 300 Bu. corn was not accomplished, we did grow some very high yielding corn with average yields nearing 250 Bu./A. 5442VT3 was this year s winner with a yield of 271 Bu./A. Headline/ Headline AMP and Stratego YLD foliar fungicides applied at V5 and tassel offered nearly identical yield gains of 9.6 and 9.8 Bu./A. 113

114 Central Illinois PFR 114 BECK S Corn Fungicide Timing Study Planted: May 20, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: September 23, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 37,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Four 30 rows Replications: Two (averaged) April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. To evaluate the effectiveness of Headline fungicide at various treatment timings. Treatments consisted of 3 oz. of Headline at the V5 growth stage, 6 oz at full tassel (VT), and a combination of both treatments. Full tassel or VT applications are most commonly used in our marketing area. However, over the past two years there has been a focus on early preventative fungicide applications at or near the V5 growth stage in conjunction with typical VT applications. Bu./A. Difference Cost of Treatment Net^ Return Return Adv. +/- Control Treatment Return BECK 5716A3 Control $1, $0.00 $1, oz. V $1, $9.97 $1, $3.09 V5 + VT Combo $1, $35.17 $1, $ oz. Headline VT $1, $25.19 $1, $10.94 AVERAGE BECK 5442VT3 Control $1, $0.00 $1, oz. V $1, $9.97 $1, $14.28 V5 + VT Combo $1, $35.17 $1, $ oz. Headline VT $1, $25.19 $1, $80.71 AVERAGE BECK 6733HXR * Control $1, $0.00 $1, oz. V $1, $9.97 $1, $8.91 V5 + VT Combo $1, $35.17 $1, $ oz. Headline VT $1, $25.19 $1, $7.49 AVERAGE BECK 6077HR * Control $1, $0.00 $1, oz. V $1, $9.97 $1, $7.14 V5 + VT Combo $1, $35.17 $1, $ oz. Headline VT $1, $25.19 $1, $25.55 AVERAGE BECK 6179VT3 Control $1, $0.00 $1, oz. V $1, $9.97 $1, $1.71 V5 + VT Combo $1, $35.17 $1, $ oz. Headline VT $1, $25.19 $1, $52.10 AVERAGE

115 Central Illinois PFR Treatment BECK S Corn Fungicide Timing Study - Continued Bu./A. Difference Return Cost of Treatment Net^ Return Return BECK EX 0854 (5642 GENETICS) Control $1, $0.00 $1, oz. V $1, $9.97 $1, $0.53 V5 + VT Combo $1, $35.17 $1, $ oz. Headline VT $1, $25.19 $1, $6.67 AVERAGE BECK EX 2060 (6175 GENETICS) * Control $1, $0.00 $1, oz. V $1, $9.97 $1, $0.53 V5 + VT Combo $1, $35.17 $1, $ oz. Headline VT $1, $25.19 $1, $1.36 AVERAGE BECK 6272HR * Control $1, $0.00 $1, oz. V $1, $9.97 $1, $0.65 V5 + VT Combo $1, $35.17 $1, $ oz. Headline VT $1, $25.19 $1, $3.72 AVERAGE BECK 6626HXR * Control $1, $0.00 $1, oz. V $1, $9.97 $1, $1.71 V5 + VT Combo $1, $35.17 $1, $ oz. Headline VT $1, $25.19 $1, $2.18 AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. Headline is a registered trademark of BASF. ^Net Return based on $5.90/Bu. corn, fungicide treatments with V5 $9.97, VT $25.19, V5/VT combo $35.17 (V5 & V5/VT combo application included) and drying cost $0.04/point. Summary: V5 Headline applications offered 2.2 Bu./A. average yield increases, however only netted an average return of $3.29/A. Of the nine hybrids that were tested, five (56%) proved to show positive returns with yields ranging from Bu./A. 5442VT3, 6733HXR *, and 6077HR * showed the highest yield gains from V5 applications of Headline with 3.3 Bu./A. yields and net profits of $10.11/A. VT applications offered average yield gains of 7.2 Bu./A. and net profits of $16.61/A. 5442VT3, 6077HR *, and 6179VT3 had the highest responses to VT applications with average yield increases of 13.6 Bu./A. and net profits of $52.79/A. 6626HXR *, 6733HXR *, and 5716A3 were the only hybrids that had negative returns from VT applications. Combination treatments of both V5 and VT applications only increased average yields by 0.96 Bu./A. over standard VT treatments and consequently had negative returns of -$4.28/A. More testing will be needed to truly understand the value of preventative V5 fungicide treatments, but it is clear that VT applications currently are giving the best yield results and net returns. We must pay close attention to weather conditions, leaf disease presence, as well as fungicide response ratings for each hybrid to fully comprehend and evaluate fungicide applications. 115

116 Central Illinois PFR BECK S 20" vs. 30" Row Width / Population Study Planted: May 20, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: October 15, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: Various Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict Rows: Three 20 rows 24 oz. Durango Two 30 rows Replications: Two (averaged) April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. This study compares ten hybrids in 20, 30 and twin row spacing at final populations ranging from 24,000 to 48,000 to evaluate population trends and row width configurations. Twin row 30" row 20" row Bu/A HXR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A VT Population (x1000) Bu/A EX 0854 (5642 Gen.) Population (x1000) Bu/A A4** Bu/A HR TM * Bu/A EX 2060 (6175 TM * Gen.) Population (x1000) Population (x1000) Population (x1000) Bu/A HR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A HXR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A HXR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A A3** Population (x1000) **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. 116

117 BECK S 20" vs. 30" Row Width / Population Study - Continued Twin row 30" row 20" row Central Illinois PFR Bu/A 250 Twin Rows Bu/A " Rows Bu/A " Rows Population (x1000) Population (x1000) Population (x1000) Bu/A All Hybrids $/A All Hybrids Population (x1000) Population (x1000) Population Summary: Summary for 20 vs. 30 vs. Twin Rows: Higher populations have definitely been showing an increase in yield in our PFR locations the last several years. This year at Central IL PFR we saw downward trends at the highest populations in all three row configurations. In twin rows and 30 rows we had to get clear out to 44,000 before we saw a disadvantage compared to a thinner stand of 24,000. In 20 rows the advantage for thicker planting was maintained until we increased to 48,000. Keep in mind that all of the populations listed in this study are final. We overplant and thin to the desired stand. Twin rows had the highest overall yield across all populations this year. Twin rows also took the top spots in both yield and return per acre at the 32,000 final stand. This return per acre (the bar graph above) is calculated by taking the yield and seed costs into consideration at each of the harvest populations. 20 rows took second place overall in the study this year and their top yield and return came from the 36,000 population. It is interesting to note that 20 rows also had the highest yields and returns from the two highest populations suggesting that as we try to strive for higher whole farm averages in the future, 20 rows may help us increase yields by moving to higher populations. 30 rows were third place in the trial across all the populations combined. They topped out yield and return per acre at the 28,000 final population. This is a slight change from years past in which the highest yields have been derived from higher populations. This year s growing conditions suggested that at Central IL PFR 48,000 final stand was not the ideal population. As we stated above, populations clear up to 40,000 were still favored over a lower than suggested population of 24,

118 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Corn Planting Date Study Planted: May 8, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: September 25, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 37,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict Rows: Six 30 rows 24 oz. Durango April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. To evaluate different planting dates of corn during April, May, and June. This enables us to see how planting dates affect corn yield on an annual basis, as well as multi-year averages. Planting Date Brand Mositure 4th Week March BECK 5244VT th Week March BECK 6179VT AVERAGE Figure Corn Planting Date Study 1st Week April BECK 5244VT st Week April BECK 6179VT AVERAGE Yield / Acre nd Week April BECK 5244VT nd Week April BECK 6179VT AVERAGE nd Week May BECK 5244VT nd Week May BECK 6179VT AVERAGE rd Week May BECK 5244VT rd Week May BECK 6179VT AVERAGE th Week May BECK 5244VT th Week May BECK 6179VT AVERAGE st Week June BECK 5244VT st Week June BECK 6179VT AVERAGE Plant Date Figure 2 6 Year Corn Yield by Planting Date /26 4/2 4/9 4/16 4/23 4/30 5/7 5/14 5/21 5/28 6/4 6/11 Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. Summary: Figure 1 illustrates that the highest yields from this year s planting date study came from the 2 nd week of May. Due to cold and wet weather, only one planting date was able to be made in April and it suffered yield losses of 5.1 Bu./A. compared to the highest yield on the 2 nd week of May. As planting dates continued through May and June, yields fell at every weeks planting. Figure 2 explains the multi-year relationship of yield to planting date by depicting the optimum corn planting date being near the last week of April to the 1st week of May. 118

119 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Corn Replant Study Planted: Various Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: Various Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: Various Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict Rows: Four 30 rows 24 oz. Durango Product Tested: BECK 5244VT3 & BECK 6179VT3 April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. To replant or not to replant that is the question. This study s purpose is to evaluate final corn populations and determine whether or not it is profitable to replant. Replanting is a very tough decision for growers and this study evaluates populations of corn at variable 20,000 versus 36,000 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. Crop insurance replant option payments are not factored into any calculations. Planting Date Planted Population Replant Advantage Net^ Return 4th Week March 20, nd Week April (Replanted) 36, $ st Week April 20, nd Week May (Replanted) 36, $ nd Week April 20, nd Week May (Replanted) 36, $ nd Week May 20, rd Week May (Replanted) 36, $ rd Week May 20, st Week June (Replanted) 36, $3.22 4th Week May 20, st Week June (Replanted) 36, $40.76 Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net return is based on $5.90/Bu. corn, $0.04/point drying cost, and $25/A. replant cost. Summary: Replanting the low 20,000 population stands offered a tremendous benefit through the 2nd Week of May. After accounting for the cost of replanting, net returns averaged over $400/A. during this timeframe. However after the 2nd week of May, replanting offered returns ranging from only $3.22/A. to -$40.76/A. Our multi-year replant data suggests that replanting corn in April can reward a grower significantly if we have corn stands near or at 20,000 seeds/a. However, once replant dates get into the month of May the success rate of replanting diminishes. The four year history of corn replanting at the Central Illinois PFR Center has had positive net returns when it occurred in the month of April. As replanting has been made later into May, leaving the low populations of at least 20,000 plants/a., have shown to offer higher returns and profits. All factors of this replant trial are based on low corn stands of 20,000 plants/a. A grower must evaluate final corn stands to accurately know how much stands are reduced. If populations would drop below 20,000 plants/a., the advantages for replanting would increase significantly. 119

120 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Corn After Corn Nitrogen Timing Study Planted: May 11, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: September 20, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 37,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Six 30 rows Product Tested: BECK 5442VT3 Replications: Two (averaged) April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. To evaluate various nitrogen timings in a continuous corn crop rotation. Timings will consist of preplant, 2X2, and sidedress programs using liquid UAN 28%. This study is designed to evaluate timing efficiencies, nitrogen loss, and yield potential. The control in this study is the 100% Weed-N-Feed treatment, which is 225 lbs. of 28% applied in the spring incorporated with a field cultivator. Applications +/- Control Net^ Return 135 lbs. Weed-N-Feed fb 90 V $ lbs. Weed-N-Feed fb V $ lbs. Weed-N-Feed fb 60 V6 fb 30 V $ lbs. Weed-N-Feed fb 30 lbs. 2x2 fb 135 V $ lbs. Weed-N-Feed (Control) lbs. 2x2 fb 195 V $ V $ V $ AVERAGE $9.21 Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net return based on $5.90/Bu. corn and $330/ton UAN. Summary: Split applications of nitrogen out-yielded the control by an average of 10.7 Bu./A. and netted additional returns of nearly $63/A. This yield and return advantage shows that the 100% Weed-N-Feed program suffered nitrate losses, more than likely from the heavy rain events this past spring. The Central IL PFR Center received 7.39 of rain in April and 4.79 in May. Conversely, when we applied 100% of our nitrogen needs in either a late V3 or V6 side-dress, we suffered average yield losses of -17 Bu./A. and this equated to an average loss of near $100/A. This would indicate that the corn needed a nitrogen source prior to the V3 or V6 side-dress, and yields were hurt significantly in this corn after corn rotation. Immobilization of nitrogen was more than likely a large contributor to these yield losses. More nitrogen was needed closer to planting to help offset the carbon penalty associated with continuous corn rotations. This year we added a late V10 sidedress by way of a Hagie high-clearance tractor and nitrogen tool bar. The V10 side-dress application would not be able to be applied with a typical drawbar type side-dress applicator due to height restrictions of the corn. The Hagie unit is able to apply nitrogen to corn up to tassel heights and gives a much larger window of application for side-dressing. Our results of these late applications proved to increase yields by an average 21.4 Bu./A.over the 100% Weed-N-Feed control and equated to higher returns of $126.26/A. In addition, the late V10 side-dress applications with the Hagie unit increased yields by 4.4 Bu./A. over standard V5 side-dressing. This yield increase would equate to higher returns of $25.96/A. and might indicate an advantage for side-dressing when the corn reaches full canopy and is an active user of nitrogen. These later side-dress applications might offer a greater ability to finish nitrogen programs, increase yield potential, and be more efficient with nitrogen applications. More research needs to be done to fully analyze all of the benefits as well as disadvantages of this nitrogen program. 120

121 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Corn After Beans Nitrogen Timing Study Planted: May 16, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 26, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 35,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict Rows: Six 30" rows 24 oz. Durango Replications: Two (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 5442VT3 April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. To evaluate various nitrogen timings in a corn after soybean crop rotation. Timings will consist of preplant, 2X2, and sidedress programs using liquid UAN 28%. This study is designed to evaluate timing efficiencies, nitrogen loss, and yield potential. The control in this study is the 100% Weed-N-Feed treatment, which is 60 gallons of 28% applied in the spring and incorporated with a field cultivator. Application +/- Control Net^ Return 85 lbs. Weed-N-Feed fb 60 V6 fb 30 V $ lbs. Weed-N-Feed fb 40 V $ lbs. Weed-N-Feed fb 30 lbs. 2x2 fb 85 V $ lbs. Weed-N-Feed fb 87.5 V $ lbs. 2x2 V3 Sidedress $ lbs. Weed-N-Feed (Control) V $ V $35.30 AVERAGE $40.62 Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net return based on $5.90/Bu. corn and $330/ton UAN. Summary: Split applications of nitrogen, such as 2X2 at planting or side-dressing, out-yielded the control by an average of 11.5 Bu./A. and netted an additional $69.86/A. This yield and return advantage shows that the 100% Weed-N-Feed program suffered nitrate losses, more than likely from some of the heavy rain events this past spring. When we applied 100% of our nitrogen needs in either a late V3 or V6 sidedress, we suffered average yield losses of -4.5 Bu./A. and this equated to an average loss of near $18/A. This would indicate that the corn needed a nitrogen source prior to the V3 or V6 side-dress, however yields were not hurt significantly in this corn after soybean rotation, compared to corn after corn rotations. CILPFR data (See Corn after Corn Nitrogen Timing Study pg 120) would suggest that in corn after corn rotations, these yield losses can be much more severe when early nitrogen is eliminated and applied too late. This year we added a late V10 side-dress by way of a Hagie high-clearance tractor and nitrogen tool bar. The V10 side-dress application would not be able to be applied with a typical sidedress applicator due to height of the corn. The Hagie unit is able to apply nitrogen to corn up to tassel heights and gives a much larger window of application for side-dressing. Our results of these late applications proved to increase yields by an average of 12 Bu./A over the 100% Weed-N-Feed control and equated to higher net returns of $70.80/A. In addition, the late V10 sidedress applications with the Hagie unit increased yields by 2.8 Bu./A over standard V5 sidedressing. This yield increase would equate to higher net returns of $16.52/A. and might indicate an advantage for sidedressing when the corn reaches full canopy. These later sidedress applications might offer a greater ability to finish nitrogen programs and increase yield potential. More research needs to be done to fully analyze all of the benefits as well as disadvantages of this nitrogen program. 121

122 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Nitrogen Rate Study Corn After Corn & Corn After Beans Planted: CAC: May 10, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans CAB: May 9, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Harvested: CAC: October 3, 2011 Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict CAB: October 1, oz. Durango Rows: Eight 30" rows Product Tested: BECK 5442VT3 Population: CAC: 34,500 seeds/a. CAB: 35,000 seeds/a. Replications: Two (averaged) April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. This study was initially 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 lbs./a., were replicated to determine optimum economic rates of nitrogen in a CAC and CAB rotation. All nitrogen rates are applied in 50% pre-plant Weed-N-Feed and V5 sidedress applications. Net^ Return Cost of N Return on Additional Lbs. of N Lbs. of Nitrogen CORN AFTER CORN $1, $ $ $1, $ $ $1, $ $ $1, $ $ $1, $ $ $ $ $ $ $ AVERAGE CORN AFTER SOYBEANS $1, $ $ $1, $ $ $1, $ $ $1, $ $ $1, $ $ $ $ $ $ $ AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. Summary: The graph below reveals that the economic nitrogen rate in a corn after soybean (CAB) rotation was established at the 175 lbs. nitrogen rate. As nitrogen rates were increased over 175 lbs., yields and returns were not able to be driven higher. The bar graph on the left shows the economic rate in a corn after corn rotation to be 225 lbs CIL PFR CAC Economic N Rate 2011 CIL PFR CAB Economic N Rate Dollars Return/Acre $1,300 $1,100 $900 $700 $500 0# 125# 150# 175# 200# 225# 250# Yield/Acre $1, $1, $1, $ $ $ $ # 100# 125# 150# 175# 200# 225# 122 $300 Nitrogen Rate Applied $- Nitrogen Rate Applied

123 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Nitrogen Stabilizer Study Planted: May 18, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: October 24, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 34,500 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict Rows: Eight 30 rows 24 oz. Durango Replications: Three (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 4413A3 April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. Each year many corn growers apply UAN liquid nitrogen in the spring as a part of their nitrogen program. This nitrogen stabilizer study evaluates three products that have the ability to reduce nitrogen losses that can occur from lack of incorporation, dry weather, or high velocity winds. Thirty gallons of 28% UAN + herbicide + nitrogen enhancement products is applied in this study as a pre-emerge Weed-N-Feed treatment applied over the soil surface after planting without incorporation. An additional thirty gallons, without nitrogen enhancement products, was applied to finish the program for a total of 180 lbs. nitrogen. NUTRISPHERE-N from Specialty Fertilizer Products prevents and reduces volatilization and nitrification of liquid nitrogen fertilizers. NutriSphere-N controls urease, keeping it from robbing 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 a greater return on your nitrogen fertilizer investment. Agrotain Plus from Agrotain International, also blocks the activity of the naturally occurring enzyme called urease, protecting against volatility losses. Agrotain Plus is a stabilizing agent which keeps nitrogen in the ammonium form for a longer period of time and reduces volatilization, denitrification, and leaching losses. Instinct is a nitrogen stabilizer that contains the active ingredient nitripyrin, the same ingredient known in N-Serve. Instinct is a nitrogen stabilizer for liquid UAN solutions and works to ensure that nitrogen is stablilized in the ammonium form, which is less susceptible to losses from leaching and denitrification. Instinct keeps the soil-dwelling Nitrosomonas bacteria inactive, as this bacterium will attack nitrogen and convert it to nitrates which are prone to losses. Treatment Test Weight Bu./A. Difference Gross Return Net^ Return Adv. of Application Control $1, $1, Nutrisphere-N $1, $1, $12.42 Agrotain Plus $1, $1, $3.92 Instinct $1, $1, $13.95 Experimental $1, $6.48 Average $1, $1, $7.48 Bushels per acre and test weight are corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. ^Net return based on $5.90 corn, Nurisphere $18.26/A., Agrotain Plus $ 19.26/A. and Instinct $13.78/A. Nutrisphere-N is a registered trademark of SFP. Agrotain Plus is a registered trademark of Agrotain International LLC. Instinct is a trademark of Dow AgroSciences. Summary: In this study, 100% of the nitrogen needs (58.3 gallon UAN 28%) were applied pre-plant. This specific nitrogen program offered a high probability to incur volatilization and denitrification losses. All nitrogen stabilizers averaged a yield increase of 3.6 Bu./A. with a net profit of $7.48/A. which does not include the cost of the experimental treatment. Nutrisphere and Instinct offered the highest yield gains of 5.2 and 4.7 Bu./A. and posted net profits of $12.42 and $13.95 respectively. Nutrisphere has a two year average yield gain of 12.3 Bu./A. with net returns of $16.40/A. Agrotain Plus received yield gains of 2.6 Bu./A., however failed to offer a positive net return after factoring the cost of the product. The experimental used in this study posted the lowest yield gains and lowest return on investment in the study. 123

124 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Starter Fertilizer Study on Corn Planted: May 11, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 4, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 34,500 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Six 30 rows Product Tested: BECK 6077HR * Replications: Three (averaged) Treatment April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. To evaluate the use of liquid starter fertilizer in both in-furrow and 2x2 applications. In-furrow applications are made via seed firmers. 2x2 applications are made by using starter attachments ahead of the planter row units. These starter attachments apply fertilizer two inches away from the seed and two inches below the seed. Rates of starter were varied to try to analyze the optimum rate per acre in both in-furrow and 2x2 starter applications. Harvest Population Bu./A. Difference Net^ Return Net Advantage IN-FURROW Control , $1, gal In-Furrow , $1, $ gal In-Furrow , $1, $ gal In-Furrow , $1, $ X2 Control , $1, gal X , $1, $ gal X , $1, $ gal X , $1, $ gal X2 w/ Zinc / Sulfur , $1, $24.86 Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net Return based on $5.90/Bu. corn, cost of at $3/gal. and $6.50/A. the cost of the zinc sulfur treatment Summary: 2x2 applications out yielded in-furrow applications by 6.3 Bu/A. Optimum in-furrow rates came from only 2 gallons per acre, with yield increases of 5.4 Bu./A. and net profits near $26/A. As the rate increased with the in-furrow applications yields were reduced. In fact 8 gallon rates proved to be too high of a salt load, as a yield decrease of 2.7 Bu./A. was realized. 2x2 rates were optimized at the 10 gal./a. rate with yield responses of 8.0 Bu./A. and a net profit of $17.20/A. This year we added a zinc sulfur treatment to the 10 gallon 2x2 rate, this treatment saw yield gains of 2.4 Bu./A. over the standard 10 gallon 2x2 rate. 124

125 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Avail Study Planted: May 17, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: October 24, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 34,500 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict Rows: Twelve 30 rows 24 oz. Durango Replications: Three (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 5435HXR * April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. This study evaluates the use of Avail tank-mixed with a starter fertilizer program. Avail is a phosphate efficiency product designed to be mixed into 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 negatively charged material in the soil. Therefore, the positive ions in the soil attach to the phosphorous fertilizer and can make it unavailable to plants. Avail is a negatively charged product and thus attracts the positive charges in the soil and leaves the phosphate free and available for plant uptake. Test Treatment Weight +/- Control Net^ Return Control with 4 gal $1, Avail + 4 gal In-Furrow $1, Bushels per acre and test weight are corrected to 15% moisture. Avail is a registered trademark of Specialty Fertilizer Products. ^Net return is based on $5.90/Bu. corn and $5.80/A. of Avail. Summary: Avail tank-mixed with 4 gallons of starter fertilizer, yielded an additional 3.8 Bu./A. over a stand-alone starter application. This positive yield response equated to a net return on investment of $16.62/A. Three year data compiled at Central IL PFR shows that Avail has shown an average yield increase of 5.4 Bu./A. BECK S N-Serve Study Planted: May 19, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: October 24, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 34,500 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict Rows: Twelve 30 rows 24 oz. Durango Replications: Three (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 5442VT3 Treatment August 1.24 in. Total in. N-Serve contains the active ingredient nitrapyrin. Because of the economic value of applied nitrogen, it s in our best interest to manage our nitrogen investment for the best possible return. The key to effective nitrogen management is to keep applied nitrogen in the ammonium form. N-Serve nitrogen stabilizer converts regular, unstabilized applied N to stabilized nitrogen. Stabilizing your nitrogen investment promotes crop profitability and responsible stewardship of the environment. Test Weight Bu./A. Difference Gross Return April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. Net^ Return Adv. of Application Control: 180 lbs. N Fall NH $1, $1, qt. N-Serve with 180 lbs. N Fall NH $1, $1, $47.41 Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net return based on $5.90/Bu. corn, $11.00/A. cost of N-Serve. N-Serve is a registered trademark of Dow AgroSciences LLC. Summary: N-Serve applications offered a 9.9 Bu./A. yield increase over stand-alone NH3 treatments. This yield benefit equated to a $47.41/A. return on investment. This study evaluates the use of 100% of nitrogen applied in a fall application. In these high rate fall nitrogen scenarios, N-Serve is a sound agronomic investment. 125

126 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Corn Sable Nitrogen Foliar Feed Study Planted: May 17, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: September 25, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 34,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict Rows: Eight 30 rows 24 oz. Durango Replications: Three (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 5442VT3 April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. Sable is a product with 72% in the slow release form. Sable has a low biuret and salt index and can be mixed with most nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur sources of fertilizer. Also, Sable mixes well with most common herbicide, insecticides and fungicides. Sable is ideal for foliar applications to crops and can be used in drip and sprinkler irrigation systems. Sable is intended to be used as a supplement to a standard fertilizer program. It will not provide all the nutritional N requirements by itself for the intended crop(s). In this study, Sable will be evaluated in V10 and VT growth stage applications. Treatment 126 Bu./A. Difference Gross Return Net^ Return Adv. of Application Control $1, $1, gal. of VT $1, $1, $ gal. of V $1, $1, $20.54 Average $1, $1, $11.10 Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net return based on $5.90/Bu. corn, Sable $6.00/A. and an application cost of $6.50/A. Sable is a registered trademark of Rosens, Inc. Summary: V10 Sable treatments at 1 gal./a. offered yield increases of 5.6 Bu./A with net returns of $20.54/A. As treatments were pushed later toward tasseling, yield gains fell to 2.4 Bu./A. with a return on investment of $1.66. In 2010, yield responses of 5 Bu./A. were also realized from V10 applications of Sable. BECK S Evito In-Furrow Study Planted: May 12, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: September 27, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Disk Population: 34,500 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Twelve 30 rows Product Tested: BECK 5442VT3 Replications: Three (averaged) Treatment August 1.24 in. Total in. Evito is a broad spectrum fluoxastobin fungicide for the control of field diseases in corn and soybeans. Evito works by interfering with respiration in fungi and inhibits spore germination and mycelial growth. This study evaluates the use of 2 oz./a. of Evito in-furrow at planting thru seed firmers on both sides of the seed. Bu./A. Difference Cost of Treatment Net^ Return Control $1, oz. Evito Planting $13.00 $1, Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net Return based on $5.90/Bu. corn and Evito cost is $13/A. Evito is a registered trademark of Atysta LifeScience North America, LLC. Summary: April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. In-Furrow applications showed yield enhancements of 3.9 Bu./A. with an increased return on investment of $10.01/A. At a low use rate of only 2 oz./a., this could be an easy way of applying a soil applied fungicide near the seed at planting. This is the first year of testing Evito fungicide at Central IL PFR.

127 BECK S Phosphate Efficiency Study Central Illinois PFR Planted: May 11, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 4, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Disk Population: 34,500 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Six 30 rows Product Tested: BECK 6077HR * Replications: Three (averaged) April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. PMAX is a phosphate fertilizer additive that reduces phosphate and micronutrient fixation in the soil allowing for maximum crop uptake. When added to liquid or dry phosphate fertilizers, it limits the chemical bonding of the negatively charged phosphate with the positively charged elements (Ca 2+, Al 3+, Fe 3+, Zn 2+ or Mg 2+ ) that are present in the fertilizer, water or soil. These positively charged elements attach to PMAX so that they no longer have the ability to bond with the negatively charged phosphate. This keeps the phosphate and micronutrients available for uptake by the growing plant. PMAX is applied at planting and placed in-furrow through seed firmers. Four gal./a. of a starter fertilizer is applied with PMAX for its phosphorus source. VersaMax is also evaluated in this study as a tank-mix with PMAX. VersaMax is intended to be used as a supplement to a standard fertility program by improving plant health by providing efficient delivery of nitrogen (N) and other essential nutrients (S, Fe, Mn and Zn). Applications Bu./A. Difference Gross Return Net Return^ Advantage of Application 4 gal In-Furrow (Control) $1, $1, PMAX + 4 gal In-Furrow $1, $1, $22.54 PMAX + 4 gal In-Furrow + Vmax $1, $1, $25.71 Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net Return is based on $5.90/Bu. corn, $4.60/A. PMAX and $4.50/A. VersaMax. PMAX and VersaMax are trademarks of Midtech R&D, Inc. Summary: PMAX averaged a 4.6 Bu./A. yield increase over the control in this study, resulting in net profits of $22.54/A. PMAX has shown an average yield increase of 5.5 Bu./A. over the last two years at the CILPFR Center and has improved our starter fertilizer program. VersaMax contributed yield gains of 5.9 Bu./A. when tankmixed with the starter fertilizer and PMAX. This study was conducted in a continuous corn rotation and the additional nitrogen source from VersaMax could have been the primary reason for yield gains. 127

128 Central Illinois PFR BECK S AirForce Planter Study Planted: May 20, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: September 25, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 37,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Six 30 rows Product Tested: BECK 5442VT3 Replications: Three (averaged) April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total 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. Bu./A. Loss $/A.^ Loss % Yield Loss AirForce Variable Rate (5 Replication Average) lb $ % 125 lbs $ % 250 lbs $ % 375 lbs $ % AVERAGE $ % Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. ^Corn market price = $5.90/Bu. AirForce is a trademark of Precision Planting. Summary: 128 Precision Planting s 20/20 AirForce system once again offered consistent results. Variable rate downforce settings by the AirForce system improved average yields by 5% and equated to improved yields of 10.7 Bu./A. 125 lbs. of downforce on average achieved the best performance on the manual spring tension settings with losses of only 2% or 4.7 Bu./A. compared to the variable rate AirForce. As we increased downforce over and above the 125 lbs., yields fell by 12.4 and 16.8 Bu./A. at the 250 lbs. and 375 lbs. downforce settings. Yield / Acre 2011 AirForce Study AirForce Variable Rate AirForce Variable Rate # Downforce # Downforce # Downforce # Downforce

129 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Priaxor Fungicide Study Planted: May 19, 2001 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 24, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 34,500 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict Rows: Four 30" rows 24 oz. Durango Replications: Three (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 5442VT3 Treatment April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. This study evaluates the use of a new fungicide product called Priaxor that BASF is currently testing. Priaxor fungicide is a combination of the active ingredient in Headline fungicide and a new active ingredient called Xemium. BASF expects to launch Priaxor into the row crop market in early 2012, pending U.S. EPA registration. We are also evaluating some new experimental products from BASF in this study that may become commercially available in the short term. BAS F is an experimental fungicide from BASF for the corn market and BAS I is an experimental insecticide from BASF for multiple row crops. Headline SC is a new water-based fungicide that will be replacing Headline in the future. All of the treatments in this study were made at the VT growth stage. Yield Advantage vs. Control Control Priaxor Headline SC BAS F Experimental BAS I Experimental BAS I + BAS F AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. Priaxor and Headline are trademarks of BASF. Summary: All fungicides in this study performed very well by averaging a 9.5 Bu./A yield increase. Priaxor increased yields by 10.9 Bu./A., Headline SC 9.2 Bu./A., and the experimental product gave a 8.5 Bu./A. yield increase. The experimental insecticide tested in this study did not give a positive yield response, however there were no insect threats in this plot. In an effort to stay abreast of new products that may be available in the future, Beck s Practical Farm Research tries to implement studies like this to bring these new products to our customer's attention before they become commercially available. 129

130 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Crop Rotation Tillage Study Planted: May 18, 2011 Previous Crop: Various Harvested: September 28, 2011 Tillage: Various Population: 34,500 seeds/a. Herbicide: 5 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Twenty-four 30 rows Product Tested: BECK 4817HXR * Replications: Three (averaged) Tillage CORN AFTER CORN Conventional Till No-Till Strip-Till Vertical Till AVERAGE CORN AFTER SOYBEANS Conventional Till No-Till Strip-Till Vertical Till AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. To evaluate different forms of tillage in both 1 st year and continuous corn rotations. Tillage methods include no-till, strip-till, vertical-till, and conventional-till. Conventional-till consists of a disk chisel plow in the fall, strip-till is completed with an Remlinger strip-till toolbar in the fall, vertical-till consists of a McFarlane Reel Disk in the spring or fall, while no-till consists of a Great Plains twin row planter equipped with no-till cutters and residue cleaners. Summary: In a first year corn rotation, all tillage situations averaged Bu./A. with conventional tillage earning the highest yields at Bu./A. Compared to conventional tillage, strip-till and vertical-till averaged 4.3 Bu./A. and 14.1 Bu./A. less respectively, while no-till was the lowest yielding system at 23.7 Bu./A. less. In a corn after corn environment, yields averaged Bu./A. with conventional tillage again offering the highest yields at Bu./A. Compared to conventional tillage, strip-till and vertical-till averaged 15.4 Bu./A. and 49.7 Bu./A. less, while no-till was the lowest yielding system at Bu./A. less. 130

131 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Pinch Row Study Planted: May 18, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: September 25, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 37,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict Rows: Four 30 rows 24 oz. Durango Replications: Two (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 4413A3 April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. To simulate and evaluate pinch row compaction that can be caused by center-fill planters. Center-fill planters have a large hopper box in the center of the main frame of the planter. This hopper box, when filled with seed, adds a tremendous amount of central weight to planter systems. This extra weight can cause pinch row compaction from the center tires of the planter as they try to hold the large majority of mainframe weight. This study will evaluate the difference in yield of pinch rows, compared to rows that would simulate the outside wings of a planter that would not have pinch row compaction issues. Treatment Broken Stalks Root Lodging Test Weight Bu./A. Difference Gross Return Control $1, Pinch Row $1, Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. Summary: Pinch rows showed a difference during the whole growing season. Since the growing season was hot and dry, pinch rows suffered stress all season long. During the day, it was very typical to see the pinch rows leaves rolling and showing a wilting effect. Figure 1. shows the difference in the size and mass of the corn roots where pinch row compaction was an issue and limited water uptake. Pinch rows caused an average 19.6 Bu./A. yield loss which equated to net losses of $ Center-fill planters are truly a convenience, eliminating the dumping of small lbs. bags into individual row units, but growers must pay close attention to any detrimental effects high amounts of central weight may cause with these planter systems. 131

132 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Corn Cover Crop Study Planted: May 20, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 26, 2011 Tillage: Reel Disk Population: 35,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict Rows: Four 30 rows 24 oz. Durango Replications: Three (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 4530HXR * April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. In this study we are evaluating the advantages of cover crops and their ability to increase soil tilth, scavenge and produce nitrogen, and shatter compaction. Corn in this study was planted into a GroundHog radish cover crop that was planted in the fall of The radishes winter killed and we planted corn into this area. Only a light tillage pass with a McFarlane reel disk was used to prepare the seedbed for corn planting. Treatment Bu./A. Difference Gross Return Net^ Return Adv. of Application Control $1, $1, GroundHog Radish Cover Crop $1, $1, $37.88 Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net return based on gross return minus cost of GroundHog radish - $40/A. GroundHog radish is a trademark of Ampac Seed Company. Groundhog Radish: This radish produces large root masses that can shatter compaction and scavenge nitrogen and nutrients deep within the soil. Radishes can capture up to lbs. of nitrogen before winter killing. 132

133 BECK S Carbon Penalty Study Planted: May 20, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: September 28, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 34,500 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict Rows: Twelve 30" rows 24 oz. Durango Replications: Three (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 5442VT3 Central Illinois PFR April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. It is estimated that 20% of the corn in Illinois is in continuous corn rotations. As producers evaluate whether to grow continuous corn, considerations must be given to the carbon penalty that can be associated with corn after corn. Corn residue is classified as non-fragile residue and will decompose much slower than residue from soybeans. This residue is a heavy carbon load and needs to go through a period of decomposition. This process can immobilize nitrogen that is intended for plant consumption. Corn after corn requires a different approach to nitrogen management in comparison to 1 st year corn. This study evaluates the effects of the carbon penalty and how it relates to corn yields and nitrogen management. To illustrate this, we conducted an experiment that addresses the efficacy of utilizing fall applied programs to help assist decomposition. This study evaluates four products or practices that include the following; 1. Bio-Red, a bacteria containing humic acid gals./a. of liquid UAN 28%. 3. RES 16, a bio-enzyme product. 4. A fall control burn that will remove 100% of old corn stalks and leaves. These four practices were evaluated and compared to a typical corn after corn rotation where a disk-chisel was used to bury and size residue. All treatments received 225 lbs. of nitrogen, in addition to each individual component. Treatment Net^ Return Net Difference 100% Burning of Stalks $1, $ Lbs. Fall Applied 28% $1, $ qt. Bio-Red Fall Applied $1, $ oz. RES-16 Spring Applied $1, $12.01 Untreated Control $1, AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net return is based on net income is gross income minus cost of N and cost of product. Bio-Red is a trademark of GlobalChem, LLC. RES 16 is a trademark of Bio-Enzyme, LLC. Summary: To prove that there is in fact a carbon penalty associated with continuous corn rotations, we deliberately conducted a control burn to remove all corn residue. This control burn proved to reduce carbon loads and increased corn yields by 14.2 Bu./A compared to utilizing tillage to decompose residue. This control burn proved to increase farm revenue by nearly $84/A. At Beck s Hybrids we don t condone or recommend the use of control burns for residue removal. This residue in the future will ultimately help add organic matter and water holding capacity to soil. This residue also contains fertility that could be incorporated back into the soil profile. We only conducted this control burn to prove that corn residue is in fact carbon material that needs to be decomposed quickly to eliminate potential yield losses in corn due to immobilization of nitrogen. Fall applications of UAN 28% also increased yields by 9.9 Bu./A. and increased net return by over $58/A. This additional nitrogen was applied after harvest directly on corn stalks and then incorporated by a diskchisel. The 28% UAN provided a nitrogen supply to help feed soil microbes to aid in the decomposition of residue. Bio-Red had similar results, with yield increases of 11.3 Bu./A. and netted additional revenue of $41.67/A. RES-16 was the only product in this study that was applied in the spring (May), due to availability. Even with the late application, 3.9 Bu./A higher yields were realized with a net profit of $12.01/A. 133

134 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Hail Simulation Study Planted: April 15, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: September 8, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 34,500 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict Rows: Four 30" rows 24 oz. Durango Replications: Two (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 5354HXR * April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. To simulate and evaluate hail damage at various growth stages. Hail simulations were made beginning at V6 and continued through the blister growth stage. Hail damage was 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 Damage / Timing Test Weight Bu./A. Difference % Yield Loss V % Control V % Control V % Control VT % Control Blister % Milk Line % Control HAIL AVERAGE CONTROL AVERAGE Bushels per acre and test weight are corrected to 15% moisture. Summary: This hail simulation shows the devastating effects that hail storms can do to growing corn hail defoliations showed a range of yield losses from Bu./A. Early V6 and V10 hail events did recover from crop injury somewhat, but still suffered losses averaging from 7-16% of normal yield. As hail events occurred closer to reproductive stages, yield losses were much more significant. V14 and VT hail damage caused 32-44% yield losses. During reproductive stages, high rates of defoliation can significantly reduce yield by removing green tissue and photosynthetic capability. 134

135 BECK S Frost Simulation Study Planted: April 15, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: September 8, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 34,500 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict Rows: Four 30" rows 24 oz. Durango Replications: Two (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 5354HXR * Central Illinois PFR April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. To simulate and evaluate a frost environment in BECK 5354HXR *. Frost simulations were made beginning at the V1 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. Frost Damage Timing Test Weight Bu./A. Difference % of Control (Bu./A.) V1 Frost % V2 Frost % V4 Frost % FROST AVERAGE CONTROL AVERAGE Bushels per acre and test weight are corrected to 15% moisture. Summary: In this frost study, high amounts of yield loss occurred at every simulated frost event. The lowest amounts of yield loss came from the earliest frost event, with 27.2 Bu./A. losses. As the frost damage occurred at later growth stages, yield losses became much more significant. The V2 frost event gave average yield losses near 33 Bu/A., while the V4 frost reduced corn yields by nearly 70 Bu./A.! 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. This year, higher yield losses occurred due to cold nighttime temperatures at the time of manual frosting. Although these cold temperatures did not frost the corn, it did allow for more stress on the corn plant after we made the manual frost simulations. 135

136 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Nutri-Pel Study Planted: May 13, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 1, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 34,500 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Twenty-two 30 rows Product Tested: BECK 5442VT3 Replications: Three (averaged) Treatment Bu./A. Difference April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. Net^ Return Control $1, ,000 lbs. Nutri-Pel $1, Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net Return based on $5.90/Bu. corn, Nutri-Pel cost $25/ton. Summary: This is the second year of testing the product Nutri-Pel. Nutri-Pel is a municipal waste by-product with a chemical analysis of and also contains 3.5% Ca, 1% S, and 2% Fe. Nutri-Pel is supplied out of Chicago, IL and is different from most sludge fertilizers as Nutri-Pel is a dry product that can be applied with normal fertilizer spinner trucks. Nutri-Pel was applied in addtion to our normal fertilizer program. Nutri-Pel performed very well in the second year of testing with average yield increases of nearly 14 Bu./A. and net returns of over $70/A. At Central IL PFR, we apply Nutri-Pel on our LP (low productive) soils to help improve water holding capacity and to increase the availability of nitrogen throughout the growing season. 136

137 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Soybean Show Plot Planted: May 15, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybean Harvested: October 4, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 165,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict, 24 oz. Durango Rows: Four 30 rows 22 oz. Ignite, 8 oz. Cobra & 5 oz. Select April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. Yield Rank Brand GROUP II 1 BECK 241NR * BECK 289NR * BECK 229NR * BECK 263NR * BECK 294NR * BECK 276NL BECK 244NR * 61.6 AVERAGE 67.6 GROUP III & IV 1 BECK 432NR * BECK 400NR * BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR BECK 362NR * BECK 357NR * BECK 372NL BECK 325NR * BECK 322NR * BECK 392NL BECK 356NL BECK 306NL BECK EX BECK 319N BECK 331N 60.5 AVERAGE 73.5 Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. 137

138 Central Illinois PFR BECK S 100 Bushel Soybean Attempt Planted: May 19, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 7, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: Various Herbicide: 5 oz. Verdict Rows: Six 30" rows 24 oz. Durango Replications: Two (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 362NR * April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. This is our fourth attempt at 100 bushel soybeans at the Central Illinois PFR Center. Base treatments in this study are BECK 362NR * with Beck s Escalate yield enhancement system, with the addition of Protinus, Poncho /VOTiVO and Optimize seed treatments. Every entry in this study received Headline fungicide and Respect insecticide at the R3 growth stage and 1 gallon of foliar fertilizer at R3. Cobra was used in this study at the V7 growth stage in the attempt to shorten internode growth and increase pod development. Invinsa was used as an ethylene management enhancing product. Soy soap is a biobased, non-toxic nano-technology formulation that improves efficiency of crop moisture and nutrients, especially under stress of dry weather or low-organic soils. Sweet N Eezy is a liquid glucose that is foliar applied to soybeans as a carbohydrate source. Incognito was applied as a foliar fungicide to help control white mold disease. Finally, physical damage by way of a roller was applied to soybeans at the V7 growth stage to stimulate shortened internode growth and increase pod development. Treatment Net^ Return Base^^ 130,000 seeds/a $ Base^^ 200,000 seeds/a $ Base^^ 200,000 seeds/a. + Physical Damage: V $ Base^^ 200,000 seeds/a. + V $ Base^^ 200,000 seeds/a. + R $ Base^^ 200,000 seeds/a. + R $ Base^^ 200,000 seeds/a. + 1 gal. Sweet'N R $ Base^^ 200,000 seeds/a. + Soy R $ Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return is based on gross income minus seed cost, treatment cost and application cost. Costs used were $40/bag soybeans, $15.66/A. for Cobra, Estimated $17/A. for Invinsa, $6.50/A. for physical damage, $17/A. for Incognito, $11/A. for Sweet N Eezy, and $12.55/A. for Soy Soap. ^^Base = Poncho/VOTiVO + Escalate + Protinus + Optimize Poncho and VOTiVO are trademarks of Bayer. Escalate is a trademark of Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. Protinus is a trademark of Wolf Trax. Optimize is a registered trademark of EMD Crop BioScience. Cobra is a registered trademark of Valent, USA. Invinsa is a trademark of Dow. Incognito is a trademark of MANA Crop Protection. Summary: 100 Bu./A. yields were not accomplished in this high yield study, but our attempt was within 16.9 Bu./A. of reaching our goal. Even though the 100 Bu./A. level was not reached, we did learn about individual treatment performances. Physical damage took the show in this year s high yield plot with a yield of 83.1 Bu./A. Believe it or not, by inflicting damage to soybeans at the V6 growth stage, yield was increased by 2.9 Bu./A. with net returns of $30.47/A. Damage to soybeans was made with a roller to flatten and crush soybean plants at a young age. These soybean plants came back with a vengeance and produced some plants that had nearly 200 pods on each plant! Invinsa offered 1.6 Bu./A. yield enhancements, more than likely helping the soybeans endure the stress better by not responding to ethylene levels and retaining more of its flowers for pod development during the hot and droughty summer. All other treatments failed to increase enough yield over the control for positive returns. 138

139 Central Illinois PFR BECK S RR vs. LL Showdown Planted: May 20, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 19, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 150,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 5 oz. Verdict Rows: Six 30 rows 24 oz. Durango Replications: Two (averaged) April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. To evaluate top yielding soybean varieties in both Roundup Ready and LibertyLink seed and herbicide platforms. Brand Platform Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Roundup Ready is a registered trademark of Monsanto. LibertyLink is a registered trademark of Bayer. BECK 294NR * Roundup BECK 325NR * Roundup BECK 322NR * Roundup AVERAGE BECK 376NL LibertyLink BECK 356NL LibertyLink BECK 306NL LibertyLink AVERAGE Summary: Beck 376NL was the top yielder in the LibertyLink platform study with a yield of 68.7 Bu./A. In the Roundup Ready platform, BECK 294NR TM* performed with a top yield of 68.2 Bu./A. Both soybean systems compared very closely with the Roundup Ready platform averaging 67.4 Bu./A. and the LibertyLink platform averaging 68.0 Bu./A. Overall, this study shows that both soybean platforms offer high yielding soybean varieties. At Beck s Hybrids we believe in offering CHOICES to our customers. By having both Roundup and LibertyLink soybeans available, a grower can choose which soybean platform fits their operation the best. 139

140 Central Illinois PFR BECK S LibertyLink Soybean Stratego YLD / Leverage Study Planted: May 15, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 5, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 150,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 5 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Eight 30 rows Product Tested: BECK S 325NR * Replications: Two (averaged) April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. This study evaluates the use of Stratego YLD fungicide and Leverage insecticide in soybeans. Stratego YLD is a fungicide that contains prothioconozole and trifloxystrobin and is used both as a preventative and curative for leaf diseases in soybeans and corn. Leverage insecticide offers two modes of action as well by containing both imidacloprid and cyfluthrin. These products were applied as a combination tank-mix at the R3 growth stage in soybeans. Treatment Bu./A. Difference Net Return^ Net Advantage Control $ Stratego YLD + Leverage $ $12.35 Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 13% moisture. LiberyLink, Stratego and Leverage are registered trademarks of Bayer. ^Net Return is based on soybean price of $12.75/Bu., Stratego price of $17.50/A., Leverage price of $7/A. and an application cost of $6.50/A. Summary: A Stratego YLD and Leverage combination performed exceptionally well by offering yield increases of 3.4 Bu./A. and net returns of $12.35/A. 140

141 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Soybean Planting Date Study Planted: Various Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 15, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 165,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 5 oz. Verdict Rows: Four 30 rows 24 oz. Durango Replications: Two (averaged) April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. To evaluate different planting dates of soybeans during April, May, and June. This enables us to see how planting dates affect soybean yield on an annual basis, as well as multi-year averages. Planting Date Brand 2nd Week April BECK 322NR * nd Week May BECK 322NR * rd Week May BECK 322NR * th Week May BECK 322NR * st Week June BECK 322NR * nd Week June BECK 322NR * AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Summary: The highest yields from this year s planting date study came from the 2 nd week of May. Due to cold and wet weather, only one planting date was able to be made in April and it suffered yield losses of 5.1 Bu./A. compared to the highest yield on the 2 nd week of May. As planting dates continued through May and June, yields fell at every weeks planting. After the 2 nd week of May planting, each week had yield losses on average of 1.5 Bu./A. Yield / Acre Soybean Planting Date Study 2nd Wk April 2nd Wk May 3rd Wk May 4th Wk May Planting Date 1st Wk June 2nd Wk June 322NR 141

142 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Row Width & Population Study Planted: May 18, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 3, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: Various Herbicide: 5 oz. Verdict Rows: Various 24 oz. Durango Replications: Two (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 322NR * April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. In this study, we compared 15 and 30 row widths at various planting populations from 75, ,000 seeds/a. Seed costs for each entry were calculated to determine net returns and to establish economic optimum planting rates for each row width system. Target Seeding Rate Approx. Seed Cost Net^ Return Net^ Return Rank 15" ROWS 75, $23.08 $ , $30.77 $ , $38.46 $ , $46.15 $1, , $53.85 $1, , $61.54 $ , $69.23 $ AVERAGE 81.0 $ " ROWS 75, $23.08 $ , $30.77 $ , $38.46 $ , $46.15 $ , $53.85 $ , $61.54 $ , $69.23 $ AVERAGE 80.3 $ Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return is based on $12.75/Bu. soybeans and $40/bag soybean seed cost. Summary: Both row widths in this soybean study supplied excellent yields over all planting populations. However, 15 rows did out-yield the 30 rows by an average of 0.7 Bu./A. over all planting populations, which led to a higher average net return of $9.11/A. 15 rows reached economic optimum planting populations at 175,000 seeds/a. with a yield of 84 Bu./A., while 30 rows reached economic optimum planting populations at 150,000 seeds/a. with a yield of 81.1 Bu./A. Multi-year data from compares populations of 125, ,000 and would suggest that 15 rows have proved highest net returns at 150,000 populations. As populations were driven higher, yield levels have not justified the additional seed expense. 30 rows over this same period have needed higher populations to achieve economic optimum populations. We have seen the lowest net returns with 30 rows when planting populations were less than 150,000 seeds/a. in our multi-year data at the CILPFR farm. 142

143 BECK S Late Planting Date Maturity / Population Study Planted: June 5, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 17, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 150,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 5 oz. Verdict Rows: Four 30" rows 24 oz. Durango Central Illinois PFR April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. In a spring planting season where planting delays occured, the question is sometimes asked what soybean maturity should I plant and should I plant at high or low populations. This study will help answer these questions by comparing a 2.4 and a 3.4 maturing soybean planted on June 5 with a planting population range of 100, ,000 seeds/a. Approx. Seed Cost Net^ Return Net^ Return Rank Treatment BECK 242NR * 100, $30.77 $ , $38.46 $ , $46.15 $ , $53.85 $ , $61.54 $ , $69.23 $ , $76.92 $ AVERAGE $53.85 $ BECK 342NR 100, $30.77 $ , $38.46 $ , $46.15 $ , $53.85 $ , $61.54 $ , $69.23 $ , $76.92 $ AVERAGE $53.85 $ Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return based on gross income minus approx. seed cost. Summary: To maximize light interception in a shortened growing season, higher planting populations should be utilized. In this study, the economic optimum planting population for both soybean maturities was 175,000 seeds/a. With late planting dates, the initial thought might be to plant a shorter maturing soybean group. This is not always true, as this trial data would suggest that the 3.4 maturity group on average yielded 9.7 Bu./A. better than the 2.4 maturity group. With later planting dates, soybeans have a shorter growing season and later maturing soybeans need to be utilized to produce a larger crop canopy before beginning to flower. 143

144 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Micro Mix Study Planted: May 15, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 3, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 150,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 5 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Eight 30 rows Product Tested: BECKS 229NR * Replications: Three (averaged) April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. 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 postemergent herbicide use. Treatment Bu./A. Difference Net Return^ Net Difference Control $ Micro Mix with Glyphosate $ $16.63 Micro Mix 10 Days After Glyphosate $ $6.30 AVERAGE $ $11.47 Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net Return is based on $12.75/Bu. soybeans, Micro Mix cost of $2.50/A. and $6.50/A. application cost. AgriGuardian is a trademark of AgriGuardian Marketing, LLC. Summary: For the third straight year, Micro Mix has offered yield benefits in this foliar feed fertilizer study. Over the past three years, Micro Mix has consistently achieved a 1.3 Bu./A. yield increase with net returns of just over $11/A. Another benefit with this product is the fact that Micro Mix can be tank-mix applied with post-emergence herbicides. Our data suggests that waiting to apply MicroMix ten days after the initial post-emergence treatment does not offer any yield advantages and only adds to the cost of the program. 144

145 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Optimize /Vault Study Planted: May 20, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 19, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 150,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 5 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Six 30 rows Product Tested: BECKS 289NR * Replications: Two (averaged) April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. Optimize, from EMD Crop BioScience, 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 innoculant 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 independent of soil conditions. The result of this is healthier soybean plants that can withstand environmental stresses throughout the season. Vault HP from Becker Underwood, is a seed applied product that includes a patented bio-active ingredient that stimulates a growth-enhancing influence on soybeans. Vault HP contains a fresh rhizobia inoculant to maximize root nodulation and nitrogen-fixing potential. Not only does Vault contain rhizobial inoculant, it also contains a powerful biofungicide called Integral, which provides extended suppression of rhizoctonia and fusarium to promote healthier root and plant development. Treatment +/- Control Cost of Treatment Net^ Return Net Advantage Control $ Optimize $4.04 $ $9.98 Vault $4.00 $ $3.65 Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return based on $4.04/A. Optimize and $4/A. Vault. Escalate is a trademark of Beck's Superior Hybrids, Inc. Optimize is a registered trademark of EMD Crop BioScience. Vault is a registered trademark of Becker Underwood Corporation. Summary: 8 year data would suggest that Optimize has offered average yield increases of 1.6 Bu./A. with profits of $6.79/A. At Beck s Central Illinois PFR, we have had consistent results with Optimize increasing yields and profitability. Vault HP did not perform as well as the 1.2 Bu./A. increase it showed in 2010, but it still showed a net return of $3.65/A. in 2011 s trial results. Return / Acre CILPFR 8 Year Optimize Summary $14.00 $12.00 $10.00 $8.00 $6.00 $4.00 $2.00 $ Treatment Year 145

146 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Soybean Defoliation/Glucose Study Planted: May 24, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 7, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 150,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 5 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Six 30 rows Product Tested: BECK 362NR * Replications: Two (averaged) Treatment Bu./A. Difference Net^ Return April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. +/- Control Control $ V $ $1.76 V lbs. Dry Sugar $ $0.43 V7 + 1 gal. Sweet N Eezy $ $ lbs. Dry V $ $ gal. Sweet N V $ $7.73 Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. Cobra is a registered trademark of Valent USA. ^Net Return based on $12.75/Bu. soybeans, Cobra cost $15.66/A., dry sugar $0.93/lb., Sweet N Eezy is $4.90/gal. and an application cost of $6.50/A. Summary: This study evaluates the effects of glucose (sugar) treatments in conjunction with Cobra herbicide. Sugar treatments were used to add a carbohydrate food source to the soybeans and to help offset the damaging defoliation of Cobra herbicide. Cobra herbicide is a defoliator type product that is commonly used as a broadleaf herbicide option as well as a compound that can shorten internode growth, overall plant height, while encouraging more pod development. The two sugar products that we used in this study are dry granulated pure cane sugar and a new glucose product called Sweet N Eezy. Sweet N Eezy is marketed by New Eezy Gro Inc. and is a clear liquid containing a blend of sugars and carbon. It is a 47% sugar, equivalent to 4.5 lbs. of sugar/gallon. Cobra applications offered yield increases of 1.6 Bu./A., but after accounting for treatment and application costs, it suffered net returns at -$1.76/A. Both glucose applications had Bu./A. yield increases, but the liquid Sweet N Eezy outperformed the dry sugar by 0.8 Bu./A and returned $7.73/A. Sugar applications in general assisted yields by Bu./A. when tankmixed with Cobra treatments. The highest return in this study was Cobra tankmixed with Sweet N Eezy at a yield of 74.4 Bu./A. and a positive net return of $8.64/A. 146

147 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Evito Soybean Fungicide Study Planted: May 25, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 3, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 150,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 5 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Six 30 rows Product Tested: BECK 362NR * Replications: Two (averaged) April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. Treatment Evito is a broad spectrum fluoxastobin fungicide for the control of field diseases in corn and soybeans. Evito works by interfering with respiration in fungi and inhibits spore germination and mycelial growth. This study evaluates the use of Evito in-furrow at planting, foliar R3 applications, as well as a combination of the two together. Bu./A. Difference Cost of Treatment Net^ Return Adv. Over Control Control $ Evito In-Furrow $10.00 $ $1.48 Evito T R $16.50 $ $14.10 Combo $26.50 $ $7.93 Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 13% moisture. EVITO is a registered trademark of Arysta LifeScience Noth America, LLC. ^Net Return is based on soybean price of $12.75/Bu., Evito cost is $10/A. and an application cost of $6.50/A. Summary: The highest yield response in this study came from Evito applications made as a foliar application at the R3 growth stage with 2.4 Bu./A. yield increases and net returns of $ In-furrow applications offered less than a bushel yield gain and when combined with a foliar application it resulted in net returns lower than of the single R3 foliar treatment. BECK S Fungicide Seed Size Study Planted: May 15, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 5, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 150,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 5 oz. Verdict Rows: Eight 30 rows 24 oz. Durango Replications: Three (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 325NR * Treatment August 1.24 in. Total in. This study evaluates the ability of soybean fungicides to enlarge seed size. Fungicide applications are typically known for controlling leaf diseases and protecting yield, but we have not truly understood some of the plant health type effects that fungicides can offer soybeans, which could lead to larger soybean seed size. This study will compare the seed size of each replication of 6 oz./a. of Headline at the R2 growth stage. Seed/Lb. Control R2 Fungicide Treatment Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. Summary: Headline at the R2 growth stage not only increased yield by 2.0 Bu./A., but seed size was enlarged by 6.7%. The untreated strips had average seed sizes of 2830 seeds/lb. Headline applications increased the seed size to 2640 seeds/lb. 147

148 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Incognito Study Planted: May 24, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 20, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 150,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 5 oz. Verdict Rows: Eight 30 rows 24 oz. Durango Replications: Two (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 362NR * April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. Incognito is a soybean fungicide that contains thiophanate-methyl, the active ingredient used in Topsin 4.5FL. Incognito offers control of anthracnose, brown spot, frog-eye leaf spot, pod and stem blight, purple seed stain, and sclerotinia white mold. Applications of Incognito are applied in this study at the R1 and R3 growth stage of soybean. Treatment Bu./A. Difference Gross Return Net^ Return Adv. of Application Control $ $ R $ $ $ $ $ $21.53 Average $ $ $10.05 Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Incognito is a trademark of MANA Crop Protection. ^Net return based on $12.75 soybeans, Incognito $11.50/A. Summary: R1 applications of Incognito offered the highest yield gains with 3.1 Bu./A. being realized and with $22.53 net returns. This was 2.4 Bu./A. better than R3 applications. R1 treatments had more favorable weather conditions with higher amounts of soil and canopy moisture. At R3, hot and dry conditions persisted, which may be the reason for the decreased yield performance. Very little white mold was seen in 2011 at the CILPFR Center, but products like Incognito will typically perform better if applied just before or at the R1 growth stage to help offer any suppression of white mold. 148

149 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Calcium Nitrate Study on Soybeans Planted: May 24, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 3, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 150,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 5 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Six 30 rows Product Tested: BECK 294NR * Replications: Two (averaged) April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. Treatment Bu./A. Difference Cost of Treatment Net^ Return Net Advantage Control $ gal./a. EezyCal In-Furrow $10.00 $ $ gal./a. EezyCal R $16.50 $ $9.00 Combo Application $26.50 $ $2.28 Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net Return based on $12.75/Bu. soybeans, application fee of $6.50/A. and an EezyCal cost of $5/gal. Summary: EezyCal is a manufactured true solution liquid calcium. EezyCal is a clear liquid product designed for both foliar and soil applications. It contains an organic component and sequestering agent to aid compatibility with most herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides. EezyCal was applied foliar at the V10 growth stage. EezyCal in a foliar application was the only treatment in this study that offered positive net returns. Foliar treatments of calcium nitrate increased yield by 2.0 Bu./A. and netted a return on investment of $9/A. Infurrow treatments at planting did not offer significant yield response, thus resulting in net losses. EezyCal can be applied as both a soil and foliar treatment, but it appears in this study that the foliar treatments are offering more yield benefits. This is my third year planting Liberty soybeans and I am very happy with them. They are always consistent and never off the mark with Roundup beans. As a matter of fact, Liberty beans have been my highest yielding soybeans the last two years. I have some pretty tough horse weeds that Roundup won t touch, but Ignite smokes them over night. I like this program, it is an excellent program that promotes good stewardship and I use it as another tool or option where I need to. I like the many choices Beck s gives me and Liberty soybeans is just one of them. Rich Brinkman Monroeville, IN 149

150 Central Illinois PFR BECK S VersaMax Soybean Study Planted: May 24, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 3, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 150,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 5 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Six 30 rows Product Tested: BECK 289NR * Replications: Two (averaged) Treatment Bu./A. Difference Net^ Return April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. This is a first year study evaluating applications of VersaMax, which is a mixture of macro and micronutrients that can be applied as a foliar application or in row starter/side dress applications. VersaMax is designed for use in both corn and soybeans. VersaMax is intended to be used as a supplement to a standard fertility program. VersaMax may improve plant health by providing efficient delivery of nitrogen (N) and other essential nutrients (S, Fe, Mn and Zn) as part of a total fertility program that may decrease plant stresses and increase potential for maximum genetic expression. VersaMax also has ingredients in the formulation that enhances the spray tank mix compatibility and spray humectancy to provide improved nutrient uptake. In this study we will compare in-furrow, foliar, and combination treatments at 1 quart/a. Net Advantage Control $ qt. VersaMax In-Furrow $ $ qt. VersaMax R $ $15.77 Combo Treatment $ $17.65 Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net Return based on $12.75/Bu. soybeans, cost of VersaMax $4.50/A. and the application cost (on R3 and combo) of $6.50/A. Summary: R3 foliar treatments provided yield increases of 2.1 Bu./A, as well as net returns near $16/A. In-furrow treatments didn t perform as well, but did offer a +0.9 Bu./A. yield response with a net return of near $7/A. The sequential treatments of both in-furrow and R3 foliar applications showed the highest yield response of 2.6 Bu./A. with net returns over $17/A. 150

151 Central Illinois PFR BECK S Soybean Sable Nitrogen Foliar Feed Study Planted: May 27, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: September 22, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 34,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 8 oz. Verdict Rows: Eight 30 rows 24 oz. Durango Replications: Two (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 294NR * Treatment April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. Sable is a product with 72% in the slow release form. Sable has a low biuret and salt index and can be mixed with most nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur sources of fertilizer. Also, Sable mixes well with most common herbicide, insecticides and fungicides. Sable is ideal for foliar applications to crops and can be used in drip and sprinkler irrigation systems. Sable is intended to be used as a supplement to a standard fertilizer program and it does not provide all the nutritional N requirements by itself for the intended crop(s). In this study, Sable will be evaluated in R3 and V7 growth stage applications. Bu./A. Difference Gross Return Net^ Return Adv. of Application Control $ $ gal. of R $ $ $ gal. of V7 with Glyphosate $ $ $7.28 Average $ $ $0.97 Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return based on $12.75 soybeans, Sable $6.00/A. and an application cost of $6.50/A. Sable is a registered trademark of Rosens, Inc. Summary: R3 Sable treatments at 1 gal./a. offered yield increases of 1.4 Bu./A with net returns of $5.35/A. As treatments were pushed earlier at V7 with glyphosate applications, no yield gains were realized. BECK S Starter Fertilizer Study on Soybeans Planted: May 24, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 7, 2011 Tillage: Chisel / Reel Disk Population: 150,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 5 oz. Verdict & 24 oz. Durango Rows: Six 30 rows Product Tested: BECK 294NR * Replications: Three (averaged) Treatment Bu./A. Difference Net^ Return April 7.39 in. May 4.79 in. June 4.11 in. July 1.36 in. August 1.24 in. Total in. This study evaluates applications of liquid starter on soybeans. Liquid starter is traditionally applied to corn, but in an effort to push soybean yields higher, we wanted to experiment with spring starter applications on soybeans at planting. Net Advantage Control $ gal X $ $ gal X $ $ gal X $ $43.57 Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net Return based on $12.75/Bu. soybeans and the cost of is $3/gal. Summary: 2X2 applications performed excellent with 8 gals./a., gleaning a 5.3 Bu./A. yield response with net returns near $44/A. As we lowered the rate of starter, yield response fell accordingly. This was a nice showing for starter fertilizer on this first year study on soybeans. 151

152 Southern Illinois PFR BECK S Corn Show Plot East Planted: May 20, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: October 10, 2011 Tillage: Fall Rip / Spring Conv. Rows: Four 30 rows Herbicide: 3 qts. Lexar Population: 28,500 seeds/a. Insecticide: Force 3G April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. Yield Rank Brand Test Weight 1 BECK 6626HXR * BECK 6288A Phoenix 6442A4** BECK 6733HXR * BECK 6179VT BECK 6903HR * Phoenix 5642A4** BECK 6272HR * BECK 6464HR * BECK 5435AMX * BECK 5442VT Phoenix 5385A3** BECK 6111HXR * Phoenix 6848A3** BECK 7988RR BECK 6077AM * Phoenix 5726A4** BECK EX 2060 (6175 Genetics) * BECK 5716LL BECK 8603HR * BECK 5888Bt BECK 6188Bt AVERAGE Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. 152

153 BECK S 300 Bushel Attempt Southern Illinois PFR Planted: May 20, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: October 10, 2011 Tillage: Conv.-Till Population: 35,700 seeds/a. Herbicide: 3 qts. Lexar Rows: Six 30 rows Insecticide: Force 3G Replications: Two (average) April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. This study attempted to break 300 Bu./A. using 10 hybrids. Practices included using Force in-furrow, precision seed spacing, relatively high populations for the soil type, Mpact and 1/2 rate of Bio-Red ground applied fungicide at mid-pollen, and split applied nitrogen. The N rate was limited to 200 total units, with 50% applied pre-plant, and 50% sidedressed at V6. Brand Test Weight Phoenix 6848A3** Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6175AMX * Phoenix 5642A4** BECK 6077HR * Phoenix 6442A4** BECK 6626HXR * BECK 6903HR * BECK 7988RR BECK 6733HXR * AVERAGE Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Force is a registered trademark of Syngenta Group Company. Mpact is a trademark of Enviro Product Corp. Bio-Red trademark of GlobalChem, LLC. Summary: Wet spring conditions delayed planting until May 20th. Several planned practices were not applied due to the wet weather pattern through July. The top yield of Bu./A. was 29.7 Bu. above last year s high yield of Bu./A. This is significant since this year s study used 100 lbs. less N than last. 153

154 Southern Illinois PFR 154 BECK S VT Fungicide Trial Planted: May 21, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: October 11, 2011 Tillage: Conv.-Till Population: 31,700 seeds/a. Herbicide: 3 qts. Lexar Rows: Four 30 rows Insecticide: Force 3G Replications: Two (average) April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. This study evaluates hybrid specific response to fungicide applications. Headline AMP was applied by ground, without surfactants, at mid-pollen shed. Test Weight Broken Stalks Yield Advantage Vs. Untreated Net^ Return Brand 10 OZ. HEADLINE VT BECK 5442VT $39.73 BECK 6175AMX * $13.37 BECK 6111HR * $49.36 BECK 6077HR * $28.12 BECK 6179VT $47.59 BECK 5435HXR * $50.94 BECK 6626HXR * $4.52 BECK 6272HR * $53.49 BECK 8603HR * $36.19 Phoenix 5642A4** $25.17 BECK 6903HR * $9.64 Phoenix 6848A3** $22.22 Phoenix 5726A4** $25.76 BECK 7988RR $30.29 Phoenix 6442A4** $55.26 BECK 8733HR * $25.57 BECK 6288A $60.57 AVERAGE $11.60 UNTREATED BECK 5442VT BECK 6175AMX * BECK 6111HR * BECK 6077HR * BECK 6179VT BECK 5435HXR * BECK 6626HXR * BECK 6272HR * BECK 8603HR * Phoenix 5642A4** BECK 6903HR * Phoenix 6848A3** Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 7988RR Phoenix 6442A4** BECK 8733HR * BECK 6288A AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Headline AMP is a trademark of BASF. ^Net return is based on gross income minus Headline AMP $18.67/A. and application charge of $6.50/A. Summary: Over all hybrids evaluated, fungicide treated hybrids yielded 2.3 Bu./A. more than untreated hybrids, for a net economic loss of $11.60/A. This closely mirrors our results in 2010, in which our yield advantage was 2.7 Bu./A., for an economic loss of $20.93/A. At this location, it is evident that is not economically advantageous to apply fungicide to corn hybrids as a general practice. There are, however, specific hybrids that consistently respond favorably to fungicide, and this summarized information can be found in the Beck s Product Guide.

155 BECK S Corn Fungicide Timing Study Southern Illinois PFR Planted: June 3, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 28, 2011 Tillage: Conv.-Till Population: 31,700 seeds/a. Herbicide: 3 qts. Lexar Rows: Four 30" rows Insecticide: Force 3G April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. This study evaluates hybrid specific response to two fungicide application timings. Headline was used at the V5 growth stage, Headline AMP at the VT growth stage, along with a combination of the two timings. Test Weight Broken Stalks Treatment BECK 6733HXR * Control oz. V oz. V oz. Headline VT oz. Headline VT AVERAGE BECK 6179VT3 Control oz. V oz. V oz. Headline VT oz. Headline VT AVERAGE Phoenix 5726A4** Control oz. V oz. V oz. Headline VT oz. Headline VT AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Headline and Headline AMP are trademarks of BASF. Summary: There was no significant difference in yield between the non-treated control and the V5 application timing. Very little overall response was seen with the VT application, but 6179VT3 did show a 6.6 Bu. advantage. This is in line with our other findings of specific hybrid fungicide response. The combination of a V5 and a VT application offered no yield advantage over the VT application. 155

156 Southern Illinois PFR 156 BECK S Nitrogen Rate Study Corn After Corn & Corn After Soybeans Planted: CAB: May 21, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans CAC: June 3, 2011 Tillage: Conv.-Till Harvested: October 11, 2011 Herbicide: 3 qts. Lexar Population: 31,700 seeds/a. Insecticide: Force 3G Rows: Six 30 rows Replications: Two (averaged) Product April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. This continuing study evaluates seven different nitrogen rates to determine the optimum economic rate in a corn after soybean and corn after corn cropping system. The nitrogen was applied as 28% sidedressed at V6. Lbs. of Nitrogen Gross Income/A. Net^ Return/A. Return on Additional 25 Lbs. of N CORN AFTER SOYBEANS BECK 6733HXR * 225 lbs $1, $ $53.12 BECK 6733HXR * 200 lbs $1, $ $6.28 BECK 6733HXR * 175 lbs $1, $ $29.66 BECK 6733HXR * 150 lbs $1, $ $70.76 BECK 6733HXR * 125 lbs $1, $ $52.05 BECK 6733HXR * 100 lbs $ $ BECK 6733HXR * 0 lbs $ $ AVERAGE $ $ $9.27 BECK 5442VT3 225 lbs $1, $1, $31.48 BECK 5442VT3 200 lbs $1, $ $83.80 BECK 5442VT3 175 lbs $1, $1, $43.67 BECK 5442VT3 150 lbs $1, $1, $44.07 BECK 5442VT3 125 lbs $1, $1, $31.62 BECK 5442VT3 100 lbs $1, $1, BECK 5442VT3 0 lbs $ $ AVERAGE $1, $ $4.22 CORN AFTER CORN BECK 6733HXR * 250 lbs $ $ $12.04 BECK 6733HXR * 225 lbs $ $ $21.37 BECK 6733HXR * 200 lbs $ $ $32.95 BECK 6733HXR * 175 lbs $ $ $80.41 BECK 6733HXR * 150 lbs $ $ $68.32 BECK 6733HXR * 125 lbs $1, $ BECK 6733HXR * 0 lbs $ AVERAGE $ $ $29.84 BECK 5442VT3 250 lbs $ $ $25.51 BECK 5442VT3 225 lbs $ $ $73.05 BECK 5442VT3 200 lbs $1, $ $28.00 BECK 5442VT3 175 lbs $1, $ $46.09 BECK 5442VT3 150 lbs $1, $ $99.05 BECK 5442VT3 125 lbs $ $ BECK 5442VT3 0 lbs $ AVERAGE $ $ $4.52 Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net return on yield minus nitrogen and drying costs. Corn $5.90/Bu, $330/ton 28% UAN and $6.50 application cost. Summary: The economic optimum nitrogen rate for the corn after soybean study was 150 lbs. for 6733HXR * and 125 lbs. for 5442VT3. The economic optimum nitrogen rate for the corn after corn study was 125 lbs. for 6733HXR * and 150 lbs. for 5442VT3. The 5442VT3 economic optimum nitrogen rate agrees with our long-term Southern Illinois data that shows corn after corn systems need approximately 25 lbs. more nitrogen than corn after soybeans.

157 Southern Illinois PFR BECK S Corn Nitrogen Timing Study Planted: May 20, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: October 11, 2011 Tillage: Conv.-Till Population: 31,700 seeds/a. Herbicide: 3 qts. Lexar Rows: Six 30 rows Insecticide: Force 3G Replications: Two (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 6175AMX * Application April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. Nitrogen losses can be high in certain environmental conditions. This study attempts to determine the best application timing strategies to minimize losses and make more N available to the crop. Test Weight Net^ Return Adv. Over Pre-Plant 175 lbs. N Pre-Plant 28% w/o Inhibitors $ lbs. N Pre-Plant w/o Inhibitors fb 87.5 lbs. N V $ $ lbs. N V $ $ lbs. N Pre-Plant w/o Inhibitors fb 145 lbs. N $ $ lbs. N V $ $ lbs. Pre-Plant w/ Agrotain Plus fb 145 lbs. N $ $ lbs. N Pre-Plant w/ Agrotain Plus $ $44.18 Bushels per acre and test weight are corrected to 15% moisture. ^Net return based on yield minus nitrogen and inhibitor costs. Costs were based on $5.90/Bu. corn, $330/ton 25% UAN, $18.75/A. for Agrotain Plus and $6.50/A. application cost. Agrotain is a registered trademark of Agrotain International, LLC. Summary: As in 2010 at the Southern Illinois PFR site, nitrogen losses from early applications were significant. As a general rule, the later and larger nitrogen applications produced the highest economic benefit. When 100% of the nitrogen was applied sidedressed at V8, profitability increased $117.62/A. over 100% applied preplant. Agrotain Plus, a volitization and nitrification inhibitor, showed a positive response of $44.18 in a 100% preplant situation, but did not out-perform non-stabilized nitrogen in a sidedress system. This year's data trends with prior years, in that employing sidedress applications in a nitrogen program increases profitability. 157

158 Southern Illinois PFR BECK S Corn Nitrogen Stabilizer Study Planted: May 20, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: October 11, 2011 Tillage: Conv.-Till Population: 31,700 seeds/a. Herbicide: 3 qts. Lexar Rows: Six 30 rows Insecticide: Force Product Tested: BECK 6077HR * Application Test Weight Broken Stalks April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. There has been much interest in using nitrogen stabilizers to keep nitrogen available to the corn crop with pre-plant N applications. This study attempts to quantify any benefits with various stabilizers in 28% UAN and Urea. 175 lbs. N Pre-Plant w/o Inhibitors lbs. N Pre-Plant w/ Nutrisphere-N lbs. N Pre-Plant w/ Agrotain Plus lbs. N Pre-Plant w/ Instinct lbs. N Pre-Plant Urea lbs. N Pre-Plant ESN lbs. N Pre-Plant 50/50 ESN and Urea Blend Bushels per acre and test weight are corrected to 15% moisture. Nutrisphere-N is a registered trademark of SFP. Agrotain Plus is a registered trademark of Agrotain International LLC. Instinct is a trademark of Dow AgroSciences. Summary: In this trial, none of the 28% inhibitor products showed an advantage over non-stabilized 28%. Urea without stabilizers produced the highest yield in this trial. ESN (slow release, polymer coated urea) did not show an advantage. The reasons for the poor performance of the stabilizers are not known, and deserve further study. 158

159 BECK S Tillage Study Corn After Soybeans & Continuous Corn Planted: June 2, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 29, 2011 Tillage: Various Rows: Six 30 rows Herbicide: 3 pts.lexar Pre-Plant Population: 31,700 seeds/a. Insecticide: Force 3G Southern Illinois PFR April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. This is the first year of a long-term tillage study at the Southern Illinois PFR site. We are evaluating four tillage systems in soybeans after corn, corn after soybeans, first year corn after corn, and third year continuous corn. All plots received fall broadcast P & K. CORN AFTER SOYBEANS Test Weight Brand FALL STRIP Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6626HXR * AVERAGE FALL IN-LINE RIP / SPRING NO-TILL Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6626HXR * AVERAGE NO-TILL Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6626HXR * AVERAGE FALL DISK CHISEL / SPRING FINISHING TOOL Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6626HXR * AVERAGE THIRD YEAR CONTINUOUS CORN Test Weight Brand FALL STRIP Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6626HXR * AVERAGE FALL IN-LINE RIP / SPRING NO-TILL Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6626HXR * AVERAGE NO-TILL Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6626HXR * AVERAGE FALL DISK CHISEL / SPRING FINISHING TOOL Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6626HXR * AVERAGE Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. 159

160 Southern Illinois PFR BECK S Tillage Study - Continued Corn After Corn & Soybeans After Corn Planted: June 2, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 29, 2011 Tillage: Various Rows: Six 30 rows Herbicide: 3 pts.lexar Pre-Plant Population: 31,700 seeds/a. CORN AFTER CORN Test Weight Brand FALL STRIP Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6626HXR * AVERAGE FALL IN-LINE RIP / SPRING NO-TILL Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6626HXR * AVERAGE NO-TILL Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6626HXR * AVERAGE FALL DISK CHISEL / SPRING FINISHING TOOL Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6626HXR * AVERAGE Planted: June 3, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 6, 2011 Tillage: Various Rows: Six 30 rows Herbicide: 3 oz. Valor XLT Population: 140,000 seeds/a. 32 oz. Roundup PowerMax 160 SOYBEANS AFTER CORN Brand FALL STRIP BECK 362NR * BECK 400NR * AVERAGE FALL IN-LINE RIP / SPRING NO-TILL BECK 362NR * BECK 400NR * AVERAGE NO-TILL BECK 362NR * BECK 400NR * AVERAGE FALL DISK CHISEL / SPRING FINISHING TOOL BECK 362NR * BECK 400NR * AVERAGE Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture.

161 BECK S Tillage Study - Continued Southern Illinois PFR Soybeans After Corn Summary: Yields were very similar with strip-till, fall in-line rip / spring no-till, and conventional tillage. The highest yield came from no-till. Fall in-line ripping did not show any advantage. Corn After Soybeans Summary: No-till and fall in-line rip / spring no-till had very similar yields, out-performing both conventional and fall striptill. Fall in-line ripping did not show a significant advantage. Corn After Corn Summary: The highest yield came from conventional-tillage, yielding 5.9 Bu. over the second highest yield of no-till. This would be expected in a corn after corn situation, as residue was decomposed with fall tillage, lowering the carbon to nitrogen ratio. Third Year Continuous Corn Summary: Again, the highest yields were from conventional-tillage, which better managed the high residue load. All Practices Summary: Overall, our results showed that fall-tillage and residue management produced the highest corn yields in corn following corn. Strip-till showed no advantages over the other systems. It should be noted that nutrient management can be an important part and benefit of strip-till, and nutrient rates and placement were not a part of this study. Fall in-line ripping showed no advantage across all four studies. 161

162 Southern Illinois PFR BECK S 20" vs. 30" Row Width / Population Study Planted: June 3, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: October 27, 2011 Tillage: Conv.-Till Population: Various Herbicide: 3 qts. Lexar Rows: Three 20 rows Two 30" rows April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. This study compares ten hybrids in 20, 30 and twin row spacing at final populations ranging from 24,000 to 48,000 to evaluate population trends and row width configurations. Twin row 30" row 20" row Bu/A HXR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A VT Population (x1000) Bu/A EX 0854 (5642 Gen.) Population (x1000) Bu/A A4** Population (x1000) Bu/A HR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A EX 2060 (6175 TM * Gen.) Population (x1000) Bu/A HR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A HXR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A HXR TM * Population (x1000) Bu/A A3** Population (x1000) **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. 162

163 BECK S 20" vs. 30" Row Width / Population Study - Continued Southern Illinois PFR Twin row 30" row 20" row Bu/A 160 Twin Rows Bu/A " Rows Bu/A " Rows Population (x1000) Population (x1000) Population (x1000) Bu/A All Hybrids Population (x1000) $/A All Hybrids Population (x1000) Population Summary: Summary for 20 vs. 30 vs. Twin Rows: Higher populations have definitely been showing an increase in yield in our other PFR locations the last several years. This year at Southern IL PFR we saw downward trends at the highest populations in both the twin rows and the 30 rows. 20 rows showed an upward trend toward the higher population. Keep in mind that all of the populations listed in this study are final. We overplant and thin to the desired stand. Things were fairly even and hard to find a winner at the lower final stands. However when we reached the higher populations 20 rows began to show their advantage, while 30 rows appeared to be too crowded for the conditions we received this year. Twin rows remained fairly constant across populations this year. 20 rows had the highest overall yield in the study at Bu./A coming from 36,000 final population. This also yielded the highest overall return per acre in the study. This return per acre (the bar graph above) is calculated by taking the yield and seed costs into consideration at each of the harvest populations. 30 rows showed their highest yield and return at the 32,000 population. While the twin rows were very steady at all the populations, they did show the highest yield and return at the 32,000 final population. 163

164 Southern Illinois PFR BECK S Corn Gypsum Study Planted: May 20, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: October 11, 2011 Tillage: Conv.-Till Population: 31,700 seeds/a. Herbicide: 3 qts. Lexar Rows: Six 30 rows Insecticide: Force 3G April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. Gypsum, or Calcium Sulfate, is a ph neutral soil amendment that can improve soil permeability and structure, as well as being a source of the nutrients calcium and sulfur. In 2010 we used gypsum that was a by-product of coal power plant scrubbers. In 2011, we used pelletized gypsum derived from mining. Product Bu./A. Gypsum Advantage Phoenix 6442A4** No Gypsum Applied Phoenix 6442A4** 1,000 lbs. Gypsum 2011 / 1,000 lbs. Gypsum BECK 6903HXR * No Gypsum Applied BECK 6903HXR * 1,000 lbs. Gypsum 2011 / 1,000 lbs. Gypsum Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Summary: The pelletized gypsum product proved very easy to accurately spread. We look forward to continuing this study to determine any longer term effects. 164

165 BECK S Soybean 30" Show Plot Southern Illinois PFR Planted: June 3, 2011 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: East: October 12, 2011 Tillage: V-Rip / Conv.-Till South: October 6, 2011 Herbicide: 3 oz. Valor XLT Rows: East: Four 30 rows South: Three 30" rows Population: 140,000 seeds/a. April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. Yield Rank Brand East Show Plot South Show Plot Average GROUP III 1 BECK EX BECK 392NL BECK 372NL BECK 357NR * BECK 356NL BECK 325NR * BECK 362NR * BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR * BECK 387N AVERAGE GROUP IV 1 BECK 426NL BECK 432NR * BECK 456NL BECK 495NR * BECK 430N BECK 477NR * BECK 400NR * BECK 466NR * BECK 414N BECK 451NR BECK 476NL AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. 165

166 Southern Illinois PFR BECK S 100 Bushel Soybean Attempt Planted: June 3, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 12, 2011 Tillage: Conv.-Till Population: Various Herbicide: 3 oz. Valor XLT Rows: Forty-eight 15 rows 30 oz. Roundup PowerMax Product Tested: BECK 432NR * April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. Our attempt to reach 100 bushels/ acre included a base seed treatment of Escalate, Protinus, Optimize, and Poncho /VOTiVO. A funcicide and insecticide application was also made to all entries at R3. Treatment Planted Population Bu./A. Advantage for Treatment Base^ 130, Base^ + 30 lbs. N as Urea 130, Cobra + Oil Burn / 1 pt. Bio-Forge 130, Kitchen Sink^^ 130, AVERAGE Base^ 200, Base^ + 30 lbs. N as Urea 200, Cobra + Oil Burn / 1 pt. Bio-Forge 200, Kitchen Sink^^ 200, AVERAGE Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 13% moisture. ^Base = Escalate + Optimize + Protinus + Poncho/VOTiVO ^^Kitchen Sink = Cobra V3 + 1 pt. V5 + 1 qt. Manganese + 6 oz. Soy Soap + 1 gal. Gradual N + 1 pt. Bio-Forge + 30 lbs. N as Urea + 1 lb. R3 Escalate is a trademark of Beck's Superior Hybrids. Protinus is a trademark of Wolf Trax. Optimize is a registered trademark of EMD Crop BioScience. Poncho and VOTiVO are registered trademarks of Bayer. Cobra is a registered trademark of Valent USA. Bio-Forge is a registered trademark of Stoller, USA. Summary: The wet spring delayed our planting of this trial into June, and we fell short of our yield goal. Our highest yield of 61.6 Bu./A. came from a population of 200,000 and a recipe of many foliar treatments. Interestingly, all but one of these foliar treatments produced a negative economic return in our 100 Bu. Product Testing Study (on page 167) that evaluates each treatment by itself. More work will be done to determine if there is any synergy between treatments. 166

167 Southern Illinois PFR BECK S 100 Bushel Product Testing Study Planted: June 3, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 12, 2011 Tillage: Fall Rip / Spring Conv. Population: 140,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 3 oz. Valor XLT Rows: Four 30 rows 30 oz. PowerMax Replications: Two (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 432NR * Application Growth Stage April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. Many products and management techniques are being promoted to boost soybean productivity. This study was designed to individually evaluate products used in the 100 Bushel Soybean Attempt. Treatments at the V3 growth stage were intended to shorten internodes and increase pod set, while treatments at the R3 growth stage were evaluated for increased pod fill. Adv. +/- Control Net^ Return Control Early Headline V $ lbs. N Sidedress V $35.67 Cobra + Oil Burn V $62.61 Mechanical Damage V $42.98 Basagran/Blazer/2,4-DB Burn V $10.67 Mechanical Damage + Headline/Warrior V $97.67 Control Gal. Gradual N R $ lbs. N as Urea R $53.83 Micro Mix R $ oz. Soy Soap R $ pts. Bio-Forge R $0.18 Headline + Warrior R $ lb. Sugar R $ pt. Bio-Forge R $5.12 Bushels per acre and test weight are corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return based on yield of treatment minus the cost of product and application. Costs were based on $12.75/Bu. soybeans, $19.97/A. for Headline, $25.24/A. for Headline/Warrior, $17.69/A. 28% UAN, $20.53/A. for Cobra + oil burn, $29.79 for Basagran/Blazer/2,4-DB burn, /A. for Gradual N, $18/A. for Urea, $2.50/A. for Micro Mix, $6.50 for Soy Soap, $15/A. for Bio-Forge, $1/A. for sugar, $6.50/A. for application and $6/A. for mechanical damage. Cobra is a registered trademark of Valent USA. Bio-Forge is a registered trademark of Stoller, USA. Gradual N is a registered trademark of Windfield Solutions, LLC. Headline is a registered trademark of BASF. Warrior is a registered trademark of Syngenta Group Company. Summary: Out of all treatments evaluated, the only one that gave a large response was from the application of sugar at the R3 growth stage. Attempts to shorten internodes with chemical burn and mechanical damage were successful, but yield response and economic returns were negative. The search for the silver bullet continues. 167

168 Southern Illinois PFR BECK S RR vs. LL Showdown Planted: June 3, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: Various Tillage: Fall Rip / Spring Conv. Population: 140,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 3 oz. Valor XLT, 22 oz. Ignite & Rows: Four 30 rows 30 oz. PowerMax Replications: Two (averaged) April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. LibertyLink soybeans are gaining market share due to glyphosate resistant weed issues. This study evaluates yield performance between the Roundup Ready and Liberty Link weed control systems using three maturities from both traits. Yield Rank Brand ROUNDUP READY SYSTEM 1 BECK 375NR * BECK 398NR BECK 445NR * AVERAGE LIBERTYLINK SYSTEM 1 BECK 372NL BECK 392NL BECK 456NL AVERAGE Bushels per acre to 13% moisture. Roundup Ready is a registered trademark of Monsanto Company. LibertyLink is a registered trademark of Bayer. Summary: Across maturities, average yields were similar between both Roundup Ready and LibertyLink varieties. Weed control was excellent with both systems in this study. In environments with glyphosate resistance issues, the yield spread would be expected to increase. 168

169 Southern Illinois PFR BECK S Foliar Fungicide Study Planted: June 3, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 6, 2011 Tillage: Conv.-Till Population: 140,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 3 oz. Valor XLT Rows: Four 30 rows 48 oz. Glyphosate Product Tested: BECK 375NR * To determine the optimum economic growth stage for fungicide applications on soybeans. April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. Insecticide and/or Fungicide Application Date Sprayed Growth Stage Yield Advantage Return on Investment^ Net^^ Return Untreated $ Headline July 11 V $ $50.70 Headline + Warrior July 11 V $ $25.37 Untreated $ Headline July 18 R $ $27.62 Headline + Warrior July 18 R $ $29.19 Untreated $ Headline July 25 R $ $4.13 Headline + Warrior July 25 R $ $6.24 Untreated $ Headline Aug. 3 R $ $13.05 Headline + Warrior Aug. 3 R $ $38.12 Untreated $ Headline Aug. 9 R $ $27.08 Headline + Warrior Aug. 9 R $ $21.81 Untreated $ Headline Aug. 15 R $ $18.15 Headline + Warrior Aug. 15 R $ $37.11 Untreated $ Headline Aug. 29 R $ $31.57 Headline + Warrior Aug. 29 R $ $22.82 Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Return on investment based on yield advantage of treatment minus the cost of product and application. ^^Net return based on Yield minus treatment and application costs. Costs were based on $12.75/Bu. soybeans, 6 oz. Headline $19.97/A., 2.5 oz. Warrior $5.27/A. and $6.50/A. application cost. Headline is a registered trademark of BASF. Warrior is a registered trademark of Syngenta Group Company. Summary: Across growth stages, we saw a lower economic response to fungicides in 2011 compared to However, economic response was significant at the R3 and R4 growth stages. The highest economic return occured at the R4 growth stage with an application of Headline and Warrior. This application and growth stage also gave us the best economic response in While we did not see a synergistic effect with the addition of Warrior (a synthetic pyrethroid) in most 2011 comparisons, long-term studies at this location validate a positive economic response. 169

170 Southern Illinois PFR BECK S Soybean 15" Row Width & Population Study Planted: June 3, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: Various Tillage: Conv.-Till Population: Various Herbicide: 3 oz. Valor XLT Rows: Four 30 rows 32 oz. Roundup PowerMax Replications: Two (averaged) April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. To determine the economic optimum population for 15" rows. Three varieties were chosen for differences in maturity and diversity in genetics. As more input costs are being moved to the seed side, planting rates are an important economic decision. Approx. Seed Cost Net^ Return Rank By Average Net Return Brand 75,000 SEEDS/A. BECK 375NR * $23.45 $ BECK 398NR $23.45 $ BECK 432NR * $23.45 $ AVERAGE $23.45 $ ,000 SEEDS/A. BECK 375NR * $31.26 $ BECK 398NR $31.26 $ BECK 432NR * $31.26 $ AVERAGE $31.26 $ ,000 SEEDS/A. BECK 375NR * $39.08 $ BECK 398NR $39.08 $ BECK 432NR * $39.08 $ AVERAGE $39.08 $ ,000 SEEDS/A. BECK 375NR * $46.89 $ BECK 398NR $46.89 $ BECK 432NR * $46.89 $ AVERAGE $46.89 $ ,000 SEEDS/A. BECK 375NR * $54.71 $ BECK 398NR $54.71 $ BECK 432NR * $54.71 $ AVERAGE $54.71 $ ,000 SEEDS/A. BECK 375NR * $62.53 $ BECK 398NR $62.53 $ BECK 432NR * $62.53 $ AVERAGE $62.53 $ Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return based on yield minus seed cost. Costs based on soybean price of $12.75 and a seed cost of $40.64/unit. Summary: The highest average yields across varieties occurred at the 175,000 population level. This was also the optimum economic population. Breaking down by variety, the economic optimum for BECK 375NR *, BECK 398NR and BECK 432NR * were 75,000, 175,000 and 75,000 respectfully. 170

171 Southern Illinois PFR BECK S Soybean 30" Row Width & Population Study Planted: June 3, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: Various Tillage: Conv.-Till Population: Various Herbicide: 3 oz. Valor XLT Rows: Four 30 rows 32 oz. Roundup PowerMax Replications: Two (averaged) April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. To determine the economic optimum population for 30" rows. Three varieties were chosen for differences in maturity and diversity in genetics. As more input costs are being moved to the seed side, planting rates are an important economic decision. Approx. Seed Cost Net^ Return Rank By Average Net Return Brand 75,000 SEEDS/A. BECK 375NR * $23.45 $ BECK 398NR $23.45 $ BECK 432NR * $23.45 $ AVERAGE $23.45 $ ,000 SEEDS/A. BECK 375NR * $31.26 $ BECK 398NR $31.26 $ BECK 432NR * $31.26 $ AVERAGE $31.26 $ ,000 SEEDS/A. BECK 375NR * $39.08 $ BECK 398NR $39.08 $ BECK 432NR * $39.08 $ AVERAGE $39.08 $ ,000 SEEDS/A. BECK 375NR * $46.89 $ BECK 398NR $46.89 $ BECK 432NR * $46.89 $ AVERAGE $46.89 $ ,000 SEEDS/A. BECK 375NR * $54.71 $ BECK 398NR $54.71 $ BECK 432NR * $54.71 $ AVERAGE $54.71 $ ,000 SEEDS/A. BECK 375NR * $62.53 $ BECK 398NR $62.53 $ BECK 432NR * $62.53 $ AVERAGE $62.53 $ Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return based on yield minus seed cost. Costs based on soybean price of $12.75 and a seed cost of $40.64/unit. Summary: Our highest plot yield came from BECK 432NR * planted at the 125,000 population level. This also produced the highest economic return. Across all three varieties, the economic optimum seeding rate was also 125,

172 Southern Illinois PFR BECK S Physical Damage Study on Soybeans Planted: June 6, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 25, 2011 Tillage: Conv.-Till Rows: Six 30 rows Herbicide: 3 oz. Valor XLT Population: 140,000 seeds/a. 32 oz. Roundup PowerMax Replications: Three (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 466NR * April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. There is anecdotal evidence that damage to the soybean plant at early growth stages can induce a yield response. This study attempts to evaluate any physical damage response at early growth stages. In addition, the study includes damage at later growth stages to simulate hail events, and to determine if the application of fungicides can improve yield after such an event. The plants were damaged by a custom built machine that consisted of rotating fiberglass rods that defoliated and bruised plant stems. Plant Plant Height Bu. Bu. +/- +/- +/- +/- Treatment Per Acre Lodging (Inches) Control Fungicide CONTROL CONTROL Untreated Untreated oz. oz. Headline Headline oz. oz. Warrior Warrior AVERAGE AVERAGE DAMAGED V2 V2 Untreated Untreated oz. oz. Headline Headline oz. oz. Warrior Warrior AVERAGE AVERAGE DAMAGED V5 V5 Untreated Untreated oz. oz. Headline Headline oz. oz. Warrior Warrior AVERAGE AVERAGE DAMAGED R1 V5 Untreated Untreated Bio-Forge oz. Headline oz. Warrior AVERAGE AVERAGE DAMAGED R2 R1 Untreated Untreated oz. oz. Headline Headline oz. oz. Warrior Warrior AVERAGE AVERAGE DAMAGED R3 R2 Untreated Untreated oz. oz. Headline Headline oz. oz. Warrior Warrior AVERAGE AVERAGE DAMAGED V5 R3 Untreated Untreated oz. Headline oz. Warrior Bio-Forge AVERAGE AVERAGE DAMAGED R4 R4 Untreated Untreated Bio-Forge Bio-Forge AVERAGE AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Headline is a registered trademark of BASF. Warrior is a registered trademark of Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc. Bio-Forge is a registered trademark of Stoller, USA 172

173 Southern Illinois PFR BECK S Soybean Physical Damage Study - Continued Summary: Yield response: At the early growth stages, physical damage shortened internodes and harvest plant height considerably. However, this did not contribute a yield response. Yields were severely reduced at the V2, V5, and R1 growth stages. Hail simulation: In addition to the earlier growth stages, yield losses were high in the R2, R3 and R4 stages. At these later stages, plant height was reduced by physical breaking of the stems rather than internode shortening. Fungicide: Fungicide applications to damaged plants showed no benefit in the V2 and V5 growth stages, but did show a positive reponse in the R1, R2 and R3 stages. This reponse is very similar to the results we see in our regular fungicide trials. This suggests that fungicide applications would be profitable to hail damaged fields in the reproductive growth stages. The application of Bio-Forge to damaged plants was not benefical at the V5 stage, but did show a positive response at R4. BECK S Gypsum Study Planted: June 3, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 12, 2011 Tillage: Conv.-Till Population: 140,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 3 oz. Valor XLT Rows: Six 30 rows 30 oz. Roundup PowerMax Product Gypsum, or Calcium Sulfate, is a ph neutral soil amendment that can improve soil permeability and structure, as well as being a source of the nutrients calcium and sulfur. In 2010, we used gypsum that was a by-product of coal power plant scrubbers. In 2011, we used pelletized gypsum derived from mining. April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. Bu./A. Advantage for Gypsum BECK 432NR * No Gypsum Applied BECK 432NR * 1,000 lbs. Gypsum 2011 / 1,000 lbs. Gypsum BECK 372NL No Gypsum Applied BECK 372NL 1,000 lbs. Gypsum 2011 / 1,000 lbs. Gypsum BECK 456NL No Gypsum Applied BECK 456NL 1,000 lbs. Gypsum 2011 / 1,000 lbs. Gypsum Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Summary: The pelletized gypsum product proved very easy to spread accurately. Soybean yields across three varieties were 2.2 Bu./A. higher for the gypsum treated replications. This is the first yield increase we have seen in two years of testing, and we look forward to continuing this study to quantify any soil improvement. 173

174 Southern Illinois PFR BECK S Soybean Mpact Study Planted: June 3, 2011 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: October 6, 2011 Tillage: Fall Rip / Spring Conv. Population: 140,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: 3 oz. Valor XLT Rows: Four 30 rows 30 oz. PowerMax Replications: Two (averaged) Application April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. Mpact Natural is a fermented extract from dairy manure. Its purpose is to stimulate the natural microbial activity in the soil and improve overall soil health. Adv. +/- Control BECK 372NL Control Mpact BECK 456NL Control Mpact Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Mpact is a trademark of Enviro Products Corp. Summary: Mpact treated soil out-yielded the control by 2.5 Bu./A. for both varieties tested. This merits further testing. We planted Beck s for years and I joined the Presidents Club in We also went on the 2008 cruise. Our favorite part of that was meeting the other farmers. Farmers have a lot in common with crops, weather and families, everyone was so nice to talk to. On the cruise, Sonny and Glendia came and sat with everyone. You d never know he was Sonny Beck, he was just one of the boys which is nice because it makes you feel comfortable. Our favorite part about Beck s is the replant, their quality and proven products, and their up-to-date research. Liberty Link Beans: Our GT weeds are coming. It s on the horizon and it should be dealt with before it s going to cost you. Charles and Ann Weiler Connersville, IN 174

175 Southern Illinois PFR BECK S Soybean Double-Crop Population Study Planted: July 6, 2011 Previous Crop: Wheat Harvested: October 26, 2011 Tillage: No-Till Population: 220,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: Burndown: 29 oz. Ignite Rows: Eight 15 rows Post: 30 oz. Roundup PowerMax Replications: Two (averaged) April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. With double-crop soybeans being planted much later than regular crop soybeans, seeding rates need to be increased. This study tests three different maturities at three different populations to determine the optimum seeding rate for this part of the state. 2 Rep. Avg. Approx. Seed Cost Net^ Return Rank By Avg. Net^ Return Brand 160,000 SEEDS/A. BECK 375NR * 48.6 $50.02 $ BECK 432NR * 44.1 $50.02 $ BECK 477NR * 42.7 $50.02 $ AVERAGE 45.1 $ ,000 SEEDS/A. BECK 375NR * 48.2 $62.52 $ BECK 432NR * 45.3 $62.52 $ BECK 477NR * 44.2 $62.52 $ AVERAGE 45.9 $ ,000 SEEDS/A. BECK 375NR * 50.7 $75.03 $ BECK 432NR * 42.3 $75.03 $ BECK 477NR * 43.9 $75.03 $ AVERAGE 45.6 $ ,000 SEEDS/A. BECK 375NR * 49.1 $87.53 $ BECK 432NR * 46.7 $87.53 $ BECK 477NR * 44.5 $87.53 $ AVERAGE 46.8 $ Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net return based on yield minus seed cost. Costs based on $12.75/Bu. soybeans and a seed cost of $40.64/unit. Summary: We were surprised at the performance of double-crop soybeans at Southern Illinois PFR this season. Planting was delayed until July 6 due to the muddy conditions, and plots were still planted in very heavy soil conditions. The overall economic optimum planting rate was 160,000. BECK 375NR * produced the most profit at 240,000, and the optimum for BECK 432NR * and BECK 477NR * was 200,000. Yields were generally higher for the more aggressive plant types rather than later maturities. 175

176 Southern Illinois PFR BECK S Soybean Double-Crop Fungicide Study Planted: July 6, 2011 Previous Crop: Wheat Harvested: October 26, 2011 Tillage: No-Till Population: 220,000 seeds/a. Herbicide: Burndown: 29 oz. Ignite Rows: Twenty-four 15 rows Post: 30 oz. PowerMax April in. May 3.06 in. June 6.45 in. July 6.24 in. August 0.61 in. Total in. This study is to evaluate the performance of insecticide and fungicide on double-crop soybeans, using two genetically distinct soybean varieties. Treatment applications were made at the R4 growth stage. +/- Control Treatment Return/A. BECK 466NR * Control oz. R $ oz. R $ oz. Headline oz. R $43.89 AVERAGE BECK 432NR * Control oz. R $ oz. R $ oz. Headline oz. R $87.24 AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Headline is a registered trademark of BASF. Warrior is a registered trademark of Syngenta Group Company. ^Net return is based on $12.75/Bu. soybeans, $19.97/A. Headline, $7.42/A. Warrior, $6.50/A. application cost. Summary: All treatments gave a significant yield advantage over the control. The combination of Headline and Warrior gave the highest yield advantage for both varieties, averaging 7.8 Bu. over the control. 176

177 BECK S Corn Nitrogen Utilization Study Multi-Locations When talking about a certain hybrid, have you ever heard the statement that hybrid is a nitrogen hog? Or this hybrid needs it all upfront? If you wonder exactly what that means, this study was designed to answer that question and to help better understand nitrogen use on a per hybrid basis. We designed a test using the four nitrogen programs listed below and we implemented this study at all four Practical Farm Research sites. Control: Regular N Program 75 lbs. Pre-plant and 150 lbs. Sidedress 75 lbs. Pre-plant Only 150 lbs. Pre-plant Only 75 lbs. Pre-plant and 75 lbs. Sidedress BU./A. DEVIATION FROM CONTROL Brand 75 Lbs. Pre 150 Lbs. Pre 150 Lbs. Split BECK 5345HXR * Phoenix 5385A3** BECK 5435HXR * BECK 5442VT BECK EX 0854 (5642 Genetics) Phoenix 5726A4** BECK 6077HR * BECK 6175AMX * BECK 6272HR * BECK 6626HXR * BECK 6733HXR * Phoenix 6848A3** AVERAGE Bushels per acre and test weight corrected to 15% moisture. **Phoenix Brand is distributed by Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Summary: As we dive into this information, we realize there are multiple methods to analyzing this data. We have chosen 75 lbs. pre-plant and 150 lbs. sidedress to be our control rate that we compare to the rest of the programs. We did this because it contains both a pre-plant and a side dress application at a higher total rate of nitrogen. The 75 lbs. pre-plant and 150 lbs. sidedress is a good benchmark to compare to the other three N programs to get a feel for how each hybrid responded to different N programs. In general, smaller numbers in the chart indicate hybrids that are more efficient and effective users of nitrogen. Prior to analyzing this year s data, let s recall the information that we discovered in We found in a 100% pre-plant program that only three hybrids deviated less than 30 Bu./A. from the control. The more important fact is all twelve hybrids in the split application of 75 lbs. pre-plant and 75 lbs. sidedress deviated less than 30 Bu./A. The 2010 data reinforced how important it is to have Nitrogen available to the plant during the crucial N uptake period of the corn plants life. As we evaluate this second year of data, we see that in 75 lbs. pre-plant only, none of the twelve hybrids yielded near the control. If you look at the yields marked in orange, you can see that those hybrids are the most efficient nitrogen users in this study since the only nitrogen applied was 75 lbs. pre-plant. 150 lbs. of pre-plant N narrowed the window between it and the control program; hybrids in blue text responded better to N upfront then the rest of the hybrids. We can learn some really interesting things when we study the data from the 150 lbs. split. Both this and 150 lbs. pre-plant, end up with the same total amount of nitrogen at 150 lbs., except one is at the split application. The five hybrids that deviated the least from the control are noted in green. However, the hybrid marked in red actually out yielded the control by 0.5 Bu./A. with 75 lbs. less nitrogen. Only 7 hybrids out of twelve deviated less than 20 Bu./A. from the control in 150 lbs. pre-plant, whereas in 150 lbs. split, all the yields but one deviate less than 20 Bu/A. from the control. This really emphasizes the benefit from the split application of Nitrogen. The hybrids with lower numbers are more efficiently using the lower rate of nitrogen. 177

178 Multi-Locations BECK S Bio-Red Study Bio-Red from Global Chem LLC, is a 100% organic bacteria product containing a wide variety of aerobic and anaerobic micro-organisms, including those that are nitrogen-fixing. Bio-Red naturally produces plant growth activators within the soil such as auxins, indoleacetic acid, and gibberellins (gibberellic acid) which support the functions of growth and maturity in plants. Since Bio-Red contains both organic matter and microorganisms, it develops its own compost which contains humates, producing a healthier fertile soil. Bio-Red microbes convert atmospheric nitrogen to a usable form for the crop and metabolizes enzymes organically, assuring an On-Demand supply of nitrogen for the plant. Global Chem LLC promotes that with the use of Bio-Red, commercial nitrogen rates can be reduced by up to 50-75% and still maintain yields within 3% of normal nitrogen fertility programs. Best results have occurred when applied early with pre-emerge herbicide or incorporated at planting. All Bio-Red applications in this study were done in pre-plant situations. Product Applied Lbs. N. CENTRAL IL CENTRAL IN None (Control) qt. Bio-Red None qt. Bio-Red SOUTHERN IL SOUTHERN IN 4 SITE AVERAGE Product Applied Lbs. N. None (Control) qt. Bio-Red None qt. Bio-Red Bushels per acre corrected to 15% moisture. Bio-Red is a trademark of GlobalChem, LLC. Cost per acre of $25. Summary: When we evaluate all four locations, we see a yield benefit from Bio-Red 7 out of 8 times when we compare it to the same nitrogen rate without Bio-Red. Although we saw a yield benefit with the use of Bio-Red, we only saw a positive economic return where Bio-Red was added to the reduced rate of nitrogen. Being a good steward of the land has great importance and we are in favor of reducing nitrogen rates if it can be done without sacrificing net returns. In order for the Bio-Red program to be successful, producers must understand the nitrogen cycle, their current nitrogen program, and must be avid crop scouts during the growing season. By instilling a program of reduced nitrogen rates, growers may need to prepare for an additional late-season nitrogen application if nitrogen deficiencies occur. With Beck s, I really like the fact that they can offer anyone's traits and not be tied into just one. The seed treatments are definitely good insurance for farmers and the 100% free replant is always a helpful backup plan for when something goes wrong. Along with that, I have always had great customer service and never had any trouble getting my seed on time. Over the years, I have watched Beck s explode into a very successful company, while other family owned companies faded away which makes you know they are doing things right. 178 Neil Johnson Sheridan, IN

179 Multi-Locations BECK S Nitrogen Rate Study How much nitrogen should I apply to my corn crop? This is one of the most common questions that we receive from growers, and one of the most difficult to answer. Although Beck's Practical Farm Research team has developed numerous studies to evaluate nitrogen management over the years, the nitrogen rate study has been the flagship of these testing efforts. In 2006, we were approached by both Purdue University and the University of Illinois to help gather data that might help growers answer this very question. At that time we adopted the philosophy of basing our nitrogen rate recommendations on the Economic Optimum Nitrogen Rate (EONR), or rate that maximizes profitability for a given cost of nitrogen and price for corn. Overtime, the protocol that we use to determine the EONR has evolved. We are currently testing rates that range from lbs./a. for corn after soybeans and lbs./a. for corn after corn. Treatments are replicated twice at each of our Practical Farm Research locations. All nitrogen is split applied, with a portion of the nitrogen applied at planting either broadcast or 2x2 and the balance applied at the V3-V4 growth stages. All corn after corn treatments were placed in the same strips as the previous year's study to test the continuity of using the same rate of nitrogen year after year. The yield results for each treatment are plotted on a chart that allows us to determine the approximate yield for each pound of additional nitrogen fertilizer that is applied for that given data set. A selected price per bushel of corn and price per pound of nitrogen are applied thus resulting in the EONR. Essentially, this has given us the ability to calculate the rate of nitrogen that will maximize profitability based on pricing scenarios given to us by our customers for their farm. The results seen below are based on $5.90/Bu. corn and $0.59/lb. of nitrogen using the data collected from all four farms both from 2011 and collectively over the past 6 years. Corn after Soybeans Net Return $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, Economic Optimum N Rate Corn After Soybeans 189 Lbs./A Nitrogen Rate 179

180 Multi-Locations BECK S Nitrogen Rate Study - Continued Net Return $1, $1, Economic Optimum N Rate Corn After Soybeans - 6 Year Data 182 Lbs./A. $1, $1, $1, $1, $1, Nitrogen Rate Corn after Corn 180

181 BECK S Nitrogen Rate Study - Continued Multi-Locations The Economic Optimum Nitrogen Rate (EONR) for corn after soybeans based on yield data collected in 2011 at a price of $5.90/Bu. corn and a nitrogen cost of $0.59/lbs. of nitrogen is 189 lbs./a. Applying the same economic scenario to yield data collected over the past six years suggest an EONR of 182 lbs./a. Data collected from our corn after corn testing in 2011 suggested an EONR of 231 lbs./a. The six year average shows an EONR of 225 lbs./a. This suggest that nitrogen rates for corn after corn should be approximately lbs./a. higher than nitrogen rates used for corn after soybean to maximize profitability. Although this is higher than standard recommendations in the past, it is not surprising considering that we are planting at higher populations and leaving more residue on the ground, thus increasing the "carbon penalty" for growing corn after corn. For specific location results, please refer to the Nitrogen Rate Studies listed under each PFR site. 181

182 Multi-Locations 2011 PFR Soybean Fungicide Timing Study Beck s Hybrids Practical Farm Research conducted its 3 rd year of multi-location soybean fungicide research in 2011.These fungicide trials were developed to analyze the performance of soybean fungicides at various growth stages from R2 through R5. Weather data is a unique aspect of this research study; climatic variables such as leaf wetness, humidity, temperature, and rainfall are all collected using a weather station as shown in Figure 1. Leaf wetness sensors calculate the amount of time during a 24 hour period when soybean leaves have high amounts of moisture. This high amount of moisture could indicate that the environment could be adequate for the development and spread of leaf diseases, which could then lead to yield loss. This could lead to an important determination of whether to apply a fungicide treatment to protect soybean yields. One of the motives of this study is developing an agronomic model to determine when, or if, a producer should spray a soybean fungicide. This model could use temperature, rainfall and leaf wetness values to forecast when conditions may be favorable for the development of disease, which would then lead to the recommendation to apply a fungicide. Figure 1. Beck s Hybrid s Weather Station The protocol for this study required each trial site to spray a fungicide beginning at growth stage R2. Thereafter, fungicide applications were made weekly through the R4 or R5 growth stage. The product used in this study was Headline, a strobulurin fungicide manufactured by BASF. Yields of each week s treatment were calculated and compared for general fungicide performance and correlation to any weather variables. Three trial locations collected and submitted data for this 2011 study and were located at the PFR Centers in Neoga and Downs, Illinois and Ft. Branch, Indiana. Typical treatment costs averaged $19.97/A. for fungicide product and $6.50/A for ground application. Considering a $12.75/Bu. market price of soybeans, break-even yields needed for fungicide treatments were calculated at 2.08 Bu./A. In evaluating all three locations in our study, highest fungicide gains in 2011 occurred during the R2 growth stage with average yield increases of 3.3 Bu./A, offering a net return on investment of $15.61/A. R3 applications gave similar average yield responses of 2.9 Bu./A. with a rate of return at $9.87/A. R4 applications averaged a yield increase of 2.2 Bu./A., however only netted $1.07/A.. R5 applications increased yield by only 0.95 Bu./A., thus incurring negative returns on investment of $14.36/A. 182

183 Multi-Locations 2011 PFR Soybean Fungicide Timing Study - Continued Table 1. Being the third year of this study, it gave us the opportunity to compare the three datasets in Table 1 illustrates the differences in each of the components evaluated in the fungicide trial. Net change shown is the difference between 2010 and Variable YIELD (BU./A. GAIN) NET CHANGE % LEAF WETNESS % RELATIVE HUMIDTY 87% 85% 86.8% +2.1% TEMPERATURE % % Figure 2 illustrates the three year data we have collected thus far representing leaf wetness values and how they correlate to yield gains from soybean fungicides. Over , the average break-even price for soybean fungicides is 2.2 Bu./A. when we consider the average price of soybeans and the cost of fungicide product and application associated from it. This break-even price could suggest that leaf wetness values near 6hrs/day could be an ideal economic threshold for making soybean fungicide applications. In 2010, two year data suggested 5 hrs./day, however that was only two years of datasets. Figure Multi-Location Average Leaf Wetness and Yield Data 3 Year Leaf Wetness Data Avg Leaf Wetness Hrs / Day R2 R3 R4 R5 Growth Stage Yield Increase Leaf Wetness Yield 51 total locations, IL, IN, OH, KY Break-even = 2.2 Bu/A. 183

184 Multi-Locations 2011 PFR Soybean Fungicide Timing Study - Continued Figure 3 shows the overall results of leaf wetness and average yield response of all three trial locations in Once again, the highest leaf wetness values throughout the study correlated to highest yield responses from soybean fungicide applications. As leaf wetness values dropped, yield responses decreased and resulted in net losses from fungicide applications. Figure Multi-Location Average Leaf Wetness and Yield Data 2011 PFR Leaf Wetness: Yield Avg Leaf Wetness Hrs/Day R2 R3 R4 R5 Growth Stage Yield Increase / Acre Leaf Wetness Yield To determine if building an agronomic model would be feasible by using leaf wetness values, each 2011 trial site was evaluated and run through a simulation to determine whether each weekly spraying would have reached the 6 hour/day leaf wetness threshold, and then, if economic returns were received as a result of spraying that week. Table 2 illustrates the success rate of each site location following the 6 hour/day economic threshold. The theory of building a leaf wetness agronomic model would have been successful 85% of the time. In other words, if a producer used this model to determine when or if to spray a soybean fungicide, positive economic returns would have occurred 85% of the time. Conversely, this model would have eliminated 15% of the fungicide applications that resulted in negative returns. This also have increased the average yield increase by fungicides 0.8 Bu./A. and increased net returns by $10.20/A. Two year data would suggest that by using the leaf wetness economic threshold, yield gains would have averaged 0.89 Bu./A. higher with increased net returns of $9.68/A. from fungicide applications. Table Success Rate Table 3. 2 Year Yield and Net Return Increase 2011 Location 2011 % Success Rate Yield Increase by Using Leaf Wetness Increased Returns from Fungicide Downs, IL 100% Neoga, IL 75% Ft. Branch, IN 80% $ $10.20 Avg Bu./A. $9.68/A. 184

185 Multi-Locations 2011 PFR Soybean Fungicide Timing Study - Continued Avg Leaf Wetness Hrs/Day Figure 4. Neoga, IL Data Results 2011 SIL PFR Leaf Wetness: Yield R2 R3 R4 R5 Growth Stage Application Avg Yield Gain Leaf Wetness Yield AvgLeaf Wetness Hrs/Day Figure 5. Ft. Branch, IN Data Results SINPFR Leaf Wetness : Yield R2 R2 R3 R4 R4 Growth Stage Application Avg Yield Gain Leaf Wetness Yield Figure 6. Downs, IL Data Results 2011 CILPFR Leaf Wetness: Yield Avg Leaf Wetness Hrs/Day Avg Yield Gain Leaf Wetness Yield 0.0 R2 R2 R3 R3 R4 R4 R5 0 Growth Stage Application To build an effective and predictive agronomic model, many years of research would have to be collected and analyzed. As of today, Beck s PFR has three years of multi-location data containing 51 data sites. Until a larger database is collected, leaf wetness economic thresholds are moving averages. These moving averages make it difficult to determine not only current leaf wetness levels, but maybe more importantly how it relates to temperature and rainfall moving averages and how they correspond to each other. This trial simulation may never be a consistent tool to make an agronomic model, but hopefully will serve as a useful way to analyze current weather variables and possibly as a guideline to accurately observe overall crop conditions. By gaining more information from trials such as this, over time we can educate ourselves about how the relationships differ from multiple variables such as climatic data and yield response to soybean fungicides. In conclusion, more research needs to be done to fully realize the correlation, 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. 185

186 Multi-Locations BECK'S On-Farm Nitrogen Testing In an effort to expand nitrogen research, Beck s Central IL PFR Center partnered with Beck s growers across Central Illinois to conduct nitrogen rate and timing trials. These nitrogen studies were conducted to learn more about grower s current nitrogen programs and how they could be adjusted during the season to account for any nitrogen deficiencies. The testing in this study was divided into two categories of nitrogen research: 1. Some trials were simply implemented to compare grower s current on-farm nitrogen rates to a rate that was near 50 lbs. higher, as well as a rate 50 lbs. lower. This was designed to help growers understand if they are over-applying or under-applying nitrogen for optimum corn yield. The main objective was to determine how much nitrogen was needed in each field to optimize corn yields. 2. In other trials, we tested the use of Beck s Crop Health Imaging as an effective scouting tool to locate nitrogen deficient corn. As grower s implemented various applied rates of nitrogen, Crop Health Imaging was used to monitor plant health. The goal of this study was to examine if the use of Crop Health Imaging could help assist a grower in finding nitrogen deficiencies and then use the information for variable rate nitrogen applications. All of the studies used high-clearance tractors equipped with nitrogen tool bars as pictured in Figures 1 and 2. This equipment gave a larger side-dressing window for application, as well as the opportunity to make nitrogen applications in tall corn that could not be made with typical pull-behind nitrogen applicators. All side-dress applications with these units were made after the V10 growth stage. Figure 1. Miller High-Clearance Unit Figure 2. Hagie High-Clearance Unit Nitrogen Rate Study: 186

187 BECK'S On-Farm Nitrogen Testing - Continued Multi-Locations Below is a summary of three locations where various nitrogen rates were implemented to compare the grower s current on-farm nitrogen rates to a rate that was near 50 lbs. higher, as well as a rate near 50 lbs. lower. Economics are factored at a $5.90/Bu. corn price and nitrogen at $0.59/lbs. to evaluate net return of each nitrogen rate. No application charges are included in the economics, as sidedressing would have been implemented as part of the normal program. Farm 1. Crop Health Image 8/2/2011 GPS Yield Map 50 Lbs. More = 225 Lbs. N Grower s N Rate = 175 Lbs. 35 Lbs. Less = 140 Lbs. N Nitrogen Rate Yield +/- Base Net Return +/- Base Grower s N Rate of 175# $ Lbs. Less Bu./A. $ $ Lbs. More Bu./A. $ $42.48 This corn after soybean trial showed yield advantages of over 12 Bu./A. with the higher rate of nitrogen and it netted an additional $42.48/A. over the growers current nitrogen program. Reducing the grower s nitrogen rate by 50 lbs./a. caused yield losses of over 26 Bu./A. and net losses of $128.03/A. In this particular case, the grower needed to increase the rate of nitrogen for optimum yields and returns. One interesting note is that the Crop Health Image clearly indicates higher or lower plant health at the various nitrogen rates. By knowing this plant health response and comparing it to both higher and lower nitrogen rates, it may help indicate to a grower that more nitrogen may be needed to finish the corn crop s nitrogen needs. 187

188 Multi-Locations BECK'S On-Farm Nitrogen Testing - Continued Farm 2. Crop Health Image 8/2/2011 GPS Yield Map 50 Lbs. More = 275 Lbs. N 50 Lbs. Less = 175 Lbs. N Grower s N Rate = 225 Lbs. Nitrogen Rate Yield +/- Base Net Return +/- Base Grower s N Rate of 225 Lbs $ Lbs. Less = 175 Lbs. N Bu./A. $ $ Lbs. More = 275 Lbs. N bu./a. $ $98.53 At this continuous corn trial location, increasing nitrogen by 50 lbs. over the grower s normal nitrogen rate increased yields by over 21 Bu./A. and led to a higher net return of $98.53/A. Reducing nitrogen rates by 50 lbs./a. caused yield losses near 19 Bu./A. and net losses of over $82/A. Farm 3. Crop Health Image 8/2/2011 GPS Yield Map 50 Lbs. Less = 175 Lbs. N 50 Lbs. More = 275 Lbs. N Grower s N Rate = 225 Lbs. Nitrogen Rate Yield +/- Base Net Return +/- Base Grower s Base N Rate of 225 Lbs $1, Lbs. Less = 175 Lbs. N Bu./A. $ $ Lbs. More = 275 Lbs. N Bu./A. $1, $47.79 Once again, at this continuous corn location the higher rate of nitrogen out-yielded the grower s normal program by 13.1 Bu./A. and netted an additional $47.79/A. Lowering the rate of nitrogen caused yield decreases of over 26 Bu./A. and lost returns of -$124.49/A. 188

189 BECK'S On-Farm Nitrogen Testing - Continued Multi-Locations In summarizing the first three farm locations, all three farms averaged a yield increase of 15.7 Bu./A. by increasing the rate of nitrogen over and above the producers current program. This yield increase equated to a net return of $62.93/A. after the cost of additional nitrogen. At Beck s Hybrids we don t want to encourage higher nitrogen rates when they are not warranted. However, we do want to encourage growers to evaluate their current nitrogen program in-season. By actively scouting our corn crop, we can learn a lot about nitrogen loss and what the crop needs to produce better yields with higher profitability. Every situation may not involve higher nitrogen rates, but in this study it clearly indicated that all of these farms did need more nitrogen to produce higher corn yields as well as higher net returns. Farm #4 was used to research the use of Crop Health Imaging to locate nitrogen deficient corn, in an effort to implement this technology as a part of variable rate nitrogen applications. The grower on this farm purposely applied only 110 lbs. of nitrogen as fall NH3 in the middle of this field to see if Beck s Crop Health Imaging could locate the nitrogen deficient corn. Once found, we then proceeded to apply additional nitrogen in an effort to rescue the nitrogen deficient corn with a Hagie high-clearance tractor and nitrogen tool bar. Crop Health Imaging was used as a scouting tool throughout the growing season to monitor any nitrogen deficiency in the field. Figure 3 illustrates the final Crop Health Image that was taken on Aug 7, Figure 3. Crop Health Image 8/7/2011 Grower s Normal Program = 200 Lbs. 110 Lbs. NH3, 45 Lbs. Weed-N-Feed, 45 Lbs. V5 Sidedress Fall NH3 = 110 Lbs. N = 90 Lbs. Less N 110 Lbs. NH3 Only V10 Sidedress Rescue: 200 Lbs. N V10 Sidedress Rescue = 230 Lbs. N 110 Lbs. NH3, 90 Lbs. V10 Sidedress with Hagie 110 Lbs. NH3, 120 Lbs. V10 Sidedress with Hagie V10 Sidedress = 250 Lbs. N = 50 Lbs. More N 110 Lbs. NH3, 45 Lbs. Weed-N-Feed, 45 Lbs. V5 Sidedress, 50 Lbs. V10 Sidedress with Hagie Nitrogen Rate Yield +/- Base Net Return +/- Base Grower s Normal Rate of 200 Lbs. N $1, Lbs. Less = 110 Lbs. N Fall NH Bu./A. $ $ V10 Sidedress Rescue: 200 Lbs. N Bu./A. $1, $71.39 V10 Sidedress Rescue: 230 Lbs. N Bu./A. $1, $ Lbs. More, V10 Sidedress = 250 Lbs. N Bu./A. $1, $

190 Multi-Locations BECK'S On-Farm Nitrogen Testing - Continued The low 110 lbs. nitrogen rate caused yields to decrease by 47.4 Bu./A. compared to the grower s normal nitrogen program of 200 lbs. This equated to net losses of over $225/A. for the grower. This also simulates what some growers can lose each year when losses are prevalent due to nitrogen volatilization, denitrification, or leaching. Another interesting result is seen in the additional 50 lbs. of nitrogen applied over and above the grower s current nitrogen program. This additional nitrogen did increase yields by 6.6 Bu./A. and the economics would indicate that a $9.94/A. would be gained from the extra nitrogen applied. Most sidedress applications would cost in the range of $8-15/A., thus the additional nitrogen did make positive economic returns and also indicated that the current nitrogen rate the grower was implementing was below optimum for high yields and profitability. When Crop Health Imaging was used to find this area of nitrogen loss and additional nitrogen was applied at the V10 growth stage with the use of a Hagie high-clearance tractor equipped with a nitrogen tool bar (Figure 4), yields were able to be rescued to within 5-12 Bu./A. of the grower s normal nitrogen program. This is exciting, as this gives credibility to implementing a successful variable rate nitrogen program with the use of high-clearance application equipment equipped with nitrogen toolbars. Equally exciting, is the idea of Crop Health Imaging being used as a viable tool in the future, to help a grower monitor various nitrogen rates. This could simply include rates 50 lbs. less and 50 lbs. more than the normal program that is being implemented on the farm. If Crop Health Imaging used throughout the growing season starts to reveal differences in overall plant health from the lower nitrogen rates, it could be a great signal that additional nitrogen needs to be applied to the corn crop. With the use of high-clearance equipment such as the Hagie or Miller tractors equipped with nitrogen tool bars, it offers the ability of having a much larger sidedressing time frame as well as the opportunity to apply nitrogen quickly and efficiently. More work needs to be done in this avenue of nitrogen research, but it looks very promising that these two technologies could be used as excellent nitrogen tools. Beck s Practical Farm Research Directors are excited about continuing these types of on-farm testing with Beck s customers in the future. Figure 4. Hagie Unit Applying Nitrogen 190

191 Multi-Locations 2011 Crop Health Imaging Project Beck s Practical Farm Research conducted its 4th year of testing on infrared imaging throughout its marketing area in The testing was a part of a company wide program to continue evaluating the agronomic significance of Beck s Crop Health Imaging. Beck s Crop Health Imaging uses aerial photography and light source reflectance to give georeferenced crop health images. Aircrafts equipped with cameras are used to acquire digital, infrared, and nearinfrared aerial photos of crops. When used appropriately, this remote sensing with aerial imagery can reveal agronomic information about soil and crop conditions. Combined with field knowledge, this allows growers to better understand factors that can affect yield and enhances the ability to be proactive and identify site-specific problematic areas before yield loss possibly occurs. Beck s Crop Health Imaging offers accurate detail by utilizing imagery at 50 centimeter resolution, allowing Beck s growers and agronomists to pinpoint field variability down to every 1.5 feet and allowing for inter-row accuracy in 30 and 20 row cropping systems. The following is an overview that includes some examples of farms where Crop Health Imaging was able to pinpoint specific agronomic problems and help growers efficiently scout their fields: Farm 1. In order for Crop Health Imaging to be a useful agronomic tool, it needs to have the ability to accurately depict yield potential. By predicting these differences while the crop is actively growing, a grower can manage additional inputs or applications or even market grain more efficiently. Below, Figure 1. reveals a Crop Health Image, while Figure 2 is the GPS yield map from harvest. Notice how the two maps correlate very well and how the Crop Health Image was able to forecast yield potential within the field during the growing season. This farm was involved in some on-farm nitrogen testing for Beck s Practical Farm Research. This testing compared various nitrogen rates to help analyze and understand the grower s current nitrogen program. More information can be found regarding this nitrogen research in other sections of this publication. Figure 1. Crop Health Image Figure 2. GPS Yield Map 50 lbs. Lower Rate of Nitrogen 50 lbs. Higher Rate of Nitrogen Growers Normal Nitrogen Rate 191

192 Multi-Locations 2011 Crop Health Imaging Project - Continued Farm 2. Figure 3a. is a color digital Crop Health Image that was collected on August 22, 2011 that revealed severe wind damage to corn. Since crop health measurements are a function of crop biomass and chlorophyll levels, finding down corn is very attainable. Notice the accuracy and high resolution of the image exposing areas of wind blown corn. Figure 3b. is the NDVI (Normalized Difference in Vegetative Index) image that helps categorize various levels of damage within a color scale. Figure 3c. is a color photo taken from the field shortly after the wind damage occurred. Figure 3a. Beck s Crop Health Image 8/22/11 Figure 3b. NDVI Image Figure 3c. Photo of Down Corn Beck s Crop Health Imaging is an invaluable scouting tool that helps me evaluate what is happening on my farms. I particularly like the fact that it makes my crop scouting quicker and more efficient. Jeff Lynn, Oakford, Illinois 192

193 2011 Crop Health Imaging Project - Continued Multi-Locations Figure 4. Crop Health Image, 8/2/2011 Farm 3. Figure 4 is a Crop Health Image from a farm located near Peoria, IL. This image was collected the first week of August and revealed some systematic 45 streaking across the field. This streaking was caused by a plugged ammonia knife when this field was custom applied with ammonia in the spring. Being August when this photo was taken, it was too late to make any rescue treatments of nitrogen. However, if this farm would have been imaged earlier in the season, this nutrient deficiency may have been found, verified, and possibly a late application of nitrogen could have helped alleviate crop losses. Beck s Crop Health Imaging utilizes a personal website at crophealth.beckshybrids.com that allows growers to not only view all of their imagery, but it also touts some agronomic tools that can assist with ground-truthing or crop scouting. One tool within the Crop Health Image software is the tape measure tool. This measuring tool allows growers to measure distance with the click of their mouse. By knowing the width of certain streaks or patterns, this useful tool can help identify the problem and what equipment or application may have caused Plugged Ammonia Knife the problem, just as in the example discussed above. My crop health images had an amazing correlation to my GPS yield monitor maps. It really helped show me the value of side-dressing nitrogen to my corn. I would make a prediction that Crop Health Imaging will be the next big thing in corn production! Steve Pitstick, DeKalb, Illinois 193

194 Multi-Locations 2011 Crop Health Imaging Project - Continued Farm 4. is a field of soybeans that had very high levels of bean leaf beetle feeding during the August-September months. On August 1 st, the grower applied strips of a fungicide tank-mixed with an insecticide to provide leaf disease and insect control. He used the control strips as an indicator tool to see if the products were offering any advantageous effects. Figure 5a illustrates the Crop Health Image, revealing the contrast of where the fungicide and insecticide applications were made. Figures 5b-5c. reveal the physical crop damage from the feeding, while Figure 5d. displays the yield loss from the damaged seed due to pod feeding. Harvest information found that insecticide applications protected yield by 4.5 Bu./A. Crop Health Imaging was able to monitor crop conditions and helped assess the situation in the field. Figure 5a. Crop Health Image, Aug 20, 2011 Figure 5b. Bean Leaf Beetle Feeding Stratego YLD + Leverage 360 Headline + Respect Figure 5c. Pod Feeding Figure 5d. Harvest Loss Sable + Respect Evito + Respect Untreated Control 194

195 2011 Crop Health Imaging Project - Continued Multi-Locations In an effort to improve the abilities of Crop Health Imaging even more, this past summer Beck s Hybrids released a new smart application called LandView for the iphone and ipad operating systems. This new and exciting smart application can be used in conjunction with Crop Health Imaging as a mobile field scouting device. LandView is a fully functional GPS based program that can be used as a navigational tool to locate areas of field variability based upon Crop Health Image findings. As Crop Health Imaging is completed throughout the season, LandView stores the high-resolution images and are available for easy viewing on an ipad or iphone. With a WI-FI connection, Crop Health Images can be uploaded wirelessly and quickly so that crop scouting can be done more efficiently. Version 1.0 of LandView offers the ability to take field notes and even take geo-referenced pictures in the field for later review or future scouting trips. Figure 6 is a screen shot of a Crop Health Image loaded in LandView, operating on an Ipad device. This high resolution imagery can be uploaded and ready for precision crop scouting within minutes of image acquisition. The blue circle in the lower right hand corner indicates your GPS position and location within the field. Figure 6. = The blue dot identifies your location in the field. LandView is available for all Beck s customers that are using Crop Health Imaging. It costs only $19.99 and security enable passwords can be issued through your local Beck s sales or agronomy representative. 195

196 Multi-Locations 2011 Crop Health Imaging Project - Continued In summary, year four of our testing with remote sensing once again proved that Beck s Crop Health Imaging can predict areas of both high and low yield environments with a very high level of accuracy. Combined with groundtruthing and scouting, Crop Health Imaging can be an excellent approach to monitoring fields during the growing season. Every field has a story to tell or some type of agronomic issue during the growing season. It may be drainage, hybrid or variety performance, or any agronomic factor. If a producer can t efficiently monitor growing crops during the season, Crop Health Imaging is a practical, efficient, and affordable means for gaining a wealth of agronomic information. Just as with any good technology, we need to figure out how to use it to our advantage. Over the past few years of researching Crop Health Imaging we have found many situations where this technology could be used on the farm. These situations have included the following agronomic practices: Management Zone Creation for Soil or Tissue Testing Prescription Recommendations such as variable rate seeding or fertilizer Tile mapping or exploration Nutrient Monitoring such as nitrogen management Variable Rate Nitrogen Applications or testing Hybrid or Variety Performance Crop Insurance Claims for green-snap, wind damage, or hail Timely Scouting Stress Management Equipment Evaluation Yield Estimation Prior to Harvest Assisted Grain Marketing Beck s Crop Health Imaging combines the benefits of a sound agronomic program along with economic affordability. Beck s is working hard to offer this program to its customers through both its agronomy and PFR programs by way of more on-farm collaborations and testing. For questions regarding Crop Health Imaging, please call your local sales representative or call I think most farmers would agree that crop scouting is an art that does not get mastered by many! Beck s Crop Health Imaging and our new LandView smart app is an affordable and agronomically sound program that can assist and improve every producer s scouting program. Jason Webster, Beck s Central Illinois PFR Director 196

197 BECK S Wheat Show Plot Southern Indiana Wheat Planted: October 14, 2010 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: Various Tillage: Disk Twice Population: 1.5 million seeds/a. Herbicide: 0.9 oz. Harmony Extra SG Soil Type: Ragsdale Silt Loam Insecticide: Escalate, 3 oz. Mustang Max & 2.5 oz. Mustang Max Replications: Two (averaged) Fungicide: 13.5 oz. Flowering Yield Rank Brand Harvest Date Dry Test Weight 1 BECK 135 6/20/ BECK 113 6/17/ BECK EX /20/ BECK EX /20/ BECK 126 6/20/ BECK /17/ BECK 87 6/16/ BECK EX /20/ AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Plot weighed by Beck s Hybrids Scott Ebelhar and Kent Glover. BECK S Wheat Show Plot: 7.5 vs. 15 Rows by Variety This study evaluates the performance of 8 different wheat varieties in both the standard 7.5 row and 15 row spacings. Brand Row Spacing Dry Test Weight 7.5 Advantage BECK BECK EX BECK BECK BECK EX BECK BECK EX BECK AVERAGE Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Plot weighed by BECK S Hybrids Scott Ebelhar and Kent Glover. Mustang Max is a trademark of FMC Corporation. Caramba is a registered trademark of BASF. Escalate is a registered trademark of Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Summary: This year s evaluation of the current Beck s wheat line-up in both 7.5 and 15 row spacing showed very little difference between the two row spacing configurations. This is consistent with the results from a previous, multi-location row spacing study conducted by Beck s Practical Farm Research that showed no statistical difference between wheat planted in 7.5 and 15 rows. 197

198 Southern Indiana Wheat BECK S Wheat Harvest Date Study Planted: October 14, 2010 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: Various Tillage: Disc Twice Population: 1.5 million seeds/a. Herbicide: 0.9 oz. Harmony Extra SG Soil Type: Ragsdale Silt Loam Insecticide: Escalate, 3 oz. Mustang Max & 2.5 oz. Mustang Max Replications: One Fungicide: 13.5 oz. Caramba The goal of this study was to evaluate the benefits of harvesting wheat early in terms of yield, net return and quality. On-Farm Drying ROI^ Commercial Drying ROI^ Variety Harvest Date Wet Test Weight Dry Test Weight BECK 87 6/10/ $ $ BECK 87 6/13/ $ $ BECK 87 6/17/ $ $ BECK 87 6/20/ $ $ Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Plot weighed by BECK S Hybrids Scott Ebelhar and Kent Glover. ^Return on Investment calculated using $6.50 price for wheat (spot price day of harvest) minus a drying charge of $0.05/pt. for on-farm drying and $0.10/pt. for commercial drying. Mustang Max is a trademark of FMC Corporation. Caramba is a registered trademark of BASF. Escalate is a registered trademark of Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Summary: The 2011 harvest season saw very high test weights for wheat that was harvested in a timely manner. However, harvest delays due to excessive rainfall had the potential to lower grain quality and increase grain loss before many fields could be harvested. In this study, BECK 87 was harvested on multiple dates and harvest moistures in an attempt to document if there was any potential benefit to harvesting wheat early in an effort to maximize grain quality. Wheat that was harvested on June 13 th at 16.3% harvest moisture produced the highest yield, test weight, and return on investment in Wheat harvested a week later on June 20 th resulted in lower yields and an approximate 1.5 lbs./bu. loss in test weight. Grain harvested on this date had reached dry moisture and then rewetted during a rainfall event and was also showing signs of heads drooping. Keep in mind that BECK 87 is a variety with very high test weight. Other varieties that have average to lower test weight could potentially see their quality diminish faster once the grain has field dried. 198

199 BECK S Wheat Fungicide Study Planted: October 14, 2010 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: June 6, 2011 Tillage: Disk Twice Population: 1.5 million seeds/a. Herbicide: 0.9 Harmony Extra SG Soil Type: Uniontown Silt Loam Insecticide: Escalate & 3 oz. Mustang Max Replications: Two (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 135 Southern Indiana Wheat This study was established to determine the return on investment from the use of foliar fungicides in wheat. Fungicides were applied at various growth stages to target both foliar and head diseases. Foliar diseases that are most commonly seen at the Southern IN PFR farm include both Septoria and Stagonospora leaf blotch. The most common head diseases would include Fusarium Head Scab and Glume Blotch. Wheat Fungicide Study Treatment Timing Dry Test Weight ROI ^ 17 oz. Caramba Flowering $ oz. Caramba Flowering $ oz. Headline f/b 13.5 oz. Caramba w/ Harmony f/b Flowering $18.20 Untreated Treatment Wheat Fungicide Study - 3 Year Summary Timing Dry Test Weight ROI^ $7.00/Bu. ROI^ $5.50/Bu. ROI^ $4.00/Bu oz. Caramba Flowering $18.95 $9.70 $0.43 Untreated Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Plot weighed by Beck s Hybrids Scott Ebelhar and Kent Glover. ^Return on Investment calculated using $6.50 price for wheat (spot price day of harvest) minus cost of product and a $5.50 application fee. Mustang Max is a trademark of FMC Corporation. Headline and Caramba are registered trademarks of BASF. Escalate is a registered trademark of Beck s Superior Hybrids, Inc. Summary: Although cool, wet conditions were common throughout Beck s southern marketing area this spring, foliar disease pressure from Septoria and Stagonospora was low when fungicide applications were made at flowering. Continued rainfall during flowering and early grain fill, resulted in moderate Fusarium Head blight and Glume Blotch pressure. However, a ten to fourteen day period with above average temperatures and minimal rainfall at the Southern IN PFR farm in mid to late-may led to a crop that matured very quickly, resulting in minimal damage from disease. Although pressure was not as heavy as the past couple of years, all of the fungicide treatments tested resulted in increased yield and profitability over the untreated check. An application of Headline tank mixed with Harmony at Feekes 5 followed by an application of Caramba at flowering provided both the highest yield and profitability this year. Historically, yield increases resulting from a two pass program have not been high enough to provide additional profit. High market prices for wheat certainly helped to make this treatment more profitable in The three year summary shows that a single application of Caramba at flowering has provided consistent yield gains. The yield response seen in this multi-year data set suggests this application could be profitable when market prices are as low as $4.00/Bu. 199

200 Southern Indiana Wheat BECK S Wheat Nitrogen Inhibitor Study Planted: October 14, 2010 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: June 20, 2011 Tillage: Disk Twice Population: 1.5 million seeds/a. Herbicide: 0.9 Harmony Extra SG Soil Type: Ragsdale Silt Loam Insecticide: Escalate, 3 oz. Mustang Max & 2.5 oz. Mustang Max Replications: Two (averaged) Product Tested: BECK 135 This study takes a look at the timing of nitrogen applications and the use of nitrogen inhibitors as management tools in wheat. Each entry had a total of 115 lbs. of nitrogen applied as a single application or as split applications. Nitrogen forms evaluated in this study include 28% liquid nitrogen both with and without Agrotain Plus, urea, SuperU (urea with Agrotain Plus) and ESN (a polymer coated urea). Nitrogen Form Rate Timing Dry Test Weight Net Income^ 28% UAN 57 lbs. / 58 lbs. Feekes 3 / Feekes $ % UAN 115 lbs. Feekes $ % UAN w/ Agrotain Plus 115 lbs. Feekes $ Urea 57 lbs. / 58 lbs. Feekes 3 / Feekes $ Urea 115 lbs. Feekes $ Super U 115 lbs. Feekes $ ESN 115 lbs. Feekes $ Agrotain Plus - 2 Year Summary Nitrogen Form Rate Timing Dry Test Weight Net Income^ 28% UAN Split Feekes 3 / Feekes $ % UAN 100% Feekes $ % UAN w/ Agrotain Plus 100% Feekes $ Nitrogen Form & Timing - 3 Year Summary Nitrogen Form Rate Timing Dry Test Weight Net Income^ 28% UAN Split Feekes 3 / Feekes $ % UAN 100% Feekes $ Urea 100% Feekes $ Urea Split Feekes 3 / Feekes $ ESN 100% Feekes $ Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Plot weighed by Beck s Hybrids Scott Ebelhar & Kent Glover. ^Net Income calculated using $6.50 price for wheat (spot price day of harvest) less cost of nitrogen including application charge of for each application and inhibitors. Agrotain Plus is a registered trademark of IMC Phosphates Company and is licensed exclusively to AGROTAIN International LLC. SuperU is a registered trademark of AGROTAIN International LLC. ESN is a registered trademark of Agrium, Inc. 200

201 Southern Indiana Wheat BECK S Wheat Nitrogen Inhibitor Study - Continued Summary: This year split applications of 28% produced a 1.8 Bu./A. advantage over the single application of 28% applied at Feekes 3. The three year average shows an advantage of 2.2 Bu./A. for split applications of 28% over the single application without an inhibitor. Due to the likelihood of soils being waterlogged in the late spring, many growers prefer to make a one pass nitrogen application while fields are frozen, often at the Feekes 3 growth stage. This requires the use of some type of nitrogen inhibitor to minimize the risk of nitrogen loss as saturated soils begin to warm in the early spring. Data from previous years testing has shown promising results with the use of polymer coated ureas such as ESN. The 3 year summary shows similar yield performance with split applications of urea. For the season, single applications of UAN made at the Feekes 3 growth stage were compared to 28% with Agrotain Plus as well as a Feekes 3 application of urea to Super U (urea with Agrotain Plus). Agrotain Plus contains both a urease inhibitor to minimize volatilization and a nitrification inhibitor. Agrotain Plus provided the highest average yield for the 28% entries, however the net return was slightly lower than the split application without an inhibitor. The two year summary shows similar results. Split applications of urea provided the highest yields and net return in this study both this year and in the two year summary. This demonstrates the risks that are involved with applying all of the crop s spring nitrogen at the Feekes 3 growth stage due to the increased potential for nitrogen loss. 201

202 Southern Indiana Wheat BECK S Wheat Intensive vs. Low Management Study Planted: October 14, 2010 Previous Crop: Corn Harvested: BECK 87: June 16, 2011 Tillage: Disk Twice (Conv.) BECK 113: June 20, 2011 Herbicide: 0.9 Harmony Extra SG BECK 135: June 21, 2011 Insecticide: Escalate, 3 oz. Mustang Max & Various Population: 1.5 million seeds/a. Fungicide: Various 202 This study was designed to compare both high management and low management strategies to growing wheat by using various tillage practices and row spacing. High management entries received split applications of nitrogen (inhibitor on 2 nd application), spring herbicide with insecticide, and a single application of fungicide with insecticide at flowering. Low management entries only received a single application of nitrogen with an inhibitor and a spring herbicide & insecticide application. Conventional tillage entries were disked twice while no-till entries were planted directly into undisturbed corn stalks. Net income was calculated by subtracting the cost of management practices that differed between entries from the gross income. This includes the costs of nitrogen inhibitors, fungicides, spray applications, tillage and planting. Row Width Test Weight Net Income^ Variety Treatment CONVENTIONAL-TILL BECK Low Mgmt $ BECK Low Mgmt $ BECK Low Mgmt $ AVERAGE $ BECK High Mgmt $ BECK High Mgmt $ BECK High Mgmt $ AVERAGE $ BECK Low Mgmt $ BECK Low Mgmt $ BECK Low Mgmt $ AVERAGE $ BECK High Mgmt $ BECK High Mgmt $ BECK High Mgmt $ AVERAGE $ NO-TILL BECK Low Mgmt $ BECK Low Mgmt $ BECK Low Mgmt $ AVERAGE $ BECK High Mgmt $ BECK High Mgmt $ BECK High Mgmt $ AVERAGE $ BECK Low Mgmt $ BECK Low Mgmt $ BECK Low Mgmt $ AVERAGE $ BECK High Mgmt $ BECK High Mgmt $ BECK High Mgmt $ AVERAGE $ High Mgmt. = Split applied N, 0.9 oz. Harmony Extra SG w/ 3 oz. Mustang Feekes 5, & 13.5 oz. Caramba & 2.5 oz. Mustang Feekes Low Mgmt. = Single application N w/ Inhibitor, & 0.9 oz. Harmony Extra SG w/ 3 oz. Mustang Feekes 5. Bushels per acre and test weight were corrected to 13% moisture. Plot weighed by Beck s Hybrids Scott Ebelhar & Kent Glover. ^Net income is gross income minus cost of fungicides, nitrogen inhibitors, spray application, tillage and planting costs. Spray application cost based on $5.50/A. All other tillage and planting costs based on Custom Rates Applicable to Kentucky (2011), University of KY, AEC

203 Southern Indiana Wheat BECK S Wheat Intensive vs. Low Management - Continued Summary Test Weight Net Income ^ BECK $ BECK $ BECK $ Conventional $ No-Til $ High Management $ Low Management $ Rows $ Rows $ Summary: Dry soil conditions last fall led to delayed emergence and below average tiller and heads counts this year. Wheat planted in 7.5 rows using conventional tillage and high management practices provided the highest average yield of 83.7 Bu./A. This practice also achieved the highest average net income with a $21.20/A. advantage over 7.5 row, conventional tillage, using low management practices. High management entries out yielded the low management entries by an average of 6.2 Bu./A. across both tillage systems, providing an $11.69/A. increase in profitability. Highly managed, conventional-till entries only out yielded low management, conventional-till entries by 4.8 Bu./A., profiting an additional $2.43/A. However, in the no-till portion of the study, high management entries also showed a yield increase of 7.6 Bu./A., thus increasing profits by $20.96/A. High management practices such as split applied nitrogen and the use of fungicides help producers overcome many of the challenges presented by no-tilling wheat into standing corn stalks. The two year average advantage for utilizing high management entries over low management entries was 6.6 Bu./A. regardless of tillage practice. 7.5 rows only out yielded 15 rows by an average of 1.9 Bu./A. across all entries. This gave the 7.5 rows an average advantage in profitability of $11.60/A. In a no-till system, 7.5 rows out-yielded 15 rows by less than 1 Bu./A., narrowing the profit margin for 7.5 rows to $3.95/A. The two-year average advantage for 7.5 in rows in this study is 2.3 Bu./A. regardless of tillage practice. Planting cost for both the drill and 15 row planter were based on customer hire rates. Actual cost of owning and maintaining a drill for the specific purpose of sowing wheat over using a 15 row planter for both soybeans and wheat will varying greatly from one operation to the next based on the number of wheat acres grown. 203

204 Southern Illinois Wheat BECK S Wheat Nitrogen Study Planted: October 5, 2010 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: June 23, 2011 Tillage: Disk (twice) Population: 1.5 million seeds/a. Herbicide: Harmony Extra SG Replications: Two (averaged) Insecticide: Seed treatment only (Escalate) Product Tested: BECK 113 The purpose of this study was to evaluate different nitrogen forms, inhibitors, and application timings to maximize profitability. The proper N applications and timings are perhaps one of the most important management decisions in wheat production in the wetter, poorly drained soils of Southern Illinois. 28% applications were made with streamers, and dry applications were made with a plot-sized air-flow applicator for even distribution. Test Net^ Nitrogen Form Rate Timing Weight Return Super U 100 lbs. Feekes $ ESN 100 lbs. Feekes $ Urea 50 lbs. / 50 lbs. Feekes 4 / Feekes $ Urea 100 lbs. Feekes $ % UAN 50 lbs. / 50 lbs. Feekes 4 / Feekes $ % UAN 100 lbs. Feekes $ % UAN w/ 100 lbs. Feekes $ Agrotain Plus Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Plot weighed by Clint Storck Research Combine. *Net Return = yield x $6.50 (harvest price) minus application charges and product costs. Agrotain Plus is a registered trademark of IMC Phosphates Company and is licensed exclusively to AGROTAIN International LLC. SuperU is a registered trademark of AGROTAIN International LLC. ESN is a registered trademark of Agrium, Inc. Summary: Dry fall conditions greatly affected fall stand establishment, with an average of 20% emergence delayed until spring. Wet soil conditions delayed the early application timings until the wheat had broken dormancy. Surprisingly, spring tillering was very good on all plots, and we experienced high yields. Split applications gave no significant yield differences compared to a single early application. It must be noted that the early application was applied later than planned, and this may have had an effect on final yield data. The highest economic return came from a single, early application of Super U (Urea manufactured with Agrotain), and a single, early application of ESN (polymer coated, slow release Urea). The ESN performance was a surprise, since the ESN plots were visibly nitrogen deficient early in the season because of the later than planned application and the slow N release. 204

205 BECK S Wheat Fungicide Study Southern Illinois Wheat Planted: October 5, 2010 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: June 23, 2011 Tillage: Disk (twice) Population: 1.5 million seeds/a. Herbicide: Harmony Extra SG Replications: Two (averaged) Insecticide: Seed treatment (Escalate) + Warrior Product Tested: BECK 135 The purpose of this study was to evaluate different fungicides and application timings. In addition, all treatments had two applications of nitrogen (early and late). The early N application was applied at Feekes 4 and the late application was applied at Feekes 6.5. Test Net^ Treatment Timing Weight Return Folicur At Flowering $ Headline After First Node Visible $ Prosaro At Flowering $ Proline At Flowering $ None Untreated $ Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. Plot weighed by Clint Storck Research Combine. *Net Return = yield x $6.50 (harvest price) minus application charges and fungicide product costs. Headline is a registered trademark of BASF. Folicur, Prosaro and Proline are registered trademarks of Bayer. Summary: While the early Headline application produced 2.1 Bu. more yield than the control, the economic return was a negative $2.02/A. All flowering applications increased yield, but the only product to give a net positive return was Folicur, with a 3.9 Bu. advantage, and a net return of +$5.82/A. over the non-treated control. It must be noted that scab pressure was low across the PFR farm, and we would expect the early flowering applications to provide higher economic benefit when scab pressure is moderate to high. 205

206 Southern Illinois Wheat BECK S Wheat Intensive vs. Low Management Study Planted: October 5, 2010 Previous Crop: Soybeans Harvested: June 23, 2011 Tillage: Disk (twice) / No-Till Rows: Twenty-four 7.5" rows Herbicide: 32 oz. Cornerstone Twelve 15" rows Population: 1.5 million seeds/a. The purpose of this study was to evaluate high management techniques compared to standard practices, as well as evaluate row width differences and no-till and conventional differences. This test was coordinated with the Southern Indiana PFR site to provide multi-location data. Row Width Net^ Income Variety Treatment CONVENTIONAL-TILL BECK Low Mgmt $ BECK Low Mgmt $ BECK Low Mgmt $ AVERAGE $ BECK High Mgmt $ BECK High Mgmt $ BECK High Mgmt $ AVERAGE $ BECK Low Mgmt $ BECK Low Mgmt $ BECK Low Mgmt $ AVERAGE $ BECK High Mgmt $ BECK High Mgmt $ BECK High Mgmt $ AVERAGE $ NO-TILL BECK Low Mgmt $ BECK Low Mgmt $ BECK Low Mgmt $ AVERAGE $ BECK High Mgmt $ BECK High Mgmt $ BECK High Mgmt $ AVERAGE $ BECK Low Mgmt $ BECK Low Mgmt $ BECK Low Mgmt $ AVERAGE $ BECK High Mgmt $ BECK High Mgmt $ BECK High Mgmt $ AVERAGE $ Bushels per acre corrected to 13% moisture. ^Net income is gross income for wheat minus cost of fungicides, nitrogen inhibitors, spray application, tillage and planting costs plus gross income from soybeans. Spray application cost based on $5.50/A. 206

207 Summary: BECK S Wheat Intensive vs. Low Management Study - Continued Southern Illinois Wheat While fall emergence was challenged due to the very dry soil conditions, spring weather was favorable for good tiller development, and high yields were achieved. Disease incidence was low during both the vegetative stages and the reproductive stages. Overall, high management out-yielded the standard management by 3.7 Bu., but had a $10.23/A. negative return due to the extra input costs. We would expect this difference to change dramatically in a year of moderate to high disease pressure. No-till out-yielded conventional tillage across all treatments by.9 Bu., for a revenue increase of $5.85/A. 7.5 inch rows out-yielded 15 inch rows by 7.7 Bu., for a revenue advantage of $50.05/A. It is important to note that fall emergence and fall tillering were poor across all studies, and this may have swayed the yield advantage more toward the 7.5 inch rows than what we would normally expect, and what we have seen in past studies. 207