Crucial Decisions for 2026 and Beyond
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By Cutting Edge Consulting
While every season brings its unique set of circumstances, this year is shaping up to be another one that calls for dynamic thinking and strong partnerships. Fluctuating commodity prices and input costs, along with evolving marketing and export opportunities, are all part of today’s farming landscape. With these short-term shifts, there is also opportunity—to adjust strategies, leverage proven practices, and make informed decisions that support your operation for the upcoming season and long term.
Over the next few months, you’ll be making key decisions that set the tone for the coming season—including crop rotation, fertilizer programs, marketing, and equipment needs. With yields varying from region to region, tapping into the experience and insight of your advisory board—your farming Circle of Influence—has never been more valuable. These partnerships provide support and fresh ideas for tackling both immediate plans (2026 crop) and your operation’s future direction.
Your team’s expertise can help you focus on what you can control:
- Preserving cash while protecting yields
- Building the strengths and talents of your Circle of Influence
- Understanding where cost savings are possible—without sacrificing performance
Every year, certain management choices consistently fuel profitability and yield. Over the last five years, our top difference-makers include:
- A complete cropping plan made with your advisory board
- Maximizing stand establishment—ensuring a close ratio of planting populations with final ear counts
- Comprehensive starter fertilizer or aggressive weed-and-feed programs
- Right-timing nutrients like nitrogen and sulfur
- Well-timed fungicide applications, including at least one application, sometimes two
- Efficient grain drying to minimize phantom yield loss
In seasons where efficiency matters, consider targeted ways to save while prioritizing returns:
- Starter-delivered phosphorus vs. broadcasting dry MAP or DAP
- Strategic, timed nitrogen applications (with sulfur) for efficiency, which may include 1 lb/bushel to 0.8 lb N/bushel
- Generic chemicals with good formulations of herbicides and insecticides
- Equipment repairs instead of major purchases when possible
- Taking early pay and other input discounts when available
- Variable rate planting prescriptions, versus a straight rate across all zones
- Variable rate for any dry fertilizer that you do have to apply to precisely and efficiently use dollars in areas you need it the most
- Reviewing crop insurance strategies for marketing and crop rotations
- Planning logistics to handle restricted elevator delivery times
As you order seed for 2026, be sure to:
- Evaluate hybrids and varieties in local field results, under similar management
- Review key disease ratings—like Tar Spot and Southern Rust—as you make hybrid decisions
- Consult with your AgVenture Yield Specialist to tap into their field experience
Keeping a close eye on soil fertility, operational efficiency, and reliable ROI sets the stage for a strong season ahead. Lean on your team, including your local AgVenture Yield Specialist, as you make decisions and look for new opportunities to drive success.
Continue to have a safe and enjoyable harvest!