Know Your Seed Treatment: Why It Matters More Than Ever

In modern agriculture, seed treatment has evolved from an optional layer of protection to a critical component of crop success. Yet many farmers are still in the dark about what's actually on the seed they plant. In this episode of XtremeAg’s Cutting the Curve, host Damian Mason speaks with Paul Johnson, a 30-year industry veteran and Seed Treatment Portfolio Manager at UPL, to break down the practical, economic, and agronomic reasons for paying closer attention to seed treatments.

Seed Treatment: The Foundation of a Successful Crop

Just as a quality home depends on a solid foundation, Johnson explains that the early-stage protection provided by seed treatments sets the tone for the rest of the season. Seed treatments act as the plant's first line of defense against below-ground and early-season threats — including fungi, insects, nematodes, and environmental stressors like cold, wet soils.

A strong start often translates to more uniform emergence, improved root development, and faster canopy closure — all of which contribute to better weed suppression and nutrient uptake.

Are You Getting the Right Treatment?

While virtually all commercial seed arrives treated, Johnson emphasizes a key point: most growers do not know what active ingredients are included — or if those ingredients match their specific field pressures. Fungicides, insecticides (often neonics), and nematicides are common treatment categories, and even inoculants or biologicals may be applied. However, without asking detailed questions, farmers may unknowingly plant into problem-prone areas without adequate protection.

Farmers often assume treatment is standard and sufficient. Johnson challenges this assumption, urging producers to work with their seed dealer or ag retailer to understand and — if needed — customize their treatment package.

The Economics of Seed Treatment

According to Johnson, seed treatments remain one of the most cost-effective inputs in a grower’s portfolio. For soybeans, a solid treatment package typically costs $6–9 per acre and can yield a consistent 3–5 bushel advantage — easily translating to a 4:1 or greater return on investment. For corn, the cost is often included in the base seed price, but additional nematicide or biological treatments may add $4–5 per acre.

Trials conducted by farmers have even shown occasional outlier gains — in some cases, up to 20 bushels per acre — though such results are not typical.

Nematode Control: The Overlooked Yield Robber

One of the most under-recognized threats in soybean production is nematodes, particularly soybean cyst nematode (SCN). Despite being the top yield-limiting pest in many regions, most growers are unaware of the nematode pressure in their fields. Johnson references tools like the Soybean Cyst Coalition Network, which allows producers to check SCN presence and density by ZIP code.

Treatments like UPL’s Aveo nematicide offer targeted protection, but only if the farmer knows to request them. Left unchecked, nematodes damage roots, reduce nutrient uptake, and create pathways for secondary diseases.

Field-Specific Prescriptions and Timing

Seed treatments are not one-size-fits-all. Johnson stresses the importance of treating seed according to specific field conditions, such as cold soils, pythium-prone areas, or known nematode hotspots. Retailers can often adjust treatment mixes or rates if asked, providing customized protection at planting.

He also notes that seed treatments are most effective when applied to fresh seed close to planting. While some farmers worry about treating seed late in the season due to possible returns, modern "on-demand" treating equipment makes it easy to apply treatments only as needed — avoiding loss of investment while still getting full protection.

Future Trends: Nutrient Efficiency and Biologicals

Looking ahead, Johnson predicts that seed treatments will increasingly support nutrient efficiency, particularly through enhanced root development. Larger and more fibrous root systems not only improve access to water and fertility but may also enable farmers to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus application without sacrificing yield.

This aligns with broader agronomic trends seen in XtremeAg trials, where farmers like Kelly Garrett experiment with fertility reductions and soil health improvements to drive ROI.

Addressing Resistance Concerns

Unlike foliar-applied herbicides, seed-applied products are unlikely to drive pest resistance. Johnson explains that because treatments target only the seed zone — a small, localized area around each kernel — there’s minimal environmental exposure and low selection pressure. This makes seed treatment a sustainable long-term strategy for managing pests without contributing to widespread resistance.

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