Jordan Johnson; Agronomy Coordinator
Did You Maximize Your Yields in 2024?
In 2024, QLF Agronomy shared a third-party trial with biological manufacturer Locus Ag at Agri-Tech Consulting, in Whitewater, Wisconsin. The replicated Corn trial was managed by Dr. Maloney, PhD. The purpose of trial was to determine the yield and return on investment benefits of KelpakMaxx (double strength kelp extract) as a Seed Treatment, as well as measuring performances when used in combination with a biological seed treatment application. Also tested were foliar applications of QLF’s L-CBF Amino15 (foliar nitrogen) with additional Kelpak.
The 2024 growing season in Wisconsin posed significant challenges. Above-normal precipitation in April and May, paired with average temperatures, resulted in waterlogged, shallow-rooted corn plants that faced an uphill battle to achieve decent yields. The second half of the season transitioned to statewide drought-like conditions, adding further stress to these already struggling crops.
Despite these adverse weather conditions, the trial demonstrated that the QLF program delivered superior yield gains and return on investment compared to the grower’s standard practice.
Trial Overview
The corn was planted on May 16th, with 3 oz/cwt of KelpakMaxx and 1 oz/cwt of a biological seed treatment containing Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and Trichoderma harzianum. This program, costing $5.85/acre, provided an additional +8.43 bushels per acre compared to the control treatment.
A third treatment examined the yield benefits of a foliar application of 1 qt/acre of Kelpak and 2.75 gallons/acre of L-CBF Amino 15 applied on June 20th at the V4 growth stage with 15 gallons of water per acre. This foliar pass delivered an additional +8.3 bushels per acre over the seed treatments alone.
Results
The control plots yielded an impressive 228 bushels per acre, surpassing Wisconsin’s state average by +48 bushels per acre. The full program, combining a biological, a bio-stimulant, and L-CBF Amino15, achieved a remarkable 244.80 bushels per acre, even under 2024 season’s challenging conditions.
The full program approach, costing just under $26/acre, generated a $49.69/acre return.
Key Takeaways
This trial reinforces the importance of adopting a complete program approach that incorporates diversity and maximizes every pass across the field. The inclusion of plant nutrients delivered safely and efficiently from L-CBF Amino15 (15N-0P-1K-0.5S w/10% sugar) along with pairing Kelpak and a premium biological, helped establish robust root systems and better plant health capable of overcoming 2024’s stress events.
As you plan next year’s 2025 crop programs, consult your QLF Agronomist to ensure you’re placing and combining our products to maximize crop performance and realize more profitable yields. Most importantly, stick to the program in 2025—no matter the markets or weather!
