Field Chronicles from Horizon Seeds: Fall Harvest Recap Insights from General Manager, Rick Van Laecke

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As seen in the Horizon Seeds newsletter.

The 2024 harvest season provided valuable insights into hybrid performance across Ontario. Here’s what stood out:

Tar Spot Resilience & Hybrid Success

The increasing presence of Tar Spot this season made it clear which genetics could naturally withstand the disease. HZ 3584 & HZ 4258 received outstanding reviews from customers, standing strong throughout the harvest season.

Exceptional Dry Down & Yield Performance

Favorable fall conditions led to excellent dry down. HZ 3690 impressed growers with moistures averaging around ±17%, yet it yielded alongside later-maturing hybrids—proving its ability to stand above the rest.

Eastern Ontario’s Standout Hybrids

Growers in Eastern Ontario saw phenomenal yields from HZ 3245 & HZ 3247. Grain quality remained excellent, thanks to Viptera’s protection against Western Bean Cutworm, and the open fall resulted in record test weights.

Soybeans That Delivered

Across Ontario—east to west, north to south—Compass E3 out-yielded competitors, with growers praising its remarkable stability across environments. Meanwhile, Axis E3 was hailed as one of the best short-season soybeans growers had planted in years, with ease of harvest being a common highlight.

As we wrapped up the 2024 season, these insights reaffirmed the importance of strong genetics and adaptable hybrids. Thank you to all our growers for trusting Horizon Seeds—we look forward to an even stronger 2025!