Author: Brendan Louwagie, Sylvite
#Harvest25 is winding down, which means it’s time to look ahead to 2026. Making informed decisions on seed choices starts now: this year’s results are fresh in mind, plot data is coming in and early order discounts are on! Let’s dive in to how to utilize the resources available to you to make the best choice for 2026.
Plot data is typically viewed as the key factor in making a variety selection. How did it stack up against the competitor? Did it beat old reliable? Be careful though! While it may be tempting to pick the top performer, it’s important to make sure that those results will repeat on your farm.
Tips for viewing plot data:
- Review plots on similar soils and growing conditions to your farm to get a better picture of how a variety or hybrid might perform for you. Soil type can have a big impact on how a variety performs
- Review multiple plots and look for consistency – natural variability in the field can skew single plot results. Hybrids or varieties that are consistent top-5 performers across multiple plots and growing seasons with agronomics that fit your farm are good choices!
- Make good comparisons – try finding plots that have the varieties you are considering near each other – comparing both ends of the plot can introduce field variability that skews results.
Arguably, choosing a variety with the right agronomic fit for your farm is more important than plot data – it doesn’t mean much if it doesn’t fit your operation! Each variety or hybrid has its own strengths and weaknesses – whether its disease tolerance, early season vigour, response to population, etc. Each seed company provides different ratings in their seed guides on key agronomic factors – and your Sylvite representative is well-versed in what they mean and how to help you find the best fit. Let us help you to find the best fit for your farm!
Being informed and making seed choices now helps to ensure that you get the seed that you want and that you make the best decision for your farm. Early Order and Prepay discount deadlines are coming up in early December! Get in touch with your Sylvite representative today and set yourself up for a successful 2026 season.
Looking for some suggestions from our seed suppliers? Have a look back on this previous article:
https://sylvite.ca/about-us/insights/seed-choices-that-shape-your-2026-harvest/
