Harvest has been stretched out for many, but nonetheless, it's time to start thinking about ordering seed for the 2026 growing season. Winter is a good time to look back upon the last season and evaluate what went well and what didn't. Variety trial reports are also starting to become available, which can guide smart seed decisions.  

This growing season was less than ideal, causing yield and quality fluctuations across fields. We can't control the weather, but we can select hardy varieties that can tolerate more extremes. Seed availability is also shifting, such as the upcoming production halt of BMR corn. Picking out seed early increases your chances of being able to get the exact hybrids you want, as certain trait packaging or maturities may be limited in quantity, giving me to source other options if needed. 

When evaluating variety trials, it's not advisable to choose solely from the top-yielding varieties, as many factors beyond genetics influence yield. Consider your microclimate, soil type, drainage class, planting dates, and general management intensity compared to trial conditions.  A top yielder in a trial doesn't automatically make it the best fit for you. Look at the weather data; compare the location's annual rainfall amounts and growing degree day accumulations to your own. Reviewing historical data can help determine whether weather contributed to a variety's performance. 

Diversifying your seed selection is one way to spread risk across your acres. Spread out harvest maturities, select varieties based on soil types, and choose hybrids that align with varying management intensities. It can be advantageous to split your portfolio with proven genetics and up-and-coming hybrids that may offer improved traits and stress tolerance. Don't put all your seeds in one basket; if one hybrid struggles under certain conditions, others may help balance it out.  

Don't be afraid to test things out on your farm. Look at stand counts, soil maps, and yield maps (if you have them) to see how different hybrids respond. Pay close attention to high-stress areas such as compacted zones, drought-prone pockets, or places with high water tables. These areas can help highlight how hardy, or sensitive, a variety is. Over me, you should be able to evaluate which hybrids give you consistent performance, even in less than desirable conditions.  

Your harvesting strategy should play a role as well. There can be meaningful differences between choosing hybrids for grain versus silage. Think about what you need; standability through fall, nutritional value for livestock, or dry down speed. Matching characteristics to your goals can help avoid bottlenecks and keep your harvest window manageable.  

Consider common stressors on your farm. Do certain diseases show up year after year? Diseases like white mold and northern corn leaf blight, along with other regional pressures, can chip away at yield.  

Talk it out with your seed representatives. They often have insights from the wider region, know how hybrids respond under a range of conditions, and can help you match varieties to your goals. Sharing information about your fields, management style, and concerns can help them steer you towards a balanced hybrid lineup.  

The best seed plan is one that spreads your risk and strengthens your acres. By mixing maturities, trying new genetics, and matching varieties to your fields and goals, you can set yourself up for a strong season.