Thin Margins, Expensive Nitrogen & the Agronomy Decisions That Pay

Dr. Eric Scherder of Corteva Agriscience returns to Farm4Profit to look back at the 2026 growing season and help farmers start building their 2027 agronomy plan. The conversation begins with cover crops and why simply getting seed on the ground isn't enough. From erosion and nitrate management to weed suppression and soil health, Eric explains why farmers need to know their objective, establish a good stand, and have a termination strategy before spring arrives.

The discussion moves into weed management and the importance of starting clean, using multiple modes of action, and layering residuals—especially in early-planted soybeans. Eric challenges farmers to think beyond a one-size-fits-all herbicide program and use the entire agronomic toolbox, including cover crops, no-till, row spacing, crop rotation, residual herbicides, and emerging technologies like See & Spray.

With nitrogen representing one of the largest crop investments, the guys also discuss fall versus spring application, nitrogen loss, and why stabilization matters beyond the fall application window. Eric explains the science behind N-Serve and Instinct Next Gen, why keeping nitrogen in the ammonium form can help protect it from loss, and how farmers can match nitrogen practices to the logistics and realities of their individual operations.

Ultimately, the message is simple: don't treat every field the same. Use what you learned in 2026, test new ideas where they make sense, work with trusted local advisors, and build a 2027 plan around the specific challenges and opportunities on your farm.

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