— Butch Altmann, Agronomy
Spring always shows up fast. One minute we’re watching snow melt, and the next we’re checking soil temps and loading planters. As we head into the 2026 growing season, here are a few key reminders to help you stay ahead.
It starts with seed treatment. If you haven’t finalized your plans, now’s the time. Seed treatment is one of the most cost-effective tools we have to protect seedlings from early-season insects and disease. Strong early protection means more uniform emergence, stronger stands, and fewer replant conversations.
From there, your crop protection plan needs to carry through the entire season. A solid pre-emerge program is still the foundation. Starting clean gives you flexibility and reduces pressure on your post application. Resistant weeds aren’t backing down, and relying only on post-pass control can put you behind quickly. Now is the time to confirm your full-season strategy: post plans, chemistry rotation, and product availability. Supply chains have improved, but some products can still tighten as demand builds.
Fertilizer markets continue to shift with the tensions in the middle east, prices have spiked anywhere from $25-200 per ton. The word is when things settle down prices should soften again but it will take some time to get back to where we were before the attacks, but confirming tons with us helps keep application running smoothly. If market opportunities arise, we’ll communicate them.
As we plan for the season, we’re targeting an opening date of April 15th for the Cosmos facility, weather permitting. Strategically located to serve the northwest corner of our territory, Cosmos provides convenient access to agronomy products and services closer to your acres. Bulk chemical will also be available there, helping streamline operations during planting and spraying season. A few of our agronomists will office at this location and will be ready to help you make timely decisions as the season unfolds.
With all of this in motion, communication is key. Our Customer Portal makes it easy to connect with your agronomist, place orders, review invoices, and keep everything organized in one place. If you haven’t logged in recently, now is a good time to get set up before things get busy.
Spring doesn’t wait. The best seasons are built on early decisions, clear communication, and a plan that carries through from planting to harvest.
If you have questions, reach out to your agronomist. We’re here to help you put the right plan in place for 2026.
Let’s get after it.