b'3 Parts to Successful Spring Planting: Soil Microbial Food, Inoculants, and Seed TreatmentsDID YOU KNOWseed treatments have been around for overteria fix nitrogen for plants to access in exchange for carbon. 300 years? For centuries, growers experimented with seedInoculants can also include biofertilizers or biopesticides. treatments to protect seeds and promote growth. Today, sup- Biofertilizers promote growth by stimulating roots and increasing porting seeds includes investing in seed treatments and inocu- nutrient availability. Biopesticides kill pests or reduce pest food lants, stacked with innovative technologies, like a superior soilavailability. Investing in biofertilizers or biopesticides reduces microbial food, to support germination, stand establishment,plant disease and/or stress and increases yield. and yield production.Soil Microbial Food. Adding a superior microbial food to your Seed Treatments. Traditional seed treatments protect seedsseed treatment supports soil health and stimulates microbial from pathogenic diseases, insects, and pests, aiding in enhancedactivity in the spermosphere where the seeds first interact with seedling emergence and plant vigor. Today, many seed treat- the soil. Innovative seed treatments that feed the seed and soil ments include layers of chemicals, biological organisms, micro- microbes create an environment to support germination, stand bial food, and/or a nutrient material to support emergence,establishment, vigor, and early crop development to maximize stand, and early season benefits.yield potential. Growers realized the following yield increases When seeds arent treated, pathogens, nematodes, andwhen incorporating a carbon-rich microbial food application insects can stress plants and damage or kill seeds and seedlings,into their seed treatment programs to feed both soil and seed resulting in early season diseases, poor nutrient uptake, reducedmicrobes. stand establishment, and/or potential yield loss.The utilization of a new, innovative seed treatment technology Look for fast-acting seed treatments compatible with yourwill help give you the advantage over traditional seed treatments seed genetics and soil. Protect your seeds from known diseasesand inoculants to help combat the increasing yield and quality and pests and provide them with nutrients they need. Essentialneeds. Food demand is predicted to increase 70% to 100% by additives, like seed and soil microbial food, easily incorporate2050. Farmers need solutions to make the most of every seed with your current seed treatments. In general, seed treatmentswith seed treatments, inoculants, and soil microbial food. can help improve soil health, crop health, increase yield potential, and create better food quality. Seed treatments help growers save money and support sustainable agriculture practices by lowering pesticide use. Decreased usage of sprayed pesticides is good for protecting essential pollinators. Its also beneficial for growers helping them to save money on product, labor, and diesel. Plus, active microbes help your fertilizer applications go further. Inoculants. Some crops need seed treatments, some need inoculants, and some need both. Inoculants can include rhizobia and brady rhizobium bacteria known for supporting soybeans, cotton, peanuts, potatoes, and cover crop roots. These bac-CASSIDY MILLIONDIRECTOR OF AG SCIENCE, HELIAE AGRICULTURECMillion@heliae.comphycoterra.com20/ SEEDWORLD.COMLATAM'