Wilbur Ellis = Stronger Agronomy Partnerships Key for the Season Ahead | 3/23/26

·23 min·2 clips

Robbie Byer describes catching tar spot at V6 corn last summer, altering fungicide plans for Nebraska growers.

The episode begins with a promotional segment for Farm Rescue, followed by host Susan Littlefield introducing the topic of pre-season planning for farmers. She is joined by three Wilbur Ellis experts: Jack Schmitz, a territory account manager in North Dakota; Robbie Byer, a retail-side agronomist in Nebraska; and Katie Byer, another agronomist. The discussion centers on the importance of early communication with trusted advisors, including retailers, seed representatives, and bankers. Robbie Byer explains how fall soil testing allows for correcting nutrient deficiencies before the growing season, reducing stress and helping set budgets. Katie Byer adds that planning with intention for seed selection, fertility, and weed control provides confidence amid unpredictable weather. Jack Schmitz details the diverse cropping options in North Dakota, such as corn, soybeans, potatoes, and sunflowers, and the need for flexible plans due to market shifts and herbicide rotations. The conversation shifts to localized challenges, with Robbie Byer describing catching tar spot early in South Central Nebraska, which influenced fungicide applications. Katie Byer discusses how Wilbur Ellis helps with flexible plans, like using nitrogen stabilizers during wet conditions. Jack Schmitz shares success stories with the product Entune, where tissue samples and yield monitor maps showed yield advantages, leading farmers to increase purchases. The experts address input shortages and delivery delays, emphasizing communication for logistics. They explore how agronomists prioritize decisions by focusing on return on investment and building trust through field scouting. The episode concludes with advice: Katie Byer urges farmers to lean on agronomists and ask hard questions; Jack Schmitz recommends utilizing tools and financing programs; and Robbie Byer encourages trying new technologies like biologicals through trials. The host directs listeners to Wilbur Ellis' website and reiterates Farm Rescue's services.

As heard by us

Early communication and yield data anchor this spring-focused agronomy conversation.

Susan Littlefield sets up the discussion around what needs to happen before tractors and planters go into the field, and Jack Schmitz gives that setup a practical, on-farm edge.

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Why you'd press play

You want a straight talk on early-season agronomy decisions before the planter rolls.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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