We begin the episode hearing heartfelt stories about blending motherhood with a passion for agronomy, from toddlers marveling at tractors to teaching kids about corn. "I remember when [my daughter] was first learning to talk, and the first time she said corn, which was more like kern, it was so cute," says Crystal. "When she was 11 months old, barefoot out in the field and holding a seedling and was just curiously looking at the roots, and it just melted my heart."

Then, a conversation about managing white mold. Chelsea interviews Crystal on the disease’s overwintering process, early-season strategies, variety selection and timely fungicide applications. Packed with practical tips and personal insights, this episode is a must-listen for farmers preparing for the 2025 growing season.

Visit pioneer.com/podcasts for more episodes and innovative farming tools.

💡 Clif Notes from the conversation 💡

- Planting depth: 2-2.5 inches for corn, 1.5 inches for soybeans

- Planting ahead of rain: Go for it—if conditions are good and the forecasted rain is not excessive

- Adjusting populations: No adjustments needed yet; consider increasing soybean populations if planting drags into late May

- Switching maturities: Stick with your original hybrids unless planting slips into June

- Early planting temperatures: 50°F soil temps are still important, but today's hybrids handle early planting risks better than ever.

Andy also offers advice on managing risk, staying patient during critical planting windows, and making smart decisions based on soil conditions rather than calendar dates.

👉 Like and subscribe for more from this pod. Visit pioneer.com/podcasts for more episodes and resources.

As spring planting kicks into high gear, they discuss how Pioneer® evaluates seed treatment products, the importance of multiple modes of action, and what makes proven solutions like ILEVO® still top contenders in disease suppression—especially against threats like soybean cyst nematode and the emerging red crown rot.

You’ll also hear insights into how Corteva’s industry-leading Seed Applied Technologies Center tests and develops treatments that balance efficacy, safety, and broad-spectrum disease protection—giving farmers tools to ensure a strong start for their crops in unpredictable spring conditions.

Whether you're a grower, sales rep, or just ag-curious, this episode offers timely knowledge to help you make confident decisions for the 2025 season—and beyond.

🌱 Topics Covered:

• Corteva’s "PASSER" seed treatment evaluation model (plantability, application, seed safety, stewardship, efficacy and regulatory)
• Why multiple modes of action matter
• The value of long-standing treatments like ILEVO®
• Updates on red crown rot research
• Safety tips and encouragement for a safe spring season
  

📚 Other Resources:

https://corteva.showpad.com/share/zUkuwqEZmoaMCiTFq7FJm

https://corteva.showpad.com/share/03wSDRqqe5Lm84c4zfIyh