Insights from BASF: Innovations in Agriculture

The content of this blog is derived from my interviews with the BASF team at Commodity Classic 2025

Albre Brown, Technical Marketing Manager- Row Crop Fungicides and Insecticides

Innovative Strategies for Crop Protection   Aubrey shared insights into BASF's insecticide and fungicide portfolio, emphasizing the importance of proactive management. Products like Sefina insecticide, featuring the exclusive Inscalis AI, provide a targeted approach to managing resistant pests like soybean aphids. By paralyzing aphids without further damaging plants, Sefina ensures optimal yield potential. For broad-spectrum pest control, Fastac delivers robust performance across diverse challenges.

Corn growers benefit from products like Veltyma Fungicide, a dual-mode action solution effective against key diseases such as tar spot and southern rust. Aubrey stressed the significance of timing, urging farmers to apply fungicides preventatively to halt disease spread before irreparable damage occurs.

Josh Putman, Technical Marketing Manager – Corn Herbicides

Combating Corn Rootworm and Weed Challenges   Josh introduced Nurizma Insecticide, designed to tackle corn rootworm, the "silent yield robber." Leveraging a new Group 30 mode of action, Nurizma combats resistant pests effectively while offering a low-rate, non-restricted-use formulation. Fields treated with Nurizma show an impressive 15-bushel yield advantage, a testament to its impact on mitigating unseen yield losses.

Additionally, Josh highlighted Surtain Herbicide as a breakthrough in weed control. With a unique chemistry combination, extended application window, and compatibility with liquid fertilizers, Surtain addresses challenges like Palmer amaranth and waterhemp. BASF's herbicides exemplify the importance of layered residuals and timely applications for effective long-term management.

Jeff Bueller, Midwest Seed Agronomist

Xitavo Seeds: A New Era in Germplasm   Jeff shared his excitement about the upcoming launch of exclusive Xitavo seed varieties in 2025. These seeds bring diverse germplasm to the market, addressing climate challenges and aligning with farmers' specific field profiles. The result is improved disease resistance, better soil compatibility, and optimized returns on investment.

This innovation marks a significant milestone in BASF's commitment to enhancing crop productivity. Jeff emphasized the role of these seeds in tailoring solutions for individual farms, ensuring that farmers can navigate environmental challenges with confidence.

Libby Rens, US Digital Farming Technical Agronomy Manager

Transforming Agriculture with Digital Tools   Libby detailed how BASF's Xarvio Field Manager platform empowers agronomists and farmers through digital insights. Using satellite imagery, weather data, and agronomic inputs, Xarvio helps optimize field management. Features like the Spray Timer provide precise recommendations for fungicide applications, ensuring maximum effectiveness.

The platform’s intuitive design integrates seamlessly with existing farming practices, enabling agronomists to make data-driven decisions. By leveraging digital tools, farmers can maximize yield potential while addressing challenges such as disease risk and nutrient application timing.

Nick Fassler, Director- Technical Service

Advancing Herbicides and Fungicides for Resilient Crops   Nick highlighted BASF's herbicide innovations, including Surtain Herbicide, a residual product for corn that combats tough weeds like Palmer amaranth and waterhemp. Flexible application timing and compatibility with irrigation systems make Surtain a valuable tool for growers. The improved Liberty Ultra formulation offers enhanced performance at lower rates, underscoring BASF's commitment to efficiency.

Nick also reflected on BASF's fungicide advancements over the past 20 years, noting the success of products like Revytek and Veltyma. These fungicides play a critical role in stress mitigation and disease control, helping farmers navigate challenging environmental conditions and protect yields.

Scott Kay, Vice President- US Agricultural Solutions

Driving Innovation for Farmers' Futures   Scott shared BASF's ambitious pipeline, which includes launching 20 new crop protection products and introducing several new soybean varieties by 2030. With $3 million invested daily in research and development, BASF is committed to addressing farmers' immediate and long-term challenges, such as managing weeds like waterhemp. The company's portfolio and pipeline reflect this dedication to empowering growers with effective solutions.

Scott also introduced the Real Results Yield Challenge, aimed at encouraging farmers to adopt new practices. With over 115 million unprotected corn and soybean acres in the US, products like Veltyma, Revytek, and Revylok offer transformative potential. The challenge inspires growers to explore innovative strategies, ensuring sustainable productivity for the years ahead.