Alexander, Iowa – Yield may be the number that gets the most attention at harvest, but Latham Hi-Tech Seeds says understanding why products perform the way they do can provide even greater value to farmers.

Through research and demonstration trials, Latham studies how genetics interact with different environments and management practices to help farmers make more informed product placement and crop management decisions.

“Yield is always important, but a yield number alone doesn’t tell the whole story,” said John Latham, third-generation seedsman with Latham Hi-Tech Seeds. “We want to understand why products respond differently and use what we learn to help farmers put the right genetics on the right acres.”

Research at Latham’s Premier Agronomy Center has included studies and demonstrations involving hybrid response to population, planting depth, Iron Deficiency Chlorosis (IDC), biologicals, planting dates, cover crops, no-till and continuous corn.

Latham also evaluates products across multiple locations and environments to better understand their strengths and determine where they may perform best.

That approach is especially important as farmers manage increasingly complex product and management decisions.

“Different fields have different challenges, and every growing season brings something we can’t predict,” Latham said. “Research helps us better understand those differences so we can provide farmers with more than a product. We can provide information that helps them make decisions with confidence.”

Insights from Latham research are used to refine product placement recommendations, support agronomic education and identify new questions for future trials.

For more information about Latham Hi-Tech Seeds research and agronomic resources, visit LathamSeeds.com.

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Since 1947, Latham Seeds has been committed to delivering seed products in corn, soybeans and alfalfa that are field-tested, proven on the farm and trusted by farmers. By combining localized product research, personal service and a deep passion for rural communities, Latham Seeds helps farmers maximize their yield potential — one field at a time. Learn more at www.lathamseeds.com. Latham and Latham Hi-Tech Seeds are trademarks of M.S. Technologies, L.L.C.

That’s exactly what Latham Seeds Dealers and customers had the opportunity to do during our annual Premier Agronomy Day in Alexander, Iowa.

The event brings growers together with Latham’s sales and agronomy teams for an up-close look at corn and soybean products growing in our plots. It’s a chance to see product performance firsthand, ask questions and hear what our team is seeing across Latham Country.

Seeing Performance in the Field

Throughout the day, John Latham and members of the Latham sales and agronomy teams led groups through the plots, sharing observations about products in the current lineup and discussing considerations for the seasons ahead.

Regional Sales Managers Daniel and Jacob highlighted soybean varieties showing strong potential — including a few they jokingly described as “yield hogs.”

Justin took the conversation below ground with a discussion about seed treatments. Growers can easily see what’s happening above the soil, but many of the threats facing a young plant are hidden underground. That makes choosing the right seed treatment an important part of protecting yield potential from the very beginning.

And in the corn plots, John highlighted one of Latham’s longtime “big gun” hybrids — a proven product that has continued to earn its place in the lineup through consistent performance.

More Than a Plot Tour

Premier Agronomy Day is about more than looking at individual products. It gives Dealers and customers an opportunity to talk directly with the people who evaluate, select and recommend Latham products — and to learn from one another.

Those conversations become especially valuable as harvest approaches and growers begin thinking about product decisions for another season.

After the plot tours wrapped up, attendees gathered for lunch and more conversation — an annual tradition that reflects something important about how Latham does business.

As a third-generation seed company, we believe strong relationships and local knowledge matter. Getting together in the field gives us another opportunity to listen, learn and share what we’re seeing so Latham Dealers can help growers put the right products on the right acres.

Because sometimes the best place to prepare for next season is standing in this season’s field.

In 1947, Willard Latham saw oat smut reducing yields for farmers near Alexander, Iowa. He installed a grain cleaner in his granary to help improve the seed his neighbors were planting—and a family seed business was born.

Agriculture has changed dramatically since then. Genetics have advanced. Trait technologies have expanded. Farming operations have grown more sophisticated.

But one thing hasn’t changed at Latham: farmers remain at the center of what we do.

That commitment comes to life in our new 2027 Product Guide, featuring what Latham President John Latham calls the strongest portfolio the company has ever offered.

More Choices for Every Acre

No two farms are exactly alike. Neither are the acres within them.

That’s why Latham continues to build a diverse portfolio with multiple genetic backgrounds, trait technologies and maturity options. We believe farmers deserve choices—not one-size-fits-all recommendations.

Our 2027 corn lineup includes products ranging from early to full-season maturities, with conventional and traited options designed for a wide variety of yield environments and management practices.

The soybean lineup includes exciting new K-Class products selected for strong yield potential and defensive characteristics, along with proven technologies and maturities suited for farmers throughout Latham Country.

Livestock producers will also find industry-leading alfalfa options designed to meet the demands of today’s forage production systems.

Research That Starts at the Farm

Products don’t earn a place in the Latham lineup based on a spreadsheet alone.

Our research process includes replicated Elite Trials across different soil types and growing environments, farmer-planted Showcase Plots and Training in Excellence (T.I.E.) plots throughout Latham Country.

Those trials help our product team evaluate performance, identify strengths and determine where each product fits best.

Just as important is the feedback we receive from Latham Dealers and farmers. Their experience helps shape not only which products make the lineup, but how we recommend placing them.

Because at Latham, research has always started at the farm.

Farmer Focused Since 1947

The release of the 2027 Product Guide begins an especially meaningful year for Latham.

As America celebrates 250 years of independence, Latham is celebrating 80 years of serving farmers.

Both milestones remind us of values that have shaped generations of American agriculture: hard work, perseverance, innovation and the freedom to choose your own path.

Being Farmer Focused means giving farmers the options, information and support to make those choices with confidence.

Products and technologies will continue to change. Farming practices will evolve. New challenges will emerge.

But after 80 years, our commitment remains the same.

Farmer Focused. Then. Now. Always.

Ready to see what’s new for 2027?

Explore the complete 2027 Latham Hi-Tech Seeds Product Guide.

Alexander, Iowa – Latham Seeds has released its 2027 Product Guide, featuring a diverse corn, soybean and alfalfa portfolio as the Iowa-based seed company begins celebrating its 80th anniversary.

Founded by Willard and Evelyn Latham on their family farm near Alexander in 1947, Latham has grown into a regional seed company serving farmers throughout the Upper Midwest. While agriculture has changed dramatically during those eight decades, John Latham says the company’s focus has remained the same.

“Much has changed over the past 80 years, but one thing has remained constant: our commitment to helping farmers succeed,” Latham says. “I believe our 2027 lineup is the strongest portfolio we’ve ever offered.”

Highlights include:

• New K-Class soybean products combining strong yield potential with defensive characteristics.
• An expanded corn portfolio featuring multiple genetic backgrounds, trait technologies and conventional options.
• Corn products ranging from early to full-season maturities for farms across Latham Country.
• Industry-leading alfalfa genetics designed for the demands of today’s livestock producers.

Products are evaluated through Latham’s extensive research program, including replicated Elite Trials, farmer-planted Showcase Plots and Training in Excellence (T.I.E.) plots throughout the region. Farmer and dealer feedback also helps guide product selection and placement recommendations.

“We believe farmers deserve choices,” Latham says. “Our job is to provide the products, information and support they need to make the decisions that are right for their farms.”

The 2027 Product Guide also celebrates Latham’s Farmer Focused roots as the company marks 80 years in business alongside America’s 250th anniversary.

View the complete 2027 Latham Hi-Tech Seeds Product Guide here.

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Since 1947, Latham Seeds has been committed to delivering seed products in corn, soybeans and alfalfa that are field-tested, proven on the farm and trusted by farmers. By combining localized product research, personal service and a deep passion for rural communities, Latham Seeds helps farmers maximize their yield potential — one field at a time. Learn more at www.lathamseeds.com. Latham and Latham Hi-Tech Seeds are trademarks of M.S. Technologies, L.L.C.

New hybrids, diverse mix of genetics and trait platforms give upper midwest farmers more options for 2027

Alexander, Iowa — August 1, 2026 — Latham Hi-Tech Seeds is introducing its 2027 corn lineup, featuring new hybrids and a diverse mix of genetics and trait platforms designed to give Upper Midwest farmers more options for managing risk and maximizing performance.

The 2027 portfolio includes PowerCore® Enlist®, conventional, Trecepta®, VT Double PRO®, SmartStax® and SmartStax® PRO hybrids across multiple genetic backgrounds.

“Diversity has always been an important part of how we build our corn portfolio,” said John Latham, third-generation seedsman with Latham Hi-Tech Seeds. “Different fields have different challenges, and every growing season brings something we can’t predict. Having access to multiple genetic backgrounds and trait platforms allows us to recommend products based on what fits a farmer’s acres.”

Latham’s independent position allows the family-owned seed company to offer technologies from multiple providers, creating a balanced portfolio across maturities, agronomic characteristics and management needs.

The 2027 lineup builds on proven performers while adding new PowerCore, Trecepta and SmartStax PRO hybrids. New additions include:

• LH 3586 PCE — A new PowerCore hybrid for Latham’s northern growing area, combining strong yield potential, late-season intactness and adaptability across environments.
• Latham E481-G — A new GT hybrid with excellent stalks and roots, strong yield potential and good drought stress tolerance.
• LH 5128 SS PRO — Designed for challenging corn-on-corn acres, with excellent stalk strength, good roots and late-season intactness.
• LH 6126 PCE — A high-yielding PowerCore hybrid with a strong disease package, kernel depth and test weight that pairs well with proven LH 6226 PCE.

“We often compare building a seed lineup to building a diversified investment portfolio,” Latham said. “You don’t want everything riding on one approach. Genetic and trait diversity gives farmers more ways to spread risk across their acres while positioning themselves to capture yield opportunity.”

Latham’s 2027 corn lineup is available through Latham Dealers across the Upper Midwest.

For more information or to find a Latham Seeds dealer near you, visit www.lathamseeds.com.

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Since 1947, Latham Seeds has been committed to delivering seed products in corn, soybeans and alfalfa that are field-tested, proven on the farm and trusted by farmers. By combining localized product research, personal service and a deep passion for rural communities, Latham Seeds helps farmers maximize their yield potential — one field at a time. Learn more at www.lathamseeds.com. Latham and Latham Hi-Tech Seeds are trademarks of M.S. Technologies, L.L.C.

Latham Seeds Unveils Next Generation K-Class Soybeans for 2027

New Lineup combines elite yield potential, Ironclad® defense and genetics tailored for Latham Country

Alexander, Iowa — July 30, 2026 —Latham Hi-Tech Seeds is raising the bar for soybean performance with the introduction of its new K-Class soybean lineup for the 2027 growing season.

Featuring 16 new soybean products, the K-Class lineup represents the next generation of Latham soybean genetics — combining exceptional yield potential with the strong defensive traits farmers need to perform across the diverse growing conditions of Latham Country. Five of the K-Class soybeans carry the Ironclad® designation, giving farmers added confidence through a package of defensive characteristics designed to help protect yield potential from planting through harvest.

“I’m especially excited about our 2027 lineup,” said third-generation seedsman John Latham. “Our new K-Class soybean products combine outstanding yield potential with strong defensive traits. It’s the strongest soybean portfolio we’ve ever offered to Latham customers.”

Built for today’s production challenges, K-Class soybeans deliver more than high yields. They’re tailor-made for the environments where Latham customers farm, combining offensive performance with the agronomic strength needed to help growers rest easy throughout the season.

Among the new lineup, Latham is especially excited about three standout K-Class varieties:

• L 1912 E3 is a new superstar that delivers outstanding yield potential with solid iron deficiency chlorosis (IDC) tolerance. This standout features the Rps 3a gene for Phytophthora root rot resistance and a defensive package that includes BSR, SDS and soybean white mold tolerance.
• L 2048 E3 has excellent stress tolerance and strong sudden death syndrome (SDS) protection. With lineage tracing back to proven performer L 1558 E3, this medium-tall variety delivers broad adaptability and is especially well suited for north central Iowa.
• L 2181 E3 offers exceptional yield potential backed by the Peking source of soybean cyst nematode (SCN) resistance, along with strong SDS and soybean white mold tolerance. Its attractive plant style, defensive characteristics and outstanding Iowa performance make it another exciting addition to the 2027 lineup.

“Every season presents new challenges,” Latham said. “Our goal is to continue bringing farmers the genetics that help them succeed, regardless of what the growing season delivers.”

For more information about the 2027 K-Class soybean lineup or to find a Latham Seeds dealer near you, visit www.lathamseeds.com.

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Since 1947, Latham Seeds has been committed to delivering seed products in corn, soybeans and alfalfa that are field-tested, proven on the farm and trusted by farmers. By combining localized product research, personal service and a deep passion for rural communities, Latham Seeds helps farmers maximize their yield potential — one field at a time. Learn more at www.lathamseeds.com. Latham and Latham Hi-Tech Seeds are trademarks of M.S. Technologies, L.L.C.

Rohe will work alongside brothers John Latham and Chris Latham to help guide the independent seed company into its next chapter—building on a legacy rooted in independence, innovation and a deep commitment to farmers. 

Rohe brings more than a decade of leadership experience at Latham, having joined the company in 2010 and most recently serving as Sales Manager. During her tenure, she has played a key role in strengthening Latham’s dealer network, supporting sustained growth and fostering a culture centered on teamwork, relationships and performance. 

“Amy has been instrumental in shaping our sales strategy and building strong relationships across our footprint,” said John Latham. “She understands our customers, our dealers and our values. Her leadership will help carry Latham forward while staying true to what has made us successful for nearly 80 years.” 

Rohe’s promotion reflects not only her leadership within the organization, but also the growing role of women in agriculture. At Latham, women continue to play a vital role in driving innovation, strengthening communities and supporting farmers across the industry. 

“Agriculture is built on relationships, resilience and a shared commitment to helping farmers succeed,” said Rohe. “I’m honored to step into this role and continue working alongside our team, our dealers and our customers to build on the strong foundation Latham has already established.” 

As Latham prepares to celebrate its 80th anniversary in 2027, the company remains focused on delivering high-performing products, expanding genetic diversity and maintaining its independence in an increasingly consolidated industry. 

“This is an exciting time for Latham,” said Chris Latham. “Amy’s leadership, combined with our team’s experience and our commitment to staying independent, positions us well for the future.” 

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Since 1947, Latham Seeds has been committed to delivering seed products in corn, soybeans and alfalfa that are field-tested, proven on the farm and trusted by farmers. By combining localized product research, personal service and a deep passion for rural communities, Latham Seeds helps farmers maximize their yield potential — one field at a time. Learn more at www.lathamseeds.com. Latham and Latham Hi-Tech Seeds are trademarks of M.S. Technologies, L.L.C. 

Of these, “when to spray” may be the most critical decision a grower makes. Injury or stress to a young plant can have lasting effects that aren’t always visible to the naked eye. Understanding crop growth stages—and how they align with product label requirements—is essential for making sound application decisions and protecting yield potential. Let’s start with corn.  

Corn Growth Stages and Application Timing 

Herbicide and crop protection labels typically reference growth stages when outlining application timing. The corn growth stage chart is an excellent resource for understanding these stages.  

VE (Emergence) occurs when the coleoptile reaches and breaks through the soil surface. Corn generally requires about 100–200 growing degree units (GDUs) to emerge, which can take as little as four to five days after planting under warm, moist conditions. During this time, growth is also occurring below ground as the nodal root system begins to develop. 

Emergence can be rapid in favorable soil conditions but may take three weeks or longer in cooler soils. Early in the season, a new leaf typically appears about every three days. As temperatures warm, leaf appearance can accelerate to one new leaf every one to two days. Full season hybrids grown in the central Corn Belt commonly produce 21–22 leaves, while earlier maturing hybrids produce fewer. 

These numbers are important to keep in mind as you plan your spray program. Under favorable conditions, corn can move from planting to the V5–V7 stage within a month. Missing application windows can happen quickly if fields aren’t monitored closely. 

Soybean Staging Considerations 

Soybeans add another layer of complexity, as plants within the same field rarely develop at the same pace. A soybean field is considered to be at a specific V or R stage when 50% or more of the plants are at or beyond that stage. Because of this variability, understanding soybean staging is critical when determining application timing. The soybean growth stage chart is a valuable reference when evaluating field conditions. 

A general rule of thumb is to expect about five days between soybean growth stages, although weather can speed this up or slow it down. One of the most critical stages to be aware of is R1, defined as one open flower at any node on the main stem. Soybean flowers are highly sensitive, and herbicide applications should be avoided at this stage whenever possible. 

R1 can begin before full canopy closure, which can tempt growers to make a final post emergence application. However, the risk at this stage often outweighs the reward. A strong pre-plant and early post program can greatly reduce the need for late season spraying, and a handful of late weed escapes is rarely worth the potential consequences of applying herbicides after flowering begins. 

We need to pay attention to emergence to maximize our yield that will be going into our bins this fall. We like to see everything come up within 24 hours of each other. Many studies have been conducted showing that plants that emerge on Day 2 of emergence can have a 10% yield loss compared to the first plants that emerged. Plants that come up on Day 3, the yield decrease can be close to 40% and those that emerge on Day 4 can have a yield loss of over 80%. The reason behind some of these yield losses is because those bigger brother corn plants will have the opportunity to take more water and nutrients away from the smaller brothers because they were able to get established sooner and they do not leave much for the runts to thrive on.  

It is so crucial that we make sure we are doing everything in our power to allow these corn plants to emerge at the same time. Are we going through our planters well before we hit the fields to make sure the disc openers and scrapers are in optimal condition? Are we making sure we are doing tillage and planting into optimal field conditions and not pushing soil moisture and soil temperature? Are we adding some sort of starter to help those plants get out of the ground easier? Are we looking at the closing systems on our planters to make sure we are closing the seed trench well? These are just a few things to be mindful of when we are thinking about emergence. Let’s get off to a good start and fill our bins with as many bushels as possible this fall.

Make it a great spring and be safe! 

While many factors affecting crop success are beyond our control, it’s important to manage the ones we can. Planting depth often gets a lot of attention, but it isn’t the only—or even the most important—factor in plant development. Soil conditions at planting are just as critical, if not more so. 

For a successful growing season, consider the following: 
Planting into wet soils or working ground that’s too wet can lead to sidewall smearing, compaction from disk openers, and seed trenches that don’t close properly. These issues can result in uneven emergence and seedling. Ideally, the top three to four inches of soil should be dry enough for proper planting conditions. 

Cold weather after planting can also stress corn during emergence and early growth. Aim to plant as early as conditions allow, ensuring that the first few days in the soil support proper kernel imbibition. If the forecast shows temperatures that are continuing to decrease, it would be best to delay planting until our forecasted temperatures are getting warmer, 2-3 days out.  

Finally, avoid reducing planting depth, as shallower placement often leads to lower yields and complications throughout the growing season and at harvest. In recent years, more growers have shifted toward planting fuller-season hybrids for their maturity zones and planting earlier to extend the growing season and maximize yield potential. Just be sure to prioritize optimal conditions when doing so. 

Happy Spring and Happy Planting Season! Good luck to everyone and remember to be safe!