Understanding how a hybrid “builds” yield can provide essential insights into better managing those products for greater success. It can also reduce the risk of performance failures or at least improve performance. As we continue to research how hybrids respond to variable management practices, one lesson is becoming clear. Even when hybrids are misplaced or planted in the wrong environment, understanding how to manage them can help mitigate the effects of planting them in less-than-ideal field or soil conditions.

One of the new and unique methods Beck’s is employing to understand how a hybrid builds yield is through our Kernel Capture system. The proprietary technology includes mounted cameras on research combines; the cameras measure kernel size, width and depth. Our research team utilizes that information as well as other research data, artificial intelligence and unique algorithms – learning a great deal about the different ways hybrids build yield.

And as we continue our Product Characterization Research into hybrids, we observe significant variability in responses to inputs. Part of the research work focuses on fungicide timing. Given that hybrids increase yield primarily through kernel size, one would expect a late-season fungicide application containing the micronutrient boron might have a greater impact on kernel size. With that information, we can tailor our management practices to align with the hybrid’s preferred method for building yield.

Beck’s tested 20 new hybrids in 2025. We found that, in response to fungicide timing, eight hybrids had a larger response to a V8 application, while 12 had a larger response to an R1 application. That could be driven by the mechanism the plant uses to build yield. So a better understanding of that relationship can help us spend our dollars in ways that maximize the benefit of input by better matching it to the hybrid’s preferred method of building yield.

As we continue to conduct research and learn more about the hybrids planted on farms, we believe we can maximize performance without adding input costs. Performance can be maximized by matching hybrids with a best method or timing to apply those same inputs and increase yield.

Visit beckshybrids.com for more information.