What's Happening?
Bennett Musselman of Pickaway County, Ohio, has successfully increased soybean yields through the Take Cost Out Plot (TCOP) Program offered by Meristem Crop Performance. Despite facing the worst drought
in over a century in 2024, Musselman decided not to spread additional fertility ahead of his beans in 2025, relying instead on leftover fertilizer from the previous year. The Meristem side of the plot, treated with Hopper Throttle MaxStax Soybean and other Meristem products, outperformed the traditional side, yielding an average of 11 bushels more per acre. This resulted in a return on investment (ROI) of over $100 per acre, demonstrating the effectiveness of Meristem's products in enhancing soil health and reducing dependence on high salt fertilizers.
Why It's Important?
The success of Musselman Farms with Meristem Crop Performance highlights the potential for innovative agricultural practices to improve crop yields and profitability, even in challenging environmental conditions. By reducing reliance on traditional fertilizers, Musselman is advancing soil health goals, which are crucial for sustainable farming. This approach not only benefits the farm's bottom line but also contributes to environmental conservation efforts. The positive results may encourage other farmers to adopt similar strategies, potentially leading to broader changes in agricultural practices that prioritize sustainability and efficiency.
What's Next?
Following the successful results of the Meristem plot, Musselman plans to expand the use of Meristem products on more acres in 2026. This decision is driven by the high ROI and the compatibility of Meristem products with the farm's soil health objectives. As Musselman continues to integrate these products into his farming practices, it may set a precedent for other farmers seeking to enhance yields and profitability while maintaining environmental stewardship. The expansion could also lead to increased collaboration between Meristem and other agricultural stakeholders, fostering innovation in crop performance solutions.
Beyond the Headlines
The shift towards using Meristem products reflects a broader trend in agriculture towards sustainable practices that prioritize soil health and reduce environmental impact. Musselman's experience underscores the importance of adapting to changing climate conditions and finding solutions that balance productivity with ecological responsibility. This development may influence policy discussions on agricultural sustainability and encourage investment in research and development of eco-friendly farming technologies.
