Disease

Tar Spot has been lurking in Midwest fields since 2015—and possibly even earlier by escaping detection. In five years, it has spread to eight states and decimated yield potential in its path.

“It’s important to remember 2019 had excess rainfall and high humidity. So, it was a prime environment for a lot of diseases, and with the increase in disease, we have a lot of inoculum in the soil” says Randy Kool

A recent discovery in Brazil shows that white mold, while typically just a problem for northern states, could take root in southern states—if this strain makes it to the U.S.

New gene editing tools could dramatically change how new seeds are developed and what traits can be brought to market, but Monsanto’s head of research says the industry must do a better job of explaining the tools.

New gene editing tools could dramatically change how new seeds are developed and what traits can be brought to market, but Monsanto’s head of research says the industry must do a better job of explaining the tools.