Sugarbeet research improves Michigan’s yield and quality

The 2014 Michigan/Ontario Sugarbeet Research Reporting Session will feature 19 presentations highlighting current sugarbeet research.

Sugarbeet management practices have changed greatly in the last 15 years. Research on new production practices will continue in a steady stream for the foreseeable future. Keeping abreast of current research in sugarbeets is a key factor and will need to be sought out by managers of farm operations. Producers that don’t participate in educational events or study the latest research reports can rapidly fall behind, thus reducing profitability and competitiveness.

No sugarbeet producer in today’s competitive environment would think about planting the same variety as they did 10 years ago. The reason being genetics of varieties change yearly, incorporating high yield, improved sugar and increased disease resistance. This renders old varieties obsolete in as little as two to three years. The same can be said about new production practices that may enhance yields or reduce input cost.

A few recent examples for sugarbeets include research that has greatly improved Rhizoctonia root rot control, minimized cultivation and developed spray models for improved Cercospora leaf spot control. The results of some of this research has contributed to sugarbeet yield increases over the last 15 years of about three-fourths of a ton per year and also improved sugar content. Researchers are always looking for ways to improve production practices and efficiency.

In January 2014 the Research Educational Advisory Committee (REACh) Research Results will be printed and mailed to each sugarbeet producer. This 100-page report combines research from Michigan Sugar Company, Sugarbeet Advancement, Michigan State University Ag Bio Research, USDA and others. This document will take some time to study, but the time spent can be very profitable.

Sugar producers should also consider attending the Michigan/Ontario Sugarbeet Research Reporting Session. This program will include 19 researchers that present the latest production research related to sugarbeets. Each educational presentation will be 15 minutes long and this promises to be a fast moving program. This one-day event will be held on Jan. 30, 2014 at the Double Tree Hotel and Convention Center from 8:30 am.. to 3:30 p.m. in Bay City, Mich. Cost of the program will be $30 per individual and will cover lunch and materials. Registration is requested by calling the Michigan State University Extension Saginaw County office at 989-758-2500 or vanpopp8@anr.msu.edu

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