New Pioneer^® brand 54H11 alfalfa offers greater standability

Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc., announces the introduction of a new lodging-resistant alfalfa variety, Pioneer^® brand 54H11.  This new variety offers greater standability and will be available for planting in spring 2004.

“Pioneer’s alfalfa breeding program is working to evaluate and solve specific troublesome production characteristics, and we know lodging, especially in first-cutting alfalfa, is a concern for growers,” says Gene Gengelbach, forages marketing manager for Pioneer in Johnston, Iowa.  “Lodging can occur with the heavy growth typical of first-cutting alfalfa and the problem is even greater if wet spring conditions exist.  With the introduction of 54H11, growers have an option that will allow them to reduce problems with lodged plants, yellowing and dropped leaves and the resulting yield losses.”

The improved standability of 54H11 gives growers more time to harvest a first cutting if field conditions are wet.  Greater standability also allows cleaner cutting because plants are upright during harvest.  A University of Wisconsin study shows that, on average, alfalfa yield decreases by approximately 0.1 ton dry matter/acre for each 1 inch of additional stubble height.

“Standability can be an issue in each alfalfa cutting, and the improved standability of 54H11 is something alfalfa growers can rely on all season long,” says Gengelbach.

Pioneer evaluated lodging scores of 54H11 compared to several elite commercially available alfalfa varieties from various companies.  Overall, 17 evaluations taken at 35- to 40-day cutting intervals were completed in Washington, Wisconsin and Iowa.   The standability score for 54H11 was above 90 percent in each evaluation, compared to standability scores of less than 30 percent for the other alfalfa varieties.  The comparisons were based on visual ratings.

Gengelbach adds that Pioneer research shows the overall quality and digestibility of 54H11 are similar to that of other varieties within the Pioneer product line.

For details on 54H11 or other Pioneer alfalfa varieties, growers should visit with their local provider of Pioneer brand products or visit www.pioneer.com.

Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc., a subsidiary of DuPont, is the world's leading source of customized solutions for farmers, livestock producers and grain and oilseed processors. With headquarters in Des Moines, Iowa, Pioneer provides access to advanced plant genetics, crop protection solutions and quality crop systems to customers in nearly 70 countries.  DuPont is a science company.  Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by solving problems and creating solutions that make people’s lives better, safer and easier.  Operating in more than 70 countries, the company offers a wide range of products and services to markets including agriculture, nutrition, electronics, communications, safety and protection, home and construction, transportation and apparel.

^® Trademark of Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc.