Jim, that $12/ac difference only amounts to a little over 3 bu/ac. That is probably within the bounds of uncertainty for the trials and is about what I would expect. Both companies have good products and both have done well for us. They've also had a few memorable flops. The usual explanation is that it was simply the wrong kind of year for a particular number on this type of soil...etc., etc. And that was obviously correct. Abundantly correct.

In the past, we had several years to evaluate a variety and know where to place it. These days, varieties come and go at an incredible rate. One company, which I won't mention (Pioneer), has about a 1.5-year half-life for their numbers. I plant it once and like it...but next year there's something better they want me to try. Or I don't like it...and next year there's something better they want me to try.

Let's face it, all seed is above average. Only some is better. Usually.