Alexander, Iowa – Yield may be the number that gets the most attention at harvest, but Latham Hi-Tech Seeds says understanding why products perform the way they do can provide even greater value to farmers.

Through research and demonstration trials, Latham studies how genetics interact with different environments and management practices to help farmers make more informed product placement and crop management decisions.

“Yield is always important, but a yield number alone doesn’t tell the whole story,” said John Latham, third-generation seedsman with Latham Hi-Tech Seeds. “We want to understand why products respond differently and use what we learn to help farmers put the right genetics on the right acres.”

Research at Latham’s Premier Agronomy Center has included studies and demonstrations involving hybrid response to population, planting depth, Iron Deficiency Chlorosis (IDC), biologicals, planting dates, cover crops, no-till and continuous corn.

Latham also evaluates products across multiple locations and environments to better understand their strengths and determine where they may perform best.

That approach is especially important as farmers manage increasingly complex product and management decisions.

“Different fields have different challenges, and every growing season brings something we can’t predict,” Latham said. “Research helps us better understand those differences so we can provide farmers with more than a product. We can provide information that helps them make decisions with confidence.”

Insights from Latham research are used to refine product placement recommendations, support agronomic education and identify new questions for future trials.

For more information about Latham Hi-Tech Seeds research and agronomic resources, visit LathamSeeds.com.

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Since 1947, Latham Seeds has been committed to delivering seed products in corn, soybeans and alfalfa that are field-tested, proven on the farm and trusted by farmers. By combining localized product research, personal service and a deep passion for rural communities, Latham Seeds helps farmers maximize their yield potential — one field at a time. Learn more at www.lathamseeds.com. Latham and Latham Hi-Tech Seeds are trademarks of M.S. Technologies, L.L.C.

That’s exactly what Latham Seeds Dealers and customers had the opportunity to do during our annual Premier Agronomy Day in Alexander, Iowa.

The event brings growers together with Latham’s sales and agronomy teams for an up-close look at corn and soybean products growing in our plots. It’s a chance to see product performance firsthand, ask questions and hear what our team is seeing across Latham Country.

Seeing Performance in the Field

Throughout the day, John Latham and members of the Latham sales and agronomy teams led groups through the plots, sharing observations about products in the current lineup and discussing considerations for the seasons ahead.

Regional Sales Managers Daniel and Jacob highlighted soybean varieties showing strong potential — including a few they jokingly described as “yield hogs.”

Justin took the conversation below ground with a discussion about seed treatments. Growers can easily see what’s happening above the soil, but many of the threats facing a young plant are hidden underground. That makes choosing the right seed treatment an important part of protecting yield potential from the very beginning.

And in the corn plots, John highlighted one of Latham’s longtime “big gun” hybrids — a proven product that has continued to earn its place in the lineup through consistent performance.

More Than a Plot Tour

Premier Agronomy Day is about more than looking at individual products. It gives Dealers and customers an opportunity to talk directly with the people who evaluate, select and recommend Latham products — and to learn from one another.

Those conversations become especially valuable as harvest approaches and growers begin thinking about product decisions for another season.

After the plot tours wrapped up, attendees gathered for lunch and more conversation — an annual tradition that reflects something important about how Latham does business.

As a third-generation seed company, we believe strong relationships and local knowledge matter. Getting together in the field gives us another opportunity to listen, learn and share what we’re seeing so Latham Dealers can help growers put the right products on the right acres.

Because sometimes the best place to prepare for next season is standing in this season’s field.

White mold has an annoying habit of making itself obvious when there’s not much you can do about it.

By the time its telltale white, cottony growth appears on soybean stems, infection has already occurred. And because the sclerotia that carry the fungus can survive in the soil for years, a field with a history of white mold deserves extra attention long before symptoms appear.

That’s why managing white mold isn’t just about reacting to what you see in the field. It’s about building a plan before the next crop goes in.

Know Where You’re at Risk

Cool, wet conditions and moisture within a dense soybean canopy can create favorable conditions for white mold development. Fields with a history of the disease deserve particular attention when planning for the next growing season.

Good field notes are a great place to start. Record where white mold appeared, how severely different varieties were affected and the field conditions where pressure was greatest.

Then use that information when making next year’s seed decisions.

Build Defense into Your Seed Selection

Variety selection is one of the most important tools farmers have for managing white mold risk.

Look closely at white mold ratings and other defensive characteristics when selecting soybeans for fields with a known history of disease. Latham’s 2027 soybean lineup includes varieties with strong white mold tolerance, including new K-Class products that combine top-end yield potential with the defensive characteristics needed across Latham Country.

Your Latham® Dealer can help evaluate options and match soybean products to the disease history, soils and management practices of each field.

Add Another Layer with SoyShield Ultra

Seed treatment provides another opportunity to build protection into your plan before planting.

Latham SoyShield Ultra brings several components together in one treatment package, including HeadsUp® for Sudden Death Syndrome (SDS) and soybean white mold suppression. It also includes an increased rate of mefenoxam compared to SoyShield Plus, BIOST for nematode and insect protection, and Amplifyr to support early-season plant growth.

In other words, SoyShield Ultra isn’t just about white mold. It’s designed to give soybeans broader protection against several of the disease and pest pressures farmers face across the Upper Midwest.

And that’s an important distinction: there isn’t one silver bullet for white mold.

The better approach is to layer management decisions — knowing your field history, selecting varieties with the right defensive package, using appropriate seed treatment and continuing to scout throughout the season.

Start Planning Now

If you’re seeing white mold in your fields this season, don’t just make a mental note and move on.

Document it. Talk about it with your Latham Dealer. And use what you’re seeing today to make a stronger plan for 2027.

You can’t control what Mother Nature delivers next season. But you can make decisions now that help your soybeans stand up to the pressure.

Talk with your local Latham Dealer about soybean selection and whether SoyShield Ultra is a good fit for your acres.

In 1947, Willard Latham saw oat smut reducing yields for farmers near Alexander, Iowa. He installed a grain cleaner in his granary to help improve the seed his neighbors were planting—and a family seed business was born.

Agriculture has changed dramatically since then. Genetics have advanced. Trait technologies have expanded. Farming operations have grown more sophisticated.

But one thing hasn’t changed at Latham: farmers remain at the center of what we do.

That commitment comes to life in our new 2027 Product Guide, featuring what Latham President John Latham calls the strongest portfolio the company has ever offered.

More Choices for Every Acre

No two farms are exactly alike. Neither are the acres within them.

That’s why Latham continues to build a diverse portfolio with multiple genetic backgrounds, trait technologies and maturity options. We believe farmers deserve choices—not one-size-fits-all recommendations.

Our 2027 corn lineup includes products ranging from early to full-season maturities, with conventional and traited options designed for a wide variety of yield environments and management practices.

The soybean lineup includes exciting new K-Class products selected for strong yield potential and defensive characteristics, along with proven technologies and maturities suited for farmers throughout Latham Country.

Livestock producers will also find industry-leading alfalfa options designed to meet the demands of today’s forage production systems.

Research That Starts at the Farm

Products don’t earn a place in the Latham lineup based on a spreadsheet alone.

Our research process includes replicated Elite Trials across different soil types and growing environments, farmer-planted Showcase Plots and Training in Excellence (T.I.E.) plots throughout Latham Country.

Those trials help our product team evaluate performance, identify strengths and determine where each product fits best.

Just as important is the feedback we receive from Latham Dealers and farmers. Their experience helps shape not only which products make the lineup, but how we recommend placing them.

Because at Latham, research has always started at the farm.

Farmer Focused Since 1947

The release of the 2027 Product Guide begins an especially meaningful year for Latham.

As America celebrates 250 years of independence, Latham is celebrating 80 years of serving farmers.

Both milestones remind us of values that have shaped generations of American agriculture: hard work, perseverance, innovation and the freedom to choose your own path.

Being Farmer Focused means giving farmers the options, information and support to make those choices with confidence.

Products and technologies will continue to change. Farming practices will evolve. New challenges will emerge.

But after 80 years, our commitment remains the same.

Farmer Focused. Then. Now. Always.

Ready to see what’s new for 2027?

Explore the complete 2027 Latham Hi-Tech Seeds Product Guide.

Alexander, Iowa – Latham Seeds has released its 2027 Product Guide, featuring a diverse corn, soybean and alfalfa portfolio as the Iowa-based seed company begins celebrating its 80th anniversary.

Founded by Willard and Evelyn Latham on their family farm near Alexander in 1947, Latham has grown into a regional seed company serving farmers throughout the Upper Midwest. While agriculture has changed dramatically during those eight decades, John Latham says the company’s focus has remained the same.

“Much has changed over the past 80 years, but one thing has remained constant: our commitment to helping farmers succeed,” Latham says. “I believe our 2027 lineup is the strongest portfolio we’ve ever offered.”

Highlights include:

• New K-Class soybean products combining strong yield potential with defensive characteristics.
• An expanded corn portfolio featuring multiple genetic backgrounds, trait technologies and conventional options.
• Corn products ranging from early to full-season maturities for farms across Latham Country.
• Industry-leading alfalfa genetics designed for the demands of today’s livestock producers.

Products are evaluated through Latham’s extensive research program, including replicated Elite Trials, farmer-planted Showcase Plots and Training in Excellence (T.I.E.) plots throughout the region. Farmer and dealer feedback also helps guide product selection and placement recommendations.

“We believe farmers deserve choices,” Latham says. “Our job is to provide the products, information and support they need to make the decisions that are right for their farms.”

The 2027 Product Guide also celebrates Latham’s Farmer Focused roots as the company marks 80 years in business alongside America’s 250th anniversary.

View the complete 2027 Latham Hi-Tech Seeds Product Guide here.

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Since 1947, Latham Seeds has been committed to delivering seed products in corn, soybeans and alfalfa that are field-tested, proven on the farm and trusted by farmers. By combining localized product research, personal service and a deep passion for rural communities, Latham Seeds helps farmers maximize their yield potential — one field at a time. Learn more at www.lathamseeds.com. Latham and Latham Hi-Tech Seeds are trademarks of M.S. Technologies, L.L.C.

New hybrids, diverse mix of genetics and trait platforms give upper midwest farmers more options for 2027

Alexander, Iowa — August 1, 2026 — Latham Hi-Tech Seeds is introducing its 2027 corn lineup, featuring new hybrids and a diverse mix of genetics and trait platforms designed to give Upper Midwest farmers more options for managing risk and maximizing performance.

The 2027 portfolio includes PowerCore® Enlist®, conventional, Trecepta®, VT Double PRO®, SmartStax® and SmartStax® PRO hybrids across multiple genetic backgrounds.

“Diversity has always been an important part of how we build our corn portfolio,” said John Latham, third-generation seedsman with Latham Hi-Tech Seeds. “Different fields have different challenges, and every growing season brings something we can’t predict. Having access to multiple genetic backgrounds and trait platforms allows us to recommend products based on what fits a farmer’s acres.”

Latham’s independent position allows the family-owned seed company to offer technologies from multiple providers, creating a balanced portfolio across maturities, agronomic characteristics and management needs.

The 2027 lineup builds on proven performers while adding new PowerCore, Trecepta and SmartStax PRO hybrids. New additions include:

• LH 3586 PCE — A new PowerCore hybrid for Latham’s northern growing area, combining strong yield potential, late-season intactness and adaptability across environments.
• Latham E481-G — A new GT hybrid with excellent stalks and roots, strong yield potential and good drought stress tolerance.
• LH 5128 SS PRO — Designed for challenging corn-on-corn acres, with excellent stalk strength, good roots and late-season intactness.
• LH 6126 PCE — A high-yielding PowerCore hybrid with a strong disease package, kernel depth and test weight that pairs well with proven LH 6226 PCE.

“We often compare building a seed lineup to building a diversified investment portfolio,” Latham said. “You don’t want everything riding on one approach. Genetic and trait diversity gives farmers more ways to spread risk across their acres while positioning themselves to capture yield opportunity.”

Latham’s 2027 corn lineup is available through Latham Dealers across the Upper Midwest.

For more information or to find a Latham Seeds dealer near you, visit www.lathamseeds.com.

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Since 1947, Latham Seeds has been committed to delivering seed products in corn, soybeans and alfalfa that are field-tested, proven on the farm and trusted by farmers. By combining localized product research, personal service and a deep passion for rural communities, Latham Seeds helps farmers maximize their yield potential — one field at a time. Learn more at www.lathamseeds.com. Latham and Latham Hi-Tech Seeds are trademarks of M.S. Technologies, L.L.C.

No two fields are exactly alike. Soil type, yield environment, cropping history and pest pressure can vary across an operation — which is why choosing seed shouldn’t necessarily mean choosing one product and planting it everywhere.

A strong seed plan starts with matching the right products to the right acres.

Latham’s corn and soybean lineups offer depth across a wide range of maturities, yield environments and productivity levels. That gives farmers and their Latham® Dealers the ability to build a package of products around the needs of an entire operation.

For example, farmers planting corn in the 99- to 103-day maturity range have several options with different strengths. LH 4986 PCE RA offers versatility and the ability to perform in tougher yield environments. LH 5106 PCE RA is built for offensive acres, while proven LH 5226 PCE RA combines top-end yield potential with the ability to handle tougher soils.

Fields with different management needs may call for another approach. For corn-on-corn acres where below-ground protection is important, Latham has added depth in the 101- to 105-day range with new LH 5128 SS PRO RIB, LH 5358 SS PRO RIB and LH 5418 SS PRO RIB, alongside LH 5578 SS PRO.

Product selection is only the first step

Product selection is only one part of building a plan for the season. Seed treatment can provide another layer of protection during the critical early stages of crop development.

SoyShield ULTRA brings several components together in one treatment package. It includes an increased rate of mefenoxam over SoyShield Plus; HeadsUp for Sudden Death Syndrome (SDS) and Soybean White Mold (SWM) suppression; BIOST for nematode and insect protection; and Amplifyr, a biostimulant designed to support early-season plant growth.

The goal is the same whether you’re selecting hybrids, soybean varieties or seed treatment: give each acre what it needs to get the season off to the strongest possible start.

As harvest approaches and you begin evaluating this year’s results and planning for next season, talk with your local Latham Dealer about building a seed package around your fields, your challenges and your yield goals.

Iowa State University Crop Marketing Specialist Chad Hart shares his outlook on today’s agricultural economy

At this year’s annual Dealer Kickoff, Dr. Hart gave an overview of the current corn and soybean markets, highlighting the factors shaping prices and profitability as farmers prepare for another growing season. While grain supplies remain strong, he noted that demand from exports, ethanol, soybean crush and renewable diesel continues to play an important role in supporting the market.

His message was clear: agriculture continues to evolve, and understanding the economic landscape is an important part of making informed decisions on the farm.

Hart also discussed current market trends, crop conditions and price projections, encouraging growers to keep a close eye on changing market conditions while planning for the future. As always, local conditions, management decisions and long-term planning remain key to making the most of every season.

Latham was honored to welcome Dr. Hart to Dealer Kickoff as he prepares for his upcoming retirement from Iowa State University. Throughout his career, he has helped countless farmers and agricultural professionals better understand the markets through research, education and practical insights.

Latham Seeds Unveils Next Generation K-Class Soybeans for 2027

New Lineup combines elite yield potential, Ironclad® defense and genetics tailored for Latham Country

Alexander, Iowa — July 30, 2026 —Latham Hi-Tech Seeds is raising the bar for soybean performance with the introduction of its new K-Class soybean lineup for the 2027 growing season.

Featuring 16 new soybean products, the K-Class lineup represents the next generation of Latham soybean genetics — combining exceptional yield potential with the strong defensive traits farmers need to perform across the diverse growing conditions of Latham Country. Five of the K-Class soybeans carry the Ironclad® designation, giving farmers added confidence through a package of defensive characteristics designed to help protect yield potential from planting through harvest.

“I’m especially excited about our 2027 lineup,” said third-generation seedsman John Latham. “Our new K-Class soybean products combine outstanding yield potential with strong defensive traits. It’s the strongest soybean portfolio we’ve ever offered to Latham customers.”

Built for today’s production challenges, K-Class soybeans deliver more than high yields. They’re tailor-made for the environments where Latham customers farm, combining offensive performance with the agronomic strength needed to help growers rest easy throughout the season.

Among the new lineup, Latham is especially excited about three standout K-Class varieties:

• L 1912 E3 is a new superstar that delivers outstanding yield potential with solid iron deficiency chlorosis (IDC) tolerance. This standout features the Rps 3a gene for Phytophthora root rot resistance and a defensive package that includes BSR, SDS and soybean white mold tolerance.
• L 2048 E3 has excellent stress tolerance and strong sudden death syndrome (SDS) protection. With lineage tracing back to proven performer L 1558 E3, this medium-tall variety delivers broad adaptability and is especially well suited for north central Iowa.
• L 2181 E3 offers exceptional yield potential backed by the Peking source of soybean cyst nematode (SCN) resistance, along with strong SDS and soybean white mold tolerance. Its attractive plant style, defensive characteristics and outstanding Iowa performance make it another exciting addition to the 2027 lineup.

“Every season presents new challenges,” Latham said. “Our goal is to continue bringing farmers the genetics that help them succeed, regardless of what the growing season delivers.”

For more information about the 2027 K-Class soybean lineup or to find a Latham Seeds dealer near you, visit www.lathamseeds.com.

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Since 1947, Latham Seeds has been committed to delivering seed products in corn, soybeans and alfalfa that are field-tested, proven on the farm and trusted by farmers. By combining localized product research, personal service and a deep passion for rural communities, Latham Seeds helps farmers maximize their yield potential — one field at a time. Learn more at www.lathamseeds.com. Latham and Latham Hi-Tech Seeds are trademarks of M.S. Technologies, L.L.C.

Rohe will work alongside brothers John Latham and Chris Latham to help guide the independent seed company into its next chapter—building on a legacy rooted in independence, innovation and a deep commitment to farmers. 

Rohe brings more than a decade of leadership experience at Latham, having joined the company in 2010 and most recently serving as Sales Manager. During her tenure, she has played a key role in strengthening Latham’s dealer network, supporting sustained growth and fostering a culture centered on teamwork, relationships and performance. 

“Amy has been instrumental in shaping our sales strategy and building strong relationships across our footprint,” said John Latham. “She understands our customers, our dealers and our values. Her leadership will help carry Latham forward while staying true to what has made us successful for nearly 80 years.” 

Rohe’s promotion reflects not only her leadership within the organization, but also the growing role of women in agriculture. At Latham, women continue to play a vital role in driving innovation, strengthening communities and supporting farmers across the industry. 

“Agriculture is built on relationships, resilience and a shared commitment to helping farmers succeed,” said Rohe. “I’m honored to step into this role and continue working alongside our team, our dealers and our customers to build on the strong foundation Latham has already established.” 

As Latham prepares to celebrate its 80th anniversary in 2027, the company remains focused on delivering high-performing products, expanding genetic diversity and maintaining its independence in an increasingly consolidated industry. 

“This is an exciting time for Latham,” said Chris Latham. “Amy’s leadership, combined with our team’s experience and our commitment to staying independent, positions us well for the future.” 

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Since 1947, Latham Seeds has been committed to delivering seed products in corn, soybeans and alfalfa that are field-tested, proven on the farm and trusted by farmers. By combining localized product research, personal service and a deep passion for rural communities, Latham Seeds helps farmers maximize their yield potential — one field at a time. Learn more at www.lathamseeds.com. Latham and Latham Hi-Tech Seeds are trademarks of M.S. Technologies, L.L.C.