New varieties feature improved disease resistance and adaptability to diverse production


Two new versatile alfalfa varieties from DuPont Pioneer, bred to thrive in high-stress environments or high-yielding irrigated production areas, will be available in western states for 2013.

Tested extensively by Pioneer researchers in university trials and on farms, Pioneer® brand alfalfa varieties 55Q27 and 55VR05 have been selected for disease resistance, adaptability to different cutting systems, winter weathering abilities, versatility and high-yield potential.
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"We recognize that a successful alfalfa variety needs to yield under various conditions and these new products help growers obtain high yields, while meeting individual agronomic needs," says Daniel Berning, DuPont Pioneer technical services manager, Lincoln, Neb.

Adapted for three-to-four cut and four-to-five cut systems, both products provide high-quality forage and maximum tonnage along with strong agronomic packages.

Both 55Q27 and 55VR05 alfalfa varieties are rated a five for dormancy, which allows the alfalfa plants to grow season-long and improve late-harvest yield potential. Each variety also shows resistance to key diseases, including verticillium wilt, bacterial wilt, Fusarium wilt and phytophthora root rot. 55Q27 is a conventional, broadly adapted variety with specific resistance to the pea aphid and spotted aphid.

55VR05, a medium multi-foliate variety, contains the Genuity® Roundup Ready® trait for additional weed control flexibility. This new variety carries a rating of high resistance for stem nematode. It is also winter-hardy and well-suited to western irrigated areas.

"Our extensive breeding research efforts behind these products should provide growers peace of mind that they have selected the right product for the right acre," Berning says. 55VR05 and 55Q27 will be available nationally in 2014. Contact your local Pioneer sales representative to learn more about Pioneer alfalfa varieties.

DuPont Pioneer is the world's leading developer and supplier of advanced plant genetics, providing high-quality seeds to farmers in more than 90 countries. Pioneer provides agronomic support and services to help increase farmer productivity and profitability and strives to develop sustainable agricultural systems for people everywhere. Science with Service Delivering Success™.

DuPont (NYSE: DD) has been bringing world-class science and engineering to the global marketplace in the form of innovative products, materials and services since 1802. The company believes that by collaborating with customers, governments, NGOs and thought leaders, we can help find solutions to such global challenges as providing enough healthy food for people everywhere, decreasing dependence on fossil fuels, and protecting life and the environment. For additional information about DuPont and its commitment to inclusive innovation, please visit www.dupont.com.

12.04.2012