b'Applying nitrogen to bare soil increases the risk of loss. These bacteria help cut waste by delivering nitrogen directly to the root zone, only when and where its needed.In-furrow or side-dress applications wont cancel out the benefits. These microbes are designed to fix nitrogen regardless of soil conditions, making them a reliable supplement rather than a competing source.Whats Next for Seed InnovationWe saw the ability to replace up to 35 pounds of nitrogenWith nitrogen regulations tightening and fertilizer costs on the early in the season, and around 25 pounds by the VT-R1 stage,rise, gene-edited microbes are poised to become a cornerstone he says. The yield responses were very consistentabout fourof seed development. They offer a biological solution that aligns bushels per acre at intermediate nitrogen rates. with both economic and environmental priorities.Plants begin determining yield potential during early vegeta- As seed companies look to redefine nitrogen strategies, micro-tive stages long before ears appear. The gene-edited microbesbial partnerships can lead the way. For developers pushing toward provide a continuous, slow-release source of nitrogen during thisbetter performance and greater sustainability, Woodwardss critical window. gene-edited microbes are worth a closer look.SWConsistent nitrogen being fed to the plants can result in better plant health and a better opportunity for those corn hybrids to reach full yield potential, Woodward explains.Stronger Start, Smoother FinishAs plants transition from vegetative growth to reproduction, their energy is redirected toward filling grain. By that time, treated plants already have more biomass and stronger energy reserves, which can support better seed set and fill.Built-In SustainabilityIncorporating nitrogen-fixing microbes into seed coatings offers seed developers a new advantage. These products reduce dependence on synthetic fertilizers and fit into existing grower programs without requiring management overhauls.The science suggests they can replace 35 to 40 pounds of applied nitrogen.We recommend reducing nitrogen from your most inef-ficient applications first, Woodward notes. Things like fall-applied anhydrous or weed-and-feed passesapplications where youre putting down nitrogen when the crop isnt even there yet.A single corn seed holds big potentialengineered microbes may soon help it access nitrogen more efficiently, starting from the moment its planted.PHOTO: LOGAN WOODWARD.10/ SEEDWORLD.COMSEPTEMBER 2025'