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Corteva Agriscience Expert Warns 2026 Will Be Challenging, Urges Growers to Prioritize Pre-Emergence and Product Stewardship

Corteva Agriscience U.S. Crop Protection Technical Lead Dr. Eric Scherder tells Brownfield that 2026 is shaping up to be a challenging year for farmers across the country.

With tight margins and unpredictable growing conditions, Scherder says growers will need to make careful, strategic decisions. He notes that Corteva offers a broad portfolio of crop protection and seed products, giving farmers multiple options to tailor programs to their specific needs.

One key recommendation for 2026 is to prioritize strong pre-emergence herbicide programs. While some growers may be tempted to cut costs by scaling back early-season applications, Scherder cautions that skipping or reducing pre-emerge treatments can lead to higher weed pressure and greater expenses later in the season.

He also emphasizes the importance of proper stewardship when using fungicides, insecticides and herbicides. Responsible product use, including rotating modes of action and following labeled guidelines, will help preserve the effectiveness of these critical crop protection tools for years to come.

As farmers plan for the next growing season, Scherder encourages them to take a long-term approach—investing wisely upfront to protect yield potential and maintain sustainable weed and pest management strategies.

Conversation with Dr. Eric Scherder at 2026 Commodity Classic: