Corn seeds more expensive in 2023: cause & availability

We are seeing unprecedented price increases and delivery problems in many sectors and product groups. Causes include corona, the war in Ukraine, energy and transport problems and inflation. We are confronted with the consequences almost every day. Unfortunately, the maize seed sector cannot escape the upward price spiral either.

And there is also a problem, namely a severely disappointing seed production in 2022. We explain below why this is and why it is best to order on time.

Low stocks and difficulties in securing production
Stocks of maize seeds have been steadily declining in recent years. This is due to the higher demand and the difficulties to sow sufficient seed propagation. Finding hectares for maize seed production was made difficult by the war in Ukraine - an important production region.

Due to the increased costs and higher payments for production, it was already clear in May-June that the price for a bag of corn in 2023 would be considerably higher. At that time, the mood about the availability of all varieties was still positive.

Heat during flowering is detrimental to corn seed production
That positive mood took a big hit during the summer. In almost all production regions, the summer was not only remarkably dry but also extremely warm. The heat periods during flowering have in some cases had a catastrophic impact on spadix fertilization. At the observed temperatures above 40°C, the pollen before fertilization becomes almost sterile, resulting in very poor grain setting.

The organization of seed breeders in France therefore spoke of historically low seed productions in September (estimation was 76% of the intended target). And in Eastern Europe that was sometimes much lower. The maize seed companies are also confronted with quality outages and inappropriate grain sizes. All this leads to a further price increase and problems in terms of availability.

What does this mean for you and for the moment of ordering? 
The increased production costs in combination with the failed seed harvest is causing an unprecedented price increase for corn seeds. It is expected that there will still be just enough supply in general. But if you want to be sure of the desired varieties for the company, it is advisable to order in time. 

It is clear that there will be insufficient stock of many known, tested and popular varieties. Ordering on time assures you of the corn varieties you want (if they are available and not sold out yet). The longer you wait to order, the greater the chance that you will have to switch to maize varieties that you are not familiar with or that have not been tested sufficiently here.

Sowing the right varieties is a first step for successful forage and grain production!

We hope to have informed you as well as possible. If you would like more information, please contact your trusted seed supplier.