Corteva announces new hybrid wheat for 2027

Corteva has announced a non-GMO hybrid technology for wheat that promises to increase productivity. According to the company, the technology stands out for its potential to increase production potential by 10%, using the same area and resources. Corteva plans to launch this new technology in the North American market in 2027.

The development of hybrid seeds for wheat is a milestone, especially considering the barriers that the crop has faced over the years in adopting such technologies. Unlike corn, which has benefited greatly from hybridization since the 1920s, wheat has faced challenges due to its production systems.

The hybrid wheat technology developed by Corteva also stands out for its resistance to drought. Information from the company indicates that tests carried out in environments with water stress have shown that hybrid wheat can generate up to 20% more productivity compared to elite varieties.

Sam Eathington, Corteva’s chief technology and digital officer, compared this advancement to Pioneer’s introduction of hybrid corn in the 1920s, which resulted in an average corn yield increase of more than 600 percent. According to Eathington, wheat is now on track to reap the same revolutionary benefits of hybridization.

According to the company, the new technology, unlike previous systems, has proven effective in 100% of the wheat germplasm tested.

Corteva's hybrid wheat is expected to begin being cultivated as Hard Red Winter wheat from 2027.