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PT_BR 
Farmer Fabiano Zilli, from the Colíder region in Mato Grosso, reported to Notícias Agrícolas the results obtained with the use of the Stay Up growth regulator, developed by Nitro, in commercial soybean areas. According to him, the technology helped control plant size, increase branching, and boost productivity, with yields exceeding 11 sacks per hectare in some varieties.
Fabiano cultivates approximately 1,520 hectares of soybeans and states that he began testing the product after encountering recurring lodging problems in highly fertile areas. During the interview, he explained how the tool became part of the farm's management and what changes he observed over the last few harvests.
Agricultural News: What motivated you to try Stay Up?
Fabiano Zilli: “We had been experiencing significant lodging issues in very fertile areas. We were looking for a tool that would help control plant size and improve branching. That's what motivated the tests.”
Agricultural News: And what were the first results observed in the field?
Fabiano Zilli: “When we started testing Stay Up, we noticed a reduction of up to 20 to 30 centimeters in plant height compared to the control. The soybeans became more structured, with a better profile and more branching.”
Agricultural News: How long did it take for the effects to start appearing visually?
Fabiano Zilli: “Within the first 24 to 48 hours, it was already possible to notice a change in the plants' color. After 15 to 20 days, the soybeans showed a shorter, stronger structure with more branching in the lower part of the plant. As a result, more light entered the field and the plant began to produce more pods.”
Agricultural News: How was the product applied in the management of the property?
Fabiano Zilli: “We applied it once, using a dose of 450 ml. The product was applied along with fungicides and insecticides between the V5 and V6 stages. We have been using it for three or four years and have never had any phytotoxicity problems. It is compatible with the chemicals normally used on the farm.”
Agricultural News: Did the product only help with the plant's architecture, or did it also have a productive impact?
Fabiano Zilli: “It also yielded productive results. This year we had an increase of just over 11 sacks per hectare in one of the materials. In other years we have recorded gains of five, eight and even ten sacks, depending on the area and weather conditions.”
Agricultural News: Does this performance vary according to the crop's productive potential?
Fabiano Zilli: "It varies quite a bit. In more fertile areas with greater productive potential, the response tends to be better. In rainier years, when the soybeans grow abundantly, the result is more pronounced."
Agricultural News: During periods of drought, did you adjust your management practices?
Fabiano Zilli: “Yes. When there was a lack of rain, we extended the use of the product a little. In some cases, we went from V5 to V7 or prioritized plots that were receiving more moisture. Each situation requires evaluation.”
Agricultural News: Was there a difference in the quality of the grains?
Fabiano Zilli: “We did notice a difference. In areas where the product wasn't applied, more problems related to plant stunting appeared, with moldy grains and anomalies. Where we used the product, the soybeans stood upright and received more sunlight, improving crop health.”
Agricultural News: Would you recommend this technology to other producers?
Fabiano Zilli: "Yes, I would recommend it. The producer needs to test it within the reality of the farm. In dry years, sometimes a smaller dose already delivers excellent results. In wetter years, it may be necessary to reinforce the management."
Agricultural News: Do you believe this type of management is likely to grow in the coming years?
Fabiano Zilli: “I believe so. Just as happened with cotton, I see that growth regulators tend to gain ground in soybeans. Those seeking high yields will likely adopt this type of tool.”
Agricultural News: What productivity levels are you currently achieving on the property?
Fabiano Zilli: "Today we are working with an average yield of close to 90 sacks per hectare across 1,500 hectares. We already have plots exceeding 100 sacks."
