However, variations in plant population don't significantly impact oil, starch and protein contents. If producers already practice sound management techniques, they won't notice much difference between growing conventional corn hybrids and TC Blend products. One unique consideration, however, is the use of a buffer to help optimize oil content. A buffer prevents lowered oil content caused by contamination of a TC Blend product with pollen from a conventional hybrid. Pioneer's research shows that oil content is reduced from about 7.0 percent at 60 feet of buffer to 5.5 percent with 10 feet of buffer distance from conventional hybrids.
Buffers can include alternative crops, waterways, roadways, etc.
In 1998, Pioneer also evaluated the herbicide tolerance of products in the high oil TopCross grain production system. Grain yield, crop response and synchrony of pollen shed and silking were evaluated. Results suggest herbicides from amide and sulfonylurea families can be used on TC Blend products following label guidelines without impacting yield or oil content. However, growth regulators or Balance2 herbicides should not be applied to TC Blend products, due to increased likelihood of injury. All herbicides are trademarks of their manufacturers.