When selecting chemicals we must be aware of the pros and cons of generic versus brand name products.
It’s human nature to let our first thought be of only PRICE. Keeping our cost of production down is important, yet generic products are usually 3rd generation chemistries that no longer have a patent. On the other hand, brand name companies choose to improve products through continued research and development.
We need to compare apples to apples. Make sure that active ingredients in similar chemical products are the same so that the rates and the cost per acre reflect accuracy.
Although the quality of generic products is not usually an issue, once it is on a field there are no guarantees of any kind. Major brand name manufacturers provide support of their products in a variety of ways. Top Hat carries a full line of both brand name and generic chemicals. We support the use of either type, if they are evaluated and compared in a professional manner. Cost may, or may not, be an issue when you look at the whole picture.
The major manufacturers are the ones who provide the financing for research and development. We have to consider this, if we want continued improvement of our ag chemicals. The generic products can not, and will not, always be the answer.
In reflection, I wrote this to initiate conversation and thought among growers. It is not my intention to encourage the use of branded nor generic products.
Thank You and Have a Safe Season,
Stan Jones

We are proud to welcome Joe Reiman back to Top Hat after returning from his duties in the National Guard. The last year Joe has been serving our country overseas and we are glad he is safely home!
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"The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.” - Dolly Parton