MEMPHIS, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — Helena Products Group is giving growers an inside look at the future of crop technology through its annual Evolve Innovation Expo, an event designed to showcase new products and connect farmers with the company’s research and development efforts.
Greg Smith, Helena’s Director of Brand Innovation and Development, joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to discuss the event and what growers can expect from the company’s innovation pipeline.
In his interview with RFD News, Smith described the Evolve Innovation Expo as Helena’s “R&D Super Bowl,” saying the company spends months preparing for the annual event. He said the expo provides a unique opportunity to bring growers, agronomists, and retail partners together to see new technologies in the field firsthand.
He noted that seeing products perform under real-world conditions is often more valuable than reading about them, making the event an important educational experience for both customers and Helena employees.
Smith said Helena’s research and development process is driven largely by grower feedback. He explained that many new product ideas originate from conversations between farmers and Helena sales representatives, who identify agronomic challenges that require new solutions.
Once a concept is submitted, Helena evaluates whether the product can be successfully formulated before advancing it through multiple years of research and field testing. Smith said new products must demonstrate a clear return on investment before they are brought to market.
Looking ahead, Smith highlighted several technologies currently in Helena’s development pipeline. Among them is Sinister Nexus, a pre-emergence soybean herbicide featuring three modes of action designed to improve early-season control of grasses and broadleaf weeds, particularly as herbicide resistance continues to challenge producers.
He also pointed to a biological product called SEMO, a concentrated seaweed extract developed to support plant health, strengthen cell walls, and help crops better manage environmental stress throughout the growing season.
Smith said Helena remains focused on developing practical technologies that address the challenges growers face while delivering measurable value in the field.
LEARN MORE: www.helenaagri.com
