AGRONOSSO NEWS

Maracaju, Brazil – May 2025


At the heart of Brazil is agricultural innovation hub, Showtec 2025, Wintex Agro Brasil hosted a compelling podcast featuring Airton Correa, a key representative from Sementes Estrela — one of Brazil is most established seed companies, now celebrating its 50th anniversary. The conversation offered an insider is look at the evolution of seed technology and the future of high-performance agriculture in Brazil.

50 Years of Sementes Estrela: Tradition Meets Innovation

Founded in Rio Grande do Sul, Sementes Estrela has grown to command a significant share of the market in Mato Grosso do Sul, representing around 15–20% of the region soybean seed sector. Airton emphasized that while the company began with traditional values, it has continually embraced technological advancements to stay ahead. "Every year we work to understand the real needs of the farmer," he said. "This is what drives innovation in our cultivars."

Farmer-Centric Innovation

Airton stressed that the success of their seed development process comes from actively listening to farmers in the field. This user-first approach ensures that product development matches the real challenges producers face, from dealing with pests to coping with diverse soil and microclimate conditions.

“In Maracaju alone, we face four different microclimates,” Airton explained. “This makes listening to producers crucial, as one soybean variety may require multiple strategies depending on the terrain.”

Precision Seeds: Technology in Every Grain

A standout highlight of the podcast was the discussion of “Pérola Negra” (Black Pearl), Sementes Estrela is signature treated and “graphitized” seed line. This industrial seed coating not only improves seed handling and planting efficiency but also includes a controlled germination mechanism that depends on sufficient moisture — enhancing planting success rates.

Airton also introduced the company is “90+ Vigor” program, a pioneering initiative certifying seed lots with at least 90% vigor. “Every 2.5% increase in vigor can mean an additional bag of productivity per hectare,” he noted — a tangible metric that underscores the program is economic value.

Academy 360: Immersing the Industry in Seed Science

As part of their 50-year milestone, Sementes Estrela is organizing the second edition of “Academy 360” — an immersive event in Erechim, RS. This year, the event coincides with their anniversary and promises to educate and engage agronomists, consultants, and producers from across Brazil. Over 60 participants from Mato Grosso do Sul will join to deepen their understanding of seed production, ensuring that the next generation of professionals grasps the true value behind the seed.

Seeds: The Smallest Cost, the Greatest Value

Closing the discussion, Airton reminded listeners that seeds represent only 10–12% of the cost per hectare, yet their quality can determine the success or failure of an entire crop. “Its the one input you simply cant afford to compromise on,” he said.

As Brazil cements its leadership in sustainable and tech-driven agriculture, stories like that of Sementes Estrela — told from the ground at Showtec 2025 — highlight the deep-rooted innovation taking place far beyond the labs and into the very seeds that start it all.

For more about Showtec 2025 and Wintex Agro Brasil is ongoing coverage, visit www.portalshowtec.com.br and www.wintexagrobrasil.com.br or see complete podcast here!