By VICKI JOHNSON
Ohio Correspondent

WAUSEON, Ohio — Rupp Seeds prides itself on remaining an independent family business, as it’s been since 1946.

“That’s the plan for the future as far as we can see it right now,” said Phil King of Rupp Seeds, Wauseon, Ohio. “We’ve been continually growing over the last several years. Since we are independent, we’ve been able to select products and technology from a broad range of choices. We can offer products they can’t get at other suppliers.”

The company was founded in 1946 by Sylvan and Pearl Rupp as the Sylvan L. Rupp Seed Farm. With the help of their seven children they produced corn, beans, popcorn and strawberries along with cattle and hogs.

In 1972, the company began to develop a line of Rupp brand corn hybrids and soybean varieties, increasing its focus on grain and forage seed products to row crop farmers.

“We’re continually looking to increase the service area, as well as the product line to fit the needs of our customers,” King said.

Rupp’s 2011 corn and soybean lineup includes a diverse list of top-performing genetics and traits including Genuity Roundup Ready 2 Yield soybeans and new Genuity VT Triple Pro corn hybrids.

In 1985, the company branched into vegetable seeds. It now offers the newest genetics to its customers - wholesale producers, fresh market growers and the processing industry.

Today, the company employs 35 full-time people and close to 60 part-time seasonal employees.

For more information on Rupp Seeds, call 419-337-1841, 800-700-1199 for vegetables or 877-591-SEED (7333) for grain and forage, or visit www.rupp seeds.com