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Soybean management needs adjustment

An extension educator says soybean yield losses could be as high as 40 percent compared to normal if farmers in the Great Lakes plant by July first.

“By the time they’re planted, maybe on the 18th of June which may be realistic for this year, we’re down to a 43-bushel yield.”     

Mike Staton with Michigan State University Extension says the days turn from longer to shorter after the summer solstice on June 21 which means less sunlight is available to produce a strong soybean canopy. “Not only is it not capturing the sunlight, but it’s not protecting the soil from evaporation.”     

He’s recommending planting soybeans in narrow rows with increased seeding rates and farmers reconsider the need for seed treatments.

“The part that’s really scary about this is as you start to plant in very late June, it’s really difficult to get the crops ripe.”  

Staton also warns farmers to be prepared to harvest frost damaged beans.

Michigan State University Extension is offering delayed planting resources for farmers on their website and at local county offices.

Mike Staton’s comments during MSU’s virtual breakfast

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