DETERMINING AN OPTIMUM SOYBEAN SEEDING RATE
Applied Research
Chris Zoller
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR & EXTENSION EDUCATOR ANR
Ohio State University Extension Tuscarawas County
New Philadelphia
Abstract
Soybean seeding rate trials have been conducted for three years in Tuscarawas County. The objective of these trials is to understand the impact of various seeding rates on final yield. Results are used by growers to determine how seeding rate may impact field-by-field profitability. Using a strip trial format, studies are replicated at least three times in the field.
Over the three-year period we have evaluated seeding rates ranging from a low of 80,000 seeds per acre to a high of 240,000 seeds per acre. During the growing season, regular assessments are made to observe emergence, growth, and the presence of weeds, diseases, and insects. At harvest, yield and moisture are recorded, and an economic analysis is conducted to determine return above seed cost for each treatment. A statistical analysis is also completed to determine any differences in treatments.
Our research has shown that reducing soybean seeding rates can be accomplished without negatively impacting final yield. We have determined that if farmers reduced their seeding rate by 20,000 seeds per acre, assuming no reduction in yield, Tuscarawas County soybean growers could save $17.12 per acre for a total savings of $246,528.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted only for display at AM/PIC. Poster is not to be judged, but the abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: E. Hawkins, C Zoller
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Hawkins, E. Field Specialist, Agronomic Systems, Ohio State University Extension, Ohio, 45177
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Zoller, C. ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR & EXTENSION EDUCATOR ANR, Ohio State University Extension Tuscarawas County, Ohio, 44663-6403