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Effect of Seeding Rate on Soybean Yield – How Low Can We Go?

Applied Research

Stephanie Karhoff
Field Specialist, Agronomic Systems
The Ohio State University
Ottawa

Abstract

Soybean seed cost in Ohio has increased 20% in the past ten years, prompting growers to consider lower seeding rates. However, the optimum seeding rate of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] is highly dependent on the environment. Replicated on-farm strip trials provide growers with personalized data to better inform their seeding rate decision. The objectives of this study were to understand the yield impact of varying soybean seeding rates and determine the economic and agronomic optimal rate for Williams County, Ohio. On-farm strip trials evaluating five seeding rates ranging from 80,000 to 240,000 seeds per acre were conducted in 2019, 2020, and 2021 near Montpelier, Ohio. Stand counts were taken 4 – 6 weeks after planting to determine final stand, and yield and moisture was collected with a calibrated yield monitor. The effect of seeding rate on yield across years was determined using a linear mixed effects model. Seeding rate did not significantly affect yield from 2019 to 2021 in Williams County and seeding rates less than 200,000 seeds per acre had the greatest return above seed cost. This study demonstrates that Williams County soybean growers can lower seeding rates to increase their return, though a final population of 100,000 plants per acre is recommended to achieve maximum yield. Overall, these data will improve seeding rate recommendations for northwest Ohio soybean growers and inform future replant decisions and variable rate seeding prescriptions.

Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC

This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.

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Authors: Stephanie Karhoff, Elizabeth Hawkins
  1. Karhoff, S. OSU Extension Educator, Ag and Natural Resources, The Ohio State University, Ohio, 43506
  2. Hawkins, E. Field Specialist, Agronomic Systems , The Ohio State University, Ohio, 45177