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SOYBEAN RESPONSE TO SPECIAL INPUTS

Agronomy & Pest Management

Gregory Endres
Extension Cropping Systems Specialist
NDSU Extension
CARRINGTON

Abstract

Numerous special products are being marketed by agricultural industry to potentially increase seed yield of soybean. Two field studies have been conducted by North Dakota State University to examine soybean response to special inputs including nutrient mixtures, fungicides and plant growth promoters. Experimental design was a randomized complete block with four replications. Best management practices were used for soybean production. Selected products tested were applied at recommended rates as preplant soil-incorporated, seed treatment, in-furrow with seed, or post-emergence at early vegetative (V2-3) or reproductive (R1-3) stages. Treatments also included combinations of products, application methods and timings. In a six-year (2005-10) study at Carrington (dryland and irrigated), several products provided a yield increase during one year. In the second study at Carrington and Prosper during 2008-10 that included multiple production factors including use of a combination of special foliar inputs, soybean yield increased during two of six site-years with the combination of foliar products. Averaged across the six site-years, yield increased 2.2 bushels/acre with the combination of special inputs compared to the untreated check. However, applying economics to the yield gain resulted in a minimal return-on-investment. The current results of these studies indicate use of tested products has not provided a consistent and economic soybean yield response. Authors: Kandel, H.J., Endres, G. J.
  1. Kandel, H.J. Extension Agronomist, North Dakota State University, North Dakota, 58108
  2. Endres, G. J. Extension Area Agronomist , North Dakota State University, North Dakota, 58421