Study Evaluates ROI Of Soybean Production Inputs

MORGAN SCHMIDTMorgan Schmidt

DELPHOS, KANSAS

   This year’s USDA planting intention surveys indicate that many farmers are swapping corn acres for soybean acres to take advantage of the lower costs of soybean production. But even with that management strategy, many farmers will continue to look for ways to boost soybean yield potential. Fortunately, Bayer conducted a research trial in 2019-2021 that evaluated soybean planting rates and fungicide applications to help farmers determine the input combination that best supports both yield potential and profitability.

   At the conclusion of the study, researchers found the seeding rate- fungicide configuration with the greatest profit potential was 120,000 seeds per acre combined with an R3 fungicide application. On average, across populations over the three years of research, fungicide applications provided an average yield increase of over 5 bushels per acre and delivered an additional profit of $41.47 per acre.

   Without a fungicide application, a seeding rate of 160,000 seeds per acre was required for maximum yield and profitability potential. This rate provided $42.60 less revenue per acre than the 120,000 seeds per acre rate with a fungicide application. Overall, a fungicide application helped reduce disease development by approximately 20 percent based on general disease ratings.

   As many soybean fields approach the R3 growth stage in Kansas, farmers can consider these tips to enhance yield potential. Fungicides are mostly used for combating diseases, but in Kansas, we see significant plant health benefits as well. Through periods of heat and drought stress, fungicides can help plants regulate their temperature and function. Timely fungicide application is key for the plant to mature properly.

   This soybean research was conducted at the Crop Science division of Bayer FOCUS sites in Illinois counties Kendall, Woodford, McLean and Macon from 2019-2021. The study included 32 soybean products from 2.2-3.9 maturity groups and were planted with different products used at different locations and replicated four times. All seed was treated with Acceleron® Seed Applied Solutions STANDARD and ILeVO® seed treatment. Fungicides were applied at the R3 growth stage. Farmers can review this study, published in the Channel 2021 Field Research Book,  at Channel.com . ∆

   MORGAN SCHMIDT: Channel Technical Agronomist