Using High-Input Systems For Soybean Management Increases Yield But Not Profitability

By Shawn P. Conley

As fields begin to dry out and growers look to get across their fields to apply inputs here are a few points to ponder for Midwestern farmers based on our USB funded High Yield Project.

1.   V4 applications of nitrogen to soybean provided a +3.9% relative yield change, but a 0 to 27% chance of ROI based on yield levels from 45-75 bu per acre and $12 beans….. i.e. additional nitrogen to soybean does not pay!

2.   Lactofen has efficacy on many broadleaf weeds and on white mold….it is not a yield enhancer for Midwestern farmers. We measured a 0% probability of ROI when lactofen was intentionally used to defoliate soybeans and promote branching in Northern and Midwestern soybean fields.

Source:wisc.edu