Planting Depth 1-1.5 inches deep. Planting 1” or less increases the likelihood of soybean seed not germinating due to cooler temperatures or lack of moisture.
Soybeans need to take in 50% of their weight during the germination process, by not having the proper planting depth you risk seeds not fully germinating or not having enough moisture to continue to grow. By planting 1-1.5” deep you increase the probability of having adequate moisture for germination.
Soil Temperatures Plant when soil temperatures are 55°F, or when air and soil temperatures will be increasing. Soybeans can germinate with soil temperatures at 50°F but are more consistent at 55°F or more. By planting in cooler soil temperatures you increase the likelihood of Imbibitional Chilling Injury or Cold Shock Syndrome (yes soybeans can get this too). Cool wet soils (less than 60°F) increase the likelihood seeds of a seedlings succumbing to a soil borne pathogens such as Pythium, Phytophthora and Fusarium
Seed Treatments If planting early use a quality seed treatment. A quality seed treatment will help with germination and protect the seed from early to mid-season insects such Bean Leaf Beetle, Seed Corn Maggot, Soybean Aphids and Soybean Cyst Nematodes as well as cool season diseases like Pythium, Phytophthora and Fusarium and warm season diseases such as Rhizoctonia.
Not all seed treatments are equal, just because something has a pretty color does not mean it is the best investment.
Plant Populations Recommend seeding rates are 140,000 to 155,000 in a 30 inch row. Soybeans can yield with less than 140-155,000 planting rate, the issues we encounter that suggest maintaining a higher seed rate are:
- Less than ideal planting seedbed
- Hail
- Wildlife i.e. Geese, Deer etc.
- Seed and Seedling diseases
- Soil Types
If you have further questions or concerns regarding this contact your local Central Valley Agronomist or myself at 507-456-3034 and [email protected]
