To some, farming might seem simple: plant seeds, help them grow, then sell the product.
To some, farming might seem simple: plant seeds, help them grow, then sell the product. But the reality is MUCH different. Farming requires many complex decisions throughout the year.
One such decision is seeding rate – the number of seeds planted per acre. The best seeding rate for soybean fields is one of the most debated topics for those involved in agriculture.
Researchers have long tried to help farmers find a clear answer. A recent study by soybean scientists at Corteva Agriscience and universities across the U.S. might provide the most complete answer yet. They set out to determine what is called the optimal seeding rate for soybean growers.
“The optimal soybean seeding rate is a commonly discussed topic with many opinions, based on individual experience and regional experiments,” says Adam Gaspar of Corteva Agriscience. “Our study is the largest soybean seeding rate study ever conducted. We hope to provide help to soybean growers based on where they are farming to help reduce risk and optimize yield potential.”
Read more at American Society of Agronomy
Image: During the growing season in soybean fields, there is attrition - or unexplained plant death - each year. This is important to account for when calculating seeding rate. (Credit: Corteva Agriscience)
