Shawn P. Conley
Soybean and Wheat Extension Specialist
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.
For additional information please review: Using High-Input Systems for Soybean Management Increases Yield but Not Profitability