It has been a long and bumpy roller coaster ride in the soybean market since harvest. At one point, it looked as if planting soybeans was not going to be a good idea this spring. However, subsequent rallies at times have created some optimism.
By this time, you’ve likely made a number of input decisions. Still, you may be weighing options on:
- insecticides
- fungicides
- micronutrients
- biologicals
- inoculants
- a combination of the above
How do you know which option, or combination of options, is going to provide you with a favorable return on investment?
It’s hard to evaluate every combination or potential scenario. The University of Nebraska has done several studies on a variety of additives with statistical analysis. Find a summary of these studies in its 2024 research report (see page 4).
While this summary can be helpful, it doesn’t evaluate every combination or choice.
Before you decide on what you’re putting on your seed or in your planter box this spring, here are some considerations to help you decide where to invest input dollars in a low soybean market:
Insecticides. These are useful when trying to protect seeds and seedlings from early-season pest damage. Some insecticides provide limited systemic activity and can protect seedlings after emergence. The most widely used insecticide seed treatments are neonicotinoids, which provide systemic and contact activity on insects.
Fungicides. These are beneficial when planting early and in less-than-ideal soil conditions. The goal of fungicides is to prevent soil-borne fungi from attacking seeds after planting in a cool, moist environment. This is especially needed during delayed emergence, when fungal and fungal-like pathogens have a greater opportunity to attack seedlings.
Farmers need to know if and which seedling disease they have had in the past to ensure they are applying the best fungicide treatment. Check this link for more seed treatment information.
Micronutrients. These are the most misunderstood seed treatment. First, think about what you’re trying to accomplish. In most cases, you’re looking for greater yield.
When considering micronutrient seed treatments, look at the label for the quantity of nutrients listed. You’ll likely find that most have a small nutrient value for the amount being applied. Consequently, it’s highly unlikely to see a response from such a small amount.
Do not confuse these seed treatments as easy alternatives to true starter fertilizers. In this case, a proven soil test and adequate fertilizer may be a better place for your dollars.
Biological. Biological seed treatments are a hot topic for unlocking soybean yield potential. Several types include:
- plant-growth regulators
- cytokinin
- gibberellic acids
- indole-3-butric acids
University data exists for several commercially available products. While no list is complete, be aware that many of these products have been tried, with few showing a statistical yield improvement.
This is not to say some products won’t provide a small response. Still, I urge farmers not to accept trial data from outside their local area.
Go slow, and do your own experiments with comparisons. What we are looking for is increased root growth and a beneficial root zone.
Inoculants. These have been around for decades and are proven to provide yield enhancement, especially where soybeans have not recently been grown. Soybeans need nitrogen, and rhizobia bacteria help fix nitrogen and provide it for soybeans.
Summing up
As you decide what to apply to soybean seed this spring, consider what you want each seed treatment to achieve. Ask yourself these questions:
Are you planting soybeans early? In these cases, fungicides and insecticides can be beneficial.
Do you have a history of sudden death syndrome in your fields? In these cases, seed treatments can provide benefits.
Does a field have no prior history of soybeans? In this case, an inoculant would pay.
Are you thinking about adding a biological product? Ask questions, and remember that in some cases, you will deal with living bacteria. If not handled correctly, that may be the difference in failure or success. Treat living organisms with care, and do not pretreat seed prior to planting. Furthermore, these products need to be kept from freezing and stored in a cool, dark place. Biological products are best applied to the seed at the time of planting. Do not leave them in a planter in warm conditions.
If you want to try something new, I recommend you try a small test plot in a controlled environment that you can watch all season for a yield comparison. More than likely, you’ll be looking for a needle in a haystack when it comes to expecting big results.
Finally, ask for statistical data that was collected from locations and soil types near your farm. Do your homework, and don’t be afraid to do your own tests to see what works on your fields.
With tight margins, think wisely about where you want to spend your money, and where you are likely to get the most bang for your buck.