Recommendations for Planting Soybeans into Corn On Corn

Taking a Field Out of Corn on Corn?

Due to heavy corn rootworm (CRW) pressures, some fields have not had soybeans planted for quite a few years. A significant agronomic consideration in situations like this is that you MUST add a seed-applied inoculant, failure to do so will lead to substantial yield loss. Soybeans are legumes that partner with soil rhizobia to form a symbiotic relationship to help pull nitrogen out of the air and turn it into plant usable nitrogen. 

Remember, soybeans use a LOT of nitrogen per bushel, as shown this chart. 

Traditionally in suitable soil environments, the majority comes from this soil rhizobia usually found in soils. However, fields that have not had a legume in over five years will have this soil rhizobia population significantly diminished, which will leave a soybean plant starving for nitrogen. In addition to crop rotations, pay particular attention to fields with low pH or have had standing water in the past few years, which could impact soil biological activity.

The best solution for this problem is simple and inexpensive. High-quality soybean seed-applied inoculants like Preside-Ultra introduce millions of new live rhizobial bacteria to help recolonize the soil. Even fields with a recent history of soybeans can still benefit from adding new and stronger strains of these bacteria. These high-yield farmers are pushing the yield plateau with Preside. Watch here.

Remember To Start with Basic Protection

High-quality seed treatments like Warden CX are the best base to build with your soybean treatment program. Warden CX will optimize yield and improve root health and plant vigor by reducing disease and insect damage.

The main disease issues that will impact plant stands and vigor at planting and early emergence for soybeans are Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Pythium. Warden CX provides best-in-class protection against these yield-robbing diseases. In addition to disease, this product also contains the active ingredient of Cruiser insecticide that will provide excellent protection against the overwintering generation of Bean Leaf Beetles and some in-season control of soybean aphids. These insect pests are known to have a sizable impact on yield if left unchecked.

A product like Warden CX should always be the base of the seed treatment package, and then depending on the need for additional control of pests like White Mold, SDS, or Soybean Cyst Nematode or adding new strains of inoculant can be added.

For more information on seed treatment tools and options, don't hesitate to get in touch with your trusted FCS Agronomist today.