March-Planted Soybeans: Smart Move or Costly Mistake? | Rural Radio
Fridays in the Field
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5m 45s
How early should soybeans be planted?
Near Auburn, Nebraska, farmer and Nebraska Soybean Board member Mark Caspers is testing that question firsthand. Inspired by the late Jim Specht's research and advocacy for early soybean planting, Caspers planted soybeans on March 26—weeks earlier than many producers would consider.
The experiment looked promising until a hard frost in early May damaged much of the crop and forced a replant. Even so, Caspers says the experience reinforced the potential benefits of early planting, including increased node development and higher yield potential.
In this week's Fridays in the Field, Mark discusses what happened, why early planting remains appealing, and whether he'll try it again next year.
🌱 Featured: Early-planted soybeans
📍 Auburn, Nebraska
🎙️ Fridays in the Field with Alex Makovicka
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