Unfortunately, despite a good start to the soybean crop, a large percentage of fields are not looking so good. There is significant, and widespread yellowing on plants, which can in many cases be attributed to a loss of nitrogen. Microbes that normally help soybeans to make their own nitrogen are feeding on stocks and other debris in the field. Essentially, the carbon to nitrogen ratio is askew, and that is not good for the crop. In addition to the nitrogen issue, extreme rain events are putting extra stress on the plants. Variability in fields is extensive due to laying water, and plants that were under water for long periods of time are at risk of root rot. Additionally, in this hot and wet weather, foliar diseases thrive, which is why our agronomists are really encouraging all of our growers to get out and check out how their field is doing. On the plus side, pests and insects do not like this weather so they are less of a risk this year. In fields where herbicide is yet to be applied, we are recommending adding a soybooster to the mix to try and help the crop along. Fungicide timing is not far off with the soybeans starting to flower.
