Managing Late-Planted Soybeans in Mississippi All Season
Farmers in the Midsouth are already stating this is one of the most difficult seasons they have faced. The spring weather resulted in many acres being planted later in the season, and now there are a wide range of growth stages of soybeans across the state. Managing soybeans all season long is going to be top of mind to protect an already compromised crop from any additional yield loss. Here’s what we know.
Increased risk of insect pressure
Late soybean development this year opens the door for pests to move in during reproductive stages. Regular scouting is important to stay ahead of a full infestation from both foliage and pod-feeding insects.
Tie in the mild winter last year, and we have the ideal conditions for red-banded stink bugs to infiltrate fields in full force. In 2018, they weren’t extremely prevalent, but the temperatures over the winter into 2019 didn’t fall below the threshold to kill off larvae burrowed beneath the soil. We anticipate these pests will come out to do damage in mid-to-late September. They usually arrive in fields with developing pods in the R3-R4 growth stage and become difficult to control after R6.
Sample fields with a sweep net in the early morning or late evening to pull an accurate representation. During periods of high temperatures, red-banded stink bugs will move lower into the canopy and can be more difficult to capture. Keep this in mind as you’re checking fields. It’s important to stay ahead of insects like this to protect yield and suppress the pressure before becoming a full infestation.
Late planting dates put plants at a higher risk of effects from drought during both vegetative and reproductive development. This means that more irrigation and additional input costs may be needed before or during reproductive stages. MSPB provides a full guide to have on hand to manage irrigation practices effectively and efficiently.
A later season extends the opportunity for yield-robbing diseases to make their appearance in soybeans. Soybean rust is always a concern for Midsouth farmers, but this year the disease could affect the entire reproductive period for plants in northern Mississippi. Start scouting at R1 and visit this website on soybean rust monitoring to prepare for applications.
Continue scouting and develop a plan to apply a foliar fungicide before plants reach R6 to protect your investment from incurring this disease during this crucial period for soybeans.
Take action
Many soybeans will have less time to recover from plant stress this season, especially during the reproductive stages. Stay ahead of pests, weeds, diseases and irrigation to preserve yield potential and plant integrity.
The MSPB consistently supports research to uncover new solutions to help farmers improve their yield and ultimately their bottom line. More resources and tips, including a scouting guide, are available at MSSOY.org. Additionally, the United Soybean Board hosts resources on how to control insects, weeds and diseases in soybeans at www.IWillTakeAction.com.