62-2021Improving dryland soybean yield, profit and health of dominant soils across Mississippi Annual Report

limitation for dryland soybean production often resulting in low and inconsistent grain yield. Researchers have demonstrated that a 1% increase in soil organic matter (SOM) can improve soil water holding capacity by 20%. Thus, any management practice that increases SOM is likely to improve soil water holding capacity and water infiltration rate and conserve more rain water in the soil.