Earlier plant dates have been recommended in Iowa to obtain maximum yields. However, these earlier planting dates are associated with additional disease, insect and pest problems that impact yield. The earlier dates increase the risk of bean leaf beetle feeding and transmission of bean pod mottle virus, seedling diseases caused by fungal pathogens, sudden death syndrome, frost damage and changes in soil characteristics that reduce soybean yield potentials.

1. Evaluate the effect of commercially available seed treatments on seedling diseases, insects and soybean yield potential.
2. Obtain data on the effect of seed treatments on emergence, vigor, stand counts at various stages of growth, seedling disease severity, insect damage, yield and seed quality.
3. Educate agribusiness and growers on seed treatments for soybeans.