Soybean profits are limited during years when considerable damage to mature seed occurs due to various contributors such as weather conditions, insect pressure etc. Genetic resistance through breeding practices focused on tolerance to seed pathogens and introductions of seed enhancement traits such as heat resistance and “hardseed” traits are needed to reduce the occurrence of reduced seed quality. The proposed research will advance our knowledge of the contributing factors associated with reduced seed quality and improve our ability to manage this issue. This information will be extended to stakeholders in multiple formats to ultimately improve soybean profitability through breeding efforts and sustainable management practices.

It is the intent and objective of this effort to deliver a cultivar or cultivars that are damage-resistant and that are available to both producers and seed companies. This new seed trait will not add additional cost to producers, and it should be effective for the long-term or at least the foreseeable future. This will be ascertained at a later time. Another deliverable over the duration of the project may include gene discovery and identification of genetic markers to improve efficiency in developing varieties that resist seed damage.

Updated September 11, 2019:

Updated December 10, 2019:
Breeding lines were tested in environments prone to severe seed damage. Improved breeding lines were identified with significantly lower seed damage than that of cultivars. Results were distributed and shared with the scientific community through reports and at scientific meetings. Manuscript preparation using these data is progressing. We are on track to release improved germplasm with demonstrated low seed damage within 3 years.

Growers can immediately benefit with the fungicide information if they choose, in an effort to protect seed going into harvest. Longer term, varieties with genetic resistance to seed rot and decay or early sprout may become available.

• We will identify germplasm with characteristics to promote tolerance to seed damage.
• Publish manuscript on seed damage-resistant germplasm and fungicide efficacy towards reducing seed damage.
• Relationship between pathogen infection and reduced seed quality will be determined.
• Farmers and stakeholders will be aware of environmental variables that influence reduced seed quality, and understand crop production practices that minimize these issues.
• Educate stakeholders on best management practices for reducing seed damage, through outreach programs designed by this project.