The intent of this proposal is to coordinate projects involving applied Agronomy work that involves cultural practices and soybean fertility. The GoBeans verification program is a venue to apply small plot research results in a systems approach while evaluation a particular area of research in an on-farm setting. We are seeking support to continue this outreach program. Cultural practices evolve and continue to be important for maximizing soybean yield Preliminary results of dryland maturity group/plant date studies suggest importance of planting date on growth and yield of soybean cultivars, and was particularly important for seed quality in 2018. Cover crops are becoming increasingly important as producers seek to improve soil health and manage erosion. Our preliminary data suggests that soybean establishment may be difficult following high biomass cover crops, where producers may lose more than 35% of seed that is planted due to difficult germination and emergencies.

1) continue investigation of variable rate seeding for different field topographies on 2 or more farms in order to compare on-farm results to small plot VR seeding work. This work will help identify optimal seeding rates for different field conditions that result in more economical yield.

2) Utilize travel funds to reimburse Dr. McClure, Chris Walker and county agents for travel involved in a state soybean yield contest. Dr. McClure would like to establish a ‘Top Bean’ high yield contest in TN to recognize high yield producers across the state. Funds would cover travel costs and mileage generated while collecting high yield entry data. Proposed contest details will be discussed in January during meeting.

In 2019 our objectives are to continue small plot field trials in Jackson and Milan to evaluate:
1) Cover Crops: evaluate different residue management practices (land roller, early, delayed or green planting), plantar attachments, soybean seed depth and planting rate in front of cover crops for maximum soybean yield; impact of different species leachate on soybean germination (greenhouse study). This is being proposed as a graduate student Master’s degree project.
2) Optimal maturity group and planting date under dryland conditions for yield and soybean seed quality (continuing study using multiple varieties of Maturity group 2, 3, 4, and 5 soybeans planted in 4 representative planting dates).
3) Variable seeding rates for different soil topographies in a small plot setting (continuing study).

Data collected will include soybean uniformity of stand, end of season height, lodging, node and pod production, harvest seed quality data such as oil, protein and disease, and seed yield.