This is the second year this study has been conducted at Topeka and Scandia and first year at Parsons. The first years’ data (2021) was reported in Kansas Field Research 2022, which had similar results to this year for Topeka and Scandia sites (Figs in attached report). While caution should be used in making conclusions from this limited data set, it was shown that there can be a very positive yield response to planting soybeans in late March/early April for certain variety/seeding rate combinations. For most variety/seeding rate treatments, there was no major yield loss due to early planting. The last planting date in these studies is often before most producers historically start planting soybeans in the respective locations. Previous work reported in the Kansas Field Research publications had planting dates from early May to late June at Topeka, showing a yield increase with the earlier planting dates if steps were taken to reduce SDS. Further research is needed to determine if these trends for yield response are consistent. An additional question could be identifying varieties that respond with increased yield due to the early planting date more consistently than other varieties. Due to extremely dry condition in Parsons, the crop failed.

Identify best early planting dates for soybean in North East, North Central, and South East parts of Kansas and study the impact on soybean yields under varying environmental conditions.

The proposed project will develop and implement a methodology to plant Soybeans earlier in the season and its impact on yield. We also expect to understand what environmental and management factors might play a role in impacting overall yields. These include and are not limited to best management practices, soil properties, soil temperature, soil moisture etc.

This research can provide research based critical knowledge to farmers in the region to modify their planting management practices for closing yield gaps.