Brownfield, MO
08-27-07
Soggy beans could have lower yields
by Jerry Passer
Rainy weather across Iowa may result in lower average yields than projected by
USDA and soybean growers need to be aware of several diseases to watch for in
the next few weeks, according to the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA).
Saturated soils are low in oxygen. Soil that is saturated for more than 48 hours is
more likely to cause soybean plants to abort pods and stop seed fill, which
reduces yield. In addition, the wet weather can cause an increase in soybean
diseases according to David Wright, ISA director of contract research.
A number of soybean diseases thrive in wet weather, including white mold, which
is known to cause up to a 30 percent yield loss.
Growers who are unsure of what diseases they have found in their fields should
send samples to the Plant Diagnostic Clinic at Iowa State University, 2351
Bessey Hall, Ames, Iowa 50011, or contact there local certified crop advisor.
For more information about the effect of wet weather, contact Wright at
dwright@iasoybeans.com or 515-251-8640.