Although soybean production revenue most visibly depends on crop yield, producers also benefit when they grow soybeans that fit buyer specifications, such as protein or oil content. The following three points explain why growing and delivering high-protein soybeans can pay. 1) High protein content supports a higher commodity price. The United Soybean Board recently supported a study that quantified the …

On March 31, USDA released its annual prospective plantings report, which outlines planting expectations for the upcoming year. USDA makes these estimates using survey data and historical data relationships. Conducted in early March 2015, the survey sought planted acreage plans from a sample of more than 84,000 farm operators. The following three points and chart summarize the estimated planted acreage …

Use BigBioYieldTM Crop Biologicals to Minimize Pest-Related Damages Crop biologicals create a growing environment that can maximize yields and enable growers to efficiently use inputs. They protect crops from diseases; unlock nutrients bound to the soil; and promote a healthy, strong root system. Producers can also benefit from using biologicals as a component of their pest management plans. In two …

Crop biological products are natural inputs comprised of bacterial strains that support a healthy soil environment, promote plant vigor and boost yield potential. BigBioYield, a crop biological from Missouri-based BigYield.us, combines multiple beneficial bacterial strains into a polymicrobial blend. In soybeans, applying BigBioYield can aid growers in managing soybean sudden death syndrome (SDS), a disease that can have an economically …

In February, USDA released its long-term agricultural forecasts through 2024. Within the report, the agency outlined acreage, yield, production and use projections for multiple crops. The following points highlight U.S. estimates for corn, wheat and soybean crops. 1) Acreage estimates drop for corn and wheat but increase slightly for soybean. From 2013/2014 to 2024/2025, USDA estimated that corn and wheat planted acreage …

This next year, several farm-related issues will likely become policy matters to watch. The following list shares five of these key issues. 1) Renewable Fuel Standard has an unclear future. Through the Renewable Fuel Standard, the Environmental Protection Agency has the authority to release annual ethanol and biofuel blending requirements for the country’s fuel refineries. However, the agency delayed disclosing …

Test plots provide an opportunity to experiment with varying tillage systems, herbicide applications, fertilizer treatments, other input use or seed varieties and hybrids, according to a Kansas State University test plot guide. Data collected from test plots tell the story about how well a particular production variable performs given local conditions. To design your own on-farm test plot, consider these …

Mike Bogar discusses his use of BigYield biologicals.