What Should Be Planted First – Soybeans or Corn?
Steve Prochaska Farmers today are planting corn and soybeans much earlier than farmers of 20 years ago. And this opportunity, when occurs, to pant early into dry soils may be beneficial because the growing season is extended and soils are not compacted. However, there are risks to planting very early and these risks will vary by crop. What follows below is risk/benefit analysis to early corn and /or soybean planting. Soybeans – Benefits To Early Planting Soybeans (only when soils are dry!) 1. Extended growing seasons with high quality sunlight (more photosynthesis possible). The maximum amount of sunlight occurs in the months of May, June and July in Ohio. 2. Adequate moisture for crop development. 3. Perhaps the best seedbed of year and thus no soil compaction. 4. Spreading of work load (both fall and spring) 5. Newer seed treatments such as Apron, Maxim and Rival can help protect soybeans from certain plant pathogens during time periods unfavorable for growth. 6. Weed control costs m
