3 MIN READ

Soybean Response to Foliar Feeding

November 1, 2020

TRIAL OBJECTIVE

  • Previous work at the Bayer Crop Science Learning Center at Monmouth, Illinois has shown little or no benefit from applying in-season foliar feed to soybean in fields without underlying fertility deficits.

  • After receiving multiple requests to review newer products, a trial was developed to evaluate two foliar feed products in 2020.


RESEARCH SITE DETAILS

Location Monmouth, IL Soil Type Silt loam

Previous
Crop
Corn Tillage
Type

Conventional


Planting Date 05/11/20 Harvest Date 10/13/20

Potential Yield
(bu/acre)
70 Seeding Rate
(seeds/acre)
130k


  • Treatments consisted of one untreated check and two foliar feed products applied at the R3 growth stage:
    • An untreated check was included for comparison.
    • Product 1: A solution containing 5% urea-triazone nitrogen, 20% potassium, and 13% sulfur in the potassium thiosulfate (KTS) form applied at 2 qt/acre.
    • Product 2: A solution containing 12% slow-release nitrogen and 12% potassium applied at 1 gal/acre.
  • The foliar feed applications included a surfactant at 2 fl oz/acre.
  • Plots were planted in fields with adequate nutrients, as determined by soil test results.
  • There were two replications of each treatment.
  • Plots were harvested and adjusted to 13% moisture content.

UNDERSTANDING THE RESULTS

image
Figure 1. Yield comparison of two foliar applied fertilizer products to an untreated check. Product 1 was a solution containing 5% urea-triazone nitrogen, 20% potassium, and 13% sulfur in the potassium thiosulfate (KTS) form applied at 2 qt/acre. Product 2 was a solution containing 12% slow-release nitrogen and 12% potassium applied at 1 gal/acre.

  • While yields were not dramatically different in this trial, higher yields were observed with both foliar feed products compared to the untreated check.
  • No visual differences were observed in the plots.

KEY LEARNINGS

  • These results are inconsistent with previous foliar feed trials conducted at the Learning Center. However, the differences in yield observed warrant further study to see if these products can benefit a soybean management system.

  • Balanced soil fertility is important in any crop production system. It is important to conduct soil tests on a regular interval to evaluate any underlying fertility issues that need to be addressed.

  • Consult your local Field Sales Representative or Technical Agronomist for tailored recommendations for your farm.

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