Seed Situation in N.C.

Soybean seed supply is limited for 2016 plantings.  The extremely limited supplies will be in maturity groups 6 and 7, and supplies of late group 5 seed may also be very tight.  Watch for announcements from the seed companies in the coming days about seed availability, germination rates, and incentives.  Expect some suppliers to tag seed…

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The Benefits of Cover Crops

Everyone knows about the environmental benefits of cover crops, including reduced soil erosion. But, there are many other benefits to using cover crops that make them worth the investment. Weed control, grazing ground for animals and keeping nutrients from escaping are just a few. Learn more about the benefits of cover crops in this article…

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Four Ways to Trim Costs in 2016

With soybean prices predicted to be lower in 2016, it’s more important than ever for farmers to look at ways to lower costs. In fact, one farm management specialist from the University of Illinois recommends cutting costs by $100 per acre to remain profitable. Some areas to consider are farm machinery and capital purchases, fertilizer,…

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Reduced Seed Quality Means Seed Treatments a Must

According to Yadkin County farmer Kevin Matthews, speaking to a reporter from Southern Farm Network following the 2016 Soybean Producers Forum on Feb. 5, seed quality issues with the maturity group fives, sixes and sevens means that seed treatments are an absolute must.  The Forum was held at the Southern Farm Show in Raleigh. According…

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How To Apply Nutrients on a Budget

Soil fertility is important, and maintaining it is a long-term investment, even when bean prices trend lower. While on a budget, you’ll want to follow the tips below to help enhance or maintain future yields through soil fertility: Follow your soil-test recommendations Consider alternative nutrient-application methods Make sure your soil pH is correct Don’t spend…

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How Technology Can Lead to More Profit

Adding technology and getting more data on your farm can help increase yields, decrease costs and increase profit, but you have to know how to take advantage of the data you receive. Learn more about some of the types of data farmers can take advantage of and the way they can use technology on the…

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Improve Sustainability Throughout the Year

Want to improve sustainability on your farm? There are things you can be doing now, even before planting. Research shows that most U.S. soybean farmers are already sustainable and they implement a variety of sustainable practices on their farms. But there are always opportunities for improvement. Here are some things to think about that can…

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Soil Test to Keep SCN Out of Your Fields

SCN causes U.S. soybean farmers $1 billion in losses each year, so it’s a good idea to take steps to protect yourself from the threat. Before planting begins is a great time to test your soil to see if you have SCN and have time to react before it becomes a problem. Farmers should also…

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Extension Variety Trials to Include Soybeans in 2016

The Extension variety trials in the Blacklands counties of Beaufort, Hyde, Tyrrell and Washington will include soybeans this year.  According to Beaufort County Extension Director Rod Gurganus, agents will plant two or three replicated, small-plot trials in the region.  Seed companies are invited to enter up to two varieties per maturity group.  Entries can be…

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