Based on the first season trials conducted which investigated different input packages for Soybean, it was observed that there was a noticeable difference between soybean plants vigor in the center of the trial blocks, and those within the block. We have had two experienced largescale commercial farmers visit the trials as well as Palladium team members who supported these observations. 

The plants on the boundaries were noticeably more vigorous and showed less signs of hydric stress. This would indicate that there was more soil moisture and competition for light within the blocks, and that perhaps the seeding rate of 300 000 plants per Ha was not ideal above the optimal plant population. 

It may be having a negative effect on yields. Under local conditions, the guidelines for soybean cultivation have been particularly vague on plant population. Therefore, based on these observations, a second trial was initiated to determine the optimum plant population for soybeans under our local conditions. 

Seed is an expensive input costs for soybean growers, so it’s important for growers to plant the right number of seed to minimize input costs and increase profitability. Seeding rate, plant population, and row spacing are tied together.

If the population is too high, plants compete and often lodge. If the population is too low, a producer is wasting growing space and lowering yield. Low populations also result in increased weed pressure. As row spacing increases, the optimal number of plants per acre decreases.