The Soy Envoys provide a short update on planting progress and field conditions across different regions of Illinois. They discuss weed control strategies and herbicide applications as well as the connection of winter annual weeds being a host for soybean cyst nematode. Listen to the full episode here or on all major podcasting platforms.

The decision to plant early soybeans comes with risks such as cold temperatures and potential emergence issues, requiring careful planning and communication. However, earlier planting can bring the reward of higher yields. Comparing risk versus reward, Stephanie Porter shares her recommendations for the upcoming planting season.

This Illinois Soybean Association funded project, lead by Nathan Johanning of Illinois Extension, reveals insights from the first year of a cover crop planting date study. The team found that lower seeding rates of early-planted cereal rye cut seed costs and had similar biomass. Late planting still offered good growth into mid-Nov and maximizing biomass by delaying termination until maturity showed no yield reduction in soybeans in most cases.

There are advantages and challenges to high speed planting in soybean and corn rotations. Dr. Mike Mulvaney explains more in this Science for Success video.

Spring is in the air for IL soybean producers. From field prep to reports of planters in action, signs of early soybean planting are surfacing statewide. Is your planter ready to go? Listen here.

There are some yield advantages to planting early as well as some risks. Where does this yield advantage come from and how can we best manage the risks of planting early? Dr. Shawn Conley, University of Wisconsin-Madison answers these questions for you.