The purpose of this study is to compare different boron application methods, at various timings, to determine their impact on yield and profitability.

2018 Southern Illinois Soybean Boron Timing Study

In the past, placing boron (B) near the seed zone was not a recommendation you would get from any agronomist because of the potential seed germination issues. However, with the Precision Planting’s FurrowJet® system, we now have the ability to deliver nutrients within 0.75 in. of both sides of the seed trench. So, is there a benefit to placing B in bands at plant ing? What about foliar applications of B? Because it is a micr onutrient, is there a benefit to applying it multiple times throughout the season? This study was designed around these questions. Most of the soil and tissue tests that we pull across the Midwest show that they are low in B. It’s a tough nutrient to build up in the soil because of its high mobility. This year we showed slight losses from all application timings of B. Because the soil test levels at the Southern Illinois PFR site were 0.4 ppm, we were well below the adequate level of 1.6 ppm. So why didn’t we see any yield gains? The 2018 gr owing season was ideal, which set t he stage for great yields. With little to no stress, we didn’t see an advantage to applying these products. In addition, a foliar application of B at the R3 growth stage may have a greater potential for increased yield response and positive returns on investment since utilization is highest at this time.

 Fall: Vertical-Till/In-Line Rip, Spring: Vertical-Till | 

 Pre: 6 oz. Zidua® PRO, 1 qt. Roundup PowerMAX® Post: 22 oz. XtendiMax®, 1 qt. Roundup PowerMAX®, 65 oz. Warrant® Ultra, 4 oz. Section® Three | 