Concerns about the planting of soybeans in Iowa fields after a cool and wet spring may be in many farmers’ minds, but state agriculture experts say a slightly delayed planting season could be quite productive.
Jim Fawcett of the Johnson County Extension says the prime planting time for soybeans usually runs between May 1st and May 15th, but a cool start to the month may have postponed plans to get soybeans into the ground. Fawcett says the delay could actually work out in the long run, as the risk of damage from disease, sudden death, and bean leaf beetles is reduced.
He says the longer insects like beetles feed on other plants such as alfalfa, their reproductive rates remain very low, and by the time soybeans are planted, many of the beetles will already be dead. Fawcett does remain cautious, as next week’s weather is an important player in whether soybean planting could be delayed further.
If it is warmer and drier, he says planting should be able to get started.