The delayed and uneven emergence of soybeans in Michigan this year is creating a challenge for farmers who are trying to decide when to harvest their crops. Some fields have soybeans that are ready to harvest, while others are not. If farmers harvest the early-maturing soybeans too soon, they could lose yield due to shatter losses. However, if they wait too long to harvest the late-maturing soybeans, they could lose yield due to dry beans.
There are a few different harvest strategies that farmers can use to minimize losses. One option is to harvest each field at two different dates, corresponding to the optimum times for the early and late emerging plants. However, this is not practical for most farmers.
Another option is to harvest the entire field as soon as the early emerging plants are ready. This will reduce shatter losses, but it could lead to higher drying charges or discounts at delivery. Farmers will need to pay close attention to the cylinder/rotor speed and clearance settings as they move from ripe to tough plants.
A third option is to delay harvest until the seed in the late emerging plants reaches 13% moisture. This will eliminate the problems associated with early harvest, but it could increase the risk of shatter losses and overly dry beans. Farmers will need to monitor the weather closely and be prepared to harvest quickly if conditions become favorable.
The best harvest strategy for a particular field will depend on a number of factors, including the maturity of the soybeans, the weather forecast, and the farmer's goals. However, by carefully considering their options, farmers can minimize losses and maximize their yields.
Photo Credit: istock-oticki
Categories: Michigan, Crops, Soybeans