Later maturing varieties may be considered for planting in fields that are not as prone to drought stress or where irrigation will be used to alleviate drought stress. However, early planting of all acreage is encouraged to reduce risk from drought and obtain higher yields. Early-season production is a practice that has been quite successful and consistent for several years. Cool, wet soils at planting may justify the use of a seed treatment that has activity against Pythium , since no varieties have resistance to infection and resulting damage from this organism. The Maturity Group IV soybeans that have been performing well in early-season production have a narrow growth habit.
Narrow rows are advantageous.
Irrigation allows later plantings of these early soybeans. However, the full yield potential may not be realized when planted late. Timely harvest is crucial with the early-maturing varieties, because dry weather at maturity may promote shattering. There is a large range in maturities in the Group IV soybeans. Determine if an early Group IV or a late Group IV variety, or some acreage of both, would fit into your planned harvest schedule.