It's the venerable inoculant. Data compiled by Ohio State University scientists over a five-year period show that inoculating soybeans boosts yields by an average of 2.1 bushels. Inoculants have dramatically improved over the years and should not be viewed as cheap insurance. They are a good investment regardless of whether you're dealing with established soybean fields or not. Ohio State University agronomist Jim Beuerlein says farmers need to take another look at inoculants.
New formulations enhance production of nitrogen-fixing nodules that can lead to higher yield.
Today's versions are much different from past products, which has caused a resurgence in interest. Inoculation adds bacteria called Rhizobia to promote a naturally occurring symbiotic process that increases the nitrogen-fixing potential of legumes. The useful bacteria infect the roots and develop nodules, thereby helping the soybean plant convert gaseous nitrogen from the air to nitrates the plant uses. Delivering such high numbers of bacteria increases the odds of a yield boost. In addition, manufacturers now use a sterile carrier so that the Rhizobia don't compete with other bacteria.