As the year winds down, I want to take a moment to reflect on the growing season and revisit our top 10 blogs of 2024. Click on the headline of each blog to read that post. Thank you for being a valued subscriber to Field Advisor. Wishing you a joyful holiday season!

How Widespread is Group 15 Herbicide Resistance in Illinois Waterhemp Populations?

Illinois soybean farmers face a major challenge as waterhemp weeds have developed resistance to multiple herbicides, including Group 15 herbicides confirmed in 2019. A project funded by the Illinois Soybean Association and led by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign aims to evaluate the prevalence of this resistance and provide farmers with management recommendations.

Does Soybean Planting Depth Really Matter for High Yields?

In this blog post, IL Soy Envoy, Drew Beckman, emphasizes the importance of soybean planting depth, highlighting the impact on emergence and susceptibility to seedling diseases. Read more about his recommendations on planting depth before hitting the fields next planting season.

It MAY Be Time to Evaluate Soybean Populations

During the offseason, it’s a great time to review planting strategies. IL Soy Envoy Shelby Weckel highlights why increasing soybean populations can make a difference and shares key management tips to keep in mind for the upcoming season.

Harvesting Dry Soybeans: How Many Bushels Do We Lose?

As the year wraps up, it’s important to reflect on harvest challenges, such as drier-than-expected soybeans. In this post, Brian Bush breaks down how to calculate yield loss and shares key information to prepare for the next growing season.

Farmer Cooperators Needed for 2025 Soybean Sulfur Management Trials

Illinois farmers have expressed interest in the potential benefits of sulfur applications for soybeans. In response, the Illinois Soybean Association has developed an on-farm trial to address key questions about sulfur fertilization. Join the 2025 On-Farm Trial Network and sign up now to participate!

IDOA Updates “Frequently Ask Questions” for Dicamba Use in Soybean for 2024

 The Illinois Department of Agriculture released a “Frequently Asked Questions” document outlining the specifics regarding dicamba use in soybean for the 2024 season. This comprehensive document addresses key dates, policies, restrictions, and more.

Risks, Rewards, and Recommendations for Early Soybean Planting in Illinois

The decision to plant early soybeans comes with risks such as cold temperatures and potential emergence issues, requiring careful planning and communication. However, earlier planting can bring the reward of higher yields. Comparing risk versus reward, Stephanie Porter, CCA, shares her recommendations for the upcoming planting season.

Is the Peking Trait the Answer for Soybean Cyst Nematode?

Planning next year’s seed selection? Consider choosing soybeans with Peking resistance to manage Soybean Cyst Nematode. Stephanie Porter shares research results from Southern Illinois University’s SCN and root knot nematode research site.

Winning With Wheat and Double-Crop Soybeans

In this episode, Kelsey Litchfield talks with John Howell, president of the Illinois Wheat Association, about the 2024 winter wheat crop, its challenges, and why yields continue to improve. They also discuss double-crop soybeans and a new initiative from the Illinois Wheat Association.

Free Soybean Cyst Nematode Sampling Available for Illinois Growers

In partnership with the University of Illinois, ISA aims to establish a baseline SCN population in soybean fields statewide. Even if you’ve tested for SCN before, populations could be increasing.