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On-Farm Trial Network ReportS
Explore results from previous years’ On-Farm Trial Network trials, including soil sample analysis, tissue testing data, in-season field scouting observations, sulfur response yield reports and full data review trial summaries.
The Illinois Soybean Association On-Farm Trial Network (OFTN) began with a total of 31 field trial locations across Illinois, reaching 20 counties in 2025. Demonstration sites with in-field plots of various trials were implemented at the ISA Agronomy Farm near Heyworth and Farm Progress Show Site in Decatur. Twenty farmers enrolled in OFTN Action Trials, resulting in plans for 18 Sulfur Fertilization in Soybeans trials and 5 ROI of Soybean Insecticides trials. Five farmers continued the management of 6 Legacy Soil Health trials.
Spring weather challenges delayed planting and spring nutrient application for many enrolled in the program. As for the Sulfur Fertilization in Soybeans protocol, ATS or AMS was used with rates high enough to provide 30 lbs of sulfur per acre. Fifteen trials compared an application of ATS vs. no sulfur, one trial demonstrated the application of AMS vs. no sulfur, and treatment for one sulfur trial was not applied due to delays. Yield day from six Legacy and 18 Action trials was collected for analysis.
Explore Past OFTN Trials
This trial compared cereal rye, winter barley, and a no-cover control to assess their effectiveness in suppressing weeds such as waterhemp and their impact on soybean yields.
Trial period: Fall 2025 – Spring 2026
This trial evaluated whether insecticidal seed treatments or foliar sprays provide a return on investment by comparing treated and untreated soybeans. Researchers aim to identify which pests cause the most damage and determine the cost-effectiveness of different control methods.
Trial period: Spring 2026
This trial compared soybean fields with and without sulfur fertilization to measure yield impacts across Illinois environments, with emphasis on early planting and no-till systems. Treatments include ammonium thiosulfate, ammonium sulfate, or gypsum, applied preplant or at planting, to determine the effectiveness of sulfur management in soybeans.
Trial period: Spring 2026
This trial evaluated double-crop soybeans following wheat by testing three planting populations—180,000, 220,000, and 260,000 seeds per acre—to identify the most economical seeding rate. Results will help determine optimum populations that balance seed cost with yield in Southern Illinois conditions.
Trial period: Fall 2025 – Spring 2026
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