A major agronomic objective for commercial soybean production is to reduce the minimum plant population required for optimal yield (i.e., minimal optimal plant population). This has occurred because seed cost, once a minor production expense, has become a major cost, accounting for about 42 percent of direct operating costs for an average U.S. soybean grower (U.S. Soy Crop Statistics, 2011).
Producers continually search for alternative marketing outlets that offer the potential for superior financial returns. This study analyzed whether Louisiana soybean farmers could net increased profits by barging soybeans into Matamoros, Mexico, instead of selling them at harvest to local elevators. (PDF Format Only)
The velvetbean caterpillar and the soybean looper are important pests of soybeans in Louisiana. These late-season soybean insect pests create the need for the continuous development of insecticide programs that are cost effective, maintain profitable yields and conserve natural enemies. (PDF Format Only)
The data presented in this report were collected by entomologists to provide Louisiana soybean producers with information on insect management practices that may be required as they select the soybean maturity group that best fits their production systems. (PDF Format Only)
The LSU AgCenter and the LSU College of Agriculture