Crops and the Challenges of Soybean Harvest During Ohio's Drought

Tuesday, 17 September 2024, 13:58

Crops are facing significant challenges as Ohio experiences drought conditions that impact soybean harvest. It is crucial for farmers to understand and mitigate the risks involved during this critical time. Efficient management can help reduce losses and ensure a successful harvest.

Crops and the Challenges of Soybean Harvest During Ohio's Drought

Crops and Drought: Managing Soybean Harvest

By Dr. Laura Lindsey, OSU Extension Soybean and Small Grain Specialist.

Currently, most of Ohio is experiencing abnormally dry to exceptional drought conditions, which can bring along additional challenges during harvest.

Key Challenges in Soybean Harvest

Pod Integrity: When dry pods are re-wetted, they may split and shatter, resulting in soybean seeds on the ground. At harvest, shatter losses can be significant if grain moisture is lower than 13%.
Green Stem Issues: A phenomenon where soybean stems remain green while pods mature can further complicate harvest operations.

To limit losses due to pod shatter, timely harvesting is crucial. Loss of four soybean seeds per square foot can equal about one bushel per acre in losses, often camouflaged by residue and chaff.

Also, grappling with green stem syndrome can affect harvesting efficiency, requiring reduced combine speed to address possible plugging of equipment.

This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.