Soybean maturity groups III and early IV are considered as early soybeans and have been grown as a one of production options in Mississippi and the Midsouth since late 90's. Studies from 1998-2002 at Stoneville Mississippi indicated that early soybeans have the yield potential similar to conventional soybeans while they have many advantages. The biggest one is that they have short growing season and can avoid late summer drought; therefore, it is particular suitable system for non-irrigated field. However, some potential problems have to be concerned. Usually the early matured soybeans have low seed quality in terms of poor germination rate. Seed shattering is severe than most of regular soybeans. Since most of early soybeans has relative short plant height, row spacing should be reduced (20" or less are preferred) and seed population should be increased. The optimum planting windows for early soybeans are between April and to May 10. Plant early soybeans in Midsouth before April 1st will reduce the plant height significantly, and results early flowering and harvest lost due to low pod position.
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