Even though planting soybeans earlier has been an increasing trend for growers, a Purdue University expert said this year¹s delayed planting may be more beneficial than detrimental.

The abundance of rain that has washed over the Midwest has caused planting delays in many states. Indiana and Ohio have 19% and 21%, respectively, of the intended soybean crop planted, according to the latest report from USDA’s National Agriculture Statistics Service. Combined, this means that nearly 7 million acres are not yet planted.

But this late planting may be a blessing in disguise, said Ellsworth Christmas, Purdue Extension soybean specialist. Soybean seed quality is just marginal, he says. And that poor quality seed is at much greater risk of rot and disease, especially if it has to sit in the ground for several days.

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