Early-season yield predictions impact weed seed production in soybean fields.
The study looked at how computerized tools can help predict weed seed production in soybean fields based on crop yield potential. By using WeedSOFT®, researchers found that treatments with high predicted crop yields usually resulted in less weed seed production compared to untreated fields. Early-season herbicide efficacy was a good indicator of weed seed production for main weed species. Narrow row spacing reduced giant foxtail growth but didn't affect common ragweed and ivyleaf morningglory seed production. Overall, controlling weeds early in the season can help reduce future weed populations in soybean fields.