ILSoyAdvisor Blog

Abiotic stress impacts metabolism, growth and yield—it’s that simple. Abiotic stresses are caused by drought, excessive water-logging or flooding, extreme cold or heat, salinity, acid pH and mineral toxicity, such as aluminum and iron at acid pH. Biotic stress is induced by insects, disease pathogens and weed pressure.

Physiologists study abiotic stresses and how they impact plant metabolism. University and commercial seed company...

The world is brimming with news and information about soil health. But what best defines soil health? And, how do farmers best measure and improve it over time?

First and foremost, it’s important to consider that healthy soil is comprised of physical, chemical and biological forces that interact to influence soil properties, says Will Brinton, Ph.D., environmental scientist and founder of Woods End Soil Laboratory.

“Soil isn’t...

Two decades ago, farmers had a problem with Soybean Cyst Nematodes invading their fields, taking over and causing major yield losses. But soon after, SCN resistant varieties were introduced and the problem seemed to be solved. As most farmers went back to managing their crops and thinking about SCN as a backburner issue, the nematode was slowly working behind the scenes, developing resistance and, once again, wreaking havoc on soybean fields...

Double-cropping soybeans can be a success with the right plan in mind.

There are several things growers need to do to set themselves up for success when planting double-crop soybeans after wheat.  

First, ensure you get a good, even distribution of harvested materials as you cut wheat. Make sure to have a properly adjusted combine to manage the residue not only in the machine, but that it can evenly distribute that residue...