Corn Residue Management Crucial for Boosting Soybean Yields

As corn yields continue to rise, farmers are left with increased crop residue, which can either help or hinder next year's soybean yields. Steve Gauck, regional agronomy manager for Beck's, advises growers to rethink their combine settings to achieve an even spread of the residue.

Gauck notes that while a knee-jerk reaction might be to till the ground and push the residue into the soil profile, this approach can do more harm than good. Instead, he suggests working with the residue and tapping into its benefits.

One benefit is greater weed suppression, which can reduce the need for herbicides. Additionally, the moisture retention provided by the residue can be a positive in hot, dry summers like the one experienced in Indiana this year.