Early planting remains strongly associated with soybean yield, according to research by University of Missouri state soybean farming system specialist Andre Reis.
With the U.S. Department of Agriculture predicting that farmers will plant 5% more soybean acres in 2026 due to projected higher prices, early planting might give growers an advantage. USDA also predicts an average of 53 bushels per acre in 2026.
In 2025, Missouri soybean farmers produced record yields, except on acres planted after May 17. Reis, who directs the MU Variety Testing Program, notes that nearly three decades of data confirms a consistent link between early planting and higher yields. These findings are consistent with results from private industry trials.
PHOTO: Green ripening soybean field. (Adobe Stock-#180602837 │ oticki)
