Getting Ready for Soybean Harvest

Soybean fields are quickly reaching full maturity and harvest will be in full swing soon. As we prepare for harvest, it is very important to inspect equipment and closely monitor soybean moisture. Here are some helpful tips to remember:

1. Closely inspect the cutter bar. Majority of harvest loss happens at the head so make sure the knife sections are sharp and tight. Be sure to also make sure the guards are not bent and adjust the hold-down clips and wear plates as needed.
2. Keep a close eye on soybean moisture. Harvesting soybeans below 12 percent moisture increases the risk of splits and pod shatter. Therefore, it is best to start harvest at 14-15 percent moisture to reduce the risk of fields dropping below 12 percent before they are harvested.
3. Avoid harvesting during hot afternoons. The moisture content can increase from overnight dew and decrease during hot afternoons. To maintain moisture and reduce shatter loss it is best to avoid harvesting when soybeans are the driest, especially if the moisture is 12 percent or less.
4. Keep combine ground speed 5 MPH or less. Faster speeds tend to increase loss at the head.
5. Make combine adjustments throughout the day. Conditions can change several times a day as plant moisture changes. Be sure to keep the head close to the ground to ensure no pods are being missed by the cutter bar. In good conditions, the reel speed should be about 10 to 25 percent faster than the ground speed.

Making sure we harvest soybeans in a timely manner is very important. Mature soybeans that are exposed to multiple wetting and drying cycles can result in lower test weight and quality. In order to maximize grain weight and reduce yield loss, try to harvest soybeans before they drop below 12 percent moisture. If you have any questions feel free to reach out to your Dairyland Seed DSM or local agronomist.