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Illinois farmer optimistic for better soybean yields in 2023

Planting preparation is underway and many farmers are making a game plan to achieve higher yields.

Nashville, Illinois farmer Nick Harre tells Brownfield last year’s soybean crop ran out of moisture and was average at best. He tells Brownfield there are some barriers as he strives for a better 2023 crop.

“Input prices are the big one. Those seem to change pretty regularly which makes it difficult to plan. More extreme weather events also make planning field operations more difficult.”

Harre says in the end, weather will dictate the success of the crop, but he is focused on what he CAN control.

“An earlier planting window would be helpful. Timely weed control is important, making sure you get a robust pre-emergent herbicide out there and then overlay another residual herbicide with your post emergent treatment. Also, scouting for insects and diseases and apply a product if necessary.”

He says he is his optimistic that yields will be better in 2023, but it is too soon to tell.

Harre is a district director for the Illinois Soybean Association and spoke to Brownfield at the organization’s Better Beans Series event in Carbondale on Thursday.