By Blake Jackson
Missouri livestock producers dealing with high feed expenses, inconsistent weather patterns, and limited summer forage may have a promising new option.
Research conducted by University of Missouri Extension agronomy specialist Rudra Baral suggests that forage soybean could help fill seasonal forage shortages while providing strong economic and agronomic benefits.
The study found that forage soybean produced an average of six tons of dry matter per acre when harvested at the R3 growth stage, also known as beginning pod development.
However, timing is critical. “Delaying planting to early July reduced yield by 51% at the same stage, showing that planting date is one of the most important management decisions for this crop,” said Baral.
Researchers also reported a water-use efficiency of 450 pounds of forage per acre per inch of water and a net return of approximately $135 per acre, representing a 32% return on investment. “The crop is attractive not only for yield but also for feed value,” said Baral.
Protein levels remained steady between 19% and 21% through key growth stages. While late planting improved digestibility and reduced fiber content, optimal planting nearly doubled biomass production. Under favorable growing conditions, plants can reach heights of about five feet.
“For Missouri, that makes forage soybean a strong candidate for bridging the summer forage gap, especially in double-crop systems after wheat harvest,” said Baral.
The crop can be utilized for grazing, hay, silage, or green chop and may fit well alongside sorghum-Sudangrass or pearl millet. “Because it fixes nitrogen and performs well in rain-fed systems, it offers producers both agronomic and economic advantages,” said Baral.
Although forage soybean presents a moderate bloat risk and limited regrowth potential after heavy grazing, researchers conclude it remains a profitable, drought-tolerant, and flexible forage option that could play an important role in Missouri livestock operations.
Photo Credit: istock-ds70
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Soybeans, Hay & Forage, Weather