When we conducted tissue sampling in the past, it was usually because we saw an issue in the field and decided to take a sample to help diagnose it and develop a treatment. Proactive tissue sampling is not a common soybean management practice in our area. However, this year we learned that sampling is a great way to learn about nutrition levels in fields where there is high yield potential. We must establish our own benchmark levels to push the yield ceiling of our varieties.
Our most recent tissue sample results from the AMS trial field showed that the copper level is lower, which is something I want to dig into more. Perhaps it’s a micronutrient we need to address.
In next year’s planting program, I am looking forward to incorporating a late season soil sample to see if the results correlate with the tissue samples. It’s been an interesting learning experience with a lot left to explore.
