9 Recommendations For Soybean Seed-Applied Inoculation

Seed-applied inoculant is generally the method of choice for most growers and retailers. In addition to the recommended short time period between seed-applied inoculant application and planting, there are other potential challenges associated with proper soybean seed inoculation.

Researchers at Michigan State University offer the following best practices when inoculating soybeans.

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  1. Inoculates should be stored in a cool place and not exposed to the sun prior to use. Refer to product labels for specific handling recommendations.
  2. The safest approach is to buy fresh inoculate each year.
  3. Seed should be planted within four hours of inoculation. New products are being developed with a longer preplant application interval but data on the performance of these products is somewhat limited.
  4. When applying a fungicide or using fungicide treated seed, be sure the fungicide has dried before applying inoculate to the seed. Inoculate should NOT be mixed with fungicides and applied together. Refer to product labels for specific handling recommendations.
  5. When loading a drill or planter using an auger, inoculation materials (liquid or dry) should be added to the seed as it enters the auger for thorough application.
  6. When loading a drill or planter from bags, fill the seed box to a depth of three inches and scatter the appropriate amount of inoculate over the seed and mix it in thoroughly. Continue to add seed in six-inch deep layers, treating each until the seed box is filled.
  7. With some dry materials it may be desirable to slightly moisten seed to increase the adherence of inoculate. Individual seeds need no more than a 3%-5% coating of dry material. Liquid materials will usually cover most of the seed.
  8. Seeding equipment should be calibrated using treated seed.
  9. Lime soils used for soybean production according to soil test recommendations.

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