Soybean (Glycine max) Growth as Affected by Weed Removal, Cultivar, and Row Spacing

The influence of weed removal, cultivar, and row spacing on soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] yields was determined for 3 yr at the western edge of the soybean production area in the Great Plains in order to establish the critical weed-control periods. Early weed removal aided soybean stand establishment, and there was an inverse relationship between soybean stand and production of weed top-growth. Soybean seed weight and numbers per plant both increased as weed growth decreased. The soybean variety ‘Amsoy 71’ was more competitive than ‘Beeson’ to both early and late emerging weeds. Soybeans weeded at 2 through 4 weeks after planting did not show significantly reduced soybean yields from later emerging weeds. Thus, weed control the first month after planting is the most critical in obtaining high soybean yields.