Soybean variety evaluation, Grafton, NSW 2019–20

Abstract

Key findings • The late 23 January sowing date and low rainfall during pod-fill affected crop growth. • The variety Hayman[PBR] performed well in the experiment maturing 126 days after planting (DAP) and yielding 3.95 t/ha. It had a large seed size (24.5 g/100 seed), high protein (45.9% dry matter basis (DMB)), a weathering tolerance of 66.9% unweathered grain and a low lodging score (1.2). • The yield of the variety New Bunya HB1[PBR] was statistically equivalent to the variety Hayman[PBR], however, its low weathering tolerance of 56% unweathered grain is a concern for coastal soybean production. • None of the breeding lines evaluated in this experiment produced yield significantly higher than Hayman[PBR], however, 12 lines produced a yield that was statistically similar. • The breeding lines 19-7 and 19-58 have potential for high yield and weathering tolerance equivalent to current commercial varieties. These lines will be advanced to future evaluations.