Soybean row configuration × population × variety – Narrabri and the Liverpool Plains 2013/14 and 2014/15

Abstract

Key findings •• Row configuration on raised beds under full irrigation had no significant effect on yield and seed quality of either Moonbi[PBR] or Richmond[PBR] in the 2013/14 and 2014/15 seasons. •• Medium (60 cm) and wide (90 and 100 cm) rows significantly decreased established plant population compared with 30 cm and 40 cm rows. •• Yields were significantly lower when population was less than 35 plants/m2, increasing as population increased. Yield levels plateaued at populations between 39 and 49 plants/m2. •• Yields from Richmond[PBR] were significantly higher than Moonbi[PBR] on the Liverpool Plains; however, there was no significant difference between the two varieties at Narrabri. •• Seed size of Richmond[PBR] was significantly greater than that of Moonbi[PBR]. Plant population had no significant effect on seed size at harvest. •• Genotype effects on protein and oil content, while generally small, were statistically significant. Responses were dominated by seasonal climatic conditions.