1. What is Soybean Population?

Soybean population refers to the number of soybean plants per unit area (typically per acre) that successfully emerge and grow. It's a critical metric for assessing planting success and potential yield.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the soybean population formula:

Where:

• \( seeds\_planted \) — Total number of seeds planted
• \( emergence\% \) — Percentage of seeds that successfully emerge
• \( area \) — Area planted in acres

Explanation: The equation calculates the actual plant stand by accounting for seeds that don't emerge, normalized to a per-acre basis.

3. Importance of Soybean Population Calculation

Details: Proper soybean population affects yield potential, weed competition, and resource utilization. Optimal populations vary by variety and growing conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total number of seeds planted, the emergence rate (as a percentage), and the planted area in acres. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical soybean emergence rate?
A: Emergence rates typically range from 80-95% under good conditions, but can be lower in challenging environments.

Q2: What is the optimal soybean population?
A: Optimal populations vary but generally range from 100,000 to 150,000 plants per acre depending on row spacing and variety.

Q3: When should population counts be done?
A: Counts are typically done at VC-V2 growth stage (first to second trifoliate) when stand establishment is clear.

Q4: How does population affect yield?
A: Both too low and too high populations can reduce yields - low populations have fewer plants, while high populations increase competition.

Q5: Should I adjust for seed size?
A: This calculator uses seed count, not weight. Seed size affects pounds per acre but not population when counting individual seeds.