Genetic Differences for Minimum Soil Temperature Requirement for Soybean Emergence

Abstract

Emergence laboratory experiments were conducted on 8 different soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) varieties (ranging from maturity group 4 through 7) at 1-inch depth in potting mix at 6 different temperature settings: 8,12,16,20,24, and 28°C to explore genetic differences in emergence temperatures. Results of the experiment showed that there were significant varietal differences, especially at 12°C. The research goal of this experiment is to look at cold tolerance of soybean at cooler emergence temperatures a potential breeding objective for public and private entities that develop new varieties. The success of this could increase grower's success when planting early in cooler temperatures.