Soybeans

Soybean production in Mississippi has experienced many changes over the years. In the 1980’s and 1990’s, state average yields were 21 and 26 bushels per acre, respectively. During the 2000s, Mississippi’s average yield increased to 34 bushels per acre. Since that time, soybean production has improved substantially with a current state record of 54 bushels per acre set in 2018 and tied for the record three more times in 2020, 2021, and 2022.

Soybean is currently the top-row crop and number two on the list of agricultural commodities in Mississippi behind poultry. The estimates for the 2023 annual summary for MS soybean are 2.13 million acres harvested with 119,280,000 bushels produced averaging 56 bushels per acre. The 2023 total production value for soybeans in Mississippi is estimated at nearly $1.6 billion. These data are according to the USDA National Agriculture Statistics Service. 

Mississippi soybean producers are commonly planting maturity Groups IV and V soybean varieties, with the majority of the state’s acreage being planted by the end of May each year. There are many management decisions required for successful soybean production. These decisions include but are not limited to, variety selection, planting date, pest management, irrigation management, and nutrient requirements. Such decisions will vary depending on factors such as production location or issues that may occur within a given year. Many sources of information are available regarding soybean management in Mississippi. These resources should be utilized to ensure that the best management practices are incorporated for successful soybean production.