Soybean Yields Increase with High Soil Test Potassium
 A 55-bu/A soybean crop takes up 188 lb K2O/A. Each bushel of soybeans removes 1.40 lb K2O. Without potassium (K) fertilization, soil test levels will eventually decline below optimum levels and yields will suffer. To increase yields, farmers should apply enough potash fertilizer to replace harvested K2O and also raise soil test K levels over a four- to eight-year period to optimum levels. Optimum soil test K levels will vary with the soil texture and clay chemistry. For most soils and cropping systems, the following table on relative soybean yields can be used as an approximate guide in managing soil test K to raise soybean yields.
For more details, please refer to the May 2000 Midsouth News and Views article - Raise Soybean Yields and Profit Potential with Phosphorus and Potassium Fertilization.
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