There are a few soybeans around Colquitt County, and I have been getting questions on this subject. Irrigation is expensive and requires careful management to be economically feasible for soybeans. This can usually be accomplished when
(1) soybean market prices are good,
(2) irrigation overhead costs can be shared with a winter-spring crop and
(3) when irrigation for soybeans can be targeted for soybean “critical periods” in July, August and September. Producers need to take into consideration about runoff and soil carrying capacity.
The following water balance method is suggested for 45 to 50 bushel soybean yields:
