Hutcheson Soybeans - A Top Performing Northern Variety

Introduction to Hutcheson Soybeans

Soybeans are an incredibly versatile crop that can be used for many purposes. Hutcheson soybeans are a popular variety that offer high yields and quality. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Hutcheson soybeans, their history, uses, growing conditions and more.

What are Hutcheson Soybeans?

Hutcheson soybeans are a maturity group V soybean variety that was developed by the University of Missouri. They were first commercially released in 2006. Hutcheson soybeans produce high yields in their adapted growing regions and have resistance to major diseases like phytophthora root rot and soybean cyst nematode.

Some key features of Hutcheson soybeans include:

• Maturity group V - this means they perform well in northern growing regions
• High yield potential
• Good stress tolerance
• Resistance to phytophthora root rot and soybean cyst nematode
• Excellent standability - they resist lodging

Hutcheson soybeans produce medium-large seeds that contain about 34-35% protein and 18-19% oil on average. This makes them favorable for producing soybean meal, oil and other soy products.

History of Hutcheson Soybeans

Hutcheson soybeans were developed by the University of Missouri using traditional plant breeding methods. The original parental lines used include MO/PSD-0259, MO/PSD-0239 and Resnik. After years of selection and testing, Hutcheson was released as an official variety in 2006.

Since their release, Hutcheson soybeans have gained popularity across the northern soybean growing areas of the United States. They perform particularly well in Missouri, Iowa, Illinois and Indiana. Hutcheson is highly valued for its phytophthora root rot resistance in regions where this disease is prevalent.

Growing Conditions for Hutcheson Soybeans

Here are the ideal growing conditions for Hutcheson soybeans:

• Planting zones - Hutcheson soybeans perform best in northern planting zones, approximately from zone 4 through 6. This area includes northern Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and more.
• Soils - They grow well in fertile, well-drained soils with a pH between 6.0-7.0.
• Rainfall - Hutcheson soybeans need around 20-30 inches of water during the growing season for optimal yields.
• Seeding rate - Seed at a rate of around 150,000 to 175,000 seeds per acre.
• Row spacing - Use row spacings of 7-30 inches. Narrower rows typically produce higher yields.
• Planting depth - Plant the seeds 1.5-2 inches deep in the soil.
• Planting dates - Plant between late April and mid-June, after soil temperatures reach at least 50°F.

Make sure to scout the crop regularly and control any weed, insect or disease issues as needed. Hutcheson soybeans generally have good natural defense against pests and diseases but may still require management.

Uses of Hutcheson Soybeans

Like all soybeans, Hutcheson soybeans can be utilized in many ways:

• Soybean meal - Hutcheson produces a high protein meal after crushing that is fed to livestock like pigs, chickens and cattle.
• Soybean oil - The oil has many edible and industrial uses, like cooking oil, biodiesel, lubricants and more.
• Soymilk, tofu, edamame - The beans can be processed into various food products for human consumption.
• Soy granules and flakes - For soy-based foods and as supplements.

In the United States, approximately 98% of the soybean crop is processed for meal and oil. Only a very small percentage goes toward direct food products. However, Hutcheson soybeans are suitable for any soy food use if desired.

Advantages of Hutcheson Soybeans

Here are some of the top advantages that make Hutcheson a leading soybean variety for northern growing regions:

• High yield potential - Hutcheson consistently produces top yields in University trials and farmer fields.
• Disease resistance - The excellent phytophthora and SCN resistance provides more reliable returns.
• Standability - The strong plants resist lodging and harvest losses.
• Stress tolerance - Hutcheson handles heat, drought and other stresses better than most varieties.
• Widely adapted - Can be grown successfully across a wide area of the northern Midwest.

With these built-in advantages, it's easy to see why Hutcheson has become a popular soybean variety for growers seeking high productivity and returns on their investment.

Growing Hutcheson Soybeans

Growing a successful crop of Hutcheson soybeans requires good management practices. Here is an overview of key tips for yields with Hutcheson:

Selecting Fields

Start by selecting your best fields for planting Hutcheson soybeans. Look for:

• Productive soils with good drainage and fertility
• Fields without compaction issues
• Fields that are relatively weed and pest free
• Fields with limited history of phytophthora root rot or SCN

Check soil fertility and pH and make any needed adjustments. Hutcheson thrives in soils with pH around 6.0-7.0.

Seeding Rates and Planting

Plant Hutcheson soybeans at a rate of 150,000 - 175,000 seeds per acre. Higher populations can be used but may increase lodging and disease risks.

For row spacing, Hutcheson can be planted in rows ranging from 7 to 30 inches. In general, yields increase as row spacing narrows. However, ensure equipment can properly manage the chosen row spacing.

Seed to a depth of 1.5-2 inches. Planting should occur in late April to mid-June, after soil temperature reaches at least 50°F.

Weed and Pest Control

Scout fields routinely following planting. Apply post-emergent herbicides if weeds develop. Hutcheson does not have specialty herbicide traits.

Manage insects and diseases throughout the growing season as needed. Hutcheson has excellent SCN and phytophthora resistance but other pests may still require control measures.

Harvest

Timely harvest is important with Hutcheson to maximize yield. Scout fields closely as the crop matures and be ready to harvest as soon as pods turn brown and seeds drop to 13% moisture or less.

Adjust combines for soybeans and inspect machinery daily during harvest to minimize losses. Handling Hutcheson carefully preserves seed quality.

By following sound agronomic practices for the growing region, Hutcheson will reward growers with bountiful yields to market or store.

Marketing and Storing Hutcheson Soybeans

After harvesting an abundant crop of Hutcheson soybeans, smart marketing and storage can optimize returns. Here are some tips:

Know Soybean Grades

The USDA grades soybeans based on standards like test weight, damage, foreign material and other factors. The top grades are #1 and #2 beans, which receive better market prices.

Manage harvest and handling to minimize damage to beans. Cleaning equipment helps limit foreign material. Producing top grade Hutcheson soybeans boosts your profits.

Understand Market Options

Sell soybeans based on your marketing plan and outlook. Options include:

• Cash sales at harvest to local elevators and processors
• Forward pricing contracts prior to delivery
• Utilize futures and options for managed pricing
• Contract production for specific buyers

Work closely with your grain merchandiser to execute a solid sales strategy. Time sales to capture highs in the seasonality of the soybean market.

Store Carefully

For soybeans held past harvest, meticulous storage is a must. Steps include:

• Store in clean, dry bins with good aeration
• Use fans to dry beans to 11% moisture or less
• Cool beans with aeration during storage
• Inspect bins routinely for any issues
• Fumigate if needed to control insects

With good handling, Hutcheson soybeans can be stored several months past harvest before quality declines. Timely sales from storage can really maximize profit margins.

Summary

Hutcheson soybeans are an excellent variety that produces impressive yields across the northern Midwest. They feature great defenses against diseases like phytophthora along with tolerance to stress. Careful management, harvesting and marketing will allow Hutcheson soybeans to deliver outstanding performance and profits.

FAQs

What is the maturity group of Hutcheson soybeans?

Hutcheson soybeans are in maturity group V. This means they perform best in northern growing regions of the United States.

What row spacing works best for Hutcheson soybeans?

Hutcheson can be planted in rows from 7-30 inches wide. In general, narrower row spacings of 15 inches or less produce the highest yields.

Are Hutcheson soybeans resistant to soybean cyst nematode?

Yes, Hutcheson soybeans have excellent natural resistance to multiple types of soybean cyst nematode (SCN). This makes them a good choice for fields with SCN problems.

What is the typical protein and oil content of Hutcheson soybeans?

Hutcheson soybeans usually contain about 34-35% protein and 18-19% oil. This makes them favorable for producing soybean meal and oil.

What is the best storage moisture for Hutcheson soybeans?

For safe long-term storage, Hutcheson soybeans should be dried to 11% moisture content or less before placing in storage bins.