Bin-Run Soybean Seed?

Many producers plant bin-run soybean seed to reduce production costs. However, research from across North America has shown a small yield advantage to using certified seed (Table #1).

1 "Field Performance of Farmer-Saved and Professionally Grown Soybean Seed Lots," by E. James Dunphy and Janet M. Ferguson

What is the reason this yield advantage exists? The greatest reason is likely lower quality bin-run seed. All good crops start with high quality seed. If you anticipate planting bin-run seed next year, plan ahead to obtain high quality seed.

Is it possible to save soybean seed and be successful? Absolutely! However, extra care must be taken to obtain high quality bin-run seed

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Tips for top quality seed

1. Use seed from a crop that was originally planted with high quality, pure seed.
2. Take seed only from a clean field. Scout seed fields for weeds and diseases during the growing season. Bin-run soybeans can spread weed and disease problems from one field to another. Using a field that has been part of a good rotation will decrease the likelihood of spreading diseases and pests.
3. Physically clean the combine. Harvest a small area separately first to ensure the combine is clean.
4. Monitor seed at harvest for seed borne diseases especially phomopsis, the major culprit in seed quality deterioration.
5. Harvest soybeans for seed first. Wet/dry cycles cause significant deterioration in seed quality. One method to assess mechanical damage from the combine in the field, and make adjustments throughout the day, is to us the Hypochlorite Soak Test, (Agronomy Guide, Publication 811, pg. 112).
6. Gentle handling is a must. Minimize the height from which seed is dropped into bins, wagons etc. Run augers full, at as low an angle, and as slow, as possible.
7. Harvest close to 14% moisture. Excessively dry seed will be cracked and damaged more easily.
8. Seed soybeans should be dried at temperatures below 40° C. Some seed companies will not accept the use of any heat in conditioning soybeans.
9. Ensure the seed cleaner is removing all foreign matter.
10. Clean bins thoroughly. Vacuum grain dust and remove moldy grain.
11. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity during storage can decrease germination and vigour. A germination and vigour test should be taken at harvest and also before planting.

If your bin-run seed is of poor quality do not plant it. One option to lower the cost of certified seed is to decrease the seeding rate slightly when planting under good conditions. Another option is to find a seed lot or variety with small seed. Since soybeans are sold by the bag and not by the number of seeds, a bag of smaller seed will go further.

Remember, the newest genetics (hopefully the best) are only available as certified seed.

Related Links

• Agronomy Guide for Field Crops, OMAFRA Publication 811

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