- Wheat & Soybean Variety Trials
Organic production systems in Northwest Minnesota are still being developed. The main crops are wheat and soybeans. There are contracts out for organic producers but growers do not have yield and management data available for the wheat, oat, and soybean varieties presently considered for organic production. The goal for this research project is to determine the yield level of soybeans and investigate if there are specific soybeans or management factors, which may increase the protein levels.

An organic soybean randomized complete block variety trial with 4 replicates was established in 2003 (2 June) at the Lynn Brakke farm near Comstock with 25 different soybean varieties. Varieties were selected based on the availability of contracts offered by buyers and the potential for future contracts. Buyers (Earthwise) suggested, and provided a number of the varieties in the trial.

Gypsum soil amendments at three rates (500, 1000, and 1500 lb / acre) are being evaluated for potential production increases and increase in protein content.

Soybean yield was evaluated under a variety of organic management conditions.

Application of soil amendment Fertile May 27th, 2002	Soybean research plot July 10th, 2002.
Photo: Research plot at Comstock July 16th, 2002.	Photo: Plot tour at the Comstock Research site, July 30th, 2002.