Changes in agronomic practices or challenges should prompt adjustments in breeding. Understanding how to grow a crop improves the ability to breed improved varieties. That philosophy undergirds the University of Arkansas soybean breeding program, which develops high-yielding soybean varieties adapted to environments and challenges in the state. The program is working on a wide variety of soybean genetics, but that they adapt as needed to key challenges. Breeding is a tool that helps farmers continuously improve as agronomic factors change. For example, shifts in weather patterns could lead to changes in disease pressure. Changing crop rotations impact soil pests and nutrient availability. Herbicide resistance in weeds influences genetic technology systems.
Key Benefactors:
farmers, soybean breeders, seed companies