Why should soybean seeding rates be considered for increase?

Increasing soybean seeding rates can be beneficial particularly when using reduced (narrow) row widths. When soybeans are planted in narrower rows, they can effectively utilize available sunlight and resources, leading to denser canopy coverage. This enhanced canopy helps to shade the soil, which can reduce weed competition and improve moisture retention.

By increasing seeding rates in this context, growers can maximize the growth potential of the soybean plants because they are ensuring that more seeds are available to take full advantage of the benefits offered by the narrow rows. This strategy can lead to improved yields due to better light capture and resource use efficiency.

In contrast, the other options do not directly relate to the benefits of increased seeding rates. For instance, while higher fertilization rates can support plant growth, they do not specifically necessitate changes in seeding rates. Similarly, pest resistance mainly involves genetics and management practices rather than population density, while soil erosion is more closely associated with ground cover and root structure than seeding density alone.