Organic Soybean Official Variety Trials (OVT) were planted on organically managed land at research stations over the last three years. These trials provide good information on non-GM soybeans performance under organic conditions. Organic soybean seed is not available in varieties (or Maturity Groups) that perform well in the southeast, and organic farmers in the state are limited to choosing conventional (non-GM) varieties.

Plots were planted in 36 to 38 inch rows at a population of 165,000 seed/acre. All sites had a history of amendment with either chicken litter or compost and lime. All soils were tested before planting for a sufficiency of macro and micronutrients and pH. The only amendment added during soybean growth was manganese sulfate at the Kinston location where deficiencies are routine.

Overall yields are likely higher for all varieties than what is typical for organic farmers. Our protocol is to allow weeds to compete and reduce yield as long as possible, but fields are hand rogued each August to prepare for harvest with a research combine.

Varieties with letter-number names are still in breeding programs, and not yet available to the public, but are near being released.

Group V, Early

Maturity Group V, late

Maturity Group 6

Maturity Group VII / VIII