Effect of maturity on competitive ability in soybeans

Summary The effect of maturity on competitive ability in two cultivars of soybeans (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) was evaluated. Maturity dates within a genotype were simulated by removing half the plants from pure stands at end of flowering and twice later at approximately weekly intervals. Simulation of the early maturity of an equal competitor gave a significant competitive advantage to the late genotype only 2 out of 15 times. The average effect from simulation of earlier maturity within the genotype was statistically significant, but small, especially since the assumed difference in physiological maturity was 27 days. Most genotypic difference in competitive ability probably are due to characteristics other than maturity.Approved by the Director as a contribution from the Missouri Agricultural Experiment Station (Journal Series No. 7877).