Two-and-a-half acres. There have been years that were wipe-outs. I think I have learned two things. I don't know if my observations are valid. So, take it for what its worth. First, I shifted where I plant beans from the field edge to the middle of a field. My first thoughts were to plant prime field entry-exit spots - like inside corners and traditionl trails.. Those are the places deer feel safe and will get into a plot and eat it to the ground. I guess its not so much a shift as I will still plant those "safe" areas, but the planting is extended beyond. It seems to work. If I could teach the deer to eat just every other plant it would allow the soybean plant to compensate by filling the empty space!. The second thing that helped, I think, was to let the weeds grow crazy wild. I spray at four to six weeks (I guess) after planting. Deer don't seem interested in picking thru the weeds to get to the beans. Of course there are always trade-offs. But, for the last five + years the return has been better than the 'offs.'
I should be quick to point-out there are a couple hundred acres of ag beans in the immeidate vicinity.
