Update on Soybean Inoculant Research

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Ellsworth ChristmasExtension Agronomist, Retired
Purdue University
echristmas@purdue.edu

Dr. Christmas received his degrees from Purdue University, having completed his PhD in 1964. He was employed by Purdue University from February 10, 1964 until his retirement in December 2004. He has held positions as an undergraduate teacher and an extension specialist, was on an international assignment for 4 1/2 years in Brazil, South America, served 15 years as an assistant director and agricultural and natural resources program leader of the Indiana Cooperative Extension Service, and completed his career as an Extension Specialist for oil seed and specialty crops. As an Extension Specialist, he devoted the majority of his time to extension activities related to the production of soybeans, canola, and small grains. These responsibilities include extension education programs, field days, the Diagnostic Training Center, and trouble shooting problems related to the production of the three above mentioned crops. In addition to the Extension activities, he has been involved in field research activities related to cultural practices used in the production of Soybeans, wheat, and canola. These included: a) the effect of row spacing, population and date of planting on the yield of soybean; b) an evaluation of supplemental seeding on the yield of thin stands of drilled soybeans; c) an evaluation of the effectiveness of new inoculants on the yield of soybeans; and d) studies to determine the proper planting date, seeding rate and nitrogen rate for canola in Indiana and the performance of canola cultivars under Indiana conditions. Hobbies: Collector of sophisticated junk, furniture restoration, the use of old wood working tools to make such things as splitting wooden shingles, fence rails, and etc.