Soybeans are an incredibly useful crop that can be used in a wide range of products and recipes. They can grow in a range of conditions and produce impressive yields when they are grown correctly. Whether you’re new to growing soybeans or you have grown them for years and want to increase crop yields, follow these useful tips in order to encourage maximum soybean production.
1) Keep on top of weeding
One of the most important things when it comes to growing soybeans is to make sure they don’t get choked out by lots of weeds. You will need to regularly weed where the soybeans are planted, especially in the early weeks as they don’t do well when in competition with weeds. For large scale soybean production, it can be worth using a residual preemergence herbicide to hold back weeds. You can also thin out the plants when they have grown a few inches to get rid of weaker plans and sure the stronger plants have enough room to grow.
2) Make sure you plant at the right time
If you are growing soybeans from seed, check the growing instructions on the packet and make sure to plan ahead for planting season. In general, it’s recommended that soybeans are planted two to three weeks after the last for, but you should also consider the soil temperature which should be between 15.5 degrees and 21 degrees. Because soybean plants are light-sensitive, make sure you plant them in time as they will flower as long as the season allows.
3) Choose a quality soybean inoculant
Another way to encourage maximum soybean production is through using a soybean inoculant to protect your plants and give them the nutrients they need. Soy plants need lots of nitrogen to grow, so a soybean inoculant will ensure the soil has enough nitrogen for healthy crops. To inoculate your seeds, use a high quality soybean inoculant and sprinkle over the seeds, using a shovel to make sure they are all coated. Then you’ll need to plant them within 24 hours and keep the seeds out of direct sunlight.
4) Plant soybeans in the right soil
Like with all crops, having the right soil is crucial to successful soybean production. Choose a type of soil that has the right pH levels and nutrient levels for soybeans and avoid soil with high clay content. Drainage is very important for soybean cultivation, so try and plant your soybeans in well-drained soil to prevent diseases. It’s also a good idea to use a high-quality fertiliser to make sure your plants are getting all the nutrients they need, especially nitrogen. You can ensure proper drainage for your plants by using a loosely packed well-draining loam.