Soybean

Growth Habit: Annual

Climate Requirements: Thrives in warm temperate to tropical climates with moderate rainfall (500–1000 mm).

Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained loamy or sandy soil with pH 6.0–7.5.

Water Requirements: Moderate water needs; requires irrigation during dry spells.

Planting Instructions: Directly sown at a depth of 2–4 cm with row spacing of 45–75 cm.

Harvesting Information: Harvested 90–120 days after planting when pods turn yellow and dry.

Plant Characteristics: Soybean is an annual leguminous plant with trifoliate leaves and small pods containing edible seeds.

Nutrient Content: High in protein, fiber, and essential amino acids; rich in iron and calcium.

Health Benefits: Supports heart health, promotes muscle growth, and may reduce cholesterol levels.

Yield Information: Average yield is around 2.5–4.0 tons per hectare.

Culinary Uses: Used in tofu, soy milk, soy sauce, and animal feed.

Industrial Uses: Used in biodiesel production, plastics, and adhesives.

Native Range: East Asia, particularly China.

Current Distribution: Grown in the United States, Brazil, Argentina, China, and India.

Common Pests: Soybean aphid, cutworms, and root-knot nematodes.

Diseases: Soybean rust, bacterial blight, and Fusarium wilt.

IPM Practices: Crop rotation, use of resistant varieties, and biological pest control.

Market Value: $450.50