Soybean, also known as Soybean, Hoang Dau Cat, Thua Xeng (Tay), Leo Soybean, ... belongs to the Bean family with the scientific name of Fabaceae. Embark on a captivating journey as we explore the thriving Vietnam's Soybean Farms. From the verdant fields to the dedicated farmers, let's delve into the fascinating world of soybean farming in Vietnam.
Description of the Soybean plant.
The origin of the first soybean in China. Then it spread to other countries such as Vietnam, Japan, Korea, Korea, Malaysia… Soybean was known in Europe in the early 18th century. Then it developed rapidly in the Americas. Soybean is a moisture-loving, light-loving plant. Fast growing growth. The life cycle is 5-6 months, some varieties under 3 months have been harvested.
The soybean plant is an annual herbaceous plant that can reach a height of 0.5 to 2 meters, depending on the variety and growing conditions. The stem of the soybean plant is erect, sturdy, and covered with fine hairs. It provides support to the plant and bears leaves, flowers, and pods.
Compound leaves alternate, consisting of 3 leaflets oval or oval, rounded base, pointed tip, 3-12 cm long, 2-8cm wide, lateral leaflets, scattered hairs on both sides, 3 main veins, petiole general 7-10cm long, hairy.
Inflorescences grow in short clusters in the interstitium of leaves; small purple or white flowers, bell-shaped calyx, covered with soft hairs; flagellum wide, without ears; stamens a bunch; hairy gourd. Beans, lots of soft yellow hairs, hanging down, about 3-4 cm long, slightly constricted between seeds; seeds 2-5, yellow white.
Soybean is a short-term dry crop with high economic value and good soil improvement ability.
In the crop rotation system, if arranged properly, it will contribute to increase the productivity of the whole crop system and reduce the cost of fertilizer application. Soybean seeds are used as food for humans, animal feed, raw materials in livestock, food industry, pharmaceuticals and export goods.
Soybean cultivation is highly lucrative, making it an attractive option for farmers. The demand for soybean products is constantly increasing due to their versatile applications. Soybeans serve as a vital ingredient in various industries such as food, animal feed, and biofuel. The market demand for soybeans ensures a stable income for farmers and opens up opportunities for expansion and diversification.
The Influence of Temperature, Rainfall, and Soil Conditions on Soybean Production.
Soybean production is significantly influenced by various environmental factors, including temperature, rainfall, and soil conditions. Understanding the impact of these factors is crucial for successful soybean cultivation.
Optimum Temperature Range: Soybeans thrive in warm temperatures, with an optimum range of 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) during the growing season.
Adequate Moisture: Soybeans require adequate moisture for optimal growth and development. The ideal range of rainfall for soybean production is approximately 500 to 750 mm (20 to 30 inches) throughout the growing season. Adequate moisture during critical stages, such as flowering and pod development, is crucial for successful pollination, pod set, and seed development.
Soil Conditions: Soybeans can be grown in various soil types, but they thrive best in well-drained, loamy soils with good water-holding capacity. The optimum soil pH for soybean production is around 6.0 to 7.5. Acidic soils with pH below 5.5 or alkaline soils with pH above 8.0 can affect nutrient availability and plant health. Adequate soil fertility, particularly nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, is essential for robust soybean growth. Soil testing and appropriate nutrient management are vital for maintaining optimal fertility levels. Soybeans are susceptible to waterlogging and poor drainage, which can lead to root diseases and reduced yields. Ensuring proper soil drainage through land leveling and appropriate field design is important.
From a tiny seed to Vietnam's Soybean farms.
Soybean is an economical and easy-to-grow food crop. Soybean products are used in a wide variety of applications such as direct use of raw seeds or processed into tofu, pressed into soybean oil, soy sauce, confectionery, soybeans, okara, etc. to meet the protein needs of the diet. the daily diet of humans as well as livestock.
Cultivation time
Winter-spring crop: People sow seeds from November to December of the solar calendar every year and harvest in February and March of the solar calendar.
Spring-summer crop: Sow seeds in February-March and harvest in May-June.
Summer-autumn crop: Sow seeds in April-May and harvest in July-August.
Disease and Pest Control.
Employ effective weed and pest control practices and to minimize competition for nutrients, water, and sunlight. Use a combination of cultural practices (crop rotation, timely planting), mechanical methods (hoeing, hand weeding), and herbicides. Follow recommended herbicide application rates and timings while adhering to safety precautions and environmental regulations.
Harvesting and processing.
Soybean sprouts consist of a soybean sprout with three parts: leaf, plant, stem. The ball body is elongated, the distance is 3-7 cm and is the main part used. Usually, depending on temperature and humidity, 3 to 7 days after the seeds or leaves are exposed are edible. Soybean sprouts can be eaten raw. Or processed with other foods such as stir-frying with meat, cooking soup, making hot pot... In addition, it can also be made into powdered soy sauce mixed with drinking water or essence of soy sauce
By understanding the influence of temperature, rainfall, and soil conditions on soybean production, farmers can make informed decisions regarding planting dates, irrigation strategies, soil amendments, and other agronomic practices. This knowledge contributes to sustainable and efficient soybean farming, ultimately leading to successful yields and profitable outcomes.