3/18/2008
Soybeans are hardy plants well adapted to a variety of soils and soil conditions. However, producing the best quality crop and maximum yields will require top quality soil, according to the National Soybean Research Laboratory at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, Ill. Soil is one of the first things to consider when planting a crop, according to a NSRL article. A healthy, fertile, workable soil will actually provide seedlings and growing plants with protection from adverse weather including cold, frost, drought, excess water, and protection from pests and diseases. Ideal soil for optimum soybean production is a loose, well-drained loam. Many fields have tight, high clay soil that becomes waterlogged when it rains. When the soil dries out, a hard crust surface may form, which acts as a barrier to emerging seedlings.These high clay soils are low in humus and may have imbalance in mineral nutrients, the article stated. Also, these soils may have few beneficial soil organisms (bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa, earthworms and others). High clay soils may be amended with peat moss, sphagnum, organic mulch to increase the humus content. Sand may be added to loosen and aerate the soil and allow better drainage.The advantages of loose, well-aerated soil include (1) movement of air to roots and nitrogen-fixing root nodules, (2) increased water-holding capacity with adequate drainage, (3) reduced erosion, (4) reduced weed populations, (5) maintenance of steady and balanced nutrients to roots and balance pH, and (6) increased potential to protect roots from harmful nematodes, insects pests, and pathogens.
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