As one of the most popular oil crops in the world, soybean cultivation requires proper management of several factors, including fertilizer application. For optimal growth and yield, soybean plants must receive adequate amounts of essential nutrients. This article discusses the key fertilizer components to use for soybean crops and the recommended application rates.
Soybean plants typically require three primary nutrients, which include nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Nitrogenous fertilizers enhance the vegetative growth in soybean plants, while P and K fertilizers promote root development and enhanced fruiting, respectively. However, their respective concentrations and application timing are essential to the growth and development of soybean plants.
Nitrogen
Soybean crops typically require minimal amounts of nitrogen as they typically create their own “fixed” nitrogen through root nodule bacteria. However, it is essential to apply about 50-75 kg/ha of nitrogen to ensure adequate growth, particularly in soils that lack sufficient nodule bacteria. Nitrogenous fertilizers like urea or ammonium nitrate can be applied at the early vegetative and reproductive stages.
Phosphorus
Soybean plants require a significantly higher amount of phosphorus than they do nitrogen. At the planting stage, about 40-50 kg/ha of P fertilizer, preferably triple superphosphate, should be incorporated into the soil. Alternatively, farmers can also use diammonium phosphate (DAP) fertilizer. However, DAP fertilizer is alkaline in nature and could reduce soil acidity that supports root development.
Potassium
Soybean crops rely heavily on potassium, with a recommended application rate of about 50-75 kg K2O/ha. Potassium promotes root growth and enhances the plant’s ability to tolerate environmental stress. Muriate of potash (KCI) or potassium sulfate (K2SO4) can be applied at the early vegetative or reproductive stages to provide potassium for the soybean plant.
Other essential micronutrients like sulfur, magnesium, and calcium can also positively impact soybean crop growth and yield. However, these nutrients are mostly available in most fertile soils. Hence, additional fertilizer applications for these nutrients may not be necessary unless the soil has proven to have a deficiency.
In conclusion, properly managing fertilizer application in soybean crop production is crucial for optimal growth and yield. Timely application of fertilizers at the recommended rates can significantly increase crop productivity and profitability. Additionally, farmers must conduct soil tests to determine the actual nutrient needs of the soil and apply the appropriate amount of fertilizer for optimal outcomes.