Soybean
Glycine max
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Description
Soybean (Glycine max) is a leguminous plant native to East Asia, renowned for its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen, thereby enriching soil fertility and structure. This makes it a cornerstone in agroecology and regenerative agriculture systems. As a member of the Fabaceae family, soybeans play a crucial role in crop rotations, enhancing soil health and reducing dependency on synthetic fertilizers. Traditionally, soybeans have been used in East Asian cultures for thousands of years, both as a food source and in soil management. In a food forest, soybeans occupy the herbaceous layer, contributing to nitrogen fixation and supporting the growth of neighboring plants. They pair well with corn and squash in a classic 'Three Sisters' guild, providing mutual benefits. Soybeans grow up to 1.5 meters tall, with trifoliate leaves and small, typically white or purple flowers. The seeds are housed in pods, each containing two to four seeds.
Growing Details
Soybeans thrive in full sun and well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching with straw or grass clippings helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like corn and squash can enhance growth and yield. Avoid planting in the same location as previous years to prevent pest and disease buildup. Harvest soybeans when the pods are fully mature and dry, typically in late summer to early fall. Store
Tags
Nitrogen Fixing
Carbon Farming
Erosion Preventing
Easy Propagating
High Protein
Oil
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Glycine max</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: East Asia
applicable geo region: Temperate and tropical regions worldwide
language used: en
Flowering:
middle
of Jun for 30 days
Harvest:
middle
of August for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of May
Indoor Start:
beginning
of April
Transplant:
middle
of May
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(5/5)
edible uses: Soybeans are highly versatile and can be consumed in various forms, including soy milk, tofu, tempeh, and soy sauce. The seeds are rich in protein and can be processed into oil and flour. They are also used as animal feed. Soybean oil is extracted from the seeds and is a common cooking oil.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Soybeans are valued for their health benefits, including reducing cholesterol levels and improving heart health. They are a source of high-quality protein and contain isoflavones, which have been studied for their potential role in reducing the risk of certain cancers. However, due to the presence of phytoestrogens, individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions should consult healthcare professionals before consumption.
health concerns: Soybeans contain phytoestrogens, which may affect hormone levels. People with soy allergies should avoid consumption.
other uses: Beyond food, soybeans are used in the production of biodiesel and as a base for biodegradable plastics.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Glycine max
common names: Soybean; Soya bean; Soy
family: Fabaceae
sub family: Faboideae
tribe: Phaseoleae
sub tribe:
genus: Glycine
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.2 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Deciduous
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Medium
hardness:
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(4/10)
first harvest: 1 years
life span: 1 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Medium
max height: 1.5 m
max width: 0.5 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Soybeans thrive in full sun and well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching with straw or grass clippings helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like corn and squash can enhance growth and yield. Avoid planting in the same location as previous years to prevent pest and disease buildup. Harvest soybeans when the pods are fully mature and dry, typically in late summer to early fall. Store
Potential Disturbances: Soybean aphids, spider mites, and soybean cyst nematodes are common pests. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Planting marigolds can help repel nematodes. Neem oil and garlic sprays are effective organic solutions for pest management. Rotate crops annually to disrupt pest life cycles.
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