If you’re new to soybean farming, this article will provide a step-by-step guide on its basics for your small farm or backyard.
Soybean is usually termed the “golden bean” or the “miracle bean”. The United States is presently the leading cultivator of soybeans, followed by Brazil and Argentina.
Particularly in the United States, Illinois, Minnesota, and Iowa are mainly responsible for soybean cultivation. In fact, soybeans turn out to be the second most produced crop in the USA after corn.
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Here are the 10 Steps to Start a Soybean Farming Business
1. Choose the Niche
In terms of employment, there are many types of soybean. Milk, flour, oil, and even consumption can all be produced from soybeans.
You must determine which genus or forms of soybean you will manufacture. Broadly speaking, there are four classes of soybeans. As per temperature requirements, they are Group 00, Group 0, Group 1, and Group 2.
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2. Create a Soybean Farming Business Plan
Developing a business plan is vital for those aiming to make money from soybean farming; it provides a pathway to success and can help secure funding if necessary.
If you’re writing your own business plan, you can use free online generators to get assistance.
3. Licenses & Permits
To grow commercially, you’ll need to get the appropriate licenses and permits. Consult local authorities for more information on how to obtain them.
Business registration and insurance are essential to operating a legally compliant soybean farming business.
4. Selecting the Seed
If you wish to produce soybeans commercially, it is very important to select the right seed, depending on the type of farming being done.
Choose green seeds if you are growing food.
Yellow varieties are ideal for making soymilk or flour.
Dried soybeans should be chosen with black seeds.
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5. Selecting the Soil
Soybeans produce a higher yield when grown in soil with a pH value of over 6.5, and prefer moist soils instead of sandy ones.
6. How Much Land is Needed to Start Soybean Farming
To make money from soybean farming, you will need to have at least one acre of land, though the exact amount of required land depends on the profit desired.
7. Planting the Soybean Seeds
The most favorable time to crop soybeans is the month following winter, generally in May. The ideal climate for a successful bounty is roughly 50°F.
Plant the seeds approximately 1.5 inches into the dirt, sustaining a space of around 3 inches among them. Moisten the beans until it is humid yet be mindful not to douse them with too much water as that might initiate splits.
Soybeans should not be planted in areas that are too shaded, as they require a lot of sunlight for optimal growth.
8. Beware of Rabbits
Soybean shoots are a favorite food of rabbits. They can cause serious damage to crops if not kept away, so it’s best to build a fence around the farm area to keep them out.
9. Don’t Allow Weeds to Grow
When the Soy plants are small, it’s important to remove any weeds that could block their growth. As they get larger, the plants can take care of themselves and won’t be choked by weeds.
10. Harvesting of Soy Plants
Gather the soybeans when the capsules are mature and vibrant green. It is essential to reap before they transition to yellow-colored.
Subsequent to harvesting the whole pod from the vegetation, drop it in heated water inside a receptacle for around 5 minutes. Immerse the cooked pods in the frigid water for an additional 5 minutes. After cooling down, put them into a clean towel.
To harvest the soybeans from the pods, first press both ends gently. The beans will start to emerge. Enjoy them or save them for later use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the profit potential of growing soybeans?
Soybean farming has become a very profitable business in recent times. Reports show farmers on average make $64 per acre of soybeans grown, making it one of the most profitable cash crops around the world.
What is the yield of soybeans per acre?
For optimum soybean yield, farmers should sow 100,000 plants per acre in 7.5- or 15-inch rows and 80,000- 90,000 per acre in 30-inch rows, depending on the environment.
What is the cost of planting an acre of soybeans?
Planting costs vary depending on location, but the average per acre cost of soybean farming was between $160 and $200 in the previous year.
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