Soybean (Glycine max)

Also known as: Soya bean

Soybean (Glycine max) was domesticated in East Asia around 1100 BCE. Early on, the Chinese utilized soybeans primarily as a food source, incorporating them into products like tofu, soy milk, miso, and soy sauce. In the 18th century, Europeans began to grow soybeans, initially valuing them for ornamental purposes.

The plant's versatility extends beyond food. By the 20th century, soybeans became crucial in various industrial applications. Notably, Henry Ford experimented with using soy-based plastics for parts in his Model T car. Additionally, soybeans have been significant in agriculture as a crop rotation plant to improve soil fertility, and they are a major component of livestock feed, highlighting their multifaceted utility throughout history.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Soybean

Lifespan

Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

61 cm to 1.8 m

Spread

30 cm to 38 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

White Purple

Images of Soybean

Quickly Identify Soybean

Glycine max can be identified by its trifoliate leaves, small purple or white flowers, and fuzzy pods that contain one to four seeds each. The plant typically grows upright with a bushy appearance.

Scientific Classification of Soybean

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Legumes, milkworts and allies

Family

Legume

Genus

Soybeans

Species

Soybean

Planting and Growing of Soybean

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

70-86℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6-7

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Terracotta, Plastic

How to Water Soybean?

When watering Glycine max, aim for about 500 ml each time. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, similar to a well-wetted sponge. The principle is to maintain consistent soil moisture without drowning the roots.

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Soybean?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Glycine max thrives in full sun, which implies at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Providing adequate light promotes healthy growth and high-quality produce.

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Soybean?

Ideal Temperature: 70 ~ 86℉

Glycine max, commonly known as soybean, grows optimally between the temperatures of 70°F to 86°F. This temperature range supports the plant’s physiological processes efficiently, maximizing photosynthesis and nutrient uptake. Heat within this range contributes positively to the growth rate and seed development, ensuring a successful yield. Maintaining this climate control ensures plant health and productivity.

What Soil is Best for Soybean?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6 ~ 7

Glycine max thrives in soils with excellent drainage. This condition prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A well-drained soil facilitates better root development and nutrient uptake, crucial for healthy plant growth. Rich in organic matter, the soil should provide essential nutrients. This ensures that the plant receives adequate nourishment, positively impacting both yield and seed quality. Fertile soil promotes vigorous growth and high productivity. While drainage is key, the soil should still retain adequate moisture, essential for plant sustenance during dry periods. Moisture retention contributes to uniform pod development and prevents stress, ensuring a robust harvest.

How to Fertilize Soybean?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Glycine max, a moderate amount of fertilizer is recommended to ensure healthy growth. Typically, applying 1 to 2 pounds of a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer per 100 square feet of soil will provide the necessary nutrients without risking nutrient burn.

How to Prune Soybean?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Avoid cutting back more than one-third of the plant at a time. This helps the soybean plant maintain its vigor and continue photosynthesis effectively, encouraging robust growth and plentiful yield. Pruning can expose fresh plant tissues. Be vigilant for any pest increase after trimming activities. Immediate action can prevent infestation, keeping your plants healthy and productive.

How to Propagate Soybean plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Sow the soybean seeds into seed starter trays filled with sterilized potting mix. Plant the seeds at a depth of about 1 inch, and ensure they are spaced adequately to allow for root expansion.

Gently water the seeds using a fine mist setting or a watering can with small holes. It is essential to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged to prevent seed rot.

Once the seedlings have developed several true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, transplant them outdoors. Ensure they are planted in well-drained soil with access to full sunlight.

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How to Repot Soybean plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Glycine max shows it's time for a new pot when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes or the growth becomes stunted. Repotting during the growing season in spring or summer helps the plant recover quickly and grow vigorously.

Select a pot that is slightly larger than the current one with ample drainage. A pot that's too big can retain excess moisture, leading to root rot, whereas a well-sized pot supports healthy root growth and balanced moisture levels.

Opt for a well-draining loamy soil mix to ensure good aeration and drainage. Such soil prevents waterlogging, supports nutrient retention, and provides a nurturing environment for young roots to expand vigorously.

Toxicity of Soybean

Is Soybean toxic to cat?

Soybeans present a significant toxicity hazard for cats. If felines consume improperly treated soybean seeds, they may suffer from poisoning. Ingestion of these harmful components can result in symptoms of discomfort or illness. It is vital for cat owners to ensure their pets do not have access to unprocessed soybeans to prevent possible health complications. Should poisoning occur, prompt veterinary intervention is critical to guarantee that the cat receives the necessary treatment and support.

Is Soybean toxic to dog?

The soybean plant presents a unique toxicity hazard to dogs, particularly when they ingest improperly processed sections of the plant. The seeds of soybeans are recognized as toxic to canines and should be kept well out of their reach. Should a dog consume these seeds, it might display symptoms that indicate poisoning. Dog owners need to remain alert for any signs of distress in their pets, including gastrointestinal issues, lethargy, or unusual behavior, which may suggest poisoning from soybeans. If a dog has eaten any part of the soybean, particularly the seeds, it is essential to seek prompt veterinary attention to guarantee the best possible health outcome for the animal.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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