>Hello Sohib EditorOnline, in this article we will discuss the step-by-step process of planting soybeans, one of the most popular crops in Indonesia. Soybean cultivation is a vital source of income for farmers and an important part of the national economy. Therefore, it’s crucial for farmers to understand the correct techniques for planting and cultivating soybeans. In this article, we will guide you through the process of planting soybeans, from preparation to harvesting.
Persiapan Tanah
The first step in planting soybeans is preparing the soil. Proper soil preparation is essential for optimal growth and yield of soybean plants. The following are the steps in preparing the soil for planting soybeans:
Pembersihan Lahan
The first thing to do when preparing the soil is to clear the land of any weeds or debris. This can be done by manually removing them or by using a tractor or cultivator. It’s important to note that the land should be cleared thoroughly to avoid competition with the soybean plants for nutrients.
Penggemburan Tanah
After the land has been cleared, the next step is to till the soil to loosen it and improve its texture. This can be done using a tractor or a cultivator. The goal is to create a fine and loose soil for good aeration and water drainage. The ideal soil texture for soybean cultivation is a loamy sand or sandy loam soil.
Pemberian Pupuk
The next step is to apply fertilizers to enrich the soil with essential nutrients for plant growth. Soybeans require nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to grow well. The amount and type of fertilizer needed depend on the soil fertility and the variety of soybean planted. It’s recommended to consult with a soil specialist or agronomist to ensure the correct amount and type of fertilizer is used.
Pembuatan Bedengan
Finally, the soil is formed into raised beds or ridges to improve drainage, prevent waterlogging, and reduce soil erosion. The beds should be about 40-50 cm wide and 10-15 cm high. The distance between the beds should be around 70-80 cm to allow for easy access and maintenance.
Penanaman Kedelai
The next step after soil preparation is planting the soybean seeds. There are several techniques for planting soybeans, which include:
Penanaman Langsung
In this method, the soybean seeds are directly planted into the soil using a planter or a seed drill. The seeds are usually sown at a depth of 3-5 cm and a spacing of 10-15 cm between plants. This method is suitable for areas with adequate rainfall and good soil moisture to ensure germination and early growth.
Penanaman Terlebih Dahulu
Another method is to pre-germinate the soybean seeds before planting. This is done by soaking the seeds in water for several hours until they swell and sprout. The sprouted seeds are then planted into the soil at a depth of 2-3 cm and a spacing of 10-15 cm between plants. This method is suitable for areas with low soil moisture and limited rainfall.
Penanaman Panjat Tebing
This method is used in areas with steep slopes or hilly terrain. The soybean seeds are planted in terraces or steps along the slope to prevent soil erosion and conserve moisture. The seeds are sown at a depth of 3-5 cm and a spacing of 10-15 cm between plants.
Pemeliharaan Tanaman
After planting, the soybean plants need regular care and maintenance to ensure healthy growth and maximum yield. The following are some of the essential practices in soybean cultivation:
Penyiraman Tanaman
Soybean plants require adequate water to grow well. The recommended water requirement is around 500-600 mm per crop cycle. The water can be supplied through irrigation or rainwater. It’s important to maintain soil moisture at an optimal level to prevent water stress or waterlogging, which can affect yield and quality.
Pemupukan
In addition to fertilizing the soil before planting, soybean plants also need regular feeding of nutrients to support their growth and development. The fertilizers can be applied as side dressing or foliar spray, depending on the crop stage and the nutrient requirement. The recommended fertilizer application rate for soybeans is around 100-150 kg/ha of urea, 50-100 kg/ha of triple superphosphate, and 50-100 kg/ha of potassium chloride.
Pengendalian Hama dan Penyakit
Soybean plants are susceptible to various pests and diseases, which can cause significant damage to the crops if left uncontrolled. The common pests and diseases that affect soybean plants include stem borer, leafhopper, yellow mosaic virus, and rust. The best way to prevent and control these pests and diseases is to use integrated pest management (IPM) practices, which include cultural, biological, and chemical control methods. It’s recommended to consult with an agronomist or plant pathologist to identify and manage the pests and diseases.
Pengecekan Lapangan
To ensure that the soybean plants are growing well, it’s essential to monitor the field regularly for any signs of nutrient deficiency, water stress, pest and disease infestation, or other problems. The field inspection should be done at least once a week, and the observations should be recorded for reference and analysis.
Pengendalian Gulma
Weeds are another common problem in soybean cultivation, as they compete with the plants for nutrients and light. The best way to control weeds is to use mechanical or manual methods, such as hand-weeding or hoeing. Chemical weed control can also be used, but it should be done carefully to avoid damage to the soybean plants and the environment.
Panen dan Pascapanen
The final stage in soybean cultivation is harvesting and post-harvest management. The following are some of the essential practices in this stage:
Pemanenan
Soybean plants are generally harvested when the pods are mature and dry, and the seeds are fully developed. The harvesting can be done manually or mechanically, depending on the farm size and the available equipment. The harvested soybeans should be cleaned and sorted to remove any debris or foreign materials.
Pengeringan
After harvesting, the soybeans need to be dried to reduce the moisture content and prevent spoilage. The drying can be done by sun-drying or using a mechanical dryer, depending on the weather condition and the available resources. The ideal moisture content for storage is around 12-14%.
Penyimpanan
The dried soybeans can be stored in bags or silos, depending on the volume and duration of storage. It’s important to store the soybeans in a cool, dry, and ventilated place to prevent mold growth and insect infestation. The storage period can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the market demand and price.
Pemasaran
The final step is to sell the harvested soybeans to the market or the buyer. The price of soybeans is influenced by various factors, such as the demand and supply, the quality, and the location. It’s recommended to sell the soybeans at the right time and at a fair price to ensure maximum profit and customer satisfaction.
FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. What is the best season to plant soybeans? | The best season to plant soybeans is from November to January, during the rainy season. |
| 2. How long does it take for soybeans to mature? | Soybeans usually take around 90-120 days to mature, depending on the variety and the weather condition. |
| 3. How much yield can I expect from soybean cultivation? | The average yield of soybeans in Indonesia is around 2-3 tonnes per hectare, but it can vary depending on the location, the soil fertility, and the farming practices. |
| 4. Can soybeans be grown in small-scale farming? | Yes, soybeans can be grown in small-scale farming, but it requires careful planning and management to ensure optimal yield and profit. |
| 5. What are the benefits of soybeans? | Soybeans are a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, which are essential for human and animal nutrition. Soybeans are also used in various industries, such as food, feed, and biofuel. |
That concludes our guide to planting soybeans in Indonesia. With the right techniques and practices, soybean cultivation can be a profitable and sustainable business for farmers. We hope this article has been informative and helpful to you. Happy planting!