Forage production in forage soybean varieties (Glycine max L. Merr.)

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the forage yield of different soybean varieties at various cutting stages under the dry tropical conditions of Mexico.

Design/Methodology/Approach: The experimental treatments consisted of four soybean (Glycine max) varieties SalCer®, Ojo de Tigre, Valente, and Albina evaluated over an 89-day period post-sowing. Key variables assessed included growth rate, morphological composition, and the leaf-to-stem ratio.

Results: For all four varieties, growth rate increased progressively with plant age up to day 54, reaching an average of 111 kg DM ha⁻¹ d⁻¹. A subsequent decline was observed on day 61, followed by a moderate increase to 123 kg DM ha⁻¹ d⁻¹ by day 68 (p > 0.05). The Valente variety exhibited the highest leaf proportion, attaining 73% at 26 days post-sowing, whereas the SalCer® variety recorded the lowest at 14% on day 89 (p > 0.05).

Limitations/Implications: Forage production in tropical regions is often constrained by the limited availability of high-quality biomass. Therefore, integrating leguminous species into production systems is essential. Nonetheless, regional adaptation trials remain necessary to optimize establishment success.

Findings/Conclusions: The Albina and Valente varieties demonstrated notable genetic potential for forage production in the dry tropics of Mexico, particularly between 54 and 61 days of growth.