Aspects on cultivation of vegetable soybean in Sweden – cultivars, soil requirements, inoculation and nitrogen contribution

Abstract

Background. Global soybean production is expected to double in the coming decades, driven by a request for animal feed to meet increasing meat consumption. Demand for locally produced food and feed is also increasing, making it interesting to explore the potential for soybean production in high-latitude regions. Scope. To present information on the potential for cultivating vegetable soybean, edamame, under cold-temperate conditions. Conclusions. For the successful establishment, sowing at low soil temperatures should be avoided. Commercial inoculants are effective, irrespective of soybean cultivar. There is no need to re-inoculate fields if the crop has been included in the crop rotation. Little nitrogen remains in the soil after harvest, resulting in a low risk of leaching but a need for nitrogen fertilisation of the following crop. Suitable vegetable soybean cultivars are available on the market and are preferred compared to cultivars intended for dry harvest. The cropping system needs to be improved, e.g. by moderating the microclimate by plastic tunnels, in order to secure harvest.

Keywords

• bradyrhizobium japonicum
• cold temperate conditions
• pre-crop effects
• re-inoculation
• sustainable agriculture
• edamame