The feasibility of large-seeded soybean cultivation

Abstract

National soybean production needs to be increased for meeting domestic soybean demand and suppress soybean import, through improving cultivation techniques including using improved varieties. Study aims to evaluate the feasibility of improved large-seeded soybean cultivation. The study was carried out in 2021 in Tegaldlimo Sub-district, Banyuwangi Regency, East Java, Indonesia. Data were collected through survey and field observation on the application of existing and recommended technologies. The results showed that 5 new improved large-seeded soybean varieties introduced, namely Dega 1, Devon 1, Denasa 1, Denasa 2, and Detap 1 resulted in higher production than local Martoloyo. The recommended technology was more profitable than the existing as indicated by B/C ratio >1. The introduction of new varieties that are different from Martoloyo attracted 100% of farmers to adopt. In terms of crop and seed physical appearances, farmers prefer to Devon 1 due to its similarity appearance to Martoloyo, except the seed size. In term of economic feasibility, Devon 1 is profitable to be cultivated with B/C ratio of 1.5.