MS begins planting soybeans for the 2025/26 harvest on September 16

Planting for the 2025/26 soybean crop will begin on September 16 in Mato Grosso do Sul and may continue until December 31. According to the Weather and Climate Monitoring Center (Cemtec), the work begins under weather conditions that require extra attention from producers, with forecasts of irregular rainfall and above-average temperatures.

According to the agency's bulletin, rainfall distribution is expected to vary across the state's regions. Only the central-western region is likely to experience slightly below-average rainfall. Historically, between September and November, rainfall amounts range between 300 and 400 mm in most of Mato Grosso do Sul, reaching 600 mm in the south.

Climate models indicate that the quarter will be marked by more intense than normal heat, which should increase soil moisture evaporation. Despite this, there is a chance of isolated cold spells, with lows between 8°C and 10°C in some locations. The El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon is expected to remain neutral, with a 57% probability, with no direct impact on rainfall patterns.

For Gabriel Balta, technical coordinator at Aprosoja/MS, producers should carefully evaluate the ideal time for sowing and monitor weather updates. "Once the crop is planted, there's no turning back. Good initial positioning can completely transform the crop's development scenario," he emphasized.

Balta also recommends staggering planting dates within the property as a strategy to mitigate risks. Furthermore, he emphasizes that cultivar selection should consider each material's cycle and soil fertility conditions. "In areas with greater climate instability, it's best to choose long-cycle cultivars. In regions with a more regular calendar, early- to mid-cycle varieties can be used," he explained.