High soybean productivity depends on choosing the right cultivar

Choosing the right cultivar is one of the determining factors for achieving high productivity and profitability in your crop. With so many options on the market, finding the most suitable one for your property can seem like a challenge. However, by taking into account the characteristics of your region and the conditions of the planting area, you can make the best decision to optimize results.

Gilberto Tateyama, responsible for Cocari’s Seed Business, explains that there is no ready-made recipe for choosing the ideal cultivar. “Each property has its own particularities and the producer needs to evaluate several factors before deciding what to plant,” he advises.

What to consider when choosing

Each cultivar has its own characteristics, developed through genetic improvement or biotechnology. Among the points that make a difference in the crop, Tateyama highlights: Resistance to pests and diseases: cultivars with greater tolerance to insects and diseases reduce the need for pesticide application and make management more efficient.

• Herbicide resistance: Some cultivars are adapted to withstand specific herbicides, making weed control easier.
• Growth habit: Cultivars can be determinate or indeterminate, which influences crop management and the ideal time for harvesting.
• Maturation group: This factor defines the plant cycle, from planting to harvest, and is essential for crop planning.

In addition, other factors directly influence the choice of cultivar, such as the region's climate, soil fertility and the planting period. "If the area has a history of soil correction and adequate fertilization, cultivars with high production potential may be more advantageous. In less fertile soils, more rustic options may yield better results," he explains.

Planning for more productivity

Planting timing also affects crop performance. Cultivars recommended for early sowing should show good vegetative development, while those recommended for late sowing should have adequate growth to avoid lodging.

Another important point is the investment in fertilization and management. “More demanding cultivars may require a greater investment, while more rustic options require fewer inputs and care,” he adds.

To make the best decision, it is essential to have technical support from Cocari, monitor the results of field days and test new cultivars on the property. “This strategy helps producers find the best option for their production system and achieve high yields,” he concludes.