Pre-harvest desiccation of soybeans ensures quality at harvest

Pre-harvest soybean desiccation is a technique adopted to standardize crop maturation and facilitate harvesting, which has already begun in some regions. According to researcher Fernando Adegas, from Embrapa Soja, who participated in the Soja Talks podcast, the practice is recommended in situations of irregular maturation or when there are weeds that hinder the process.

Adegas explains that desiccation brings forward the end of the crop cycle, allowing for more efficient harvesting and reducing losses. Furthermore, the technique is essential for integrated systems with a second crop, such as corn or cotton, and to prevent damage to grain quality due to adverse weather conditions.

To ensure good results, the researcher recommends that desiccation be carried out at the ideal time, when approximately 75% of the plants have yellow leaves (stage R7.3). Early applications can compromise productivity. Choosing the right herbicide, using the right spray volume, and respecting the safety interval before harvesting are also decisive factors in avoiding residues in the grains and meeting the demands of export markets. The topic was discussed in the new episode of Soja Talks, available on Spotify.