OPTIMIZATION OF SOWING DATE FOR ENHANCED YIELD AND QUALITY OF SOYBEAN

Soybeans, recognized as the most widely cultivated plant globally, are notably affected by weather conditions, particularly drought and elevated temperatures during their reproductive phase. In 2024, a field study was conducted at the Agricultural Research and Development Station (ARDS) in Turda to examine how varying sowing dates impact the yield and quality of three soybean varieties (Felix, Romina TD, and Potaissa TD). The findings indicated that the yields of the three soybean types were comparatively low in relation to their yield capacity; however, sowing earlier (at 5°C) than the optimal time (at 7°C) resulted in higher yields, whereas very early sowing (at 3°C) led to significantly lower yields. Quality parameters such as protein and fat content experienced slight reductions with earlier sowing.