Growth and Yield Performance of Soybean (Glycine max) as Influenced by Row Spacing and Seeding Rate under Cervantes Condition

This study investigated the growth and yield performance of soybean with different row spacing using different seeding rate under Cervantes condition in Cervantes, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. The three row spacing (R1-40cm, R2-60cm, R3-80cm) were combined with seeding rates (S1-3seeds/hill, S2-6seeds/hill, and S3-9 seeds/hill) in a strip plot design. Results revealed that wider row spacing significantly impacted percentage of plant emergence, number of filled pods hill, and number of unfilled pods/hills. Furthermore, higher seeding rates significantly influenced the number of seeds/hills, number of unfilled pods/hills, computed yield/ha-1, and cost and return analysis. However, row spacing had no significant influence on the plant height, flowering days, pod length and most of the seed yields parameters, including various seeding rates. Furthermore, the interaction between row spacing and seeding rate significantly affected initial height, dry seed yield, and computed yield/ha-1. Notably, the combination of 60 cm row spacing and 6 seeds/hill resulted in the highest net income and return on investment, demonstrating its profitability in soybean cultivation under Cervantes conditions. Finally, this study provides valuable insights for optimizing soybean production in the locality, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and improving farmer income.