Effect of variety and row spacing productivity and yield components of soybean (Glycine max L.) in Northwestern Ethiopia

Soybean is an important crop for both production and international trade, providing edible oil and an affordable, high-quality protein source, especially for low-income populations in Ethiopia. However, soybean production and productivity are often constrained by the use of non-adapted varieties and inappropriate row spacing, resulting in suboptimal resource utilization and yield performance. To address this, a field experiment was conducted during the 2024 cropping season in Ayehu Guagusa District, Northwestern Ethiopia, to evaluate the effects of inter-row spacing and soybean varieties on yield. The study used a 4 × 4 factorial combination of four soybean varieties (Andinet, Tana beles, Pawi 03, and the Belesa-95) and four row spacings (0.30, 0.40, 0.50, and 0.60 m), arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Results showed significant differences in growth and yield parameters due to both main and interaction effects of variety and row spacing. The highest grain yield (3.37 t ha⁻¹) was recorded at 0.50 m spacing, while the lowest (2.69 t ha⁻¹) occurred at 0.30 m. Among varieties, Andinet performed best with 3.58 t ha⁻¹, whereas the Belesa-95 variety had the lowest yield (2.4 t ha⁻¹). Although the combination of Andinet and 0.50 m spacing gave the highest yield, the greatest economic return was achieved with Andinet at 0.60 m spacing, producing the highest net benefit and marginal rate of return. Based on economic analysis, planting the Andinet variety with 0.60 m spacing is recommended for improved soybean productivity in the study area and similar environments. However, further at least a two-year or multi-location studies are needed to confirm these findings.