Food Soybean Varieties in Low Input Conditions. Grain Yield and Quality from three NE Italy Environments

Abstract

Soybean has been diffusely grown in northern Italy since early 1980s. Indeed, at present the organic area (less than 3% of the total) and the practical absence of certified non-GM productions are key issues for farmers and food processors. In 2013, four food-grade varieties were tested under organic or low-input conditions in three environments of Friuli, NE Italy. Environments had a large impact on grain yields, genotype on grain composition. Late planting resulted in low yields and high-protein seeds. Seed protein levels were associated to visual seed quality