The adaptability of soybean high yield varieties and farmer preferences in dry land area

Abstract

Abstract Soybean development is currently directed to dry land areas. To support this program, IAARD has released some new varieties with a yield potential above 3 tons/ha. The aim of this study was to know the adaptability of new varieties of soybean and farmers preference in dry land areas. The field experiment was conducted in Grobogan Regency, using factorial randomized block design with two factors. The first factor was fertilizer dosage combined with bio fertilizer and the second factor was five soybean varieties. Farmer preference test was performed by interviewing the respondents. Measurements of the farmer attitudes, opinions, and perceptions was done using Likert scale. The results showed that Grobogan variety was better adapted to the dry land conditions of Grobogan Regency. The application of fertilizers combined with biofertilizers increased soybean growth and production. The highest plant (52.42 cm) and the highest soybean yield (2.165 t/ha) were obtained in the farmer’s dosage treatment combined with biofertilizers. The order of farmers preference for the tested varieties was Grobogan, Biosoy, Devon, Dega and Detap. These preferences were mostly based on crop productivity, seed size, seed availability, and ease of selling the yield.