Agroclimatic zoning of the state of Minas Gerais for the production of high quality soybean seeds

Abstract

In Brasil, Minas Gerais is the sixth state in soybean production. Adverse climatic conditions such as short mini-droughts ("veranicos"), irregular rainfall distribution and especially high temperatures can compromise the proper development of the crop in that state, especially in relation to the production of high quality seeds. The aim of this study was to collect and analyze data in order to establish an agro-climatic zoning of the state of Minas Gerais for the production of high quality soybean seeds. These values were georeferenced in terms of the latitude and longitude coordinates and, with the use of a geographic information system, a thematic map was created, in which the best growing regions in Minas Gerais are represented. The definition of higher or lower climate risk areas was associated with the occurrence of average temperatures during the seed maturation phase, the most sensitive stage of growth. On the basis of the data obtained on temperature and altitude of different locations, and considering the normal growth period, it was possible to outline a map with three distinct areas: Favorable - average temperature < 23,5 ºC; moderately favorable - average temperature between 23,6 ºC and 24,9 ºC; Unfavorable - average temperature > 25,0 ºC.