Food soybean varieties in low-input conditions. Grain yield and quality from three NE Italy environments

Soybean has been diffusely grown in northern Italy since early 1980s. Indeed, at present the organic area (less than 3% of the total area) 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, genotypes on grain composition. Late planting resulted in lower yields and high-protein seed composition. Seed protein levels were associated to visual seed quality.