Soybean field with green John Deere harvester at golden hour

Green John Deere harvester in a soybean field at golden hour, with warm light highlighting the crop.

About this subject

Soybeans are Brazil's main agricultural commodity, with the country being the world's largest producer and exporter, accounting for about 40% of global trade. The John Deere harvester, a model often used on large farms in the Midwest, represents the intensive mechanization that drives productivity. During the harvest, which occurs between January and April in Brazil, machines work at a fast pace to take advantage of ideal weather conditions. The golden hour light, a natural phenomenon, enhances the colors of the crop and is valued by rural photographers.

John Deere, founded in 1837 in the United States, is one of the most traditional brands in agricultural machinery. In Brazil, the company has factories in Horizontina (RS) and Catalão (GO), producing harvesters adapted to local crops. The characteristic green color of the brand was introduced in the 1910s and became a symbol of reliability in the field. The harvester shown in the image can harvest up to 60 tons of soybeans per hour, depending on the variety and field conditions.

Brazilian soybeans originated in Asia but found exceptional conditions for cultivation in the tropical climate and the Cerrado. The state of Mato Grosso leads national production, followed by Paraná and Rio Grande do Sul. The 2023/2024 harvest was estimated at 155 million tons, generating significant revenue for the economy. Mechanization, such as the John Deere harvester, has drastically reduced harvest time and labor needs but also raises questions about sustainability and environmental impacts.

Trivia: soybeans are used in over 20,000 products, from food to biofuels. Brazil is also a leader in research on genetically modified varieties, which increase resistance to pests and herbicides. Mechanized harvesting allows soybeans to be processed quickly, maintaining grain quality for export.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the importance of soybeans for Brazil?

Soybeans are Brazil's main export product, generating billions of dollars annually. The country is the world's largest producer and exporter, with the 2023/2024 harvest estimated at 155 million tons.

Why are John Deere harvesters green?

The green color was introduced by John Deere in the 1910s to differentiate its tractors and harvesters. It became a trademark of the company, symbolizing quality and tradition.

What is the golden hour in rural photography?

Golden hour is the period just after sunrise or before sunset when natural light is soft and golden. In rural photography, it enhances the colors of crops and machinery, creating visually appealing images.