Soybean field with green John Deere harvester at golden hour

Mechanized soybean harvest at golden hour: a green John Deere harvester in a mature field, Brazil.

About this subject

Soybean harvest is one of the most critical stages of the production cycle, and modern harvesters like the green John Deere ensure efficiency and reduced losses. Brazil, the world's largest soybean exporter, produced around 150 million tons in the 2023/24 season, harvested across millions of hectares, mainly in the Center-West and South. The golden hour is not just aesthetically pleasing: low light reduces temperature and evaporation, preserving grain quality during operation.

John Deere is one of the most traditional brands in Brazilian agribusiness, with a factory in Montenegro (RS) since 1979. Its S-series harvesters, such as the S790, can harvest up to 60 tons per hour, with artificial intelligence systems that automatically adjust speed and cylinder openings to minimize grain damage. The distinctive green color is a symbol of reliability among producers.

Brazilian soybean cultivation dates back to the 1960s, but the country became a global leader after 2000, driven by technologies such as no-till farming, genetically modified seeds, and precision agriculture. Today, the crop covers over 44 million hectares, with average yields exceeding 3,500 kg/ha. Mechanized harvesting, as depicted, replaced manual labor and reduced field time, allowing up to three harvests per year in some regions.

Fun fact: soybeans are used not only for food and feed but also for biodiesel and lubricants. Brazil accounts for about 40% of global soybean trade, and harvest efficiency is crucial to maintain competitiveness in the international market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is mechanized harvesting important for soybeans?

Mechanized harvesting speeds up the process, reduces natural shattering losses, and ensures better grain quality, especially when done at the right time, such as during golden hour.

Why is John Deere so present in Brazilian agribusiness?

John Deere has had a factory in Brazil since 1979 and offers robust machines with cutting-edge technology, such as AI systems that optimize harvesting, earning farmers' trust.

What is 'golden hour' in agriculture?

It is the period at sunrise or sunset with soft, golden light. In harvesting, it helps preserve grain quality by reducing temperature and evaporation.