Soybean field with green John Deere harvester at golden hour

Mechanized soybean harvest with a John Deere harvester at golden hour in Brazil.

About this subject

Soybean harvest in Brazil, the world's largest producer and exporter of the oilseed, is a spectacle of efficiency and technology. John Deere harvesters, like the green one captured in this scene, are ubiquitous in the fields of the Center-West, especially in Mato Grosso, the top producing state. Brazil's 2023/24 crop reached about 147 million tonnes (Conab), and mechanization is essential to harvest within a short window before moisture or pests damage the beans. The golden hour timing is strategic: harvesting in late afternoon reduces grain temperature and minimizes shattering losses. Brazilian soybeans mainly supply China and Europe, and logistics via highways and ports are a constant challenge. The planted variety, usually transgenic, is adapted to the Cerrado, with cycles of 100 to 130 days. The John Deere S790 harvester, common in Brazil, can harvest up to 60 tonnes per hour with a rotor separation system. Brazilian farmers adopt no-till practices and rotation with corn to maintain soil sustainability. Fun fact: Brazil harvests soybeans from January to May in the Center-West, while in the South the season runs from March to June.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is soybean so important for Brazil?

Soybean is Brazil's top agricultural commodity, accounting for about 14% of the sector's GDP and making Brazil the world's largest exporter, with revenues exceeding BRL 300 billion in 2023.

Why is harvesting done in the late afternoon?

Harvesting in the late afternoon, when temperatures are lower, reduces grain shattering losses and maintains quality by preventing excessive heating during processing.

How does a John Deere harvester work?

The harvester cuts the plant, separates the grains from the straw using cylinders and sieves, and stores the grains in an internal tank. Models like the S790 use a rotor for higher efficiency and can harvest up to 60 tonnes per hour.