German arable farms have embraced the cultivation of leguminous crops with both hands to produce protein locally. As a result, the volume of soy has increased by more than 40%. Field beans have also been produced more, according to government figures.
Both the area and the yields of protein-rich crops are significantly higher in Germany this season, according to figures from the Federal Statistical Office. Only the area of bitter lupins decreased in 2017. The total volume is 13% lower and the area decreased 14%.
Volume of soy remains modest
The biggest grower is the cultivation of soybeans. The area has increased by more than 20%. Partly because of this, the total volume is over 40% above 2016. Yet the 61.000 tons of soy is still relatively modest. The yield is 16% higher than in 2016, which means that the growing area in particular contributes to the larger harvest.
Field beans popular
Field beans are another protein crop that is increasing in popularity. The total cultivated area increased 20% in one year. The volume amounts to 186.100 tons. At 4 tons per hectare, the yield is slightly higher than last year and 5,5% higher than the 5-year average. As a result, 32.400 tons more field beans were threshed.
The largest protein crop remains the pea. According to statistical figures, the total yield is 298.400 tons. 3% more than last year. The yield per hectare increased 5%, while the area decreased 2%.