Soybean is one of the most important crops in the world. They provide protein for human consumption directly and indirectly through processed foods or livestock products. Soybean meal contains about 45% protein and provides a high-quality edible oil. When processed, a bushel (60 pounds) of soybeans yields 47.5 pounds of meal and 11 pounds of oil. Oklahoma is on the western edge of the traditional soybean growing areas of the U.S. Soybeans grow on
a variety of soils. Suitable soils are found throughout Oklahoma. Hot and drier climates in the western part of the state limit production, unless irrigation is available. When identifying growth stages of a soybean plant, the first important factor is to understand the difference between determinate and indeterminate types of soybeans. This will aid in understanding the growth stage of a soybean plant.