• soybean can be planted in any soil that is suitable for Maize but performs badly in poor sandy soils with low content of organic matter
• soils that easily compact and form a crust must be avoided for growing soybean because the protruding soybean seedling (hypocotyls) breaks easily under pressure

Avoid:

• Land lying on a steep slope
• Land which is near a swamp or likely to have water logging conditions
• Very sandy soil and areas with shallow surface soil to avoid drought stress
• Areas with a lot of couch grass
• Areas with a lot of shade to the soybean crop like under trees

• A good contact between the seed and soil enhances rapid germination therefore proper land preparation is vital to ensure good germination and reduces weed infestation
• A well-prepared land should ensure that weeds, shrubs and bushes are cleared

• Done using either a hand hoe or a plough. Aims at turning over topsoil and incorporate plant residues in to the soil
• Prepare fields in advance (2 weeks) before planting sweet potatoes
• Use mounds and ridges for planting as these methods ensure good drainage
• Deep cultivation is recommended as it improves oxygen supply in the soil
• Dig diversion water ways and plough along the contours to minimize on soil water wash.