Salk scientists test deep-rooted soybeans

Researchers hope deeper-rooted soybeans can withstand climate extremes while storing more carbon from the atmosphere.

“We are actually steering in a direction that is very concerning”

Carbon storage potential

Deep-rooted soybeans could store an additional metric ton of carbon dioxide per hectare annually.

Field trials underway

Salk researchers are testing deep-rooted soybeans in drought conditions at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Genetic modifications

Scientists edited soybean DNA to create roots that penetrate soil deeper than typical plants.

Carbon storage benefits

Deeper roots may store carbon farther underground, reducing release when fields are tilled.

Drought resistance

Deep-rooted plants access water below the top soil layer during droughts.

Carbon storage duration

How long carbon stays stored depends on root depth and soil conditions.

Field testing locations

Salk researchers are testing deep-rooted soybeans in Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, and Iowa.

Adoption challenges

Farmers are reluctant to adopt new crops without evidence they won’t cause disease or heat issues.

Funding for research

An $18 million grant from the Bezos Earth Fund supports field testing of deep-rooted soybeans.

Carbon removal potential

Deeper-rooted crops could remove 1 gigaton of carbon dioxide annually by 2040.

Systemic adoption barriers

Crop adoption depends on seed companies, subsidies, and farmers’ decisions, not just technology.