Agriculture

PH13 improves soybean shade traits and enhances yield for high-density planting at high latitudes

C. Qin, Y. Li, et al.

Shading and extended photoperiods induce exaggerated stem elongation in soybeans, threatening yields, particularly at high latitudes. This groundbreaking research by Chao Qin and colleagues uncovers the role of the PH13 gene and its haplotypes in plant height regulation. Interestingly, a specific haplotype linked to shorter plants has strong selection pressures at high latitudes. This insight not only clarifies shade resistance but also paves the way for developing high-yielding soybeans suited for challenging environments.