Soybeans are among the easiest crops to grow and require minimal maintenance. Many gardeners prefer planting and consuming them because they are an excellent source of protein. They can be harvested and eaten green or left to fully mature, then dried and stored. If you want to know the best time to plant soybeans, continue reading.
What Is the Best Time to Plant Soybeans?
Soybeans can be planted outdoors in early or late spring once soil temperatures reach 15.5°C. Since soybean seeds are not frost-tolerant, planting should only begin after the danger of frost has passed.
However, in warmer regions, soybeans can also be planted in late winter.
What Is the Ideal Location for Growing Soybeans?
Here are the environmental conditions soybeans need to grow successfully:
1. Soil
Soybeans grow best in clay loam or loamy soil with good drainage. Loamy soil contains nearly equal parts clay, silt, and sand—providing excellent drainage while retaining adequate moisture.
2. Soil pH
Soybeans thrive in neutral to slightly acidic soil, ideally between pH 6.0–6.8.
3. Sunlight
Plant soybeans in a location that receives full sun, meaning at least 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
4. Temperature
Soybeans grow well in temperatures between 21°C and 35°C. Extremely hot or cold conditions can negatively affect their growth.
Tips to Follow When Planting Soybeans
- Plant seeds outdoors at a depth of 5 cm, spacing each seed 15 cm apart, with 45 cm between rows.
- Indoors, plant soybeans in 7.5 cm pots or seed-starting trays at a depth of 5 cm.
After planting, cover the container with a clear polythene bag and keep it in a warm place (18–20°C).
Once seeds germinate, transfer them to a warmer area and eventually into larger pots as roots begin showing through drainage holes. - When growing outdoors, apply a thick layer of mulch to help retain soil moisture.
Tips for Harvesting Soybeans
- Mature soybeans are ready for harvest from late September, especially when leaves start falling off and stems turn brown with pods hanging.
- Soybeans typically mature 45–65 days after planting.
- For best results, cut or pull plants once they begin flowering, leaving plant residues in the soil to improve fertility.
