Soybean

What you'll need:

Soybean seeds (you can find these at garden centers or online)

A sunny spot in your garden or a large pot (at least 12 inches deep)

Rich, well-draining soil (mix compost into the soil for extra nutrients)

A watering can or hose

Some basic fertilizer (look for one that’s labeled for vegetables)

When to start:

Soybeans love warm weather, so it’s best to plant them after the danger of frost has passed, usually in late spring or early summer. The soil temperature should be around 50°F (10°C) or warmer before planting.

Choosing a good location:

Soybeans need plenty of sunlight—aim for a spot that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. If you’re planting in pots, make sure they’re placed in a sunny area like a balcony or patio.

Tip: Soybeans are pretty hardy and don’t require a lot of special care, making them great for beginners!

Step-by-step planting guide:

1. Prepare the soil: Loosen the soil with a garden fork or hoe and mix in some compost to give the soybeans a nutrient boost.
2. Make small holes: Dig small holes about 1 inch deep and space them about 2-4 inches apart. If you’re planting in rows, leave about 18-24 inches between each row.
3. Drop the seeds: Place 2-3 soybean seeds in each hole and cover them lightly with soil.
4. Water gently: Water the soil right after planting, but don’t soak it too much. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
5. Wait for sprouts: Soybeans will sprout in about 7-14 days. Once the seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them out so there’s only one plant every 4-6 inches.

If using pots: Make sure the pot has drainage holes and fill it with rich soil. Plant the seeds the same way as you would in the ground, but limit to 3-4 plants per large pot.

Pro tip: Soybeans grow quickly, so you’ll see progress in just a few weeks!

Watering:

• Soybeans need consistent moisture, especially during flowering and pod formation. Water them whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Try to avoid getting water on the leaves; instead, water directly at the base of the plant to prevent diseases.

Fertilizing:

• Soybeans are unique because they naturally add nitrogen to the soil, so they don’t need heavy fertilizing. However, you can give them a light feeding with a balanced vegetable fertilizer once a month if the soil is poor.
• Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to lots of leafy growth but fewer beans.

Sunlight and temperature:

• Soybeans thrive in warm weather, ideally between 60-85°F (15-29°C). They can tolerate some heat, but prolonged temperatures above 90°F (32°C) might stress the plants.
• Keep an eye on the weather—if it gets too hot, consider shading them during the hottest part of the day.

Support (optional):

• Most soybean varieties don’t need support, but if you notice the plants leaning or falling over, you can use small stakes or cages to prop them up.

Tip: Soybeans are fairly low-maintenance, so once they’re established, they’ll mostly take care of themselves!

When to harvest soybeans:

• You can harvest soybeans in two stages:
  • Edamame stage: Harvest when the pods are plump and green, usually 70-90 days after planting. This is when the beans inside are still tender and sweet, perfect for cooking.
  • Dry bean stage: Wait until the pods turn brown and dry on the plant, which takes about 100-120 days. These beans are great for storing and using later in soups or stews.

How to harvest:

• For edamame, simply pluck the green pods off the plant by hand or use scissors to avoid damaging the plant.
• For dry beans, wait until the pods are completely dry and brittle. You can then pull the whole plant and hang it upside down in a dry place to finish drying if needed.

Storing soybeans:

• Fresh edamame can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. You can also blanch and freeze them for longer storage.
• Dry soybeans can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for several months.

Tip: Fresh soybeans have a sweet, nutty flavor that’s delicious steamed or stir-fried. Enjoy them while they’re fresh!

Q: My soybean plants are turning yellow. What’s wrong?

A: Yellow leaves could be a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Make sure the soil isn’t waterlogged. If the issue persists, check for pests or nutrient deficiencies.

Q: Do soybeans attract pests?

A: Occasionally, aphids or spider mites may bother soybean plants. You can spray the plants with water to dislodge pests or use insecticidal soap if the problem is severe.

Q: Can I grow soybeans indoors?

A: While it’s possible, soybeans really need full sunlight and outdoor conditions to thrive. If you want to try indoors, place them near a very sunny window or use grow lights.

Q: Why are my soybean pods empty?

A: Empty pods could be due to poor pollination or inconsistent watering. Make sure the plants are getting enough water, especially during flowering and pod development.

Q: How do I know when edamame is ready to pick?

A: Edamame is ready when the pods are bright green, plump, and filled with beans. The pods should feel firm but not dry. If you squeeze a pod, you should feel the beans inside.