Soybean Seeds

How to Sow

SOW in average soil in full sun after danger of frost. In frost-free areas, sow from fall to early spring. Sow soybean seeds about 6" apart and cover with 1/4" of fine soil. Firm lightly and keep evenly moist.

How to Grow

Seedlings emerge in 7-14 days. Thin to stand 9-12" apart when seedlings are 1" high. Once established, mulch soybean plants to retain moisture. Since soybeans are reasonably tolerant of hot and dry conditions, do not water unless there is an extreme drought. Rotate your soybean crops each year to prevent trouble with disease or insects (although soybeans are rarely bothered by this).

Harvesting

Soybeans are a first-rate package of nutrients, one filled with protein, fiber, and an assortment of chemicals that help reduce cholesterol and may offset some cancers. They can be eaten at either the shell (half-mature) or dry stage, or as sprouts. For shell beans, pick when the pods are plump but still green and soft. Fresh soybeans lose their flavor quickly, so use them immediately after picking. Most pods ripen at the same rate, so you may want to pull the entire plant. For dry soybeans, harvest entire plants once their foliage has yellowed, and hang them upside down in a warm, airy place. (Soybean pods shatter easily, so don’t wait too long to pull plants.) Once the pods are entirely dry, shell and store soybean seeds in airtight containers in a cool location.