Soybean Seeds

How to grow Soybeans

Seed Sowing

Sow in modules in April in a heated propagator or on a warm sunny windowsill or directly where plants are to grow from late spring when danger of frost has passed.

Transplanting

Transplant your seedlings into their final growing position in May when the risk of frost has passed, leaving 20cm between plants.

Soybeans will benefit from being grown undercover in a polytunnel or greenhouse, but can be hardened off and grown outdoors in a well sheltered, south-facing spot. They are also suitable for container growing but make sure your pot is at least 5L in volume.

Plant Care

Keep the area weed-free and consistently watered during hot spells. You can mulch around the plants to keep in moisture and prevent weeds.

Soybeans are nitrogen-fixing so they won’t need any extra nitrogen from manure or compost – too much nitrogen and they may make too much foliage and not enough pod.

Challenges

Soybeans are generally free from pests and diseases but may be vulnerable to slugs and snails when germinating or as young seedlings.

Harvest

Soybeans are ready to harvest about 12 weeks after sowing. If picking for edamame, pick when the pods are still green and the shape of the beans is visible through the pod. To make soy milk or tofu wait until the beans have grown large and the entire plant has turned brown. You should be able to hear the beans rattling inside the pods.

Culinary Ideas

For edamame, briefly cook the young, still-green beans in their pods, by boiling in salted water until they are just starting to soften and serve with a sprinkle of sea salt and chilli flakes. Remember not to eat the pods, use your fingers to break open the pod and pop the bean straight into your mouth.

You can use dried soybeans in any recipes that would otherwise call for chickpeas or try making your own soy milk at home.

Seed Saving

Pollination occurs before the flowers open so there is no concern about plant isolation when saving for seed.

Wait until the pods begin to dry on the plant and either harvest the pods individually or pull the entire plant and hang upside down to dry further. Protect your hands with gloves when handling the dried pods. Either thresh by hand or by striking against the inside of a bucket. Winnow and store in a cool dark place.