Edamame

Edamame grows best in well-drained soil around pH 6.0-7.0 with moderate fertility. Soybeans usually need little added nitrogen when properly nodulated; consistent water during pod fill is more useful than heavy feeding.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Even moisture; about 1 in/week including rain

Spacing

6 in

First harvest

75–100 days

Tips

• Sow 1-1 1/2 inches deep once soil reaches 60°F and thin to 4-6 inches apart.
• Use a soybean-specific rhizobial inoculant if soybeans have not grown in the bed before.
• Provide about 1 inch of water weekly, increasing attention to moisture as pods fill.
• Protect emerging seedlings from birds and inspect pods for stink bug feeding damage.
• Harvest plump green pods before they yellow; cook beans before eating.