Best Planting Times for Soybeans in Illinois

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingApril 1 – May 15
Transplant OutdoorsMay 16 – June 1
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions

Soybean Planting Conditions

Illinois has a humid continental climate, with temperatures fluctuating between hot summers and cold winters. The optimal planting season for soybeans in Illinois typically spans from late April to early June, depending on regional weather conditions.

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Useful Tools for Starting Soybeans Indoors

Utilizing effective tools can lead to increased success and healthier plants.

Seeds

Starting with high-quality soybean seeds improves germination rates and leads to healthier plants for your garden.
Soybean Seeds
Browse Soybean Seeds on Amazon

Planting Trays

Using planting trays provides organization and sufficient space for seedlings before transplanting, improving growth efficiency.
Planting Trays Image
Find Planting Trays on Amazon

Grow Lights

Grow lights are vital in ensuring adequate light exposure for seedlings, particularly in less sunny periods.
Grow Lights Image
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Seed Starting Soil

Using specially designed seed starting soil promotes quick root establishment for seedlings, aiding in healthy growth.
Seed Starting Soil Image
Get Seed Starting Soil on Amazon

Greenhouse Growing

Utilizing a greenhouse in Illinois can provide protection against extreme weather variations and extend the soybean growing season. A greenhouse creates an ideal environment for optimal development, allowing for consistent monitoring of temperature and humidity.

Consider investing in a 10×12 FT Greenhouse priced at $1,199 to ensure your soybeans thrive in a controlled environment.
Greenhouse Image 1
Greenhouse Image 2
Check the latest price on Amazon.

Fertilizer

For healthy soybean growth in Illinois, using fertilizer can replenish nutrients in the soil and facilitate vigorous plant development.
Fertilizer Image
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Sow soybeans outdoors in Illinois around the last spring frost date, ensuring that soil temperatures are conducive to germination for optimal growth.

Average Last Frost Dates for Illinois’ Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
ChicagoApril 24
SpringfieldApril 28
PeoriaApril 25
RockfordMay 2
ChampaignApril 30

Disclaimer: Frost dates are average estimates, and actual conditions may vary. It is recommended to monitor local forecasts and adapt planting decisions accordingly.

Other planting guides for Illinois:

Broccoli Planting in Illinois

Kale Planting in Illinois

Pumpkin Planting in Illinois

Any questions on growing soybeans? Visit our forum to discuss: Growing Soybeans.

Starting Soybeans Indoors

In Illinois (Zone 5b), begin indoor soybean seed starting from mid-April to early May. This timeline ensures healthy seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation starting from late May to early June when the soil temperature is consistently above 55°F.

Transplanting Soybean Seedlings

Transplant soybean seedlings outdoors between May 20 and June 10. Ensure the soil has warmed adequately before planting. Space the seedlings 4-6 inches apart in rows with at least 30 inches between rows for optimal growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Provide consistent watering to maintain evenly moist soil, especially during the flowering and pod-setting stages.
  • Water at the base of plants to prevent leaf wetness and minimize the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and during flowering stages to enhance plant growth. Soil tests can help determine specific nutrient needs.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Regularly scout for common pests like aphids, bean leaf beetles, and root rot. Being proactive is key to a successful soybean crop in Illinois.
  • Utilize integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to protect soybean plants from pests and diseases.

Harvesting

  • Harvest soybeans when pods are fully formed and the leaves begin to yellow. Regular harvesting helps maintain quality and prevent spoilage.

The importance of good soil

Before starting to grow it is important to take a step back and find the condition of the soil in your garden, The optimal soil is a blend that includes the mineral-rich dirt along with organic-rich organic matter that plants need to thrive.


In my garden I try to compost as much as possible, so I can mix in the nutrient-rich compost in my soil. I use both hot composting of food scraps and cold composting of all organic garden “waste”..
If you don’t have the time or space for composting, it is possible to get compost ready to use in garden centers and Community Composting.
You can read more on Community Composting here: https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food/community-composting

If you are uncertain of the quality of your soil, you can get easy to use soil tests at amazon for 17 dollars. Check latest prices here: Soil testing kit.

Also remember to check out how much sunlight your growing area gets, and that the rain drains well. If you treat your soil well and plan your crops according to your climate you will succeed with any plant you want.

The satisfaction when you harvest your own produce is well worth the time you put in 🙂

BeeJay
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