Best Planting Times for Soybeans in Missouri

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

Planting Conditions

Soybean Planting Conditions

Missouri’s climate varies from humid subtropical to temperate, with average rainfall and fertile soils ideal for soybean cultivation. The state experiences USDA Hardiness Zones 5b to 7a, allowing for a versatile growing season.

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Useful Tools for Starting Soybeans Indoors

Using the right tools can save you time and increase your success rate.

Seeds

Quality seeds lead to better germination and healthier plants. Starting with high-quality seeds gives your soybeans the best chance to thrive from the very beginning.
Soybean Seeds
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Planting Trays

Planting trays help you organize your seedlings and ensure they have enough space to grow before you transplant them outdoors. This makes the process more efficient and increases the chances of strong, healthy plants.
Planting Trays Image
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Grow Lights

Grow lights are essential if you don’t have enough natural sunlight. They provide your seedlings with the light they need to grow strong and healthy, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Grow Lights Image
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Seed Starting Soil

Using light, fine soil specifically designed for seed starting helps young roots establish quickly and promotes healthy growth. It’s an easy way to give your seedlings the best start possible.
Seed Starting Soil Image
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Greenhouse Growing

In Missouri, a greenhouse can provide ideal conditions for growing soybeans, especially in the early spring and late fall when outdoor temperatures can be unpredictable. It allows growers to control the environment, extending the growing season and minimizing the risks from pests and diseases.

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
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Fertilizer

For optimal soybean growth in Missouri, supplementing with fertilizer can ensure abundant and healthy harvests. Quality fertilizer helps replenish nutrients in the soil and promotes vigorous plant growth.
Fertilizer Image
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Other planting guides for Missouri:

Pumpkin Planting in Missouri

Broccoli Planting in Missouri

Tomato Planting in Missouri

Any questions on growing cucumbers? Visit our forum to discuss: Growing Cucumbers.

Starting Soybeans Indoors

In Missouri (Zone 6a), begin indoor soybean seed starting between April 15 and May 15. This timeline ensures healthy seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation starting from late May to early June once the risk of frost has passed.

Transplanting Soybean Seedlings

Transplant soybean seedlings outdoors from May 25 to June 10, ensuring the soil has warmed above 60°F consistently. 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 and deep watering to maintain evenly moist soil. Missouri’s varying climate requires regular watering, especially during dry spells.
  • Water at the base of plants to avoid leaf wetness, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer during planting and when the first pods start forming. Incorporating compost before planting can enhance soil fertility and structure.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Regularly monitor for common pests like aphids, soybean loopers, and fungal diseases. Missouri’s humid climate makes pest vigilance essential.
  • Implement organic or integrated pest management methods to protect soybean plants from pests and diseases.

Harvesting

  • Harvest soybeans when the pods are firm and the beans feel full inside. Regular harvesting promotes continuous growth and prevents over-mature beans.

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 organicrich organic matter that plants need to thrive.


In my garden I try to compost as mutch as possible, so I can mix in the nutrient ritch compost in my soil. I use both hot composting of food scraps and cold composting of all organic garden “waste”..
If you dont 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 you 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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