Best Planting Times for Soybeans in Texas

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingSeed StartingApril 15 – June 1
Transplant OutdoorsJune 15 – July 1
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions

Soybean Planting Conditions

Texas enjoys a warm climate conducive to soybean growth, with USDA Hardiness Zones ranging from 6a to 9b. However, it is crucial to consider soil temperature and moisture conditions for successful planting.

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

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
Browse Soybean Seeds on Amazon

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
Find Planting Trays on Amazon

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
Check out Grow Lights on Amazon

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
Get Seed Starting Soil on Amazon

Greenhouse Growing

In Texas, where high temperatures can impact soybean growth, a greenhouse provides a stable environment that mitigates the stress caused by heat. Using a greenhouse means more consistent watering, controlled humidity, and protection from pests. It also allows for earlier planting and extended harvesting seasons.

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 optimal soybean growth in Texas, supplementing with fertilizer can ensure abundant and healthy harvests. Quality fertilizer helps replenish nutrients in the soil and promotes vigorous plant growth.
Fertilizer Image
Check out Fertilizer on Amazon

Plant soybeans outdoors in Texas approximately 1-2 weeks after the last spring frost date, ensuring the soil is warm enough for optimal growth.

Average Last Frost Dates for Texas’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
HoustonMarch 15
AustinMarch 28
San AntonioMarch 28
DallasMarch 31
Fort WorthMarch 31
El PasoApril 10
AmarilloApril 20
LubbockApril 15
Corpus ChristiMarch 5
McAllenMarch 5

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 Texas:

Broccoli Planting in Texas

Pumpkin Planting in Texas

Tomato Planting in Texas

Any questions on growing soybeans? Visit our forum to discuss: Gardening Forum.

Starting Soybeans Indoors

In Texas, begin indoor soybean seed starting between March 1 and April 1. This timeline ensures healthy seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation starting from late April to early May when the soil temperature consistently reaches 60°F or higher.

Transplanting Soybean Seedlings

Transplant soybean seedlings outdoors from May 1 to May 15, ensuring optimal soil conditions. Space the seedlings 2-4 inches apart in rows that are 30-36 inches apart to allow for adequate growth and airflow.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Provide consistent and deep watering to maintain evenly moist soil. Texas’s varying climate can require extra attention to hydration, especially during dry spells.
  • Water at the base of plants to minimize evaporation and ensure that moisture reaches the roots effectively.

Fertilizing

  • Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer during planting and again during the flowering stage to support healthy growth. Incorporating organic matter into the soil can also enhance nutrient availability.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Regularly check for pests such as aphids, bean leaf beetles, and caterpillars. Early identification and management can prevent significant damage to soybean crops.
  • Utilize integrated pest management strategies to help control pests and diseases effectively while minimizing potential impact on the environment.

Harvesting

  • Harvest soybeans when the pods have turned brown and the seeds are firm. Regular harvesting can ensure high-quality yields and overall crop health.

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
Latest posts by BeeJay (see all)