Best Planting Times for Soybeans in Virginia

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingApril 20 – May 15
Transplant OutdoorsMay 25 – June 5
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions

Soybean Planting Conditions

Virginia’s climate is generally humid subtropical, making it suitable for soybean cultivation. The growing season usually lasts from late April to early October, providing a favorable window for planting.

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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 soybean seeds lead to better germination and healthier plants. Starting with high-quality seeds gives your soybeans the best chance to thrive right from the start.
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 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 Virginia, where the growing season can be interrupted by unexpected weather, a greenhouse provides a controlled environment for optimal soybean growth. Greenhouses help stabilize temperatures, protect plants from humidity fluctuations, and can enable a longer growing season.

Consider investing in a 10×12 FT Greenhouse priced at $1,199 to ensure your soybeans thrive in a protected environment.
Greenhouse Image 1
Greenhouse Image 2
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Fertilizer

For optimal soybean growth in Virginia, using fertilizer can enhance yields and promote plant health. Quality fertilizers replenish vital nutrients in the soil, helping ensure robust growth and high productivity.
Fertilizer Image
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Plant soybeans outdoors in Virginia approximately 1-2 weeks after the last spring frost date, ensuring the soil is warm enough for optimal growth.

Average Last Frost Dates for Virginia’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
RichmondApril 15
NorfolkApril 15
Virginia BeachApril 15
RoanokeApril 22
CharlottesvilleApril 18
LynchburgApril 22
HarrisonburgApril 24
Newport NewsApril 15

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 Virginia:

Pumpkin Planting in Virginia

Tomato Planting in Virginia

Kale Planting in Virginia

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

Starting Soybeans Indoors

In Virginia, begin indoor soybean seed starting between late April and early May. This timing allows for healthy seedlings that can be transplanted outdoors by mid-May, after the last frost has passed.

Transplanting Soybean Seedlings

Transplant soybean seedlings outdoors from May 15 to June 1, ensuring the soil temperature is consistently above 60°F. Space the seedlings 3-4 inches apart in rows with at least 30 inches between rows for optimal growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Provide consistent and deep watering, particularly during dry spells, to maintain evenly moist soil. Virginia’s humid climate may reduce the frequency compared to drier regions.
  • Water at the base of the plants to prevent excess moisture on the leaves, which can attract pests and diseases.

Fertilizing

  • Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer at planting since soybeans are legumes and can thrive in nitrogen-rich soils. Adding compost can further improve soil vitality.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Regularly check for common pests like soybean aphids and two-spotted spider mites. While Virginia’s climate can promote plant growth, it is also conducive to pest activity.
  • Utilize integrated pest management techniques to keep your soybean plants healthy while minimizing chemical usage.

Harvesting

  • Harvest soybeans when the pods are firm and the leaves begin to yellow. This typically occurs in late summer to early fall, depending on the variety planted.

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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