Best Planting Times for Soybeans in Georgia

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

Planting Conditions

Soybean Planting Conditions

Georgia’s warm climate and fertile soil create ideal conditions for soybean cultivation. With USDA Hardiness Zones ranging from 7a to 8b, farmers can take advantage of a long 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 Georgia, utilizing a greenhouse can offer significant benefits, including extended growing seasons and protection from pests and diseases. It allows for more consistent climate control, ensuring soybeans grow in optimal conditions despite external weather fluctuations.

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

Average Last Frost Dates for Georgia’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
AtlantaApril 7
AugustaApril 4
SavannahApril 14
MaconApril 11
ColumbusApril 19
Sandy SpringsApril 6
RoswellApril 8
ValdostaApril 25
AlpharettaApril 9
DaltonApril 14

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 Georgia:

Broccoli Planting in Georgia

Kale Planting in Georgia

Pumpkin Planting in Georgia

Tomato Planting in Georgia

Any questions on growing soybean? Visit our forum to discuss: Growing Soybean.

Starting Soybeans Indoors

In Georgia (Zone 7b to 8a), begin indoor soybean seed starting between March 15 and April 15. This timing allows for robust seedlings, ready for outdoor transplanting from late April to early May, after the last frost has passed.

Transplanting Soybean Seedlings

Transplant soybean seedlings outdoors from May 1 to May 15. Ensure that the soil temperature consistently exceeds 60°F for optimal growth. Space seedlings 4-6 inches apart in rows with at least 30 inches between rows.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Provide regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells. Georgia’s warm climate requires consistent moisture for healthy soybean plants.
  • Water at the base of the plants to minimize leaf wetness, which can lead to disease issues.

Fertilizing

  • Use a balanced fertilizer at planting and again during pod formation. Incorporating compost into the soil before planting will enhance fertility and improve soil structure.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Keep an eye out for common pests like soybean loopers and aphids. Georgia’s humid conditions can promote certain diseases, making vigilance important.
  • Employ integrated pest management strategies to keep soybean plants healthy and productive.

Harvesting

  • Harvest soybeans when the pods are firm and the beans are plump. Frequent harvesting can enhance yields and maintain the quality of the produce.

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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