Best Planting Times for Soybeans in Kansas

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingApril 20 – May 15
Transplant OutdoorsJune 1 – June 15
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions

Soybean Planting Conditions

Kansas features a range of climates, from semi-arid in the west to more humid in the east, impacting soybean planting conditions. Optimal soil temperature for soybean germination is between 55°F and 60°F.

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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 Kansas, where weather conditions can fluctuate between extremes of heat and cold, utilizing a greenhouse can offer consistent temperatures that benefit soybean growth. Greenhouses protect plants from harsh weather, pests, and diseases, while extending the growing season and allowing for optimal moisture management.

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 Kansas, 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 Kansas approximately 1-2 weeks after the last spring frost date, ensuring the soil is warm enough for optimal growth.

Average Last Frost Dates for Kansas’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
TopekaApril 20
WichitaApril 15
Kansas CityApril 25
LawrenceApril 30
ManhattanApril 25

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 Kansas:

Broccoli Planting in Kansas

Pumpkin Planting in Kansas

Tomato Planting in Kansas

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

Soybean Planting Dates in Kansas

In Kansas, the optimal time to plant soybean seeds is typically between April 20 and May 20. This window allows the seeds to germinate and establish strong root systems before the heat of summer sets in.

Transplanting Soybean Seedlings

For those using transplants, soybean seedlings can be set into the ground from late May to early June. Ensure the soil temperature is consistently above 55°F for successful growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Provide adequate watering especially during dry spells. Soybeans require consistent moisture, particularly during pod formation.
  • Water the plants at the base to encourage deep root growth and minimize disease risks associated with leaf wetness.

Fertilizing

  • Fertilize with a nitrogen-rich product at planting time to boost growth, as soybeans have specific nutrient requirements during their growing cycle.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Regularly inspect for common soybean pests like aphids, beetles, and soybean cyst nematodes. Monitoring is crucial to maintaining healthy plants.
  • Utilize integrated pest management practices to mitigate potential pest infestations and promote a balanced ecosystem for your crops.

Harvesting

  • Harvest soybeans when the pods are firm and the leaves begin to yellow. Timely harvesting is essential to avoid losses from shattering or decay.

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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