Best Planting Times for Soybeans in North Carolina

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

Planting Conditions

Soybean Planting Conditions

North Carolina’s climate features a humid subtropical environment with a long growing season. With USDA Hardiness Zones predominantly ranging from 7a to 8b, it is well-suited for soybean cultivation.

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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 North Carolina, maintaining consistent moisture and temperature levels is crucial for soybean success. A greenhouse provides a controlled environment, extending the growing season and providing protection from unpredictable weather, pests, and diseases. This can lead to healthier plants and increased yields.

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

Average Last Frost Dates for North Carolina’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
CharlotteApril 10
RaleighApril 15
GreensboroApril 18
DurhamApril 20
Winston-SalemApril 16
FayettevilleApril 12
JacksonvilleApril 24
BurlingtonApril 22

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 North Carolina:

Broccoli Planting in North Carolina

Pumpkin Planting in North Carolina

Tomato Planting in North Carolina

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

Starting Soybeans Indoors

In North Carolina (Zone 7a to 8a), begin indoor soybean seed starting between March 15 and April 15. This timeline ensures healthy seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation starting from late April to early May when the soil temperatures reach around 60°F.

Transplanting Soybean Seedlings

Transplant soybean seedlings outdoors from May 1 to May 15, ensuring the soil has warmed above 60°F consistently. Space the seedlings 1-3 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. North Carolina can experience varying rainfall, so regular watering is essential during dry spells.
  • Water at the base of plants to ensure efficient absorption and avoid plant diseases related to wet foliage.

Fertilizing

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer during planting and when plants show early signs of flowering. Incorporating organic matter into the soil can enhance fertility and drainage.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Regularly monitor for common pests like soybean aphids and thrips. Integrated pest management practices are recommended to mitigate risks.
  • Utilize crop rotation and resistant soybean varieties to minimize disease and pest outbreaks.

Harvesting

  • Harvest soybeans when the pods turn brown and the beans inside rattle. Timing is crucial for achieving optimal quality and yield.

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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