Best Planting Times for Soybeans in Oklahoma

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

Planting Conditions

Soybean Planting Conditions

Oklahoma’s climate is characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making it suitable for soybean cultivation. The USDA Hardiness Zones range from 6a to 8a, offering different challenges based on region.

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

Useful Tools for Starting Soybeans Indoors

Utilizing the right tools can save you time and increase your chances of success.

Seeds

Start with high-quality soybean seeds for better germination and healthier plants.
Soybean Seeds
Browse Soybean Seeds on Amazon

Planting Trays

Planting trays help organize your seedlings and ensure they have enough space to grow before transplanting outdoors. This leads to stronger, healthier plants.
Planting Trays Image
Find Planting Trays on Amazon

Grow Lights

Grow lights are essential if you lack natural sunlight. They provide the necessary light for healthy growth of seedlings, especially in cooler or overcast conditions.
Grow Lights Image
Check out Grow Lights on Amazon

Seed Starting Soil

Using light, fine soil designed for seed starting promotes healthy root establishment and growth. This provides seedlings with the best possible start.
Seed Starting Soil Image
Get Seed Starting Soil on Amazon

Greenhouse Growing

In Oklahoma, where high temperatures can be a concern, utilizing a greenhouse can control heat and humidity, providing an ideal environment for soybeans. Greenhouses can extend the growing season, protect against pests, and allow for year-round cultivation.

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 Oklahoma, using 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

It is recommended to plant soybeans outdoors in Oklahoma approximately 1-2 weeks after the last spring frost date, ensuring the soil is consistently warm for optimal growth.

Average Last Frost Dates for Oklahoma’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
Oklahoma CityApril 15
TulsaApril 20
NormanApril 18
Broken ArrowApril 25
LawtonApril 30
EdmondApril 16
MuskogeeApril 22
StillwaterApril 27

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 Oklahoma:

Broccoli Planting in Oklahoma

Pumpkin Planting in Oklahoma

Tomato Planting in Oklahoma

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

Starting Soybeans Indoors

In Oklahoma, begin indoor soybean seed starting between April 1 and April 15. This timeline ensures healthy seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation starting from late April to early May, once the risk of frost has passed.

Transplanting Soybean Seedlings

Transplant soybean seedlings outdoors from May 1 to May 15, ensuring the soil temperature has warmed above 55°F consistently. Space the seedlings 4-6 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, especially during the hot and dry summer months in Oklahoma.
  • Water at the base of plants to avoid wetting the foliage, minimizing the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer during planting and once the plants reach approximately 6 inches in height. Incorporating organic matter into the soil before planting can enhance fertility.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Regularly monitor for common pests like soybean aphids and spider mites. Oklahoma’s warm climate can encourage pest populations, so stay vigilant.
  • Implement integrated pest management strategies to protect soybean plants from pests and diseases.

Harvesting

  • Harvest soybeans when the pods are firm and mature, usually from late September to early October. Regular harvesting promotes better yield and quality.

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)