Best Planting Times for Soybeans in West Virginia

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

Planting Conditions

Soybean Planting Conditions

West Virginia’s climate is characterized by its humid subtropical climate in the eastern areas and humid continental climate in the higher elevations. This diversity provides a suitable environment for soybean cultivation, as well as certain challenges related to rainfall and soil drainage.

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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 West Virginia, a greenhouse can provide essential protection from unpredictable rainfall and fluctuations in temperature. This controlled environment allows for optimal soybean growth and a longer growing season, while also safeguarding plants from pests and diseases.
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 West Virginia, 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 West 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 West Virginia’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
CharlestonApril 15
HuntingtonApril 18
MorgantownApril 20
WheelingApril 22
ParkersburgApril 17

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 West Virginia:

Broccoli Planting in West Virginia

Pumpkin Planting in West Virginia

Tomato Planting in West Virginia

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

Soybean Planting Dates in West Virginia

In West Virginia, soybean planting typically occurs between April 15 and June 1. This timeframe allows for soil temperatures to warm sufficiently, providing ideal conditions for seed germination and establishment before the summer growing season.

Best Practices for Soybean Planting

When planting soybeans outdoors, aim for planting between May 1 and May 20 for optimal yields. Ensure that the soil temperature is consistently above 55°F to encourage rapid germination. Seeds should be spaced 1-2 inches apart in rows that are 30 inches apart for efficient growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Ensure consistent watering, especially during dry spells, as soybeans require adequate moisture for optimal growth.
  • Avoid overhead watering; instead, focus on drip irrigation or watering at the base to reduce the risk of disease.

Fertilizing

  • Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer during planting, as soybeans are legumes and can fix nitrogen but may need additional nutrients for initial growth.
  • Conduct a soil test to determine nutrient levels and adjust fertilization accordingly for optimal growth and yield.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Regularly inspect for common pests such as aphids, soybean loopers, and spider mites. Timely intervention can prevent widespread damage.
  • Utilize integrated pest management (IPM) practices to control pests while minimizing environmental impact.

Harvesting

  • Harvest soybeans when the pods turn brown, and the leaves start to drop. It’s crucial to ensure beans are fully matured for optimal 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 organic-rich organic matter that plants need to thrive.


In my garden I try to compost as much as possible, so I can mix in the nutrient-rich compost in my soil. I use both hot composting of food scraps and cold composting of all organic garden “waste”..
If you don’t 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 your 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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