Best Planting Times for Soybeans in Wisconsin

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingApril 15 – May 15
Transplant OutdoorsMay 30 – June 15
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions

Soybean Planting Conditions

Wisconsin has a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers, which presents challenges and opportunities for soybean cultivation. Key considerations include soil temperature and moisture levels for successful seed germination and plant growth.

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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 Wisconsin’s variable climate, a greenhouse is invaluable for growing soybeans. It extends the growing season, provides protection against late frosts, and ensures a stable temperature and humidity level, resulting in healthier plants and potentially higher 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 Wisconsin, 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 Wisconsin approximately 1-2 weeks after the last spring frost date, ensuring the soil is warm enough for optimal growth.

Average Last Frost Dates for Wisconsin’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
MilwaukeeMay 15
MadisonMay 20
Green BayMay 22
KenoshaMay 14
RacineMay 15

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 Wisconsin:

Broccoli Planting in Wisconsin

Pumpkin Planting in Wisconsin

Tomato Planting in Wisconsin

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

Starting Soybeans Indoors

In Wisconsin (Zone 5a-6a), begin indoor soybean seed starting from April 15 to May 10. This timing allows for healthy seedlings that can be transplanted outdoors from late May to early June after the danger of frost has passed.

Transplanting Soybean Seedlings

Transplant soybean seedlings outdoors between May 25 and June 10, ensuring the soil temperature is consistently above 55°F. Space the seedlings 2-4 inches apart in rows with 30-36 inches between rows for optimal growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Provide consistent and deep watering to maintain evenly moist soil. Wisconsin’s variable climate necessitates regular monitoring to prevent dryness, especially during flowering and pod development.
  • Water at the base of plants to avoid wet foliage, which can encourage fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and follow up when the first pods appear. Incorporating compost before planting can improve soil fertility and water retention.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Regularly check for common pests such as soybean aphids, corn rootworm, and diseases like powdery mildew. Pest management is crucial for maintaining healthy soybean crops.
  • Utilize organic and integrated pest management practices to combat pests and prevent disease outbreaks effectively.

Harvesting

  • Harvest soybeans when the pods are firm and the plants have begun to yellow. Regular harvesting ensures maximum yield and quality of beans.

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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