Plants

Comprehensive Guide to Planting and Growing Soybeans Using Traditional and Sustainable Methods

The Head Honcho

Apr 28, 2023 • 3 min read

Introduction

Soybeans (Glycine max) are versatile legumes used for food, animal feed, and biodiesel production.
This guide will provide detailed planting and growing instructions for both traditional and sustainable methods, including no-till, permaculture, and regenerative techniques.
Instructions will take into account variations in growing locations and conditions.

Planting Instructions

Choose the right time

For cooler climates (zones 4-6): Plant in late spring after the danger of frost has passed.
For warmer climates (zones 7-9): Plant in spring or early summer.
Optimal soil temperature for germination is between 60°F and 90°F (16°C - 32°C).

Select a suitable location

Soybeans thrive in full sun.
Plant in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-7.0 for optimal growth.

Prepare the soil (Traditional method)

Remove weeds and grasses from the planting area.
Till the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) and incorporate a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-20-10.

Prepare the soil (No-till method)

Mow or cut any existing vegetation as close to the ground as possible.
Spread a layer of compost or aged manure (1-2 inches) over the planting area to provide nutrients and improve soil structure.

Sow the seeds

Traditional method: Use a seed drill or hand planting to sow seeds at a depth of 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm), spacing them 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) apart in rows 20-30 inches (50-76 cm) apart.
No-till method: Use a no-till drill, seed injector, or hand planting to evenly distribute seeds at the same depth and spacing as the traditional method.

Water and maintain

Keep the soil consistently moist, but not saturated, until germination occurs (usually within 7-14 days).
Reduce watering frequency as the plants establish.

Growing Instructions

Incorporate permaculture and regenerative techniques

Plant soybeans alongside companion plants, such as corn, to promote biodiversity and soil health.
Utilize swales, contour planting, and keyline design to maximize water retention and distribution.
Practice crop rotation and cover cropping to improve soil fertility, reduce erosion, and break pest and disease cycles.
Encourage beneficial insects and wildlife to create a balanced ecosystem and natural pest control.

Fertilization

Traditional method: Apply additional nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium based on soil test results and crop requirements.
Sustainable method: Utilize compost, aged manure, or organic fertilizers to maintain soil fertility and avoid chemical inputs.

Pest and disease management

Monitor for pests such as soybean aphids, bean leaf beetles, and cutworms.
Practice crop rotation and introduce beneficial insects to manage pests and reduce disease pressure.

Irrigation

Established soybean plants are moderately drought-tolerant but will benefit from supplemental irrigation during extended dry periods.
Utilize water-saving techniques like drip irrigation, rainwater catchment, or mulching to conserve water resources.

Weed control

Traditional method: Employ mechanical cultivation or chemical herbicides to manage weeds.
Sustainable method: Use mulching, cover cropping, or hand weeding to suppress weed growth and minimize soil disturbance.

Harvesting

Soybeans are ready for harvest when the pods have turned brown, and the seeds are firm and rattle within the pods, typically 100-150 days after planting.
Use a combine harvester, or hand harvest by pulling or cutting the plants close to the ground.
Allow the harvested plants to dry in a well-ventilated area before threshing and winnowing to separate the beans from the pods.

By following these detailed planting and growing instructions for both traditional and sustainable methods, you can successfully cultivate soybeans in various growing zones, benefiting your garden, farm, or landscape. Incorporating no-till, permaculture, and regenerative techniques will not only promote a healthy crop but also contribute to a more environmentally friendly and sustainable agricultural system.