How to Grow Edamame | Growing Edamame Beans

Discover How to Grow Edamame, the healthy and protein-packed snack that’s easy to cultivate in your own backyard.

Looking for a healthy and easy-to-grow snack that’s packed with protein and flavor? Look no further than our topic on “How to Grow Edamame!” These delicious little beans are a staple in many Asian cuisines, and they’re surprisingly simple to grow in your own backyard. Growing Edamame is a fun and rewarding project that’s sure to yield tasty results!

What is Edamame?

USDA Zones: 4 – 11

Propagation Method: Seeds

Difficulty: Easy

Soil pH: 6 – 7.5

Other names: Baby soybean, sweet bean, vegetable soybean, garden soybean, immature soybean, edible soybean, green soybean, beer bean, Japanese soy, fresh soybean

Learn how to grow popcorn microgreens at home here

Edamame Nutrition Profile

When it comes to Edamame Nutrition, it is as follows:

Edamame is a nutritious and versatile snack food or side dish. It is a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. One cup (155 grams) of cooked edamame provides the following nutrients:

• Calories: 188
• Protein: 17.5 grams
• Carbohydrates: 8.5 grams
• Fiber: 5.1 grams
• Fat: 8.1 grams
• Vitamin A: 5% of the RDI
• Vitamin C: 9% of the RDI
• Vitamin K: 28% of the RDI
• Folate: 17% of the RDI
• Manganese: 22% of the RDI
• Calcium: 7% of the RDI
• Iron: 10% of the RDI
• Magnesium: 21% of the RDI
• Potassium: 16% of the RDI
• Phosphorus: 18% of the RDI
• Zinc: 10% of the RDI

Requirements for Growing Edamame Beans

Sunlight

Edamame plants require full sun for at least 6 hours per day, but they can tolerate some partial shade. Make sure to choose a location for planting that gets plenty of direct sunlight to promote healthy growth.

Soil

Edamame beans can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Adding compost or farm manure to the soil before planting can help improve soil fertility and structure.

The ideal soil pH range for edamame is 6.0 to 7.5. Avoid planting in cold, wet, or waterlogged soil, which can inhibit germination and growth.

Water

Edamame beans requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, especially during hot and dry weather. However, be careful not to overwater, which can cause the roots to rot. A good rule of thumb is to water the plants deeply once a week or more often during dry spells.

Check out Signs of Overwatering & How to Save an Overwatered Plant here

Temperature

Edamame beans prefers moderate temperatures between 60 and 85 °F (15 – 26 °C). Plant edamame in the late spring or early summer for growing edamame the best and once the soil temperature has reached at least 60 °F.

Humidity

Edamame beans can tolerate a range of humidity levels, but high humidity can increase the risk of fungal diseases. Proper spacing, good air circulation, and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent fungal issues.

Edamame Beans Care

Fertilizer

Edamameeans b is a type of soybean that is a versatile and nutrient-rich addition to any meal. Fertilizing edamame is important to ensure a healthy crop.

For best results, use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 12-12-12. Apply the fertilizer around the base of the plants at a rate of 1 to 2 pounds per 100 square feet.

Do not apply the fertilizer directly to the plants. Reapply the fertilizer every four to six weeks throughout the growing season.

Here are the Best DIY Potassium Fertilizer Recipes

Mulching

Mulching with organic matter such as straw, leaves, or grass clippings can help to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil fertility.

Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants, being careful not to cover the stems while growing edamame.

Pests and Diseases

Edamame plants are relatively pest and disease-free, but they can be susceptible to certain problems in certain conditions. Aphids, mites, and stink bugs may attack the plants, while fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot can occur in wet and humid conditions.

To prevent these issues, make sure to provide good air circulation around the plants and avoid over-watering. If necessary, treat the plants with an organic insecticide or fungicide.

Harvesting Edamame Beans

Harvest edamame pods when they are plump, and the beans are almost touching the sides. For the best flavor and texture, harvest the pods as soon as they are mature and bright green in color.

Once harvested, the pods can be steamed or boiled for a few minutes and then seasoned with salt or other spices.