Bean, Edamame, 'Green Shell'

Germination

Sow directly 2-3 weeks after the last expected frost when the soil temp. is 15°C or above. Sow seeds 4-5cm deep in rows 45cm apart with a spacing of 15cm. Do not over water. Germination time varies on weather conditions but between 20-30°C takes less than a week. Can be started early indoors Apr-May if desired, sow 5cm deep into soil, propagate 18-20°C, once germinated remove from propagator and grow on, repot as needed, plant out May-Jun.

Growing

Prefers a humus-rich, loose, well-drained soil in full sun. Ideal soil pH 6.0-6.8. Will tolerate partial sun with reduced cropping. Water regularly during flowering and pod formation but do not over-water. Mulch if the soil becomes warm. Side -dress with well rotted organic matter mid-season.

Cultivation

Soybean pods can be harvested when still green for use as a vegetable or harvest when fully mature and dried. For fresh pods harvest by pulling the whole plant. For dried harvest as the leaves start to fall from the plants, the pods are weather proof and can remain on the plant until required.