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Can You Grow Edamame (Soybean) in California?

US · USDA Zone 9b · zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b

Grows well here

Edamame grows well in your zone — direct sow and enjoy fresh pods all summer.

Plant zones

5a–10b

California last frost

mid-January

California first frost

late December

Days to harvest

70–95 days

When to plant Edamame (Soybean)s in California

Direct sow

Jan 10

Harvest

Mar 21 – Apr 15

Dates are approximate, based on California's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Edamame (Soybean)

Edamame is fresh soybean harvested in the green immature stage — the source of those restaurant appetizer pods. Protein-rich and easy to grow with a satisfying harvest. Also used in Indian cooking as a nutritious vegetable.

Direct sow after soil warms to 60°F — edamame does not transplant well. Sow 2 inches deep, 4 inches apart. Inoculate seeds with soybean inoculant for best yields. Harvest when pods are plump and bright green but before they turn yellow. Blanch and freeze excess.

Full edamame (soybean) growing guide →

Gardening in California

California spans more climate zones than any other state. Coastal regions are mild year-round; the Central Valley is hot and productive; mountains are cold; deserts are extreme.