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Can You Grow Edamame (Soybean) in North Carolina?

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

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

5a–10b

North Carolina last frost

late February

North Carolina first frost

early December

Days to harvest

70–95 days

When to plant Edamame (Soybean)s in North Carolina

Direct sow

Feb 28

Harvest

May 9 – Jun 3

Dates are approximate, based on North Carolina'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 North Carolina

North Carolina spans the mountains (Zone 5b-6a), Piedmont (Zone 7a-7b), and coastal plain (Zone 8a). Long warm seasons support tobacco, sweet potatoes, and a wide range of vegetables.