How to Plant Soybeans in Food Plots

The soybean is native to Africa, Australia and Asia and offers beans that can be eaten raw or processed for soy milk. Home gardeners have started growing soybeans for their health benefits, which include high doses of protein, fiber and calcium. Although the soybean is an easy type of bush bean to grow, they do prefer a full-sun and warm growing environment, with an ideal temperature average of 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Things You'll Need

• Food plot
• Trowel
• Soybean seeds
• Water

Instructions

1. Turn over the soil in your food plot to aerate it, removing any weeds or other debris. Soybeans prefer a rich soil, so you may wish to add compost or potting soil to your natural soil to create a better environment for your bean plants.

2. Dig a trench with your trowel 1 to 2 inches deep. The individual rows need to be a minimum of 24 inches apart, so if you're planning on planting more than one row of soybeans, you can prepare the trenches in your other rows at this time.

3. Sow soybean seeds 2 to 4 inches apart.

4. Cover the trench over with soil. Continue planting until you've planted all other soybean rows.

5. Water the food plot thoroughly. You need to water regularly in the evening, maintaining a moist soil environment.

Tips & Warnings

• Soybeans typically mature in 85 days.

• Soybean seeds should be available at garden centers or can be purchased online if you're having trouble finding them in your location.

References

• The Gardeners Network: Soybeans
• Harvest to Table: How to Grow Soybean