Growing Soybeans (Edamame) in Containers

(Neighbor Nancy heaves a sigh of relief.)

Grab a cup of coffee and dig in.

Thanks to some friends, there seems to be a little flow in the mind of this blocked writer. Keep those questions coming and I’ll see what I can do.

And without further ado…

Soybeans for Container Gardeners

Although they seem to rarely be grown in the small garden or container garden, soybeans are a lovely choice. I think the soybean just needs a good public relations person.

As far as I know, nothing is more prolific than the soybean. Talk about bang for your buck. Wow! If you are trying to grow as much food as you can from containers, I urge you to give them a try.

Also, with fluttery leaves they make a pretty container plant. Since their final height is 2 to 3 feet, they kind of fill a visual gap in the container garden. Other plants stay smaller or get viney and longer.

“Envy” is a green soybean variety that is a nice tender “edamame” variety.

Due to the small root system, soybeans can be planted with a 2″spacing.

For example, an 8″pot can easily hold 6 plants.

As quick sprouters, they offer a little instant gratification in the will-it-grow department.

Like everything in the pea/bean family, I recommend soaking the seeds overnight. Dump out the water and give them a little rinse and drain. Let the seed sprout in a mason jar or whatever you have and then…very gently… plant the ones that sprouted.

This is a good practice for the apartment gardener, where ever seed counts. Plus, if your seeds come from a less than reputable source, you have a much better chance for success.

So, grab a little pack of super high protein green soybeans and dig in. You won’t be sorry.

Regular garden planting post to come. Along with using soybean, for crop rotation and adding nitrogen to your soil with an edible crop. We’ll even underplant them in the new orchard.

Hurray for delicious, prolific, little soybeans!