When to Plant Edamame in Burke County, GA
Edamame are soybeans harvested at the immature green stage for a sweet, nutty snack. They are high in protein and easy to grow in warm climates.
Burke County, Georgia is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 22 and the first fall frost is November 8, giving you a growing season of approximately 231 days.
At an elevation of 370 feet, Burke County receives approximately 59.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Edamame may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Edamame, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Edamame root diseases.
Burke County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Soil Compatibility in Burke County
How your county's soil matches Edamame's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.3–6.7) overlaps with Edamame's range (6.0–7.0), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The clay loam soil in Burke County is excellent for Edamame — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Drainage
Drainage is adequate for Edamame.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.4%). Annual compost additions will help Edamame.
How to Plant Edamame
Succession Planting Edamame
Sow every 8.6 weeks. Last sowing by Jul 31 to harvest before frost.
Plant Water Budget
Monthly Watering Guide for Edamame
Edamame needs approximately 0.9 inches of water per week (3.9" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Edamame Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 4.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 4.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 3.9" | 6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 3.9" | 5.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 3.9" | 5.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 3.9" | 5.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 3.9" | 5.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 3.9" | 5.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 3.9" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 3.9" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 3.9" | 4.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Dec | — | 5.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Burke County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Edamame Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Edamame Planting Timeline — Burke County, GA
Edamame Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | March 29 | Mar 29 – Apr 19 |
| Harvest | June 14 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
0.9"/week · Natural rainfall sufficient
📅 Days to Maturity
75–100 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8a
📆 Growing Season
231 days in Burke County
Growing Tips for Edamame in Burke County
Direct sow Edamame outdoors after March 22 in Burke County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
With Burke County's clay soil (30% clay), work in 3-4 inches of compost before planting Edamame. Avoid tilling when soil is wet to prevent compaction.
With summer highs reaching 97°F in Burke County, provide afternoon shade for Edamame and water deeply in the morning.
Common pests for Edamame in this region include bean beetles and aphids. Use row covers early in the season and inspect plants weekly.
General growing tips
Direct sow after soil is warm. Do not over-fertilize with nitrogen. Harvest when pods are plump and bright green but before they start to yellow. Steam or boil pods before eating.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
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Edamame in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Edamame in Burke County, GA?
Burke County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 22. Plan your Edamame planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Burke County, GA?
Burke County, Georgia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 22 and first fall frost is November 8.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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