When to Plant Edamame in Johnson County, IL
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.
Johnson County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 7 and the first fall frost is October 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 197 days.
At an elevation of 1,006 feet, Johnson County receives approximately 39.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Edamame during the growing season.
Johnson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.9-7.2
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 Johnson County
How your county's soil matches Edamame's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.9–7.2) overlaps with Edamame's range (6.0–7.0), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The silt loam soil in Johnson County is excellent for Edamame — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is excellent (4.8%) — Edamame will thrive.
How to Plant Edamame
Succession Planting Edamame
Sow every 8.6 weeks. Last sowing by Jul 13 to harvest before frost.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Edamame Planting Timeline — Johnson County, IL
Edamame Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 14 | Apr 14 – May 5 |
| Harvest | June 30 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Direct Sow |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
0.9"/week · Only during dry spells
📅 Days to Maturity
75–100 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
197 days in Johnson County
Growing Tips for Edamame in Johnson County
Direct sow Edamame outdoors after April 07 in Johnson County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
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
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Edamame in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Edamame in Johnson County, IL?
Johnson County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 7. Plan your Edamame planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Johnson County, IL?
Johnson County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 7 and first fall frost is October 21.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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