When to Plant Edamame in McHenry 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.
McHenry County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and the first fall frost is October 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 185 days.
At an elevation of 640 feet, McHenry County receives approximately 39.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Edamame to ensure they mature before fall.
McHenry County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.9-6.7
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 McHenry County
How your county's soil matches Edamame's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.9–6.7) overlaps with Edamame's range (6.0–7.0), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The silt loam soil in McHenry County is excellent for Edamame — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is excellent (4.1%) — Edamame will thrive.
How to Plant Edamame
Succession Planting Edamame
Sow every 8.6 weeks. Last sowing by Jul 12 to harvest before frost.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Edamame Planting Timeline — McHenry County, IL
Edamame Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 25 | Apr 25 – May 16 |
| Harvest | July 11 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| 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 5a
📆 Growing Season
185 days in McHenry County
Growing Tips for Edamame in McHenry County
Direct sow Edamame outdoors after April 18 in McHenry 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 McHenry County, IL?
McHenry County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of April 18. Plan your Edamame planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is McHenry County, IL?
McHenry County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and first fall frost is October 20.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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