When to Plant Edamame in Smyth County, VA
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.
Smyth County, Virginia is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is May 2 and the first fall frost is October 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 163 days.
At an elevation of 375 feet, Smyth County receives approximately 51.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Edamame during the growing season. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Edamame root diseases.
Smyth County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Edamame
Edamame needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Edamame Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 3.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 3.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 4.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | — | 4.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| May | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 5.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.5" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 3.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 4.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (May–Oct in Smyth County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Edamame Planting Timeline — Smyth County, VA
Edamame Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | May 9 | May 9 – May 30 |
| Harvest | July 25 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
75–100 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
163 days in Smyth County
Growing Tips for Smyth County
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 Smyth County, VA?
Smyth County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of May 2. Plan your Edamame planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Smyth County, VA?
Smyth County, Virginia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is May 2 and first fall frost is October 12.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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