When to Plant Soybeans in Madera County, CA
Soybeans (edamame) are a high-protein legume that fixes nitrogen in the soil. Fresh green soybeans harvested at the edamame stage are a nutritious snack.
Madera County, California is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and the first fall frost is November 9, giving you a growing season of approximately 205 days.
At an elevation of 187 feet, Madera County receives approximately 14.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 104°F, so Soybeans may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Soybeans successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Madera County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.8
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 Madera County
How your county's soil matches Soybeans's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (6.2–7.8) overlaps with Soybeans's range (6.0–7.0), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The loam soil in Madera County is excellent for Soybeans — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.6%). Annual compost additions will help Soybeans.
How to Plant Soybeans
Succession Planting Soybeans
Sow every 9.1 weeks. Last sowing by Jul 12 to harvest before frost.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Soybeans Planting Timeline — Madera County, CA
Soybeans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 25 | Apr 25 – May 16 |
| Harvest | July 18 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 |
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 | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
1"/week · 2-3 times/week
📅 Days to Maturity
80–120 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9a
📆 Growing Season
205 days in Madera County
Growing Tips for Soybeans in Madera County
Direct sow Soybeans outdoors after April 18 in Madera County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
With summer highs reaching 104°F in Madera County, provide afternoon shade for Soybeans and water deeply in the morning.
Common pests for Soybeans in this region include bean beetles and aphids. Use row covers early in the season and inspect plants weekly.
Madera County receives only 14" of rain annually. Soybeans needs consistent moisture — install drip irrigation or water deeply 2-3 times per week.
General growing tips
Direct sow after soil warms to 60F. Plant in blocks rather than rows for better pollination. Harvest for edamame when pods are plump and bright green.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Soybeans in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Soybeans in Madera County, CA?
Madera County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of April 18. Plan your Soybeans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Madera County, CA?
Madera County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and first fall frost is November 9.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Madera County gardeners in Zone 9a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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