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When to plant Edamame in DeKalb County, IL

In DeKalb County, plant Edamame in spring between April 29 and May 20, once soil temps hold above 50°F. DeKalb County's last frost averages April 22, so time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival. For a fall crop, sow between and — roughly 75–100 days before the first frost on October 16.

When to Plant Edamame in DeKalb 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.

DeKalb County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 22 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 177 days.

At an elevation of 1,332 feet, DeKalb County receives approximately 34.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Edamame during the growing season.

DeKalb County, IL (Zone 5b) Moderate season
177 days
Last Spring Frost April 22
177 growing days
First Fall Frost October 16

DeKalb County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Silt Loam

Soil pH

6.0-7.0

Drainage

Well Drained

Edamame Planting Timeline — DeKalb County, IL

Edamame Planting Calendar

Activity When Date Range
Direct Sow April 29 Apr 29 – May 20
Harvest July 15 Jul 15 – Aug 26

Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart

Month-by-Month Timeline

MonthActivities
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

Moderate — regular watering

📅 Days to Maturity

75–100 days

🧪 Soil pH

Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A

🗺️ USDA Zone

Zone 5b

📆 Growing Season

177 days in DeKalb County

Growing Tips for DeKalb 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

Avoid Planting Near

  • Onion
  • Garlic

Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Edamame in DeKalb County, IL?

DeKalb County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 22. Plan your Edamame planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.

What planting zone is DeKalb County, IL?

DeKalb County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 22 and first fall frost is October 16.

When should I plant Edamame in DeKalb County, IL?

In DeKalb County, IL, plant Edamame after the last frost (around April 22) and before the first frost (around October 16). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.

What growing zone is DeKalb County, IL for Edamame?

DeKalb County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Edamame grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.

Can Edamame grow in DeKalb County's climate?

Yes — Edamame grows well in DeKalb County's temperate climate. DeKalb County averages a 177-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 22 and first frost around October 16.

🌱

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A 22-page printable planner built for DeKalb County (Zone 5b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.

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Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals. Frost dates are based on 50% probability averages for DeKalb County, IL. Local conditions may vary. Last updated: June 2026.

Sources & credits

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