Soybeans are versatile legumes that have been an integral part of Indian cuisine thanks to their high protein content. Apart from being revered for being a great source of protein for vegetarians, soybeans are also rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, which can turn a plate into a balanced meal. Whether you’re adding soybeans to a salad bowl or making a delicious gravy-based dish to enjoy with rice, they for sure will enhance the overall nutritional value of your meal.
Given the nutritional and culinary benefits of soybean, it’s only natural to be curious about plating the protein-rich plant at your home. Well, fortunately, growing a healthy soybean plant does not require you to be a seasoned gardener. So, if you want to add a low-maintenance plant to your kitchen garden, here are some tips for a healthy harvest.
Time Of Planting
If you want to reap a healthy harvest of soybeans, you should note that the plants thrive in warm climates. So, the best season to plant them is between June and July. With the regular rainfall, the plants will mature faster and better. Also, ensure that you plant them at a spot which gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Soil Type
After choosing the spot to plant, the next step is to prepare the soil. Soybeans have particular water requirements, so ensure that you improve the drainage by adding sand or compost. To increase the nourishment, keep adding manure to improve the fertility of the soil. Finally, check the pH level and keep it between 6.0 to 7.0.
Planting Soybean Seeds
Once your soil is ready, it's time to plant your soybean seeds. You can either buy certified seeds from a nursery or use seeds from a previous harvest. All you need to do is plant the seeds 2-3 cm deep in the soil while spacing them around 8-10 cm. After sowing, water the seeds and keep the soil moist till they start to germinate.
Regular Maintenance
Even though soybeans don’t require a lot of effort, regular maintenance, like watering, fertilising, and removing any weeds, if any, is non-negotiable. If you take good care of the plant, you can reap the benefits of a healthy plant within 5-7 days after the seeds germinate. So, water with utter care and keep adding a balanced fertiliser to enhance the growth and nutrients of the soybean plant.
Harvesting
The entire process, starting from sowing the seeds to the time your soybean plant is ready, will take about 2-3 months. When the seeds are mature, you can cut them from the base and bundle them together. Next, you can place them in sunlight, letting the plants dry. Once the pods are dry, you can take out the seeds and store them in an airtight container.