How to Grow Soybeans Indoors
Soybeans contain the most protein out of all the beans, and they provide many other health benefits when included regularly in your diet. Soybeans are a warm weather crop, meaning they require temperatures of 60 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer to thrive. If you live in a cooler climate, you may want to consider growing soybeans indoors. Container gardening allows you to have access to these healthy vegetables year round.
Choose a container for your soybeans that is at least 8-inches deep. The width of your container depends on how many plants you choose to grow. Soybean seeds must be spaced 4 inches apart. A good rule of thumb is to grow four plants for each person in the household.
Drill 1/4" holes in the bottom of your container using a power drill. Holes should be spaced 6 to 8 inches apart.
Add potting soil to your container until the soil level reaches 1 to 2 inches below the top. The soil should be a rich, well-draining soil.
Plant your seeds 1 to 2 inches deep and 4 inches apart. Lightly brush the soil over the seeds with your fingers. Do not compact.
Water the seeds thoroughly with a watering can until water is running from the drainage holes.
Set the container in a area where the temperature maintains 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Hang a grow light 6 inches above the container, and keep the light on 10 to 12 hours a day.
Water your seeds when you notice the soil is beginning to dry out. Keep the soil moist, but not wet.
Remove the grow light once the seeds have sprouted. Place your container in a window that receives at least 8 hours of sunlight each day. The temperature should never drop below 60 degrees. If you don't have a window that provides sufficient light, you can keep using the grow lights. Raise them so they are 10 to 12 inches above the plants. Leave the grow lights on from dawn until dusk every day.
Fertilize your plants once a week with a 10-20-10 N-P-K fertilizer, which stands for nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, that you can purchase at a local greenhouse or garden center. Mix the fertilizer according to the package directions.
Water your plants when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil are dry. Always water your soybean plants near the base to avoid wetting the leaves or pods. This will prevent mildew from forming.
Tie the plants to wooden stakes as they grow by using twist ties to loosely attach the stems.
Harvest your soybean pods 45 to 60 days after sowing.
