2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Soybeans in California
Complete guide to growing soybeans in California with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from USDA and state extension services.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the soybeans growing season in California. Red diamond markers indicate frost date boundaries.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
60°F (16°C) minimum
Growing Period
110-140 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
February 15
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
December 1
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing soybeans in California.
January - April
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
May - June
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
July - September
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
October - November
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
December
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
Best Soybeans Varieties for California
These varieties have proven performance in California's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | LS 4788 | California climate |
| 2 | Asgrow AG48X0 | California climate |
| 3 | Dyna-Gro S48XS77 | California climate |
Growing Tips for California
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced California farmers.
Limited acreage — Sacramento Valley primary region
Irrigation essential — furrow or sprinkler
Use maturity group 4.0-5.0
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Soybean aphid
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Bean leaf beetle
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Spider mites
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Stink bugs
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Soybean cyst nematode
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside soybeans, improving pest control, pollination, and nutrient availability.
Frost Dates
Last Spring Frost
February 15
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
December 1
Plan to complete harvest of warm-season crops before this date arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant soybeans in California?
The optimal planting window for soybeans in California is May 15 to June 30. Soil temperature should reach at least 60°F (16°C) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 110-140 days.
What varieties of soybeans grow best in California?
The best varieties for California include LS 4788, Asgrow AG48X0, Dyna-Gro S48XS77. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest soybeans in California?
The harvest window for soybeans in California is typically October 15 to November 30. The crop takes 110-140 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from USDA NASS Crop Planting Dates, California Cooperative Extension Service, and NOAA frost date records. Last updated: March 2026.
Planting dates are averages and may vary by county, elevation, and local microclimate. Always consult your local extension office for the most precise recommendations.