2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Soybeans in Kansas
Complete guide to growing soybeans in Kansas 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 Kansas. Red diamond markers indicate frost date boundaries.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
55°F (13°C) minimum
Growing Period
105-140 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
April 15
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
October 15
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing soybeans in Kansas.
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 Kansas
These varieties have proven performance in Kansas's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Asgrow AG38X0 | Kansas climate |
| 2 | Pioneer P38A28X | Kansas climate |
| 3 | Channel 3818R2X | Kansas climate |
Growing Tips for Kansas
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Kansas farmers.
Eastern KS: rainfed soybeans perform well
Double-crop after wheat harvest (June-July) in south-central KS
Maturity groups 3.5-4.5 for Kansas
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
April 15
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
October 15
Plan to complete harvest of warm-season crops before this date arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant soybeans in Kansas?
The optimal planting window for soybeans in Kansas is May 5 to June 15. Soil temperature should reach at least 55°F (13°C) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 105-140 days.
What varieties of soybeans grow best in Kansas?
The best varieties for Kansas include Asgrow AG38X0, Pioneer P38A28X, Channel 3818R2X. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest soybeans in Kansas?
The harvest window for soybeans in Kansas is typically October 1 to November 5. The crop takes 105-140 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from USDA NASS Crop Planting Dates, Kansas 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.