2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Soybeans in Missouri
Complete guide to growing soybeans in Missouri 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 Missouri. 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 10
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
October 18
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing soybeans in Missouri.
January - March
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
April - June
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
July - August
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
September - October
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
November - December
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
Best Soybeans Varieties for Missouri
These varieties have proven performance in Missouri's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Asgrow AG40X0 | Missouri climate |
| 2 | Pioneer P40A47X | Missouri climate |
| 3 | MorSoy MS 4018NX | Missouri climate |
Growing Tips for Missouri
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Missouri farmers.
Maturity groups 3.5-4.5 statewide
Bootheel: earliest planting in late April
Dicamba-tolerant varieties for waterhemp management
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 10
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
October 18
Plan to complete harvest of warm-season crops before this date arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant soybeans in Missouri?
The optimal planting window for soybeans in Missouri is April 25 to June 1. 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 Missouri?
The best varieties for Missouri include Asgrow AG40X0, Pioneer P40A47X, MorSoy MS 4018NX. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest soybeans in Missouri?
The harvest window for soybeans in Missouri is typically September 20 to October 30. The crop takes 105-140 days from planting to reach maturity.
Get planting reminders for Soybeans in Missouri
Sign up for free alerts when it's time to plant, fertilize, and harvest.
Data Sources
Data sourced from USDA NASS Crop Planting Dates, Missouri 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.