How to Grow Edamame

Extending Your Harvest

Extend your edamame harvest by planting varieties of different maturities or by planting the same variety in weekly successions for 4-6 weeks. Consult our MAP to see what varieties are appropriate for your area. 

Example 1: New York Farm or Garden

Sow seeds of Midori Giant, MoJo Green, and Sunrise when the soils have warmed to 55 degrees F. Plant more seeds of both varieties at weekly intervals for 4-6 weeks. In this way you and your customers can have fresh edamame available for a longer period. Freeze extra edamame for off-season enjoyment.

Example 2: South Carolina Farm or Garden

Sow seeds of Midori Giant and Sunrise the first of April in crop tunnels or in late April outside of crop tunnels, followed by early/midseason MoJo Green in May. Next,  plant main season Bellesoy in mid May/early June followed by late season Korean Black in early June.

When to Harvest

Harvest edamame when the beans in the pod are 80-90% expanded or when the leaves have changed from bright green to a slight yellowish-green color.  Handpick pods with at least two beans per pod and select pods which are only bright green in color. Avoid picking any yellowish or blemished pods. Wash pods to remove any soil.  Pods can be refrigerated for up to 7-10 days or blanch them for 2-3 minutes in boiling water and freeze them in a single layer.  After pods are frozen, store them in plastic bags in your freezer for later eating throughout the winter.

Special Selling Tips

When selling at a farmer’s market, small grocery, or if you have a CSA, cook some edamame for your customers to taste. Boil or steam them in hot water until pods are easy to pop open (about 4-5 minutes), then sprinkle the pods generously with salt, seasoned salt, or blackening spices so that when you pop the beans out into your mouth, you’ll taste the salt or spices too. Remember: eat the beans, not the pods!

Sell edamame either (1) loose by the pound in the pod, (2) shelled out of the pod to use in stir fries or pasta dishes, or (3) try this traditional Japanese method. Cut several plants off at the soil surface, remove the leaves, but leave the pods on the plant. Bundle 3-4 plants together for an edible bouquet! What a wonderful, healthy, and unique housewarming gift.