Soybean
Besweet Edamame is a high-yielding soybean cultivar bred for the tender, sweet young beans that have captivated gardeners across Asia for generations. Growing 24 to 36 inches tall with a bushy, upright habit, these plants produce abundant dark green foliage that's as ornamental as it is productive. From seed to harvest takes 100 to 109 days, making it well-suited to growing zones 3 through 9, and the beans can be enjoyed fresh, steamed, or roasted straight from your garden.
Full Sun
Moderate
3-9
36in H x ?in W
Annual
High
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What sets Besweet apart is its combination of reliable productivity and genuine eating quality. The plants develop a naturally tall, full shape densely packed with dark green leaves that create visual interest in the garden while supporting heavy pod production. These are open-pollinated, non-GMO beans suited to nearly any growing method, containers, raised beds, garden plots, or greenhouses, giving gardeners real flexibility in how and where they cultivate them. The sweet flavor and high protein content make every harvest feel worthwhile, especially for those seeking authentic edamame without the industrial agriculture.
Besweet edamame are harvested at the immature green stage and prepared by steaming or boiling, then often enjoyed simply salted as a snack or appetizer. The beans also work beautifully in stir-fries, grain bowls, or blended into creamy dips. Many gardeners prize them specifically for fresh eating straight from the pod, a luxury that homegrown edamame provides.
Direct sow Besweet edamame seeds into warm soil after the last frost date has passed and soil temperature reaches at least 60°F. Sow seeds approximately 1 inch deep and thin seedlings to 8 inches apart once they develop their first true leaves.
Harvest Besweet edamame pods when they reach full size but while still bright green and tender, typically 100 to 109 days after planting. The pods should feel firm but not rock-hard; gently squeeze a pod to check, the beans inside should feel plump and fill the pod without leaving empty spaces. Pinch or cut pods from the stem with your fingers or scissors, working from the bottom of the plant upward. Morning harvest, when pods are cool and crisp, yields the best texture and flavor. Pick regularly to encourage continued pod production throughout the season.
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