Soybean - Biei
70 days maturity. Glycine max 'Biei'. Biei Soybean. Heirloom, Non-GMO. Warm-season annual. Open pollinated. These high-protein, nutritious legumes are used throughout Asia as a staple food source. Biei is known for its green seed coat and large seeds. This variety produces large pods with many containing three seeds. It is a late-maturing type. A high yield-to-space ratio make this is an excellent choice for many gardening styles. If you’re looking for a a high utility plant for your garden, soybeans are the way to go! Approx 77 seeds / oz.
Biei Soybeans Seeds - Biei - Heirloom
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Other Common Names: Bhat, da dou, daizu, dau nanh, eda mame, hak tau, kacang kedelai, kedelai, mao dou, tai tau, thua lueang, utaw, vegetable bean, vegetable soybean, and wong tau.
How to Grow Biei Soybeans
Sowing too early in the season might induce thick plant growth and decrease yield; it is best to seed in the early summer. Warm day temperatures and cool night temperatures are required for good results. The seeds will rot or fail to germinate altogether if overwatered. Keep soil moist, but not soaked before they sprout.
Following emergence, allow for the soil to dry between waterings. Fertilize as needed when the plant appears pale; avoid high nitrogen content. Soybeans prefer temperate climates and have no frost tolerance. These plants do not typically need to be supported by a structure. In cooler climates, soybeans can be grown under frames, unheated greenhouses, or cloches.
Harvesting Biei Soybeans
Harvest when soybeans swell in the pods and the leaves have fade from bright green to a slight yellow. These are perfect for eating promptly. Another option is to harvest 25-30 days later for the dry beans. To get dry beans wait for the plant to turn brown, then completely dry it by hanging the plants upside down. For a post-season bonus, leave the roots in the ground after harvest to decay and release their nitrogen contents, enriching the soil with nitrogen for other crops.
Culinary Tips
The young green pods are delightful steamed, boiled, or stir-fried. Blanch the fresh beans and then freeze them to store your extra harvest for a winter treat. Prepare edamame, part of traditional Japanese fare, by boiling fresh pods for 3-4 minutes in salted water. Serve them as a healthy appetizer or snack. The dry beans can be made into flour, soy milk, or soaked and boiled into soups.
Tips From Our Gardeners
“Edamame will always have a special place in my heart. It was one of the first plant-based proteins I learned to love. Plus, their fuzzy pods are nothing short of adorable!”
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- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer |
Seeds Per Package
- 7 g packet - Approximately 19 Seeds
- 4 oz - Approximately 308 Seeds
- 1 lb - Approximately 1,232 Seeds
- 5 lb - Approximately 6,160 Seeds
Basic Info
| Latin Name: | Glycine max 'Biei' |
| Biei Soybean Color: | Pods are green with pubescence. Green foliage and stems. White or purple flowers. |
| Biei Soybean Flavor: | Mild. |
Growing Info
| Days to Maturity: | 70 Days |
| Days to Germination: | 3-8 Days |
| Seeding Depth: | 1 inches |
| Row Spacing: | 12-24 inches |
| Plant Height: | 18-24” |
| Growth Habit: | Semi-upright bush. |
| Soil Preference: | Soil should be well-draining and moderately fertile with a slight acidity |
| Temperature Preference: | 50-70℉ |
Other
| Plant Width: | 8-10 inches |
| Pests and Disease: | Biei soybeans are typically not a favorite of pests. Be aware of cold temperatures or overwatering as these can lead to favorable conditions for pests in general. |