Shinonome Soybean Bean Vegetable Garden Seeds - Below Standard - Low Germ

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Germination Details

• Germination: 52%
• Federal and State (Utah) Requirements: 75%
• Suggested Use/s: Gardening
• Special Directions: This seed is -23% below standard. Increase the number of seeds you plant accordingly to make sure you get the growth you envision.

What is "Below Standard Seed"?

Simply put, it is seed that doesn't meet our state's (Utah) germination standard, a standard that varies slightly from seed to seed. Any seed intended for gardening that has a below standard germination rate cannot be sold alongside those that meet the state requirements (which often reflect the national requirements for germination).

We send samples of all our seed to the Utah Department of Agriculture, where they perform several tests to assess the quality of the seed. These state-wide and national seed standards are in line with Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA), which exist to ensure consumers that they are getting the highest quality seed, as advertised. Since this seed doesn't meet the state standard, we mark it as "Below Standard Seed".

Low germination seeds are non-refundable.

Click here to view regularly priced, high germination seed.

Growing Shinonome Soybean Beans in the Vegetable Garden

To start growing Shinonome soybeans, choose a well-drained, sunny spot in your garden as these plants thrive in full sun. Since Shinonome is a soybean variety, it should be directly sown into the garden after the last frost when soil temperatures have reached at least 60 F, as cooler soil can inhibit germination. Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep, ensuring good soil contact for optimal germination.

Space the seeds 8-15 inches apart within rows and keep rows 18-24 inches apart to allow enough room for the plants to grow and for air circulation, which helps prevent disease. If you’re planting in a raised bed or smaller space, you can get away with slightly closer spacing but be sure the plants have enough room to spread and get adequate sunlight.

Consistent watering is crucial, especially during flowering and pod formation, to prevent the soil from drying out. Aim to provide about 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or supplemental irrigation. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain moisture and keep the soil temperature stable. Ensure good air circulation around the plants by keeping them well-spaced and avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Rotate crops each year to prevent soil-borne diseases and improve soil health.

Harvesting Shinonome Soybean Beans

To harvest soybeans for natto, pick them when the pods are fully formed, green, and plump, but before they start to yellow or dry out. This stage is crucial because the beans should be mature but still tender, which ensures the best fermentation results for natto. Typically, this occurs around 80 days after planting. To harvest, gently pull the pods from the plant by hand, careful not to damage the beans inside. If you have a larger crop, you can cut the entire plant and strip the pods, but this should be done carefully to avoid damaging the delicate beans. After harvesting, use the beans quickly for natto preparation to maintain their freshness and optimal texture.

About Shinonome Soybean Bean Garden Seeds

Shinonome soybeans are prized in Japan for their excellent fermentation qualities. This variety produces beans that ferment well, resulting in a high-quality natto with a good balance of stickiness and flavor. Natto is celebrated for its taste and health benefits, including being a rich source of probiotics, vitamins, and minerals.

Shinonome soybeans are primarily used in the production of natto, but they can also be used like other soybeans in various dishes. Their nutty flavor and small size make them versatile in the kitchen, whether boiled, steamed, or incorporated into soups and salads.

The beans contain isoflavones, which have been linked to various health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease and improving bone health.

Its high yield and relatively easy growing requirements make it a rewarding crop for both beginners and experienced gardeners.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"I love soymilk because it is one of the only plant-based types of milk having a significant amount of protein. The Shinonome variety is the best one we stock for making soy milk at home."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer