Relative Maturity Dates for Edamame Soybeans in Missouri.

ABSTRACT RELATIVE MATURITY DATES OF EDAMAME SOYBEANS IN MISSOURI Edamame soybeans (Glycine max L.) are gaining popularity in the US. Most commercially edamame seed is sourced outside of the United States and seed houses carrying edamame seed for the North American market tend to be located in the northern tier of the US and southern tier of Canada. Geographic location influences the maturity of edamame. This study was undertaken to determine the relative maturity of a number of edamame varieties when grown under Missouri conditions. Commercially available edamame soybean varieties were evaluated for relative maturity at two locations in Missouri, Jefferson City and Cape Girardeau. Maturity ratings were determined when pod fill reached the R6 stage. Edamame varieties were compared to oilseed varieties of known maturity groups.