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Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics Soy Bean Meal

Soybean meal fertilizer guide: the top plant-based organic nitrogen source with 7-2-1 NPK. Application rates and tips for gardens and lawns.

Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics Soy Bean Meal

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OUR STORY

Soybean meal is the solid residue left after extracting oil from soybeans through mechanical pressing. This protein-rich byproduct contains approximately 7% nitrogen, 2% phosphorus, and 1% potassium, along with trace amounts of calcium, magnesium, and sulfur.

As soil microbes decompose the soybean protein, nitrogen is released gradually over several months, providing a steady supply of the nutrient plants need most for vegetative growth. University research has shown soybean meal to be one of the most effective and economical nitrogen sources for Northeast soils.

Note: Fresh soybean meal has a natural herbicidal effect that can inhibit small seed germination for the first few weeks after application. Apply 2-3 weeks before direct seeding, or use at planting time with transplants that are not affected.

NPK

7-2-1

Type

Organic

Derived From

Ground soybeans after mechanical oil extraction (non-GMO)

Best For

Brand

Wicked Organics

NPK Breakdown

N

Provides 7% slow-release nitrogen from plant-based protein — one of the highest nitrogen concentrations among vegan-friendly organic fertilizers.

P

Supplies 2% phosphorus for root support and flowering.

K

Delivers 1% potassium for water regulation and overall plant hardiness.

What Is It ?

Soybean meal is one of the most economical and effective plant-based organic fertilizers available, offering a well-rounded NPK of 7-2-1. It provides high nitrogen from plant protein without any animal byproducts, making it the top choice for vegan and vegetarian gardeners who want a powerful organic nitrogen source.

As a slow-release fertilizer, soybean meal feeds your plants steadily over the growing season as soil microbes break down the ground soybean proteins. This slow, consistent release means less risk of fertilizer burn and more efficient nutrient uptake — you typically only need to apply once per year for most garden situations.

Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics Soy Bean Meal is derived from non-GMO, organically grown soybeans that are mechanically processed to preserve maximum nutrient value. It is OMRI-listed for certified organic production and ideal for vegetable gardens, lawns, flower beds, and landscape plantings.

When To Apply ?

For new garden beds, broadcast 2.5-5 lbs per 100 sq ft and mix into the top 3 inches of soil. For transplants, add 1-2 tablespoons per planting hole. For containers, mix 2-4 tablespoons per gallon of soil. For lawns, apply 5-10 lbs per 1,000 sq ft. Water in after application. Important: Apply 2-3 weeks before direct seeding small seeds, as fresh soybean meal can temporarily inhibit germination.

How to Apply ?

1. Soil Test

Test soil to determine nitrogen needs. Soy bean meal is a gentle, slow-release nitrogen source.

2. Application Rate

Calculate rate — 2.5–5 lbs per 100 sq ft for gardens. Higher rates for heavy feeders.

3. Broadcast / Incorporate

Broadcast evenly and work into the top 3 inches of soil for optimal microbial access.

4. Transplant Rate

For transplants, add 1–2 tablespoons per planting hole mixed with backfill soil.

5. Water In

Water thoroughly to begin microbial decomposition and slow nitrogen release.

6. Seeding Delay

Allow 2–3 weeks before direct seeding small seeds. Decomposition can temporarily inhibit fine seed germination.

7 Broadcast / Incorporate

Broadcast evenly and work into the top 3 inches of soil for optimal microbial access.

How To Store

Soybean meal is non-toxic and safe to handle with no special protective equipment needed. Store in a sealed container in a cool, dry location. Once wet, soybean meal can develop a rotting grass clipping odor — keep bags sealed to prevent moisture absorption.

FAQs

1. What is soybean meal fertilizer?

Soybean meal is a natural, organic fertilizer made from ground soybeans remaining after oil extraction. With an approximate NPK ratio of 7-1-2, it is a moderate-to-high nitrogen organic amendment that also provides phosphorus, potassium, and beneficial amino acids. Soybean meal breaks down at a moderate pace — faster than feather meal but slower than blood meal — providing nitrogen availability over 4–8 weeks. It is one of the most popular plant-based organic nitrogen sources. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics Soy Bean Meal is a premium, OMRI-Listed organic amendment for gardens, landscapes, and organic farms.

2. What is soybean meal used for in the garden?

Soybean meal serves as an organic nitrogen source for feeding plants and building soil health. It is effective for all garden plants including vegetables, flowers, lawns, trees, and shrubs. The moderate nitrogen content makes it versatile — strong enough for heavy feeders but gentle enough for most plants when applied at recommended rates. Soybean meal is also popular as a compost activator, lawn topdressing ingredient, and base component in custom organic fertilizer blends. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics Soy Bean Meal is a plant-based alternative to animal-derived nitrogen sources like blood meal and feather meal.

3. How do I apply soybean meal to my garden?

Apply soybean meal by broadcasting 3–5 pounds per 100 square feet and incorporating into the top 4–6 inches of soil before planting. For side-dressing established plants, sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons per plant and work into the soil surface. For containers, add 1 tablespoon per gallon of soil. For lawn applications, broadcast 5–8 pounds per 1,000 square feet. Water thoroughly after application to initiate microbial breakdown. Reapply every 4–8 weeks during active growth. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics Soy Bean Meal is easy to apply and has a mild, inoffensive odor.

4. What is the NPK of soybean meal?

Soybean meal has an approximate NPK ratio of 7-1-2, providing 7% nitrogen, 1% phosphorus, and 2% potassium. This makes it primarily a nitrogen source with small contributions of phosphorus and potassium. The nitrogen releases at a moderate pace over 4–8 weeks as soil microbes break down the organic protein. Soybean meal also contains beneficial amino acids and trace minerals that support plant health beyond what the NPK numbers indicate. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics Soy Bean Meal delivers reliable organic nitrogen at 7-1-2.

5. Is soybean meal a good vegan fertilizer option?

Yes, soybean meal is one of the best plant-based (vegan) organic fertilizer options available. Unlike blood meal, bone meal, and feather meal — which are all derived from animal processing — soybean meal comes entirely from plant sources. This makes it ideal for veganic gardeners who want to avoid all animal-derived inputs in their growing system. Despite being plant-based, soybean meal provides competitive nitrogen levels comparable to many animal-derived amendments. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics Soy Bean Meal is a high-quality vegan nitrogen source for plant-based organic gardening.

6. How does soybean meal compare to blood meal?

Soybean meal (7-1-2) and blood meal (12-0-0) both provide organic nitrogen but differ in several ways. Blood meal has higher nitrogen concentration and releases faster (1–4 weeks), while soybean meal has lower nitrogen but provides some P and K and releases over 4–8 weeks. Soybean meal is plant-based (vegan-friendly), while blood meal is animal-derived. Blood meal can serve as a mild animal deterrent, while soybean meal does not. Both are effective organic nitrogen sources. Old Cobblers Farm™ offers both Wicked Organics Soy Bean Meal and Blood Meal for flexible organic nitrogen management.

7 Can I use soybean meal in compost?

Yes, soybean meal is an excellent nitrogen-rich compost activator. Adding it to carbon-heavy compost piles (leaves, straw, wood chips) provides the nitrogen that decomposer microorganisms need to break down organic matter efficiently. Mix soybean meal at 5–10% by volume or scatter thin layers between additions of brown material. The protein content accelerates microbial activity and heats the pile for faster decomposition. The finished compost will have enhanced nitrogen content. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics Soy Bean Meal is a cost-effective, plant-based way to supercharge your composting process.