When to Plant Black Beans in DeSoto County, MS
Black beans are a warm-season legume producing small, dark, protein-rich beans that are a staple in Latin American and Caribbean cuisines.
DeSoto County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 27 and the first fall frost is October 31, giving you a growing season of approximately 218 days.
At an elevation of 111 feet, DeSoto County receives approximately 55.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 89°F, providing good warmth for Black Beans during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Black Beans, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Black Beans root diseases.
DeSoto County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Black Beans Planting Timeline — DeSoto County, MS
Black Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 3 | Apr 3 – Apr 24 |
| Harvest | July 3 | Jul 3 – Aug 21 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
90–120 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 7b
Growing Season
218 days
Growing Tips for DeSoto County
Direct sow after last frost. Provide support for climbing varieties. Allow pods to dry fully on the vine before harvesting. Thresh dried pods by hand or in a pillowcase.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Black Beans in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Black Beans in DeSoto County, MS?
DeSoto County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of March 27. Plan your Black Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is DeSoto County, MS?
DeSoto County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 27 and first fall frost is October 31.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help DeSoto County gardeners in Zone 7b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.