When to Plant Black Beans in Holmes 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.
Holmes County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 13 and the first fall frost is November 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 243 days.
At an elevation of 208 feet, Holmes County receives approximately 53.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 92°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.
Holmes County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.4
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 — Holmes County, MS
Black Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | March 20 | Mar 20 – Apr 10 |
| Harvest | June 19 | Jun 19 – Aug 7 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| 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 8a
Growing Season
243 days
Growing Tips for Holmes 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 Holmes County, MS?
Holmes County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 13. Plan your Black Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Holmes County, MS?
Holmes County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 13 and first fall frost is November 11.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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