When to Plant Black Beans in Stone 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.
Stone County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 2 and the first fall frost is November 26, giving you a growing season of approximately 269 days.
At an elevation of 105 feet, Stone County receives approximately 57.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 96°F, so Black Beans may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Black Beans will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Black Beans root diseases.
Stone County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
5-6.3
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 — Stone County, MS
Black Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | March 9 | Mar 9 – Mar 30 |
| Harvest | June 8 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| 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 8b
Growing Season
269 days
Growing Tips for Stone 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 Stone County, MS?
Stone County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 2. Plan your Black Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Stone County, MS?
Stone County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 2 and first fall frost is November 26.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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