When to Plant Black Beans in Buchanan County, VA
Black beans are a warm-season legume producing small, dark, protein-rich beans that are a staple in Latin American and Caribbean cuisines.
Buchanan County, Virginia is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 24 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 176 days.
At an elevation of 2,193 feet, Buchanan County receives approximately 51 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 91°F, providing good warmth for Black Beans during the growing season. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Black Beans root diseases.
Buchanan County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.7
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 — Buchanan County, VA
Black Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | May 1 | May 1 – May 22 |
| Harvest | July 31 | Jul 31 – Sep 18 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| 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 6b
Growing Season
176 days
Growing Tips for Buchanan 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 Buchanan County, VA?
Buchanan County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 24. Plan your Black Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Buchanan County, VA?
Buchanan County, Virginia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 24 and first fall frost is October 17.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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