When to Plant Green Beans in Johnson County, IA
Green beans are a warm-season staple available as bush or pole types. Bush beans produce a concentrated harvest while pole beans provide a longer picking season.
Johnson County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 24 and the first fall frost is October 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 170 days.
At an elevation of 1,204 feet, Johnson County receives approximately 40.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Green Beans during the growing season.
Johnson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.3
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
Green Beans Planting Timeline — Johnson County, IA
Green Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | May 1 | May 1 – May 22 |
| Harvest | June 26 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Direct Sow |
| 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
50–65 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 5a
Growing Season
170 days
Growing Tips for Johnson County
Direct sow after last frost when soil is warm. Provide sturdy supports for pole varieties. Pick beans regularly when young and tender to encourage continued production.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Avoid harvesting during damp weather. Isolate 25 ft between varieties.
Green Beans in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Green Beans in Johnson County, IA?
Johnson County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of April 24. Plan your Green Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Johnson County, IA?
Johnson County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 24 and first fall frost is October 11.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Johnson County gardeners in Zone 5a 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.