When to Plant Green Beans in Smith County, MS
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.
Smith County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 13 and the first fall frost is November 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 245 days.
At an elevation of 492 feet, Smith County receives approximately 58.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 96°F, so Green Beans may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Green Beans, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Green Beans root diseases.
Smith County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.5
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 — Smith County, MS
Green Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | March 20 | Mar 20 – Apr 10 |
| Harvest | May 15 | May 15 – Jul 10 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| 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 8a
Growing Season
245 days
Growing Tips for Smith 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 Smith County, MS?
Smith County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 13. Plan your Green Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Smith County, MS?
Smith County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 13 and first fall frost is November 13.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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