When to Plant Kidney Beans in Tulare County, CA
Kidney beans are a popular dry bean variety named for their shape, available in red and white types. They are the classic bean for chili and red beans and rice.
Tulare County, California is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 17 and the first fall frost is December 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 289 days.
At an elevation of 5,836 feet, Tulare County receives approximately 18.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Kidney Beans may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Kidney Beans successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Tulare County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
5.9-7.2
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
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Kidney Beans Planting Timeline — Tulare County, CA
Kidney Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | February 24 | Feb 24 – Mar 17 |
| Harvest | May 26 | May 26 – Jun 30 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Direct Sow |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
85–110 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 9a
Growing Season
289 days
Growing Tips for Tulare County
Direct sow after frost. Allow pods to dry completely on the plant. Kidney beans must be thoroughly cooked as raw or undercooked beans contain harmful lectins.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Kidney Beans in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Kidney Beans in Tulare County, CA?
Tulare County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of February 17. Plan your Kidney Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Tulare County, CA?
Tulare County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 17 and first fall frost is December 3.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Tulare County gardeners in Zone 9a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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