When to Plant Kidney Beans in Madison County, MS
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.
Madison County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 13 and the first fall frost is November 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 243 days.
At an elevation of 248 feet, Madison County receives approximately 56.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Kidney Beans may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Kidney Beans, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Kidney Beans root diseases.
Madison County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.7
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
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Kidney Beans Planting Timeline — Madison County, MS
Kidney Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | March 20 | Mar 20 – Apr 10 |
| Harvest | June 19 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | Direct Sow |
| 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
85–110 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
243 days
Growing Tips for Madison 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 Madison County, MS?
Madison County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 13. Plan your Kidney Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Madison County, MS?
Madison County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 13 and first fall frost is November 11.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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