When to Plant Kidney Beans in Hyde County, NC
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.
Hyde County, North Carolina is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 22 and the first fall frost is November 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 239 days.
At an elevation of 638 feet, Hyde County receives approximately 49.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 95°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.
Hyde County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.8-6.6
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.
Soil Compatibility in Hyde County
How your county's soil matches Kidney Beans's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.8–6.6) overlaps with Kidney Beans's range (6.0–7.5), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The clay loam soil in Hyde County is excellent for Kidney Beans — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.6%). Annual compost additions will help Kidney Beans.
How to Plant Kidney Beans
Plant Water Budget
Monthly Watering Guide for Kidney Beans
Kidney Beans needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Kidney Beans Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 4.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 4.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4" | 0.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 4.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 3.5" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 3.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Hyde County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Kidney Beans Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Kidney Beans Planting Timeline — Hyde County, NC
Kidney Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | March 29 | Mar 29 – Apr 19 |
| Harvest | June 28 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 |
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 | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
1"/week · Only during dry spells
📅 Days to Maturity
85–110 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8a
📆 Growing Season
239 days in Hyde County
Growing Tips for Kidney Beans in Hyde County
Direct sow Kidney Beans outdoors after March 22 in Hyde County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
With Hyde County's clay soil (30% clay), work in 3-4 inches of compost before planting Kidney Beans. Avoid tilling when soil is wet to prevent compaction.
Common pests for Kidney Beans in this region include bean beetles and aphids. Use row covers early in the season and inspect plants weekly.
General growing tips
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
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Kidney Beans in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Kidney Beans in Hyde County, NC?
Hyde County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 22. Plan your Kidney Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Hyde County, NC?
Hyde County, North Carolina is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 22 and first fall frost is November 16.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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