When to Plant Kidney Beans in Martin 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.
Martin County, North Carolina is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 26 and the first fall frost is November 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 231 days.
At an elevation of 565 feet, Martin County receives approximately 46.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Kidney Beans during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Kidney Beans, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot.
Martin County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.5
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
Kidney Beans Planting Timeline — Martin County, NC
Kidney Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 2 | Apr 2 – Apr 23 |
| Harvest | July 2 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| 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 7b
Growing Season
231 days
Growing Tips for Martin 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 Martin County, NC?
Martin County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of March 26. Plan your Kidney Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Martin County, NC?
Martin County, North Carolina is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 26 and first fall frost is November 12.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Martin County gardeners in Zone 7b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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