When to Plant Kidney Beans in Nottoway County, VA
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.
Nottoway County, Virginia is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 2 and the first fall frost is November 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 215 days.
At an elevation of 1,054 feet, Nottoway County receives approximately 45.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 91°F, providing good warmth for Kidney Beans during the growing season.
Nottoway County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.6-6.5
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.
Soil Compatibility in Nottoway County
How your county's soil matches Kidney Beans's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.6–6.5) overlaps with Kidney Beans's range (6.0–7.5), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The silt loam soil in Nottoway County is excellent for Kidney Beans — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (3.1%). Annual compost additions will help Kidney Beans.
How to Plant Kidney Beans
Plant Water Budget
Kidney Beans Planting Timeline — Nottoway County, VA
Kidney Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 9 | Apr 9 – Apr 30 |
| Harvest | July 9 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 |
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
1"/week · Only during dry spells
📅 Days to Maturity
85–110 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7a
📆 Growing Season
215 days in Nottoway County
Growing Tips for Kidney Beans in Nottoway County
Direct sow Kidney Beans outdoors after April 02 in Nottoway County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
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
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Kidney Beans in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Kidney Beans in Nottoway County, VA?
Nottoway County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 2. Plan your Kidney Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Nottoway County, VA?
Nottoway County, Virginia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 2 and first fall frost is November 3.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Nottoway County gardeners in Zone 7a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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