When to Plant Lentils in Marengo County, AL
Lentils are an ancient pulse crop producing small, lens-shaped seeds packed with protein and iron. They grow on short, bushy plants and are surprisingly easy to cultivate.
Marengo County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 13 and the first fall frost is November 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 245 days.
At an elevation of 453 feet, Marengo County receives approximately 59.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Lentils during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Lentils, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Lentils root diseases.
Marengo County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.7
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
Lentils Planting Timeline — Marengo County, AL
Lentils Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 6 | Feb 6 – Feb 20 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 13 | Mar 13 – Mar 27 |
| Direct Sow | February 27 | Feb 27 – Mar 20 |
| Fall Sowing | September 4 | Sep 4 – Sep 18 |
| Harvest | June 5 | Jun 5 – Jul 17 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Low — drought tolerant
Days to Maturity
80–110 days
Soil pH
6 – 8
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
245 days
Growing Tips for Marengo County
Direct sow in early spring as lentils tolerate frost. Provide short supports as plants tend to lodge. Harvest when lower pods turn brown. Pull entire plants and dry in bundles.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Lentils in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lentils in Marengo County, AL?
Marengo County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 13. Plan your Lentils planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Marengo County, AL?
Marengo County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 13 and first fall frost is November 13.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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