When to Plant Lima Beans in Union County, AR
Lima beans are a warm-season legume producing large, creamy beans with a buttery texture. Both bush and pole varieties are available, with pole types yielding more.
Union County, Arkansas is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 22 and the first fall frost is November 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 226 days.
At an elevation of 508 feet, Union County receives approximately 52 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Lima Beans during the growing season. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Lima Beans root diseases.
Union County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt 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.
Plant Water Budget
Lima Beans Planting Timeline — Union County, AR
Lima Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | March 29 | Mar 29 – Apr 19 |
| Harvest | May 31 | May 31 – Jul 12 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
60–90 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
226 days
Growing Tips for Union County
Direct sow after soil is thoroughly warm at 65F or above. Do not soak seeds before planting as they may crack. Harvest when pods are plump but still green for fresh limas.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Lima Beans in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lima Beans in Union County, AR?
Union County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 22. Plan your Lima Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Union County, AR?
Union County, Arkansas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 22 and first fall frost is November 3.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Union County gardeners in Zone 8a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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