When to plant Black Beans in Cleburne County, AL
The best window to plant Black Beans in Cleburne County, is April 8–April 29, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits April 1; first frost November 1.
When to Plant Black Beans in Cleburne County, AL
Your June planting checklist for Cleburne County, Alabama
Your garden in Cleburne County, Alabama is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this June.
Black beans are a warm-season legume producing small, dark, protein-rich beans that are a staple in Latin American and Caribbean cuisines.
Cleburne County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is April 1 and the first fall frost is November 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 214 days.
At an elevation of 207 feet, Cleburne County receives approximately 57.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 91°F, providing good warmth for Black Beans during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Black Beans, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Black Beans root diseases.
Cleburne County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Black Beans 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 Cleburne County
How your county's soil matches Black Beans's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.5–6.6) overlaps with Black Beans's range (6.0–7.5), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The clay loam soil in Cleburne County is excellent for Black Beans — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.6%). Annual compost additions will help Black Beans.
How to Plant Black Beans
Black Beans Water Budget
Monthly Watering Guide for Black Beans
Black 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 | Black Beans Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 4.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 3.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 6.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 4.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 5.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 5.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 4.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Dec | — | 4.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Nov in Cleburne County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Black 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.
Black Beans Planting Timeline — Cleburne County, AL
Black Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 8 | Apr 8 – Apr 29 |
| Harvest | July 8 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 |
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 · Natural rainfall sufficient
📅 Days to Maturity
90–120 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8a
📆 Growing Season
214 days in Cleburne County
Growing Tips for Black Beans in Cleburne County
Direct sow Black Beans outdoors after April 01 in Cleburne County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
With Cleburne County's clay soil (26% clay), work in 3-4 inches of compost before planting Black Beans. Avoid tilling when soil is wet to prevent compaction.
Common pests for Black 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 last frost. Provide support for climbing varieties. Allow pods to dry fully on the vine before harvesting. Thresh dried pods by hand or in a pillowcase.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Black Beans in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Black Beans in Cleburne County, AL?
Cleburne County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of April 1. Plan your Black Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Cleburne County, AL?
Cleburne County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is April 1 and first fall frost is November 1.
When should I plant Black Beans in Cleburne County, AL?
In Cleburne County, AL, plant Black Beans after the last frost (around April 1) and before the first frost (around November 1). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Cleburne County, AL for Black Beans?
Cleburne County sits in USDA Zone 8a. Black Beans grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Black Beans grow in Cleburne County's climate?
Yes — Black Beans grows well in Cleburne County's temperate climate. Cleburne County averages a 214-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 1 and first frost around November 1.
Your Cleburne County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Cleburne County (Zone 8a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.