When to plant Lima Beans in Henry County, AL
In Zone 8b (Henry County), direct-sow Lima Beans between March 16 and April 6 for spring, after the March 9 last-frost mark.
When to Plant Lima Beans in Henry County, AL
June in the garden — Henry County, Alabama
We've pulled the most time-sensitive tasks for Henry County, Alabama this June and put them front and centre. Tackle them in order.
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.
Henry County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 9 and the first fall frost is November 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 253 days.
At an elevation of 195 feet, Henry County receives approximately 61.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 91°F, providing good warmth for Lima Beans during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Lima Beans, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Lima Beans root diseases.
Henry County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Lima 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 Henry County
How your county's soil matches Lima Beans's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.7–6.2) is more acidic than Lima Beans prefers (6.0–7.0). Add garden lime to raise pH.
Soil Texture
The clay loam soil in Henry County is excellent for Lima Beans — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.2%). Annual compost additions will help Lima Beans.
How to Plant Lima Beans
Succession Planting Lima Beans
Sow every 6.9 weeks. Last sowing by Aug 19 to harvest before frost.
Lima Beans Water Budget
Monthly Watering Guide for Lima Beans
Lima Beans needs approximately 0.9 inches of water per week (3.9" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Lima Beans Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 5.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 4.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 3.9" | 6.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 3.9" | 4.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 3.9" | 5.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 3.9" | 4.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 3.9" | 6.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 3.9" | 5.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 3.9" | 5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 3.9" | 4.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 3.9" | 4.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Dec | — | 4.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Henry County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Lima 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.
Lima Beans Planting Timeline — Henry County, AL
Lima Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | March 16 | Mar 16 – Apr 6 |
| Harvest | May 18 | May 18 – Jun 29 |
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 | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
0.9"/week · Natural rainfall sufficient
📅 Days to Maturity
60–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: too_acidic
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8b
📆 Growing Season
253 days in Henry County
Growing Tips for Lima Beans in Henry County
Direct sow Lima Beans outdoors after March 09 in Henry County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
With Henry County's clay soil (27% clay), work in 3-4 inches of compost before planting Lima Beans. Avoid tilling when soil is wet to prevent compaction.
Common pests for Lima 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 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
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Lima Beans in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lima Beans in Henry County, AL?
Henry County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 9. Plan your Lima Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Henry County, AL?
Henry County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 9 and first fall frost is November 17.
When should I plant Lima Beans in Henry County, AL?
In Henry County, AL, plant Lima Beans after the last frost (around March 9) and before the first frost (around November 17). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Henry County, AL for Lima Beans?
Henry County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Lima Beans grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Lima Beans grow in Henry County's climate?
Yes — Lima Beans grows well in Henry County's temperate climate. Henry County averages a 253-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 9 and first frost around November 17.
Your Henry County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Henry County (Zone 8b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.