When to Plant Black Beans in San Bernardino County, CA
Black beans are a warm-season legume producing small, dark, protein-rich beans that are a staple in Latin American and Caribbean cuisines.
San Bernardino County, California is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 24 and the first fall frost is November 25, giving you a growing season of approximately 274 days.
At an elevation of 1,012 feet, San Bernardino County receives approximately 16.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Black Beans may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Black Beans successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
San Bernardino County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
5.9-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
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 | — | 3.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Mar | 4.3" | 2.2" | 2.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 1.5" | 2.8" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| May | 4.3" | 0.5" | 3.8" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 0.1" | 4.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 0" | 4.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 0" | 4.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 0.2" | 4.1" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 0.7" | 3.6" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 1.7" | 2.6" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Dec | — | 3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Nov in San Bernardino County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Black Beans Planting Timeline — San Bernardino County, CA
Black Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | March 3 | Mar 3 – Mar 24 |
| Harvest | June 2 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
90–120 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9a
📆 Growing Season
274 days in San Bernardino County
Growing Tips for San Bernardino County
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 San Bernardino County, CA?
San Bernardino County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of February 24. Plan your Black Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is San Bernardino County, CA?
San Bernardino County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 24 and first fall frost is November 25.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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