When to plant Black Beans in Dougherty County County,
In Dougherty County County, plant Black Beans in spring between March 14 and April 4, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Dougherty County County's last frost averages March 7, so aim for a steady week of warm soil before planting. For a fall crop, sow between and — roughly 120 days before the first frost on November 18.
When to Plant Black Beans in Dougherty County, GA
Dougherty County, Georgia gardeners: here's your June plan
Your Dougherty County, Georgia garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for June and why each task matters now.
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Basket week: black beans
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
Get ahead of July
- First harvests: black beans
Black beans are a warm-season legume producing small, dark, protein-rich beans that are a staple in Latin American and Caribbean cuisines.
Dougherty County, Georgia is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 7 and the first fall frost is November 18, giving you a growing season of approximately 256 days.
At an elevation of 269 feet, Dougherty County receives approximately 54.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 96°F, so Black Beans may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. 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.
Dougherty County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.2
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 Dougherty County
How your county's soil matches Black Beans's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.4–6.2) is more acidic than Black Beans prefers (6.0–7.5). Add garden lime to raise pH.
Soil Texture
The clay loam soil in Dougherty County is excellent for Black Beans — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Drainage
Drainage is adequate for Black Beans.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.4%). 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 | — | 4.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 4.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 4.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 5.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 4.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 4.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Dougherty 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 — Dougherty County, GA
Black Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | March 14 | Mar 14 – Apr 4 |
| Harvest | June 13 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| 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: too_acidic
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9a
📆 Growing Season
256 days in Dougherty County
Growing Tips for Black Beans in Dougherty County
Direct sow Black Beans outdoors after March 07 in Dougherty County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
With Dougherty County's clay soil (29% clay), work in 3-4 inches of compost before planting Black Beans. Avoid tilling when soil is wet to prevent compaction.
With summer highs reaching 96°F in Dougherty County, provide afternoon shade for Black Beans and water deeply in the morning.
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
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Black Beans in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Black Beans in Dougherty County, GA?
Dougherty County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of March 7. Plan your Black Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Dougherty County, GA?
Dougherty County, Georgia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 7 and first fall frost is November 18.
When should I plant Black Beans in Dougherty County County, ?
In Dougherty County County, , plant Black Beans after the last frost (around March 7) and before the first frost (around November 18). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Dougherty County County, for Black Beans?
Dougherty County County sits in USDA Zone 9a. Black Beans grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Black Beans grow in Dougherty County County's climate?
Yes — Black Beans grows well in Dougherty County County's temperate climate. Dougherty County County averages a 256-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 7 and first frost around November 18.
Your Dougherty County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Dougherty County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.