When to plant Kidney Beans in Cedar County, IA
In Cedar County, plant Kidney Beans in spring between April 24 and May 15, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Cedar County's last frost averages April 17, so time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival. For a fall crop, sow between and — roughly 85–110 days before the first frost on October 16.
When to Plant Kidney Beans in Cedar County, IA
Kidney beans are a popular dry bean variety named for their shape, available in red and white types. They are the classic bean for chili and red beans and rice.
Cedar County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 17 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 182 days.
At an elevation of 1,112 feet, Cedar County receives approximately 41 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Kidney Beans during the growing season.
Cedar County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Kidney Beans Planting Timeline — Cedar County, IA
Kidney Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 24 | Apr 24 – May 15 |
| Harvest | July 24 | Jul 24 – Aug 28 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
85–110 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5a
📆 Growing Season
182 days in Cedar County
Growing Tips for Cedar County
Direct sow after frost. Allow pods to dry completely on the plant. Kidney beans must be thoroughly cooked as raw or undercooked beans contain harmful lectins.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
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Kidney Beans in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Kidney Beans in Cedar County, IA?
Cedar County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of April 17. Plan your Kidney Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Cedar County, IA?
Cedar County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 17 and first fall frost is October 16.
When should I plant Kidney Beans in Cedar County, IA?
In Cedar County, IA, plant Kidney Beans after the last frost (around April 17) and before the first frost (around October 16). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Cedar County, IA for Kidney Beans?
Cedar County sits in USDA Zone 5a. Kidney Beans grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Kidney Beans grow in Cedar County's climate?
Yes — Kidney Beans grows well in Cedar County's temperate climate. Cedar County averages a 182-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 17 and first frost around October 16.
Your Cedar County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Cedar County (Zone 5a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.