When to plant Chickpeas in Frederick County, MD
In Frederick County, plant Chickpeas in spring between April 2 and April 23, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Frederick County's last frost averages April 16, so most warm-season crops establish quickly once soil holds above 60°F. For a fall crop, sow between August 14 and August 28 — roughly 80–110 days before the first frost on October 23.
When to Plant Chickpeas in Frederick County, MD
Chickpeas (garbanzo beans) are a drought-tolerant legume producing round, nutty-flavored beans. They are the base for hummus, falafel, and many global dishes.
Frederick County, Maryland is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 16 and the first fall frost is October 23, giving you a growing season of approximately 190 days.
At an elevation of 756 feet, Frederick County receives approximately 49.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 89°F, providing good warmth for Chickpeas during the growing season.
Frederick County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Chickpeas Planting Timeline — Frederick County, MD
Chickpeas Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 12 | Mar 12 – Mar 26 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 16 | Apr 16 – Apr 30 |
| Direct Sow | April 2 | Apr 2 – Apr 23 |
| Harvest | July 9 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 |
| Fall Sowing | August 14 | Aug 14 – Aug 28 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
80–110 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–8 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7a
📆 Growing Season
190 days in Frederick County
Growing Tips for Frederick County
Direct sow 4 weeks before last frost as chickpeas prefer cool growing conditions. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases. Harvest when pods rattle with dry beans inside.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
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Chickpeas in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Chickpeas in Frederick County, MD?
Frederick County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 16. Plan your Chickpeas planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Frederick County, MD?
Frederick County, Maryland is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 16 and first fall frost is October 23.
When should I plant Chickpeas in Frederick County, MD?
In Frederick County, MD, plant Chickpeas after the last frost (around April 16) and before the first frost (around October 23). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Frederick County, MD for Chickpeas?
Frederick County sits in USDA Zone 7a. Chickpeas grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Chickpeas grow in Frederick County's climate?
Yes — Chickpeas grows well in Frederick County's temperate climate. Frederick County averages a 190-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 16 and first frost around October 23.
Your Frederick County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Frederick County (Zone 7a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.