When to plant Lima Beans in Alcona County, MI
In Alcona County, Lima Beans is a single-season spring crop — there's no second fall window. Plant May 24–June 14 for an 60–90-day harvest, finishing well before the October 3 first frost.
When to Plant Lima Beans in Alcona County, MI
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.
Alcona County, Michigan is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 17 and the first fall frost is October 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 139 days.
At an elevation of 1,061 feet, Alcona County receives approximately 39 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Lima Beans during the growing season.
Alcona County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Lima Beans
Lima 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 | Lima Beans Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | — | 4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| May | 4.3" | 4" | 0.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 4.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 4.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.8" | 1.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (May–Oct in Alcona County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Lima Beans Planting Timeline — Alcona County, MI
Lima Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | May 24 | May 24 – Jun 14 |
| Harvest | July 26 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Direct Sow |
| June | Direct Sow |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
60–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5b
📆 Growing Season
139 days in Alcona County
Growing Tips for Alcona County
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 Alcona County, MI?
Alcona County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of May 17. Plan your Lima Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Alcona County, MI?
Alcona County, Michigan is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 17 and first fall frost is October 3.
When should I plant Lima Beans in Alcona County, MI?
In Alcona County, MI, plant Lima Beans after the last frost (around May 17) and before the first frost (around October 3). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Alcona County, MI for Lima Beans?
Alcona County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Lima Beans grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Lima Beans grow in Alcona County's climate?
Yes — Lima Beans grows well in Alcona County's temperate climate. Alcona County averages a 139-day frost-free season, with last frost around May 17 and first frost around October 3.
Your Alcona County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Alcona County (Zone 5b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.