When to plant Lima Beans in Monroe County, MI
Monroe County gardeners should plant Lima Beans between May 4 and May 25 in spring. With Monroe County's Zone 6b climate (last frost April 27), Lima Beans needs 60–90 days to mature — plant by July 19 for a full harvest.
When to Plant Lima Beans in Monroe County, MI
Top priorities for Monroe County, Michigan gardeners in June
A quick June briefing for Monroe County, Michigan gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
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.
Monroe County, Michigan is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 27 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 173 days.
At an elevation of 1,202 feet, Monroe County receives approximately 40.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 89°F, providing good warmth for Lima Beans during the growing season.
Monroe County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.8-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Lima 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 Monroe County
How your county's soil matches Lima Beans's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.8–7.2) overlaps with Lima Beans's range (6.0–7.0), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The silt loam soil in Monroe County is excellent for Lima Beans — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Drainage
Drainage is adequate for Lima Beans.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is excellent (4.2%) — Lima Beans will thrive.
How to Plant Lima Beans
Succession Planting Lima Beans
Sow every 6.9 weeks. Last sowing by Jul 19 to harvest before frost.
Lima Beans Water Budget
Monthly Watering Guide for Lima Beans
Lima Beans needs approximately 0.9 inches of water per week (3.9" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Lima Beans Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 3.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 3.9" | 3.5" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 3.9" | 4.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 3.9" | 5.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 3.9" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 3.9" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 3.9" | 3.3" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 3.9" | 3.5" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Monroe County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Lima 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.
Lima Beans Planting Timeline — Monroe County, MI
Lima Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | May 4 | May 4 – May 25 |
| Harvest | July 6 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
0.9"/week · Only during dry spells
📅 Days to Maturity
60–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
173 days in Monroe County
Growing Tips for Lima Beans in Monroe County
Direct sow Lima Beans outdoors after April 27 in Monroe County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
Common pests for Lima 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 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 Monroe County, MI?
Monroe County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 27. Plan your Lima Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Monroe County, MI?
Monroe County, Michigan is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 27 and first fall frost is October 17.
When should I plant Lima Beans in Monroe County, MI?
In Monroe County, MI, plant Lima Beans after the last frost (around April 27) and before the first frost (around October 17). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Monroe County, MI for Lima Beans?
Monroe County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Lima Beans grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Lima Beans grow in Monroe County's climate?
Yes — Lima Beans grows well in Monroe County's temperate climate. Monroe County averages a 173-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 27 and first frost around October 17.
Your Monroe County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Monroe County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.