When to plant Lima Beans in Dodge County, MN
Dodge County's spring Lima Beans window runs May 12 through June 2. be cautious and check the 10-day forecast before planting tender crops.
When to Plant Lima Beans in Dodge County, MN
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.
Dodge County, Minnesota is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 28 and the first fall frost is October 7, giving you a growing season of approximately 162 days.
At an elevation of 1,261 feet, Dodge County receives approximately 34 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 83°F, so choose short-season varieties of Lima Beans to ensure they mature before fall.
Dodge County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.7-7.1
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 | — | 1.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 4" | 0.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.4" | 1.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 2.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Dodge County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Lima Beans Planting Timeline — Dodge County, MN
Lima Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | May 12 | May 12 – Jun 2 |
| Harvest | July 14 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 |
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 | — |
| 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 4b
📆 Growing Season
162 days in Dodge County
Growing Tips for Dodge 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 Dodge County, MN?
Dodge County is in Zone 4b with an average last frost of April 28. Plan your Lima Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Dodge County, MN?
Dodge County, Minnesota is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 28 and first fall frost is October 7.
When should I plant Lima Beans in Dodge County, MN?
In Dodge County, MN, plant Lima Beans after the last frost (around April 28) and before the first frost (around October 7). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Dodge County, MN for Lima Beans?
Dodge County sits in USDA Zone 4b. Lima Beans grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Lima Beans grow in Dodge County's climate?
Yes — Lima Beans grows well in Dodge County's temperate climate. Dodge County averages a 162-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 28 and first frost around October 7.
Your Dodge County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Dodge County (Zone 4b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.