When to plant Lima Beans in Macon County, MO
Macon County gardeners should plant Lima Beans between April 24 and May 15 in spring. With Macon County's Zone 6a climate (last frost April 17), Lima Beans needs 60–90 days to mature — plant by July 19 for a full harvest.
When to Plant Lima Beans in Macon County, MO
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.
Macon County, Missouri is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 17 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 183 days.
At an elevation of 974 feet, Macon County receives approximately 37.3 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.
Macon County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.9
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 | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.2" | 1.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 2.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Macon County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Lima Beans Planting Timeline — Macon County, MO
Lima Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 24 | Apr 24 – May 15 |
| Harvest | June 26 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Direct Sow |
| June | Harvest |
| 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 6a
📆 Growing Season
183 days in Macon County
Growing Tips for Macon 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 Macon County, MO?
Macon County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 17. Plan your Lima Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Macon County, MO?
Macon County, Missouri is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 17 and first fall frost is October 17.
When should I plant Lima Beans in Macon County, MO?
In Macon County, MO, plant Lima Beans after the last frost (around April 17) and before the first frost (around October 17). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Macon County, MO for Lima Beans?
Macon County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Lima Beans grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Lima Beans grow in Macon County's climate?
Yes — Lima Beans grows well in Macon County's temperate climate. Macon County averages a 183-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 17 and first frost around October 17.
Your Macon County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Macon County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.