When to plant Kidney Beans in Olean, MO
The best window to plant Kidney Beans in Olean, is April 13–May 4, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits April 6; first frost October 27.
When to Plant Kidney Beans in Olean, MO
Miller County, Missouri gardeners: here's your August plan
Here's what deserves your attention in Miller County, Missouri this month. Everything below is tailored to Zone 6b and timed around your local frost dates.
Kidney beans are a popular dry bean variety named for their shape, available in red and white types. They are the classic bean for chili and red beans and rice.
Olean, Missouri is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 6 and the first fall frost is October 27, giving you a growing season of approximately 204 days.
At an elevation of 1,086 feet, Miller County receives approximately 30.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 89°F, providing good warmth for Kidney Beans during the growing season.
Olean Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Kidney 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 Olean
How your county's soil matches Kidney Beans's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.7–6.7) overlaps with Kidney Beans's range (6.0–7.5), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The silt loam soil in Miller County is excellent for Kidney Beans — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Drainage
Drainage is adequate for Kidney Beans.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.4%). Annual compost additions will help Kidney Beans.
How to Plant Kidney Beans
Kidney Beans Water Budget
Monthly Watering Guide for Kidney Beans
Kidney 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 | Kidney Beans Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 1.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.4" | 1.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 1.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Miller County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Kidney 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.
Kidney Beans Planting Timeline — Olean, MO
Kidney Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 13 | Apr 13 – May 4 |
| Harvest | July 13 | Jul 13 – Aug 17 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
1"/week · Only during dry spells
📅 Days to Maturity
85–110 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
204 days in Miller County
Growing Tips for Kidney Beans in Olean
Direct sow Kidney Beans outdoors after April 06 in Miller County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
Common pests for Kidney 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 frost. Allow pods to dry completely on the plant. Kidney beans must be thoroughly cooked as raw or undercooked beans contain harmful lectins.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Kidney Beans in Other Locations
When should I plant Kidney Beans in Olean, MO?
In Olean, MO, plant Kidney Beans after the last frost (around April 6) and before the first frost (around October 27). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Olean, MO for Kidney Beans?
Olean sits in USDA Zone 6b. Kidney Beans grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Kidney Beans grow in Olean's climate?
Yes — Kidney Beans grows well in Olean's temperate climate. Olean averages a 204-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 6 and first frost around October 27.
Your Miller County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Miller 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.