When to Plant Kidney Beans in Refugio County, TX
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.
Refugio County, Texas is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 16 and the first fall frost is December 6, giving you a growing season of approximately 293 days.
At an elevation of 1,000 feet, Refugio County receives approximately 68.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 103°F, so Kidney Beans may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Kidney Beans root diseases.
Refugio County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant 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 Refugio County
How your county's soil matches Kidney Beans's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (6.7–7.2) is within Kidney Beans's preferred range (6.0–7.5).
Soil Texture
The loam soil in Refugio County is excellent for Kidney Beans — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.0%). Annual compost additions will help Kidney Beans.
How to Plant Kidney Beans
Plant 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 | — | 2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | 4.3" | 2.1" | 2.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Mar | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 8.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 9.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 11.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 9.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 5.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 4.3" | 2.4" | 1.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | 4.3" | 1.8" | 2.5" | 🚿 Regular watering |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Dec in Refugio 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 — Refugio County, TX
Kidney Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | February 23 | Feb 23 – Mar 16 |
| Harvest | May 25 | May 25 – Jun 29 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Direct Sow |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| 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: ideal
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9a
📆 Growing Season
293 days in Refugio County
Growing Tips for Kidney Beans in Refugio County
Direct sow Kidney Beans outdoors after February 16 in Refugio County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
With summer highs reaching 103°F in Refugio County, provide afternoon shade for Kidney Beans and water deeply in the morning.
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
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Kidney Beans in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Kidney Beans in Refugio County, TX?
Refugio County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of February 16. Plan your Kidney Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Refugio County, TX?
Refugio County, Texas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 16 and first fall frost is December 6.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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