Short-Season Chickpeas: Best Varieties and Tips for Cooler Climates

Chickpeas are traditionally grown in warm, dry conditions, but with the right varieties and techniques, gardeners in cooler climates can still enjoy a productive harvest. After decades of growing chickpeas in raised beds and cool Mediterranean-like regions, I’ve learned that choosing short-season varieties and timing planting correctly are key to success. This guide highlights the best short-season chickpeas and practical tips for cooler regions, ensuring reliable yields even with a condensed growing season.

Table of Contents

Why Short-Season Chickpeas Matter in Cooler Climates

Chickpeas need 60–120 days to reach maturity depending on variety and conditions. In regions with short springs, cool summers, or early fall frosts, traditional long-season Kabuli types often fail to mature fully. Short-season varieties:

Mature faster, reducing frost risk
Flower and set pods in cooler temperatures
Produce reliable yields even in marginal climates

Best Short-Season Chickpea Varieties

1. Desi Types

Smaller, darker seeds with rough skin
Robust, earthy flavor
Often mature in 70–90 days
Disease-resistant and tolerant of cool soils
Examples: ICC 4958, California Green

2. Kabuli Cross Hybrids

Large, light-colored seeds
Creamy flavor suitable for hummus and salads
Short-season hybrids mature in 90–100 days
Examples: Early White Kabuli, Desi × Kabuli crosses

3. Specialty Early Varieties

Small, speckled, or black seeds
Green chickpeas for fresh harvest in 60–70 days
Compact plants suited to raised beds or containers

Tips for Growing Chickpeas in Cooler Climates

1. Timing Is Critical

Sow as early as soil can be worked, ideally 2–4 weeks before last expected frost.
Use row covers to protect seedlings from late frosts.

2. Soil Preparation

Chickpeas prefer well-drained, moderately fertile soil.
Raised beds or mounded rows help keep soil warmer and prevent root rot.

3. Watering and Mulching

Water lightly and consistently during germination.
Reduce watering during flowering to prevent flower drop.
Apply a thin mulch layer after plants reach 6 inches for temperature moderation.

4. Spacing and Support

Space plants 6–8 inches apart to encourage airflow.
Most short-season varieties are compact and rarely need trellising.

5. Pest and Disease Management

Keep beds weed-free and monitor for aphids, cutworms, or leaf miners.
Rotate crops to prevent soil-borne diseases.

Harvesting Short-Season Chickpeas

Green harvest: 60–70 days for tender pods
Dried harvest: 90–100 days, once pods and plants turn tan
Stagger plantings if possible to extend the harvest window

Final Thoughts

Short-season chickpeas make growing this nutritious legume feasible even in cooler climates. By selecting the right varieties, planting early, and carefully managing soil, watering, and spacing, you can enjoy both fresh green pods and fully dried beans. With these tips, cooler-region gardeners can reap the rewards of chickpeas without the challenges of a long growing season.