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When to plant Mint in Firebaugh, CA

In Firebaugh, Mint is a single-season spring crop — there's no second fall window. Plant March 9–March 23 for an 60–90-day harvest, finishing well before the November 23 first frost.

When to Plant Mint in Firebaugh, CA

Mint

Mint is a vigorous perennial herb with refreshing, aromatic leaves used in teas, cocktails, and cooking. It spreads aggressively by underground runners.

Firebaugh, California is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is March 2 and the first fall frost is November 23, giving you a growing season of approximately 266 days.

At an elevation of 2,276 feet, Fresno County receives approximately 14.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 100°F, so Mint may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Mint successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.

Firebaugh, CA (Zone 9b) Long season
266 days
Last Spring Frost March 2
266 growing days
First Fall Frost November 23

Firebaugh Soil Profile

Soil Type

Loam

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Drainage

Well Drained

Monthly Watering Guide for Mint

Mint needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.

Month Mint Needs Rainfall You Supplement Action
Jan 2.8" 0" ❄️ Dormant
Feb 3.3" 0" ❄️ Dormant
Mar 4.3" 2.3" 2" 💧 Light watering
Apr 4.3" 1" 3.3" 🚿 Regular watering
May 4.3" 0.4" 3.9" 🚿 Regular watering
Jun 4.3" 0.1" 4.2" 🚿 Regular watering
Jul 4.3" 0" 4.3" 🚿 Regular watering
Aug 4.3" 0" 4.3" 🚿 Regular watering
Sep 4.3" 0.2" 4.1" 🚿 Regular watering
Oct 4.3" 0.6" 3.7" 🚿 Regular watering
Nov 4.3" 1.3" 3" 🚿 Regular watering
Dec 2.8" 0" ❄️ Dormant

Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Fresno County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.

Mint Planting Timeline — Firebaugh, CA

Mint Planting Calendar

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors March 9 Mar 9 – Mar 23
Harvest May 11 May 11 – Jul 20

Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart

Month-by-Month Timeline

MonthActivities
January
February
March Transplant Outdoors
April
May Harvest
June Harvest
July Harvest
August
September
October
November
December

Growing Conditions

☀️ Sun

Partial Shade (3-6 hours)

💧 Water

High — keep soil consistently moist

📅 Days to Maturity

60–90 days

🧪 Soil pH

Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A

🗺️ USDA Zone

Zone 9b

📆 Growing Season

266 days in Fresno County

Growing Tips for Firebaugh

Always grow mint in containers or with underground barriers to control spreading. Harvest regularly to keep plants compact. Cut plants back in late summer for a fresh fall flush.

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Avoid Planting Near

  • Parsley

Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →

When should I plant Mint in Firebaugh, CA?

In Firebaugh, CA, plant Mint after the last frost (around March 2) and before the first frost (around November 23). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.

What growing zone is Firebaugh, CA for Mint?

Firebaugh sits in USDA Zone 9b. Mint grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.

Can Mint grow in Firebaugh's climate?

Yes — Mint grows well in Firebaugh's temperate climate. Firebaugh averages a 266-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 2 and first frost around November 23.

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Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals. Frost dates are based on 50% probability averages for Fresno County, CA. Local conditions may vary. Last updated: July 2026.