When to Plant Artichoke in Duval County, TX
Globe artichokes are large thistle-like perennials prized for their edible flower buds. They produce striking silvery foliage and can be grown as ornamentals.
Duval County, Texas is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 13 and the first fall frost is December 9, giving you a growing season of approximately 299 days.
At an elevation of 4,259 feet, Duval County receives approximately 55.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 102°F, so Artichoke may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Artichoke root diseases.
Duval County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-7.3
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.
Plant Water Budget
Artichoke Planting Timeline — Duval County, TX
Artichoke Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | February 27 | Feb 27 – Mar 13 |
| Harvest | July 3 | Jul 3 – Sep 11 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Transplant Outdoors |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | — |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
120–180 days
Soil pH
6.5 – 8
USDA Zone
Zone 9a
Growing Season
299 days
Growing Tips for Duval County
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost. Provide consistent moisture and mulch heavily. Harvest buds before scales begin to open for best flavor.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Artichoke in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Artichoke in Duval County, TX?
Duval County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of February 13. Plan your Artichoke planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Duval County, TX?
Duval County, Texas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 13 and first fall frost is December 9.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Duval County gardeners in Zone 9a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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