When to Plant Blackberries in Thurston County, WA
Blackberries are vigorous bramble fruits that produce sweet-tart berries on thorny or thornless canes. They are prolific producers and relatively low-maintenance once established.
Thurston County, Washington is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is April 15 and the first fall frost is October 29, giving you a growing season of approximately 197 days.
At an elevation of 213 feet, Thurston County receives approximately 37.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 89°F, providing good warmth for Blackberries during the growing season.
Thurston County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.6
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
Blackberries Planting Timeline — Thurston County, WA
Blackberries Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 6 | May 6 – May 20 |
· 24" apart · Rows 72" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
365–730 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
197 days
Growing Tips for Thurston County
Plant bare-root canes in spring. Provide a sturdy trellis system. Prune out spent fruiting canes after harvest. New canes fruit in their second year (floricanes).
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Blackberries in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Blackberries in Thurston County, WA?
Thurston County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of April 15. Plan your Blackberries planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Thurston County, WA?
Thurston County, Washington is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is April 15 and first fall frost is October 29.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Thurston County gardeners in Zone 8a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.