When to Plant Caraway in Norfolk County, MA
Caraway is a biennial herb grown for its distinctive crescent-shaped seeds used in rye bread, sauerkraut, and European cuisine. The leaves and roots are also edible.
Norfolk County, Massachusetts is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 24 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 176 days.
At an elevation of 799 feet, Norfolk County receives approximately 42.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Caraway during the growing season.
Norfolk County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.4
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
Caraway Planting Timeline — Norfolk County, MA
Caraway Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 20 | Mar 20 – Apr 3 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 17 | Apr 17 – May 1 |
| Direct Sow | April 10 | Apr 10 – May 1 |
| Fall Sowing | August 8 | Aug 8 – Aug 22 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
365–450 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 6b
Growing Season
176 days
Growing Tips for Norfolk County
Direct sow in spring or fall. Caraway produces seeds in its second year. Harvest seed heads when they turn brown. The young leaves can be used like parsley.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Caraway in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Caraway in Norfolk County, MA?
Norfolk County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 24. Plan your Caraway planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Norfolk County, MA?
Norfolk County, Massachusetts is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 24 and first fall frost is October 17.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Norfolk County gardeners in Zone 6b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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