When to Plant Caraway in Charleston County, SC
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.
Charleston County, South Carolina is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 6 and the first fall frost is November 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 256 days.
At an elevation of 275 feet, Charleston County receives approximately 48.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Caraway may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Caraway will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients.
Charleston County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
5-6
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
Caraway Planting Timeline — Charleston County, SC
Caraway Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 30 | Jan 30 – Feb 13 |
| Transplant Outdoors | February 27 | Feb 27 – Mar 13 |
| Direct Sow | February 20 | Feb 20 – Mar 13 |
| Fall Sowing | September 8 | Sep 8 – Sep 22 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| 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 8b
Growing Season
256 days
Growing Tips for Charleston 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 Charleston County, SC?
Charleston County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 6. Plan your Caraway planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Charleston County, SC?
Charleston County, South Carolina is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 6 and first fall frost is November 17.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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