When to Plant Caraway in Douglas County, WA
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.
Douglas County, Washington is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is May 8 and the first fall frost is October 4, giving you a growing season of approximately 149 days.
At an elevation of 2,920 feet, Douglas County receives approximately 15.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Caraway during the growing season. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Caraway successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Douglas County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.2
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
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Caraway Planting Timeline — Douglas County, WA
Caraway Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 3 | Apr 3 – Apr 17 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 1 | May 1 – May 15 |
| Direct Sow | April 24 | Apr 24 – May 15 |
| Fall Sowing | July 26 | Jul 26 – Aug 9 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Fall Sowing |
| 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
149 days
Growing Tips for Douglas 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 Douglas County, WA?
Douglas County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of May 8. Plan your Caraway planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Douglas County, WA?
Douglas County, Washington is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is May 8 and first fall frost is October 4.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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