When to Plant Cardoon in Grenada County, MS
Cardoon is a large thistle relative of the artichoke, grown for its edible leaf stalks. It has dramatic silvery foliage and makes a striking ornamental as well.
Grenada County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 30 and the first fall frost is October 31, giving you a growing season of approximately 215 days.
At an elevation of 101 feet, Grenada County receives approximately 49.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Cardoon during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Cardoon, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot.
Grenada County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.6-6.4
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
Cardoon Planting Timeline — Grenada County, MS
Cardoon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 13 | Apr 13 – Apr 27 |
| Harvest | August 17 | Aug 17 – Sep 28 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
120–150 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 7b
Growing Season
215 days
Growing Tips for Grenada County
Blanch stalks by wrapping with cardboard or tying leaves together 3-4 weeks before harvest. Provide deep, rich soil and consistent moisture. Protect from hard frost.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Cardoon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Cardoon in Grenada County, MS?
Grenada County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of March 30. Plan your Cardoon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Grenada County, MS?
Grenada County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 30 and first fall frost is October 31.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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