When to Plant Cardoon in Marshall County, OK
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.
Marshall County, Oklahoma is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 24 and the first fall frost is November 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 233 days.
At an elevation of 520 feet, Marshall County receives approximately 23.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Cardoon during the growing season.
Marshall County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.8
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.
Soil Compatibility in Marshall County
How your county's soil matches Cardoon's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (6.2–7.8) overlaps with Cardoon's range (6.0–7.5), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The loam soil in Marshall County is excellent for Cardoon — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Drainage
Drainage is adequate for Cardoon.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (3.5%). Annual compost additions will help Cardoon.
How to Plant Cardoon
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Monthly Watering Guide for Cardoon
Cardoon needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Cardoon Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 0.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 0.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 1.6" | 2.7" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.3" | 2" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4" | 0.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 2.8" | 1.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 2.4" | 1.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 1.3" | 3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 0.9" | 3.4" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Dec | — | 0.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Marshall County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Cardoon Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Cardoon Planting Timeline — Marshall County, OK
Cardoon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 7 | Apr 7 – Apr 21 |
| Harvest | August 11 | Aug 11 – Sep 22 |
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
1"/week · 2-3 times/week
📅 Days to Maturity
120–150 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7b
📆 Growing Season
233 days in Marshall County
Growing Tips for Cardoon in Marshall County
Direct sow Cardoon outdoors after March 24 in Marshall County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
Common pests for Cardoon in this region include aphids and slugs. Use row covers early in the season and inspect plants weekly.
Marshall County receives only 24" of rain annually. Cardoon needs consistent moisture — install drip irrigation or water deeply 2-3 times per week.
General growing tips
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
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Cardoon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Cardoon in Marshall County, OK?
Marshall County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of March 24. Plan your Cardoon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Marshall County, OK?
Marshall County, Oklahoma is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 24 and first fall frost is November 12.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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