When to Plant Che Fruit in Jackson County, AL
Che fruit (Chinese mulberry) is a small, cold-hardy tree producing round, red fruits with a sweet, watermelon-fig flavor. It is an underutilized fruit tree with great potential.
Jackson County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 7 and the first fall frost is October 29, giving you a growing season of approximately 205 days.
At an elevation of 302 feet, Jackson County receives approximately 59.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 93°F, providing good warmth for Che Fruit during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Che Fruit, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Che Fruit root diseases.
Jackson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.5
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 Jackson County
How your county's soil matches Che Fruit's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.5–6.5) overlaps with Che Fruit's range (6.0–7.5), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The clay loam soil in Jackson County is excellent for Che Fruit — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Drainage
Drainage is adequate for Che Fruit.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.6%). Annual compost additions will help Che Fruit.
How to Plant Che Fruit
Plant Water Budget
Che Fruit Planting Timeline — Jackson County, AL
Che Fruit Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 28 | Apr 28 – May 12 |
· 120" apart · Rows 144" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
1"/week · Natural rainfall sufficient
📅 Days to Maturity
1095–1825 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7a
📆 Growing Season
205 days in Jackson County
Growing Tips for Che Fruit in Jackson County
Direct sow Che Fruit outdoors after April 07 in Jackson County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
With Jackson County's clay soil (28% clay), work in 3-4 inches of compost before planting Che Fruit. Avoid tilling when soil is wet to prevent compaction.
Your 205.0-day growing season in Jackson County is tight for Che Fruit (1095.0-1825.0 days to maturity). Start indoors and choose early-maturing varieties.
General growing tips
Plant in well-drained soil. A male pollinator is needed for seeded fruit, but seedless fruit can set parthenocarpically. Minimal pruning required. Fruits ripen in late summer.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Che Fruit in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Che Fruit in Jackson County, AL?
Jackson County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 7. Plan your Che Fruit planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Jackson County, AL?
Jackson County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 7 and first fall frost is October 29.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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