When to Plant Collard Greens in Houston County, AL
Collard greens are a heat-tolerant member of the cabbage family with large, sturdy leaves. They are a Southern staple and one of the most nutritious leafy greens.
Houston County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 6 and the first fall frost is November 19, giving you a growing season of approximately 258 days.
At an elevation of 230 feet, Houston County receives approximately 58.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Collard Greens may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Collard Greens, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Collard Greens root diseases.
Houston County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.3
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
Collard Greens Planting Timeline — Houston County, AL
Collard Greens Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 30 | Jan 30 – Feb 13 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 6 | Mar 6 – Mar 20 |
| Direct Sow | February 20 | Feb 20 – Mar 13 |
| Fall Sowing | September 10 | Sep 10 – Sep 24 |
| Harvest | May 1 | May 1 – Jul 3 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
55–75 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
258 days
Growing Tips for Houston County
Start seeds indoors or direct sow 4-6 weeks before last frost. Harvest lower leaves first, leaving the growing tip intact. Flavor improves after exposure to frost.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Collard Greens in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Collard Greens in Houston County, AL?
Houston County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 6. Plan your Collard Greens planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Houston County, AL?
Houston County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 6 and first fall frost is November 19.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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