When to Plant Collard Greens in DeSoto County, MS
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.
DeSoto County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 27 and the first fall frost is October 31, giving you a growing season of approximately 218 days.
At an elevation of 111 feet, DeSoto County receives approximately 55.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 89°F, providing good warmth for Collard Greens during the growing season. 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.
DeSoto County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.3
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 — DeSoto County, MS
Collard Greens Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 20 | Feb 20 – Mar 6 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 27 | Mar 27 – Apr 10 |
| Direct Sow | March 13 | Mar 13 – Apr 3 |
| Fall Sowing | August 22 | Aug 22 – Sep 5 |
| Harvest | May 22 | May 22 – Jul 24 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| 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 7b
Growing Season
218 days
Growing Tips for DeSoto 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 DeSoto County, MS?
DeSoto County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of March 27. Plan your Collard Greens planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is DeSoto County, MS?
DeSoto County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 27 and first fall frost is October 31.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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