When to Plant Collard Greens in Issaquena 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.
Issaquena County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 5 and the first fall frost is November 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 256 days.
At an elevation of 263 feet, Issaquena County receives approximately 60.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 94°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.
Issaquena County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.2
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 — Issaquena County, MS
Collard Greens Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 29 | Jan 29 – Feb 12 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 5 | Mar 5 – Mar 19 |
| Direct Sow | February 19 | Feb 19 – Mar 12 |
| Fall Sowing | September 7 | Sep 7 – Sep 21 |
| Harvest | April 30 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 |
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 | Harvest |
| 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
256 days
Growing Tips for Issaquena 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 Issaquena County, MS?
Issaquena County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 5. Plan your Collard Greens planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Issaquena County, MS?
Issaquena County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 5 and first fall frost is November 16.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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