When to Plant Comfrey in McDonald County, MO
Comfrey is a vigorous perennial herb valued as a dynamic accumulator of nutrients. Its leaves make excellent mulch, compost activator, and liquid fertilizer.
McDonald County, Missouri is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 8 and the first fall frost is October 27, giving you a growing season of approximately 202 days.
At an elevation of 977 feet, McDonald County receives approximately 39.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Comfrey during the growing season.
McDonald County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.6-6.5
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 McDonald County
How your county's soil matches Comfrey's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.6–6.5) overlaps with Comfrey's range (6.0–7.0), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The silt loam soil in McDonald County is excellent for Comfrey — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.9%). Annual compost additions will help Comfrey.
How to Plant Comfrey
Succession Planting Comfrey
Sow every 6.9 weeks. Last sowing by Jul 29 to harvest before frost.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Comfrey Planting Timeline — McDonald County, MO
Comfrey Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 15 | Apr 15 – Apr 29 |
| Harvest | June 17 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
1"/week · Only during dry spells
📅 Days to Maturity
60–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
202 days in McDonald County
Growing Tips for Comfrey in McDonald County
Direct sow Comfrey outdoors after April 08 in McDonald County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
General growing tips
Plant root cuttings 2 inches deep. Choose Bocking 14 variety to prevent self-seeding. Cut leaves 3-4 times per season for mulch or compost. Avoid planting near pathways as it spreads.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Comfrey in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Comfrey in McDonald County, MO?
McDonald County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 8. Plan your Comfrey planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is McDonald County, MO?
McDonald County, Missouri is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 8 and first fall frost is October 27.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help McDonald County gardeners in Zone 6b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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