When to Plant Corn in Russell County, AL
Corn is a warm-season grass grown for its sweet ears, which are best eaten soon after harvest. It is wind-pollinated and must be planted in blocks for good kernel fill.
Russell County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 21 and the first fall frost is November 10, giving you a growing season of approximately 234 days.
At an elevation of 81 feet, Russell County receives approximately 50.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 96°F, so Corn may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Corn, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Corn root diseases.
Russell County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.7
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
Corn Planting Timeline — Russell County, AL
Corn Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | March 28 | Mar 28 – Apr 18 |
| Harvest | May 30 | May 30 – Jul 25 |
Plant 1" deep · 12" apart · Rows 36" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
60–100 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
234 days
Growing Tips for Russell County
Plant in blocks of at least 4 rows rather than single rows for proper pollination. Direct sow after soil reaches 60F. Side-dress with nitrogen when plants are knee-high.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Corn in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Corn in Russell County, AL?
Russell County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 21. Plan your Corn planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Russell County, AL?
Russell County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 21 and first fall frost is November 10.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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