When to Plant Cress in Thomas County, GA
Garden cress is one of the fastest-growing edibles, producing peppery sprouts in as little as two weeks. It is excellent for microgreens and garnishes.
Thomas County, Georgia is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 4 and the first fall frost is November 22, giving you a growing season of approximately 263 days.
At an elevation of 302 feet, Thomas County receives approximately 58.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Cress may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Cress, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Cress root diseases.
Thomas County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.5
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.
Plant Water Budget
Cress Planting Timeline — Thomas County, GA
Cress Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 28 | Jan 28 – Feb 11 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 4 | Mar 4 – Mar 18 |
| Direct Sow | February 18 | Feb 18 – Mar 11 |
| Fall Sowing | September 13 | Sep 13 – Sep 27 |
| Harvest | March 18 | Mar 18 – Apr 8 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 2" apart · Rows 6" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow Harvest |
| April | Harvest |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
14–21 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 8b
Growing Season
263 days
Growing Tips for Thomas County
Sow seeds thickly on moist soil or paper towels. Keep moist and harvest when 2-3 inches tall. Succession sow every few days for continuous supply. Grows well indoors year-round.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Cress in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Cress in Thomas County, GA?
Thomas County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 4. Plan your Cress planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Thomas County, GA?
Thomas County, Georgia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 4 and first fall frost is November 22.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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