When to Plant Echinacea in Bristol County, MA
Echinacea (purple coneflower) is a native prairie perennial valued for its immune-supporting properties and beautiful daisy-like flowers that attract pollinators.
Bristol County, Massachusetts is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 26 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 174 days.
At an elevation of 833 feet, Bristol County receives approximately 47.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 89°F, providing good warmth for Echinacea during the growing season.
Bristol County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.1-6.7
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
Echinacea Planting Timeline — Bristol County, MA
Echinacea Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 3 | May 3 – May 17 |
| Harvest | September 6 | Sep 6 – Nov 15 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | Harvest |
| October | Harvest |
| November | Harvest |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Low — drought tolerant
Days to Maturity
120–180 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 6b
Growing Season
174 days
Growing Tips for Bristol County
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost or direct sow in fall for spring germination. Seeds need cold stratification. Deadhead to prolong blooming or leave seed heads for birds.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Echinacea in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Echinacea in Bristol County, MA?
Bristol County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 26. Plan your Echinacea planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Bristol County, MA?
Bristol County, Massachusetts is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 26 and first fall frost is October 17.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Bristol County gardeners in Zone 6b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.