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When to Plant Echinacea in Tennessee

Echinacea (purple coneflower) is a native prairie perennial valued for its immune-supporting properties and beautiful daisy-like flowers that attract pollinators.

Tennessee spans USDA hardiness zones 7a, 7b, 8a (with planting data available), so planting dates vary by your location within the state. Click your zone below for the most accurate dates.

Find Your County

Click your county for exact Echinacea planting dates based on your local frost dates.

Echinacea Planting Calendar for Tennessee

Zone 7a ~221 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: March 25 · First frost: November 1 · 221 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors April 1 Apr 1 – Apr 15
Harvest August 5 Aug 5 – Nov 11
Zone 7b ~235 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: March 18 · First frost: November 8 · 235 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors March 25 Mar 25 – Apr 8
Harvest July 29 Jul 29 – Nov 4
Zone 8a ~255 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: March 8 · First frost: November 18 · 255 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors March 15 Mar 15 – Mar 29
Harvest July 19 Jul 19 – Oct 25

Growing Tips for Tennessee

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Echinacea in Tennessee?

Planting dates for Echinacea in Tennessee depend on your USDA zone. Tennessee spans zones 7a, 7b, 8a. Check the planting calendar above for your specific zone's frost dates and planting windows.

What zone is Tennessee for planting?

Tennessee contains USDA hardiness zones 7a, 7b, 8a. Your specific zone depends on your location within the state — northern and higher-elevation areas are in colder zones, while southern and coastal areas are warmer.

Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals, University Cooperative Extension planting guides. Last updated: May 2026.