When to Plant Epazote in Whatcom County, WA
Epazote is a pungent Mexican herb traditionally cooked with black beans to reduce their gas-causing properties. It has a strong, unique flavor that is an acquired taste.
Whatcom County, Washington is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is April 6 and the first fall frost is October 29, giving you a growing season of approximately 206 days.
At an elevation of 386 feet, Whatcom County receives approximately 49 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Epazote during the growing season.
Whatcom County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.4
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
Epazote Planting Timeline — Whatcom County, WA
Epazote Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 16 | Feb 16 – Mar 2 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 20 | Apr 20 – May 4 |
| Direct Sow | April 13 | Apr 13 – May 4 |
| Harvest | June 8 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Low — drought tolerant
Days to Maturity
45–60 days
Soil pH
6 – 8
USDA Zone
Zone 7b
Growing Season
206 days
Growing Tips for Whatcom County
Direct sow after last frost. Epazote grows easily and self-sows aggressively. Use sparingly in cooking as the flavor is very strong. Harvest leaves before flowering for best flavor.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Epazote in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Epazote in Whatcom County, WA?
Whatcom County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of April 6. Plan your Epazote planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Whatcom County, WA?
Whatcom County, Washington is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is April 6 and first fall frost is October 29.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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