When to Plant Epazote in Nicholas County, WV
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.
Nicholas County, West Virginia is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is May 4 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 166 days.
At an elevation of 2,348 feet, Nicholas County receives approximately 46.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Epazote during the growing season.
Nicholas County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.8-6.9
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 — Nicholas County, WV
Epazote Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 16 | Mar 16 – Mar 30 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 18 | May 18 – Jun 1 |
| Direct Sow | May 11 | May 11 – Jun 1 |
| Harvest | July 6 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| 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 6a
Growing Season
166 days
Growing Tips for Nicholas 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 Nicholas County, WV?
Nicholas County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of May 4. Plan your Epazote planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Nicholas County, WV?
Nicholas County, West Virginia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is May 4 and first fall frost is October 17.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Nicholas County gardeners in Zone 6a 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.