When to Plant Gooseberries in Umatilla County, OR
Gooseberries are thorny shrubs producing tart, grape-sized berries excellent for pies, jams, and preserves. They thrive in cooler climates and tolerate partial shade.
Umatilla County, Oregon is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 23 and the first fall frost is October 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 180 days.
At an elevation of 2,195 feet, Umatilla County receives approximately 14.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Gooseberries during the growing season. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Gooseberries successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Umatilla County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.8
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
Gooseberries Planting Timeline — Umatilla County, OR
Gooseberries Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 14 | May 14 – May 28 |
· 48" apart · Rows 72" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
730–1095 days
Soil pH
6 – 6.5
USDA Zone
Zone 6a
Growing Season
180 days
Growing Tips for Umatilla County
Plant in a location with afternoon shade in hot climates. Prune to an open goblet shape for air circulation. Mulch heavily and avoid cultivation near shallow roots.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Gooseberries in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Gooseberries in Umatilla County, OR?
Umatilla County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 23. Plan your Gooseberries planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Umatilla County, OR?
Umatilla County, Oregon is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 23 and first fall frost is October 20.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Umatilla County gardeners in Zone 6a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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