When to Plant Jicama in Choctaw County, AL
Jicama is a tropical legume grown for its crisp, sweet, starchy root. It requires a very long, warm growing season but produces a refreshing, water chestnut-like tuber.
Choctaw County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 16 and the first fall frost is November 8, giving you a growing season of approximately 237 days.
At an elevation of 417 feet, Choctaw County receives approximately 54.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 98°F, so Jicama may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Jicama, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Jicama root diseases.
Choctaw County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.4
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
Jicama Planting Timeline — Choctaw County, AL
Jicama Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 26 | Jan 26 – Feb 9 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 30 | Mar 30 – Apr 13 |
| Direct Sow | March 23 | Mar 23 – Apr 13 |
| Harvest | August 3 | Aug 3 – Oct 12 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | Harvest |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
120–180 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
237 days
Growing Tips for Choctaw County
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost. Pinch off flowers to direct energy to root development. Harvest before first frost when roots are 3-6 inches across.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Jicama in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Jicama in Choctaw County, AL?
Choctaw County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 16. Plan your Jicama planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Choctaw County, AL?
Choctaw County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 16 and first fall frost is November 8.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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