When to Plant Komatsuna in Choctaw County, AL
Komatsuna (Japanese mustard spinach) is a versatile Asian green with glossy, dark leaves and a mild, sweet flavor. It is extremely cold-hardy and heat-tolerant.
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 Komatsuna may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Komatsuna, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Komatsuna 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
Komatsuna Planting Timeline — Choctaw County, AL
Komatsuna Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 9 | Feb 9 – Feb 23 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 16 | Mar 16 – Mar 30 |
| Direct Sow | March 2 | Mar 2 – Mar 23 |
| Fall Sowing | August 30 | Aug 30 – Sep 13 |
| Harvest | April 20 | Apr 20 – May 25 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
35–50 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
237 days
Growing Tips for Choctaw County
Direct sow in spring or fall. One of the most forgiving Asian greens for all seasons. Harvest outer leaves or cut whole plants. Excellent for stir-fries, soups, or salads.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Komatsuna in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Komatsuna in Choctaw County, AL?
Choctaw County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 16. Plan your Komatsuna 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
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Choctaw County gardeners in Zone 8a 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.