When to Plant Lemon Thyme in Tate County, MS
Lemon thyme is a low-growing perennial herb with tiny, citrus-scented leaves. It combines the savory quality of thyme with a bright lemon flavor, excellent with fish and poultry.
Tate County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 27 and the first fall frost is October 31, giving you a growing season of approximately 218 days.
At an elevation of 374 feet, Tate County receives approximately 61.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 89°F, providing good warmth for Lemon Thyme during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Lemon Thyme, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Lemon Thyme root diseases.
Tate County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.8-6.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Lemon Thyme
Lemon Thyme needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Lemon Thyme Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 5.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 5.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 5.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 6.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 4.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 5.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Oct in Tate County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Lemon Thyme Planting Timeline — Tate County, MS
Lemon Thyme Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 3 | Apr 3 – Apr 17 |
| Harvest | June 12 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| 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
70–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–8 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7b
📆 Growing Season
218 days in Tate County
Growing Tips for Tate County
Start from cuttings or divisions. Plant in well-drained soil. Trim back after flowering. Use as a fragrant ground cover or edging plant along garden paths.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Lemon Thyme in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lemon Thyme in Tate County, MS?
Tate County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of March 27. Plan your Lemon Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Tate County, MS?
Tate County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 27 and first fall frost is October 31.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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