When to Plant Lovage in Shasta County, CA
Lovage is a large perennial herb with a celery-like flavor that can grow 4-6 feet tall. All parts are edible including the leaves, stems, seeds, and roots.
Shasta County, California is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is June 6 and the first fall frost is September 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 107 days.
At an elevation of 81 feet, Shasta County receives approximately 40.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Lovage during the growing season. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Lovage will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients.
Shasta County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.8
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
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Lovage Planting Timeline — Shasta County, CA
Lovage Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | June 13 | Jun 13 – Jun 27 |
| Harvest | August 22 | Aug 22 – Oct 24 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | — |
| June | Transplant Outdoors |
| July | — |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | Harvest |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
70–90 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 8b
Growing Season
107 days
Growing Tips for Shasta County
Start seeds indoors or direct sow in spring. One plant is usually enough for a family. Harvest outer stems and leaves as needed. Divide clumps every 3-4 years.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Lovage in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lovage in Shasta County, CA?
Shasta County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of June 6. Plan your Lovage planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Shasta County, CA?
Shasta County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is June 6 and first fall frost is September 21.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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