When to Plant Medlar in Placer County, CA
Medlar is a small ornamental tree producing unusual open-ended fruits that must be bletted (softened by frost) before eating. The flavor is complex, like spiced apple butter.
Placer County, California is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is April 22 and the first fall frost is November 9, giving you a growing season of approximately 201 days.
At an elevation of 651 feet, Placer County receives approximately 25.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Medlar during the growing season.
Placer County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.6-7.2
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
Medlar Planting Timeline — Placer County, CA
Medlar Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 13 | May 13 – May 27 |
· 120" apart · Rows 144" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
1095–1825 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
201 days
Growing Tips for Placer County
Plant in well-drained soil. Medlars are self-fertile and need minimal pruning. Harvest after the first frost and allow to soften (blet) indoors for 2-3 weeks before eating.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Medlar in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Medlar in Placer County, CA?
Placer County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of April 22. Plan your Medlar planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Placer County, CA?
Placer County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is April 22 and first fall frost is November 9.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Placer County gardeners in Zone 8a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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