When to Plant Medlar in Sierra 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.
Sierra County, California is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is May 10 and the first fall frost is October 22, giving you a growing season of approximately 165 days.
At an elevation of 1,560 feet, Sierra County receives approximately 40.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 80°F, so choose short-season varieties of Medlar to ensure they mature before fall.
Sierra County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-7.3
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 — Sierra County, CA
Medlar Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 31 | May 31 – Jun 14 |
· 120" apart · Rows 144" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | Transplant Outdoors |
| 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 6a
Growing Season
165 days
Growing Tips for Sierra 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 Sierra County, CA?
Sierra County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of May 10. Plan your Medlar planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Sierra County, CA?
Sierra County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is May 10 and first fall frost is October 22.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Sierra County gardeners in Zone 6a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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