When to Plant Medlar in Carter County, MO
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.
Carter County, Missouri is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and the first fall frost is October 26, giving you a growing season of approximately 200 days.
At an elevation of 1,335 feet, Carter County receives approximately 38.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Medlar during the growing season.
Carter County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.5
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
Medlar Planting Timeline — Carter County, MO
Medlar Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 30 | Apr 30 – May 14 |
· 120" apart · Rows 144" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| 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 6b
Growing Season
200 days
Growing Tips for Carter 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 Carter County, MO?
Carter County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 9. Plan your Medlar planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Carter County, MO?
Carter County, Missouri is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and first fall frost is October 26.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Carter County gardeners in Zone 6b 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.