When to Plant Medlar in Haywood County, NC
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.
Haywood County, North Carolina is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 17 and the first fall frost is October 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 187 days.
At an elevation of 1,592 feet, Haywood County receives approximately 49.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Medlar during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Medlar, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot.
Haywood County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.6
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 — Haywood County, NC
Medlar Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 8 | May 8 – May 22 |
· 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 6b
Growing Season
187 days
Growing Tips for Haywood 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 Haywood County, NC?
Haywood County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 17. Plan your Medlar planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Haywood County, NC?
Haywood County, North Carolina is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 17 and first fall frost is October 21.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Haywood 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.