When to Plant Mustard Greens in Rankin County, MS
Mustard greens are fast-growing brassicas with a spicy, peppery kick. They come in green, red, and purple varieties and are excellent cooked or in salads.
Rankin County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 17 and the first fall frost is November 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 241 days.
At an elevation of 348 feet, Rankin County receives approximately 51.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Mustard Greens may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Mustard Greens, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Mustard Greens root diseases.
Rankin County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.5
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
Mustard Greens Planting Timeline — Rankin County, MS
Mustard Greens Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 10 | Feb 10 – Feb 24 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 17 | Mar 17 – Mar 31 |
| Direct Sow | March 3 | Mar 3 – Mar 24 |
| Fall Sowing | September 4 | Sep 4 – Sep 18 |
| Harvest | April 21 | Apr 21 – Jun 23 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
30–50 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
241 days
Growing Tips for Rankin County
Direct sow in early spring or fall. Harvest young leaves for milder flavor. Plants bolt quickly in heat so grow as a cool-season crop or provide shade.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Mustard Greens in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Mustard Greens in Rankin County, MS?
Rankin County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 17. Plan your Mustard Greens planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Rankin County, MS?
Rankin County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 17 and first fall frost is November 13.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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