When to Plant Pawpaw in Clay County, AR
Pawpaw is the largest native fruit tree in North America, producing tropical-tasting custard-like fruits. Young trees prefer shade but fruiting trees need good light.
Clay County, Arkansas is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is March 27 and the first fall frost is November 2, giving you a growing season of approximately 220 days.
At an elevation of 1,448 feet, Clay County receives approximately 54.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Pawpaw during the growing season. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Pawpaw root diseases.
Clay County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.7
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
Pawpaw Planting Timeline — Clay County, AR
Pawpaw Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 17 | Apr 17 – May 1 |
· 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
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
1095–2555 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 7a
Growing Season
220 days
Growing Tips for Clay County
Plant at least two genetically distinct trees for cross-pollination. Provide shade for young trees. Fruits ripen in fall and have a very short shelf life. Harvest when slightly soft.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Pawpaw in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Pawpaw in Clay County, AR?
Clay County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of March 27. Plan your Pawpaw planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Clay County, AR?
Clay County, Arkansas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is March 27 and first fall frost is November 2.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Clay County gardeners in Zone 7a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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