When to Plant Pawpaw in Phillips 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.
Phillips County, Arkansas is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 14 and the first fall frost is November 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 243 days.
At an elevation of 678 feet, Phillips County receives approximately 50 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 93°F, providing good warmth for Pawpaw during the growing season.
Phillips County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.6-6.7
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
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Pawpaw Planting Timeline — Phillips County, AR
Pawpaw Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 4 | Apr 4 – Apr 18 |
· 120" apart · Rows 144" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| 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 7b
Growing Season
243 days
Growing Tips for Phillips 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 Phillips County, AR?
Phillips County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of March 14. Plan your Pawpaw planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Phillips County, AR?
Phillips County, Arkansas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 14 and first fall frost is November 12.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Phillips County gardeners in Zone 7b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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