When to Plant Pawpaw in Sebastian 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.
Sebastian County, Arkansas is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 5 and the first fall frost is October 31, giving you a growing season of approximately 209 days.
At an elevation of 796 feet, Sebastian County receives approximately 45 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 93°F, providing good warmth for Pawpaw during the growing season.
Sebastian County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.8
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 — Sebastian County, AR
Pawpaw Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 26 | Apr 26 – May 10 |
· 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
209 days
Growing Tips for Sebastian 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 Sebastian County, AR?
Sebastian County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 5. Plan your Pawpaw planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Sebastian County, AR?
Sebastian County, Arkansas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 5 and first fall frost is October 31.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Sebastian County gardeners in Zone 7a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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