When to Plant Pawpaw in Blackford County, IN
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.
Blackford County, Indiana is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 26 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 173 days.
At an elevation of 729 feet, Blackford County receives approximately 32.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Pawpaw during the growing season.
Blackford County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
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 — Blackford County, IN
Pawpaw Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 17 | May 17 – May 31 |
· 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
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
1095–2555 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 5b
Growing Season
173 days
Growing Tips for Blackford 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 Blackford County, IN?
Blackford County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 26. Plan your Pawpaw planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Blackford County, IN?
Blackford County, Indiana is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 26 and first fall frost is October 16.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Blackford County gardeners in Zone 5b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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