When to Plant Purslane in Caribou County, ID
Purslane is a succulent edible plant rich in omega-3 fatty acids, often considered a weed but increasingly valued as a nutritious green. It has a lemony, peppery flavor.
Caribou County, Idaho is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 30 and the first fall frost is September 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 109 days.
At an elevation of 6,562 feet, Caribou County receives approximately 15.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 81°F, so choose short-season varieties of Purslane to ensure they mature before fall. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Purslane successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Caribou County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-8.1
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 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Purslane Planting Timeline — Caribou County, ID
Purslane Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 18 | Apr 18 – May 2 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 30 | May 30 – Jun 13 |
| Direct Sow | May 23 | May 23 – Jun 13 |
| Fall Sowing | June 24 | Jun 24 – Jul 8 |
| Harvest | July 11 | Jul 11 – Aug 15 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow Fall Sowing |
| July | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Low — drought tolerant
Days to Maturity
40–60 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 4b
Growing Season
109 days
Growing Tips for Caribou County
Direct sow after last frost or allow to self-seed. Purslane thrives in hot, dry conditions. Harvest stem tips regularly. Contains more omega-3 fatty acids than any other leafy green.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Purslane in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Purslane in Caribou County, ID?
Caribou County is in Zone 4b with an average last frost of May 30. Plan your Purslane planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Caribou County, ID?
Caribou County, Idaho is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 30 and first fall frost is September 16.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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