When to Plant Purslane in Union County, NC
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.
Union County, North Carolina is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 26 and the first fall frost is November 4, giving you a growing season of approximately 223 days.
At an elevation of 1,049 feet, Union County receives approximately 53.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Purslane during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Purslane, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Purslane root diseases.
Union County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.8
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
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Purslane Planting Timeline — Union County, NC
Purslane Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 19 | Feb 19 – Mar 5 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 26 | Mar 26 – Apr 9 |
| Direct Sow | March 12 | Mar 12 – Apr 2 |
| Fall Sowing | August 26 | Aug 26 – Sep 9 |
| Harvest | May 7 | May 7 – Jun 11 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| 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 7b
Growing Season
223 days
Growing Tips for Union 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 Union County, NC?
Union County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of March 26. Plan your Purslane planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Union County, NC?
Union County, North Carolina is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 26 and first fall frost is November 4.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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