When to Plant Purslane in Cameron County, TX
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.
Cameron County, Texas is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 4 and the first fall frost is December 22, giving you a growing season of approximately 321 days.
At an elevation of 4,025 feet, Cameron County receives approximately 58.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 103°F, so Purslane may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Purslane root diseases.
Cameron County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-7.8
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.
Soil Compatibility in Cameron County
How your county's soil matches Purslane's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (6.7–7.8) overlaps with Purslane's range (5.5–7.5), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The loam soil in Cameron County is excellent for Purslane — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.2%). Annual compost additions will help Purslane.
How to Plant Purslane
Fall planting: Sow 8 weeks before your first frost date for a fall harvest.
Succession Planting Purslane
Sow every 4.6 weeks. Last sowing by Oct 23 to harvest before frost.
For a dedicated fall crop, sow by Oct 27.
Plant Water Budget
Monthly Watering Guide for Purslane
Purslane needs approximately 0.5 inches of water per week (2.2" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Purslane Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | 2.2" | 2.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Mar | 2.2" | 3.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 2.2" | 6.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 2.2" | 9.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 2.2" | 9.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 2.2" | 7.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 2.2" | 6.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 2.2" | 5.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 2.2" | 3.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 2.2" | 2.1" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | 2.2" | 1.4" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Dec in Cameron County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Purslane Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Purslane Planting Timeline — Cameron County, TX
Purslane Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 7 | Jan 7 – Jan 21 |
| Transplant Outdoors | February 4 | Feb 4 – Feb 18 |
| Direct Sow | January 14 | Jan 14 – Feb 4 |
| Harvest | March 18 | Mar 18 – Apr 22 |
| Fall Sowing | October 27 | Oct 27 – Nov 10 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| February | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | Harvest |
| April | Harvest |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| November | Fall Sowing |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
0.5"/week · Natural rainfall sufficient
📅 Days to Maturity
40–60 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7.5 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9b
📆 Growing Season
321 days in Cameron County
Growing Tips for Purslane in Cameron County
Direct sow Purslane outdoors after February 04 in Cameron County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
With summer highs reaching 103°F in Cameron County, provide afternoon shade for Purslane and water deeply in the morning.
Your generous 322.0-day season in Cameron County allows multiple plantings of Purslane. Sow every 20.0 days for continuous harvest.
General growing tips
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
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Purslane in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Purslane in Cameron County, TX?
Cameron County is in Zone 9b with an average last frost of February 4. Plan your Purslane planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Cameron County, TX?
Cameron County, Texas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 4 and first fall frost is December 22.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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