When to Plant Purslane in Mason County, WA
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.
Mason County, Washington is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and the first fall frost is October 29, giving you a growing season of approximately 194 days.
At an elevation of 230 feet, Mason County receives approximately 36.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Purslane during the growing season.
Mason County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.7
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
Purslane Planting Timeline — Mason County, WA
Purslane Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 14 | Mar 14 – Mar 28 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 18 | Apr 18 – May 2 |
| Direct Sow | April 4 | Apr 4 – Apr 25 |
| Fall Sowing | August 20 | Aug 20 – Sep 3 |
| Harvest | May 30 | May 30 – Jul 4 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| 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 8a
Growing Season
194 days
Growing Tips for Mason 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 Mason County, WA?
Mason County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of April 18. Plan your Purslane planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Mason County, WA?
Mason County, Washington is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and first fall frost is October 29.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Mason County gardeners in Zone 8a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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