When to Plant Rue in Craig County, VA
Rue is a bitter, aromatic perennial herb with bluish-green foliage used historically in medicine and as a pest deterrent. Handle with care as its sap can cause skin irritation.
Craig County, Virginia is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 26 and the first fall frost is October 19, giving you a growing season of approximately 176 days.
At an elevation of 460 feet, Craig County receives approximately 43 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Rue during the growing season.
Craig County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.8
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
Rue Planting Timeline — Craig County, VA
Rue Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 3 | May 3 – May 17 |
| Harvest | July 12 | Jul 12 – Sep 13 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Low — drought tolerant
Days to Maturity
70–90 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 6b
Growing Season
176 days
Growing Tips for Craig County
Start seeds indoors or direct sow. Plant in well-drained soil. Wear gloves when handling as sap can cause phytophotodermatitis. Prune in early spring.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Rue in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Rue in Craig County, VA?
Craig County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 26. Plan your Rue planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Craig County, VA?
Craig County, Virginia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 26 and first fall frost is October 19.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Craig County gardeners in Zone 6b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.