When to Plant Sage in Carter County, MO
Sage is a woody perennial herb with velvety gray-green leaves and a warm, peppery flavor. It is a traditional seasoning for poultry, stuffing, and sausage.
Carter County, Missouri is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and the first fall frost is October 26, giving you a growing season of approximately 200 days.
At an elevation of 1,335 feet, Carter County receives approximately 38.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Sage during the growing season.
Carter County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.5
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
Sage Planting Timeline — Carter County, MO
Sage Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 16 | Apr 16 – Apr 30 |
| Harvest | July 2 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Low — drought tolerant
Days to Maturity
75–90 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 6b
Growing Season
200 days
Growing Tips for Carter County
Start from seed or cuttings. Prune after flowering to maintain shape. Replace plants every 4-5 years when they become woody and less productive. Excellent drainage is essential.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Sage in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Sage in Carter County, MO?
Carter County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 9. Plan your Sage planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Carter County, MO?
Carter County, Missouri is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and first fall frost is October 26.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Carter County gardeners in Zone 6b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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