When to Plant Savory in Monterey County, CA
Summer savory is an annual herb with a peppery, thyme-like flavor that pairs especially well with beans. Winter savory is a perennial with a stronger flavor.
Monterey County, California is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is March 13 and the first fall frost is November 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 249 days.
At an elevation of 260 feet, Monterey County receives approximately 12.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 93°F, providing good warmth for Savory during the growing season. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Savory successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Monterey County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-7.2
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 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Savory Planting Timeline — Monterey County, CA
Savory Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | March 20 | Mar 20 – Apr 3 |
| Harvest | May 15 | May 15 – Jul 10 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Low — drought tolerant
Days to Maturity
50–70 days
Soil pH
6.5 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 9b
Growing Season
249 days
Growing Tips for Monterey County
Direct sow summer savory after last frost. Plant winter savory from divisions or cuttings. Harvest stems before flowering for best flavor. Use fresh or dried.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Savory in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Savory in Monterey County, CA?
Monterey County is in Zone 9b with an average last frost of March 13. Plan your Savory planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Monterey County, CA?
Monterey County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is March 13 and first fall frost is November 17.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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