When to Plant Savory in San Mateo 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.
San Mateo County, California is in USDA Zone 10a. The average last spring frost is January 18 and the first fall frost is December 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 328 days.
At an elevation of 277 feet, San Mateo County receives approximately 16.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 81°F, so choose short-season varieties of Savory to ensure they mature before fall. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Savory successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
San Mateo County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-7.2
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 — San Mateo County, CA
Savory Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | January 25 | Jan 25 – Feb 8 |
| Harvest | March 22 | Mar 22 – May 17 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Transplant Outdoors |
| February | Transplant Outdoors |
| March | Harvest |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| 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 10a
Growing Season
328 days
Growing Tips for San Mateo 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 San Mateo County, CA?
San Mateo County is in Zone 10a with an average last frost of January 18. Plan your Savory planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is San Mateo County, CA?
San Mateo County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 10a. The average last spring frost is January 18 and first fall frost is December 12.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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