When to Plant Savory in Santa Barbara 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.
Santa Barbara County, California is in USDA Zone 10a. The average last spring frost is February 28 and the first fall frost is November 24, giving you a growing season of approximately 269 days.
At an elevation of 2,364 feet, Santa Barbara County receives approximately 19.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 89°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.
Santa Barbara County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.5-7.2
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 10/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Savory Planting Timeline — Santa Barbara County, CA
Savory Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | March 7 | Mar 7 – Mar 21 |
| Harvest | May 2 | May 2 – Jun 27 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | — |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| 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
269 days
Growing Tips for Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara County, CA?
Santa Barbara County is in Zone 10a with an average last frost of February 28. Plan your Savory planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Santa Barbara County, CA?
Santa Barbara County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 10a. The average last spring frost is February 28 and first fall frost is November 24.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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