When to plant Cardoon in Baldwin County, AL
Plant Cardoon in Baldwin County during the brief March 17–March 31 window. With 266 frost-free days, fall plantings can't mature before November 24.
When to Plant Cardoon in Baldwin County, AL
Cardoon is a large thistle relative of the artichoke, grown for its edible leaf stalks. It has dramatic silvery foliage and makes a striking ornamental as well.
Baldwin County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 3 and the first fall frost is November 24, giving you a growing season of approximately 266 days.
At an elevation of 336 feet, Baldwin County receives approximately 53 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Cardoon may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Cardoon will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Cardoon root diseases.
Baldwin County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Cardoon Planting Timeline — Baldwin County, AL
Cardoon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | March 17 | Mar 17 – Mar 31 |
| Harvest | July 21 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | — |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
120–150 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9a
📆 Growing Season
266 days in Baldwin County
Growing Tips for Baldwin County
Blanch stalks by wrapping with cardboard or tying leaves together 3-4 weeks before harvest. Provide deep, rich soil and consistent moisture. Protect from hard frost.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
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Cardoon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Cardoon in Baldwin County, AL?
Baldwin County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of March 3. Plan your Cardoon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Baldwin County, AL?
Baldwin County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 3 and first fall frost is November 24.
When should I plant Cardoon in Baldwin County, AL?
In Baldwin County, AL, plant Cardoon after the last frost (around March 3) and before the first frost (around November 24). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Baldwin County, AL for Cardoon?
Baldwin County sits in USDA Zone 9a. Cardoon grows reliably in zones 7a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Cardoon grow in Baldwin County's climate?
Yes — Cardoon grows well in Baldwin County's temperate climate. Baldwin County averages a 266-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 3 and first frost around November 24.
Your Baldwin County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Baldwin County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.