When to plant Celtuce in Clay County, AL
Clay County sits in USDA Zone 8a. Plant Celtuce between March 15 (after last frost on March 29) and April 5. A second sowing from August 22 to September 5 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Celtuce in Clay County, AL
Celtuce (stem lettuce) is a Chinese vegetable grown for its thick, crunchy stem rather than its leaves. The peeled stem has a mild, cucumber-like flavor.
Clay County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 29 and the first fall frost is October 31, giving you a growing season of approximately 216 days.
At an elevation of 109 feet, Clay County receives approximately 60.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 91°F, providing good warmth for Celtuce during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Celtuce, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Celtuce root diseases.
Clay County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Celtuce Planting Timeline — Clay County, AL
Celtuce Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 22 | Feb 22 – Mar 8 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 29 | Mar 29 – Apr 12 |
| Direct Sow | March 15 | Mar 15 – Apr 5 |
| Harvest | May 31 | May 31 – Jul 12 |
| Fall Sowing | August 22 | Aug 22 – Sep 5 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
60–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8a
📆 Growing Season
216 days in Clay County
Growing Tips for Clay County
Direct sow in spring or start indoors. Space 12 inches apart. Harvest when stems are about 1 inch in diameter. Peel the tough outer skin to reveal the tender center.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Celtuce in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Celtuce in Clay County, AL?
Clay County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 29. Plan your Celtuce planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Clay County, AL?
Clay County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 29 and first fall frost is October 31.
When should I plant Celtuce in Clay County, AL?
In Clay County, AL, plant Celtuce after the last frost (around March 29) and before the first frost (around October 31). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Clay County, AL for Celtuce?
Clay County sits in USDA Zone 8a. Celtuce grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Celtuce grow in Clay County's climate?
Yes — Celtuce grows well in Clay County's temperate climate. Clay County averages a 216-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 29 and first frost around October 31.
Your Clay County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Clay County (Zone 8a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.