When to plant Epazote in Lee County, AL
Lee County gardeners should plant Epazote between April 3 and April 24 in spring. With Lee County's Zone 8b climate (last frost March 27), Epazote needs 45–60 days to mature — plant by September 4 for a full harvest.
When to Plant Epazote in Lee County, AL
Epazote is a pungent Mexican herb traditionally cooked with black beans to reduce their gas-causing properties. It has a strong, unique flavor that is an acquired taste.
Lee County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 27 and the first fall frost is November 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 221 days.
At an elevation of 461 feet, Lee County receives approximately 52.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 91°F, providing good warmth for Epazote during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Epazote, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Epazote root diseases.
Lee County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.5
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Epazote
Epazote needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Epazote Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 4.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 4.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 4.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4" | 0.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 5.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 4.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Lee County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Epazote Planting Timeline — Lee County, AL
Epazote Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 6 | Feb 6 – Feb 20 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 10 | Apr 10 – Apr 24 |
| Direct Sow | April 3 | Apr 3 – Apr 24 |
| Harvest | May 29 | May 29 – Jul 24 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| 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
45–60 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–8 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8b
📆 Growing Season
221 days in Lee County
Growing Tips for Lee County
Direct sow after last frost. Epazote grows easily and self-sows aggressively. Use sparingly in cooking as the flavor is very strong. Harvest leaves before flowering for best flavor.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Epazote in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Epazote in Lee County, AL?
Lee County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 27. Plan your Epazote planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lee County, AL?
Lee County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 27 and first fall frost is November 3.
When should I plant Epazote in Lee County, AL?
In Lee County, AL, plant Epazote after the last frost (around March 27) and before the first frost (around November 3). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Lee County, AL for Epazote?
Lee County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Epazote grows reliably in zones 5a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Epazote grow in Lee County's climate?
Yes — Epazote grows well in Lee County's temperate climate. Lee County averages a 221-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 27 and first frost around November 3.
Your Lee County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lee County (Zone 8b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.