When to plant Ground Cherry in Monroe County, AL
Plant Ground Cherry in Monroe County during the brief April 4–April 18 window. With 245 frost-free days, fall plantings can't mature before November 14.
When to Plant Ground Cherry in Monroe County, AL
Ground cherries produce small, sweet, tropical-tasting berries enclosed in papery husks. They are related to tomatillos and cape gooseberries and self-sow readily.
Monroe County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 14 and the first fall frost is November 14, giving you a growing season of approximately 245 days.
At an elevation of 177 feet, Monroe County receives approximately 51.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 96°F, so Ground Cherry may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Ground Cherry, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Ground Cherry root diseases.
Monroe County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.6-6.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Ground Cherry
Ground Cherry needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Ground Cherry Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 4.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 3.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 5.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4" | 0.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 4.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 5.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 4" | 0.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 4.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Monroe County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Ground Cherry Planting Timeline — Monroe County, AL
Ground Cherry Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 4 | Apr 4 – Apr 18 |
| Harvest | June 13 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
65–80 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8b
📆 Growing Season
245 days in Monroe County
Growing Tips for Monroe County
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Let fruits fall to the ground naturally when ripe inside their husks. The husk turns brown and papery when the fruit is ready.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Ground Cherry in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Ground Cherry in Monroe County, AL?
Monroe County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 14. Plan your Ground Cherry planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Monroe County, AL?
Monroe County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 14 and first fall frost is November 14.
When should I plant Ground Cherry in Monroe County, AL?
In Monroe County, AL, plant Ground Cherry after the last frost (around March 14) and before the first frost (around November 14). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Monroe County, AL for Ground Cherry?
Monroe County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Ground Cherry grows reliably in zones 4a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Ground Cherry grow in Monroe County's climate?
Yes — Ground Cherry grows well in Monroe County's temperate climate. Monroe County averages a 245-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 14 and first frost around November 14.
Your Monroe County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Monroe 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.