When to plant Chard in Montgomery County, AL
In Montgomery County, plant Chard in spring between February 24 and March 17, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Montgomery County's last frost averages March 10, so most warm-season crops establish quickly once soil holds above 60°F. For a fall crop, sow between September 6 and September 20 — roughly 50–60 days before the first frost on November 15.
When to Plant Chard in Montgomery County, AL
Swiss chard is a colorful, heat-tolerant green with large crinkled leaves and vibrant stalks in red, yellow, and white. Both the leaves and stems are edible and nutritious.
Montgomery County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 10 and the first fall frost is November 15, giving you a growing season of approximately 250 days.
At an elevation of 468 feet, Montgomery County receives approximately 62 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Chard during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Chard, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Chard root diseases.
Montgomery County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.6-6.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Chard
Chard needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Chard Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 5.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 4.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 7.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 5.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 4.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 6.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 5.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 5.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Dec | — | 4.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Montgomery County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Chard Planting Timeline — Montgomery County, AL
Chard Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 3 | Feb 3 – Feb 17 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 10 | Mar 10 – Mar 24 |
| Direct Sow | February 24 | Feb 24 – Mar 17 |
| Harvest | May 5 | May 5 – Jun 23 |
| Fall Sowing | September 6 | Sep 6 – Sep 20 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
50–60 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8b
📆 Growing Season
250 days in Montgomery County
Growing Tips for Montgomery County
Direct sow or transplant after last frost. Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage continuous production. Chard tolerates both heat and light frost.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Chard in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Chard in Montgomery County, AL?
Montgomery County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 10. Plan your Chard planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Montgomery County, AL?
Montgomery County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 10 and first fall frost is November 15.
When should I plant Chard in Montgomery County, AL?
In Montgomery County, AL, plant Chard after the last frost (around March 10) and before the first frost (around November 15). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Montgomery County, AL for Chard?
Montgomery County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Chard grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Chard grow in Montgomery County's climate?
Yes — Chard grows well in Montgomery County's temperate climate. Montgomery County averages a 250-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 10 and first frost around November 15.
Your Montgomery County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Montgomery 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.