When to plant Cardoon in Lonoke County, AR
In Lonoke County, Cardoon is a single-season spring crop — there's no second fall window. Plant April 5–April 19 for an 120–150-day harvest, finishing well before the November 5 first frost.
When to Plant Cardoon in Lonoke County, AR
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.
Lonoke County, Arkansas is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 22 and the first fall frost is November 5, giving you a growing season of approximately 228 days.
At an elevation of 1,126 feet, Lonoke County receives approximately 48.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 91°F, providing good warmth for Cardoon during the growing season.
Lonoke County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Cardoon Planting Timeline — Lonoke County, AR
Cardoon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 5 | Apr 5 – Apr 19 |
| Harvest | August 9 | Aug 9 – Sep 20 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| 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 8a
📆 Growing Season
228 days in Lonoke County
Growing Tips for Lonoke 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 Lonoke County, AR?
Lonoke County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 22. Plan your Cardoon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lonoke County, AR?
Lonoke County, Arkansas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 22 and first fall frost is November 5.
When should I plant Cardoon in Lonoke County, AR?
In Lonoke County, AR, plant Cardoon after the last frost (around March 22) and before the first frost (around November 5). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Lonoke County, AR for Cardoon?
Lonoke County sits in USDA Zone 8a. Cardoon grows reliably in zones 7a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Cardoon grow in Lonoke County's climate?
Yes — Cardoon grows well in Lonoke County's temperate climate. Lonoke County averages a 228-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 22 and first frost around November 5.
Your Lonoke County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lonoke 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.