When to plant Cardoon in Union County, AR
Plant Cardoon in Union County, between April 5 and April 19 — the only viable window. Zone 8b's short season (226 frost-free days) rules out a fall crop.
When to Plant Cardoon in Union 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.
Union County, Arkansas is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 22 and the first fall frost is November 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 226 days.
At an elevation of 508 feet, Union County receives approximately 52 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Cardoon during the growing season. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Cardoon root diseases.
Union County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Cardoon Planting Timeline — Union 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 8b
📆 Growing Season
226 days in Union County
Growing Tips for Union 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 Union County, AR?
Union County is in Zone 8b 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 Union County, AR?
Union County, Arkansas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 22 and first fall frost is November 3.
When should I plant Cardoon in Union County, AR?
In Union County, AR, plant Cardoon after the last frost (around March 22) and before the first frost (around November 3). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Union County, AR for Cardoon?
Union County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Cardoon grows reliably in zones 7a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Cardoon grow in Union County's climate?
Yes — Cardoon grows well in Union County's temperate climate. Union County averages a 226-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 22 and first frost around November 3.
Your Union County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Union 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.