When to plant Savory in Madera County, CA
Madera County sits in cold Zone 9a. Plant Savory April 25–May 9 for the single annual harvest; the November 9 first frost closes the window.
When to Plant Savory in Madera County, CA
Your August game plan for Madera County, California
Your Madera County, California garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for August and why each task matters now.
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Pick savory
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
Summer savory is an annual herb with a peppery, thyme-like flavor that pairs especially well with beans. Winter savory is a perennial with a stronger flavor.
Madera County, California is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and the first fall frost is November 9, giving you a growing season of approximately 205 days.
At an elevation of 187 feet, Madera County receives approximately 14.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 104°F, so Savory may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Savory successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Madera County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Savory Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Soil Compatibility in Madera County
How your county's soil matches Savory's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (6.2–7.8) overlaps with Savory's range (6.5–7.5), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The loam soil in Madera County is excellent for Savory — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.6%). Annual compost additions will help Savory.
How to Plant Savory
Succession Planting Savory
Sow every 5.7 weeks. Last sowing by Aug 31 to harvest before frost.
Savory Water Budget
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Monthly Watering Guide for Savory
Savory needs approximately 0.5 inches of water per week (2.2" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Savory Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 2.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 2.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 2.2" | 1.3" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 2.2" | 0.4" | 1.8" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jun | 2.2" | 0.1" | 2.1" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jul | 2.2" | 0" | 2.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Aug | 2.2" | 0" | 2.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Sep | 2.2" | 0.1" | 2.1" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Oct | 2.2" | 0.7" | 1.5" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Nov | 2.2" | 1.4" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 2.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Nov in Madera County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Savory Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Savory Planting Timeline — Madera County, CA
Savory Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 25 | Apr 25 – May 9 |
| Harvest | June 20 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
0.5"/week · Only during dry spells
📅 Days to Maturity
50–70 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6.5–7.5 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9a
📆 Growing Season
205 days in Madera County
Growing Tips for Savory in Madera County
Direct sow Savory outdoors after April 18 in Madera County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
With summer highs reaching 104°F in Madera County, provide afternoon shade for Savory and water deeply in the morning.
Madera County receives only 14" of rain annually. Savory needs consistent moisture — install drip irrigation or water deeply 2-3 times per week.
General growing tips
Direct sow summer savory after last frost. Plant winter savory from divisions or cuttings. Harvest stems before flowering for best flavor. Use fresh or dried.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Savory in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Savory in Madera County, CA?
Madera County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of April 18. Plan your Savory planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Madera County, CA?
Madera County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and first fall frost is November 9.
When should I plant Savory in Madera County, CA?
In Madera County, CA, plant Savory after the last frost (around April 18) and before the first frost (around November 9). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Madera County, CA for Savory?
Madera County sits in USDA Zone 9a. Savory grows reliably in zones 4a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Savory grow in Madera County's climate?
Yes — Savory grows well in Madera County's temperate climate. Madera County averages a 205-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 18 and first frost around November 9.
Your Madera County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Madera County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.