When to plant Cardoon in Duval County, FL
Duval County sits in cold Zone 9b. Plant Cardoon March 10–March 24 for the single annual harvest; the November 29 first frost closes the window.
When to Plant Cardoon in Duval County, FL
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.
Duval County, Florida is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 24 and the first fall frost is November 29, giving you a growing season of approximately 278 days.
At an elevation of 337 feet, Duval County receives approximately 56.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 102°F, so Cardoon may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Cardoon will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Cardoon root diseases.
Duval County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
5-5.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Cardoon
Cardoon needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Cardoon Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 2.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | 4.3" | 2.8" | 1.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Mar | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.5" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 8.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 7.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 8.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 6.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 4.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 4.3" | 2.6" | 1.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 2.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Nov in Duval County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Cardoon Planting Timeline — Duval County, FL
Cardoon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | March 10 | Mar 10 – Mar 24 |
| Harvest | July 14 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | — |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| 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 9b
📆 Growing Season
278 days in Duval County
Growing Tips for Duval 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
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Cardoon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Cardoon in Duval County, FL?
Duval County is in Zone 9b with an average last frost of February 24. Plan your Cardoon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Duval County, FL?
Duval County, Florida is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 24 and first fall frost is November 29.
When should I plant Cardoon in Duval County, FL?
In Duval County, FL, plant Cardoon after the last frost (around February 24) and before the first frost (around November 29). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Duval County, FL for Cardoon?
Duval County sits in USDA Zone 9b. Cardoon grows reliably in zones 7a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Cardoon grow in Duval County's climate?
Yes — Cardoon grows well in Duval County's temperate climate. Duval County averages a 279-day frost-free season, with last frost around February 24 and first frost around November 29.
Your Duval County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Duval County (Zone 9b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.