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When to plant Yam in Appling County, GA

In Zone 9a (Appling County), direct-sow Yam between March 11 and April 1 for spring, after the March 11 last-frost mark.

When to Plant Yam in Appling County, GA

True yams are tropical tubers distinct from sweet potatoes, producing large starchy roots that can weigh several pounds. They are a staple food in tropical regions worldwide.

Appling County, Georgia is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 11 and the first fall frost is November 19, giving you a growing season of approximately 253 days.

At an elevation of 285 feet, Appling County receives approximately 50.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Yam during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Yam, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Yam root diseases.

Appling County, GA (Zone 9a) Long season
253 days
Last Spring Frost March 11
253 growing days
First Fall Frost November 19

Appling County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH

5.3-6.5

Drainage

Well Drained

Monthly Watering Guide for Yam

Yam needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.

Month Yam Needs Rainfall You Supplement Action
Jan 3.7" 0" ❄️ Dormant
Feb 4.4" 0" ❄️ Dormant
Mar 4.3" 5" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Apr 4.3" 3.5" 0.8" 💧 Light watering
May 4.3" 3.7" 0.6" 💧 Light watering
Jun 4.3" 3.9" 0.4" 💧 Light watering
Jul 4.3" 5.9" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Aug 4.3" 5.2" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Sep 4.3" 4.1" 0.2" 💧 Light watering
Oct 4.3" 3.6" 0.7" 💧 Light watering
Nov 4.3" 3.9" 0.4" 💧 Light watering
Dec 3.7" 0" ❄️ Dormant

Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Appling County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.

Yam Planting Timeline — Appling County, GA

Yam Planting Calendar

Activity When Date Range
Start Indoors January 28 Jan 28 – Feb 11
Transplant Outdoors March 18 Mar 18 – Apr 1
Direct Sow March 11 Mar 11 – Apr 1
Harvest September 16 Sep 16 – Jan 13

Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart

Month-by-Month Timeline

MonthActivities
January Start Indoors Harvest
February Start Indoors
March Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow
April Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow
May
June
July
August
September Harvest
October Harvest
November Harvest
December Harvest

Growing Conditions

☀️ Sun

Full Sun (6-8+ hours)

💧 Water

Moderate — regular watering

📅 Days to Maturity

180–330 days

🧪 Soil pH

Needs 5.5–6.5 · Your soil: N/A

🗺️ USDA Zone

Zone 9a

📆 Growing Season

253 days in Appling County

Growing Tips for Appling County

Plant tuber pieces in mounds of loose, rich soil. Provide sturdy trellising for climbing vines. Yams require a long, warm growing season of 8-11 months. Harvest when vines die back.

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Yam in Appling County, GA?

Appling County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of March 11. Plan your Yam planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.

What planting zone is Appling County, GA?

Appling County, Georgia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 11 and first fall frost is November 19.

When should I plant Yam in Appling County, GA?

In Appling County, GA, plant Yam after the last frost (around March 11) and before the first frost (around November 19). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.

What growing zone is Appling County, GA for Yam?

Appling County sits in USDA Zone 9a. Yam grows reliably in zones 9a through 12b, so it's a good fit here.

Can Yam grow in Appling County's climate?

Yes — Yam grows well in Appling County's temperate climate. Appling County averages a 253-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 11 and first frost around November 19.

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Your Appling County Garden Planner — Free

A 22-page printable planner built for Appling 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.

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Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals. Frost dates are based on 50% probability averages for Appling County, GA. Local conditions may vary. Last updated: July 2026.

Sources & credits

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