When to plant Rue in Lee County, GA
Lee County sits in cold Zone 8b. Plant Rue March 14–March 28 for the single annual harvest; the November 18 first frost closes the window.
When to Plant Rue in Lee County, GA
Rue is a bitter, aromatic perennial herb with bluish-green foliage used historically in medicine and as a pest deterrent. Handle with care as its sap can cause skin irritation.
Lee County, Georgia is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 7 and the first fall frost is November 18, giving you a growing season of approximately 256 days.
At an elevation of 432 feet, Lee County receives approximately 50.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 96°F, so Rue may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Rue, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Rue root diseases.
Lee County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Rue
Rue needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Rue Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 4.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 5.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 4" | 0.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 3.5" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 4.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Lee County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Rue Planting Timeline — Lee County, GA
Rue Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | March 14 | Mar 14 – Mar 28 |
| Harvest | May 23 | May 23 – Jul 25 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | — |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
70–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8b
📆 Growing Season
256 days in Lee County
Growing Tips for Lee County
Start seeds indoors or direct sow. Plant in well-drained soil. Wear gloves when handling as sap can cause phytophotodermatitis. Prune in early spring.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Rue in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Rue in Lee County, GA?
Lee County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 7. Plan your Rue planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lee County, GA?
Lee County, Georgia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 7 and first fall frost is November 18.
When should I plant Rue in Lee County, GA?
In Lee County, GA, plant Rue after the last frost (around March 7) and before the first frost (around November 18). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Lee County, GA for Rue?
Lee County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Rue grows reliably in zones 4a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Rue grow in Lee County's climate?
Yes — Rue grows well in Lee County's temperate climate. Lee County averages a 256-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 7 and first frost around November 18.
Your Lee County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lee 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.