When to plant Cardoon in Lumpkin County, GA
Lumpkin County sits in cold Zone 8a. Plant Cardoon April 10–April 24 for the single annual harvest; the November 6 first frost closes the window.
When to Plant Cardoon in Lumpkin County, GA
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.
Lumpkin County, Georgia is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 27 and the first fall frost is November 6, giving you a growing season of approximately 224 days.
At an elevation of 147 feet, Lumpkin County receives approximately 48.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Cardoon during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Cardoon, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot.
Lumpkin County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.8-6.6
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 | — | 4.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 3.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 4.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 4.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 4.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Lumpkin County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Cardoon Planting Timeline — Lumpkin County, GA
Cardoon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 10 | Apr 10 – Apr 24 |
| Harvest | August 14 | Aug 14 – Sep 25 |
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 8a
📆 Growing Season
224 days in Lumpkin County
Growing Tips for Lumpkin 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 Lumpkin County, GA?
Lumpkin County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 27. Plan your Cardoon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lumpkin County, GA?
Lumpkin County, Georgia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 27 and first fall frost is November 6.
When should I plant Cardoon in Lumpkin County, GA?
In Lumpkin County, GA, plant Cardoon after the last frost (around March 27) and before the first frost (around November 6). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Lumpkin County, GA for Cardoon?
Lumpkin County sits in USDA Zone 8a. Cardoon grows reliably in zones 7a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Cardoon grow in Lumpkin County's climate?
Yes — Cardoon grows well in Lumpkin County's temperate climate. Lumpkin County averages a 224-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 27 and first frost around November 6.
Your Lumpkin County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lumpkin County (Zone 8a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.