When to plant Ground Cherry in Union County, GA
Union County's 195-day season only supports one Ground Cherry planting per year. Sow between May 2 and May 16 for the best chance at full maturity before October 23.
When to Plant Ground Cherry in Union County, GA
Ground cherries produce small, sweet, tropical-tasting berries enclosed in papery husks. They are related to tomatillos and cape gooseberries and self-sow readily.
Union County, Georgia is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is April 11 and the first fall frost is October 23, giving you a growing season of approximately 195 days.
At an elevation of 175 feet, Union County receives approximately 61.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 93°F, providing good warmth for Ground Cherry during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Ground Cherry, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Ground Cherry root diseases.
Union County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.8-6.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Ground Cherry
Ground Cherry needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Ground Cherry Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 4.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 5.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 5.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 5.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 6.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 4.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 4.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 5.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Union County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Ground Cherry Planting Timeline — Union County, GA
Ground Cherry Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 2 | May 2 – May 16 |
| Harvest | July 11 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
65–80 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7b
📆 Growing Season
195 days in Union County
Growing Tips for Union County
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Let fruits fall to the ground naturally when ripe inside their husks. The husk turns brown and papery when the fruit is ready.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Ground Cherry in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Ground Cherry in Union County, GA?
Union County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of April 11. Plan your Ground Cherry planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Union County, GA?
Union County, Georgia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is April 11 and first fall frost is October 23.
When should I plant Ground Cherry in Union County, GA?
In Union County, GA, plant Ground Cherry after the last frost (around April 11) and before the first frost (around October 23). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Union County, GA for Ground Cherry?
Union County sits in USDA Zone 7b. Ground Cherry grows reliably in zones 4a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Ground Cherry grow in Union County's climate?
Yes — Ground Cherry grows well in Union County's temperate climate. Union County averages a 195-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 11 and first frost around October 23.
Your Union County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Union County (Zone 7b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.