When to plant Rue in Hamilton County, KS
Hamilton County's short 168-day growing season means one Rue planting between May 4 and May 18. No fall crop in Zone 6a.
When to Plant Rue in Hamilton County, KS
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.
Hamilton County, Kansas is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 27 and the first fall frost is October 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 168 days.
At an elevation of 871 feet, Hamilton County receives approximately 24 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Rue during the growing season.
Hamilton County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.8
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 | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.8" | 1.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 1.5" | 2.8" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 2.1" | 2.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 2.6" | 1.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 1.7" | 2.6" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2" | 2.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Nov | — | 1.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Hamilton County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Rue Planting Timeline — Hamilton County, KS
Rue Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 4 | May 4 – May 18 |
| Harvest | July 13 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" 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
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
70–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6a
📆 Growing Season
168 days in Hamilton County
Growing Tips for Hamilton 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 Hamilton County, KS?
Hamilton County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 27. Plan your Rue planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Hamilton County, KS?
Hamilton County, Kansas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 27 and first fall frost is October 12.
When should I plant Rue in Hamilton County, KS?
In Hamilton County, KS, plant Rue after the last frost (around April 27) and before the first frost (around October 12). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Hamilton County, KS for Rue?
Hamilton County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Rue grows reliably in zones 4a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Rue grow in Hamilton County's climate?
Yes — Rue grows well in Hamilton County's temperate climate. Hamilton County averages a 168-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 27 and first frost around October 12.
Your Hamilton County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Hamilton County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.