When to plant Medlar in McLean County, KY
McLean County's short 208-day growing season means one Medlar planting between April 27 and May 11. No fall crop in Zone 7a.
When to Plant Medlar in McLean County, KY
Medlar is a small ornamental tree producing unusual open-ended fruits that must be bletted (softened by frost) before eating. The flavor is complex, like spiced apple butter.
McLean County, Kentucky is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 6 and the first fall frost is October 31, giving you a growing season of approximately 208 days.
At an elevation of 2,224 feet, McLean County receives approximately 41.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Medlar during the growing season.
McLean County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Medlar
Medlar needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Medlar Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 3.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 3.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 3.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.5" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.2" | 1.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.4" | 1.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 3.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 2.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in McLean County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Medlar Planting Timeline — McLean County, KY
Medlar Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 27 | Apr 27 – May 11 |
· 120" apart · Rows 144" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
1095–1825 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7a
📆 Growing Season
208 days in McLean County
Growing Tips for McLean County
Plant in well-drained soil. Medlars are self-fertile and need minimal pruning. Harvest after the first frost and allow to soften (blet) indoors for 2-3 weeks before eating.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Medlar in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Medlar in McLean County, KY?
McLean County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 6. Plan your Medlar planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is McLean County, KY?
McLean County, Kentucky is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 6 and first fall frost is October 31.
When should I plant Medlar in McLean County, KY?
In McLean County, KY, plant Medlar after the last frost (around April 6) and before the first frost (around October 31). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is McLean County, KY for Medlar?
McLean County sits in USDA Zone 7a. Medlar grows reliably in zones 4a through 8b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Medlar grow in McLean County's climate?
Yes — Medlar grows well in McLean County's temperate climate. McLean County averages a 208-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 6 and first frost around October 31.
Your McLean County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for McLean County (Zone 7a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.