When to plant Ageratum in Covington County, MS
In Covington County, plant Ageratum in spring between February 26 and March 19, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Covington County's last frost averages March 12, so most warm-season crops establish quickly once soil holds above 60°F. For a fall crop, sow between and — roughly 60–75 days before the first frost on November 15.
When to Plant Ageratum in Covington County, MS
Ageratum (Ageratum houstonianum), the floss flower, produces clusters of fluffy, powder-puff blooms in the rare sky-blue and lavender tones difficult to find among warm-season annuals. Compact mounding habit makes it ideal as a front-of-border edging plant. Blooms from early summer through fall with minimal deadheading; heat and humidity tolerant once established.
Covington County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 12 and the first fall frost is November 15, giving you a growing season of approximately 248 days.
At an elevation of 469 feet, Covington County receives approximately 48.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Ageratum may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Ageratum, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot.
Covington County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Ageratum Planting Timeline — Covington County, MS
Ageratum Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 29 | Jan 29 – Feb 12 |
| Transplant Outdoors | February 26 | Feb 26 – Mar 12 |
| Direct Sow | February 26 | Feb 26 – Mar 19 |
| Bloom | April 23 | Apr 23 – Sep 24 |
· 8" apart · Rows 10" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Bloom |
| May | Bloom |
| June | Bloom |
| July | Bloom |
| August | Bloom |
| September | Bloom |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
60–75 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8b
📆 Growing Season
248 days in Covington County
Growing Tips for Covington County
Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost — do not cover seed; it needs light to germinate. Can be direct-sown after last frost once soil warms to 60°F. Transplant or thin to proper spacing after frost danger passes. Deadheading isn't strictly required but tidying spent clusters improves appearance. Provide consistent moisture; drought causes premature setting. Avoid deep shade — blooms best in full sun to light afternoon shade.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Ageratum in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Ageratum in Covington County, MS?
Covington County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 12. Plan your Ageratum planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Covington County, MS?
Covington County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 12 and first fall frost is November 15.
When should I plant Ageratum in Covington County, MS?
In Covington County, MS, plant Ageratum after the last frost (around March 12) and before the first frost (around November 15). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Covington County, MS for Ageratum?
Covington County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Ageratum grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Ageratum grow in Covington County's climate?
Yes — Ageratum grows well in Covington County's temperate climate. Covington County averages a 248-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 12 and first frost around November 15.
Your Covington County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Covington 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.