When to plant Calendula in Holmes County, MS
Holmes County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Plant Calendula between January 23 (after last frost on March 13) and February 13. A second sowing from September 2 to September 16 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Calendula in Holmes County, MS
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is a cheerful, edible-flowered cool-season annual valued by herbalists, chefs, and gardeners alike. Its golden-orange petals are used in salves, teas, and as a saffron substitute. Hardy enough to tolerate light frosts, it blooms prolifically in spring and fall, taking a pause during the hottest weeks of summer.
Holmes County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 13 and the first fall frost is November 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 243 days.
At an elevation of 208 feet, Holmes County receives approximately 53.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Calendula during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Calendula, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Calendula root diseases.
Holmes County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Calendula Planting Timeline — Holmes County, MS
Calendula Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | February 20 | Feb 20 – Mar 6 |
| Direct Sow | January 23 | Jan 23 – Feb 13 |
| Bloom | April 10 | Apr 10 – Sep 4 |
| Fall Sowing | September 2 | Sep 2 – Sep 16 |
Plant 0.3" deep · 9" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Direct Sow |
| February | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | Bloom |
| May | Bloom |
| June | Bloom |
| July | Bloom |
| August | Bloom |
| September | Fall Sowing Bloom |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
50–70 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8b
📆 Growing Season
243 days in Holmes County
Growing Tips for Holmes County
Direct-sow in early spring as soon as soil can be worked — seeds germinate in cool soil (50-65°F). In zones 7+, also sow in fall for winter/spring bloom. Deadhead consistently to extend bloom. Plants self-seed readily; save a few spent heads and allow them to drop. Harvest petals when flowers are fully open for best flavor and medicinal value.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Calendula in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Calendula in Holmes County, MS?
Holmes County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 13. Plan your Calendula planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Holmes County, MS?
Holmes County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 13 and first fall frost is November 11.
When should I plant Calendula in Holmes County, MS?
In Holmes County, MS, plant Calendula after the last frost (around March 13) and before the first frost (around November 11). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Holmes County, MS for Calendula?
Holmes County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Calendula grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Calendula grow in Holmes County's climate?
Yes — Calendula grows well in Holmes County's temperate climate. Holmes County averages a 243-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 13 and first frost around November 11.
Your Holmes County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Holmes 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.