When to plant Chard in Leake County, MS
In Leake County, plant Chard in spring between March 8 and March 29, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Leake County's last frost averages March 22, so most warm-season crops establish quickly once soil holds above 60°F. For a fall crop, sow between August 28 and September 11 — roughly 50–60 days before the first frost on November 6.
When to Plant Chard in Leake County, MS
Swiss chard is a colorful, heat-tolerant green with large crinkled leaves and vibrant stalks in red, yellow, and white. Both the leaves and stems are edible and nutritious.
Leake County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 22 and the first fall frost is November 6, giving you a growing season of approximately 229 days.
At an elevation of 243 feet, Leake County receives approximately 59.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Chard during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Chard, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Chard root diseases.
Leake County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Chard Planting Timeline — Leake County, MS
Chard Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 15 | Feb 15 – Mar 1 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 22 | Mar 22 – Apr 5 |
| Direct Sow | March 8 | Mar 8 – Mar 29 |
| Harvest | May 17 | May 17 – Jul 5 |
| Fall Sowing | August 28 | Aug 28 – Sep 11 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
50–60 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8b
📆 Growing Season
229 days in Leake County
Growing Tips for Leake County
Direct sow or transplant after last frost. Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage continuous production. Chard tolerates both heat and light frost.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
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Chard in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Chard in Leake County, MS?
Leake County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 22. Plan your Chard planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Leake County, MS?
Leake County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 22 and first fall frost is November 6.
When should I plant Chard in Leake County, MS?
In Leake County, MS, plant Chard after the last frost (around March 22) and before the first frost (around November 6). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Leake County, MS for Chard?
Leake County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Chard grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Chard grow in Leake County's climate?
Yes — Chard grows well in Leake County's temperate climate. Leake County averages a 229-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 22 and first frost around November 6.
Your Leake County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Leake 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.