When to plant Ageratum in Monroe County, MS
In Monroe County, plant Ageratum in spring between March 16 and April 6, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Monroe County's last frost averages March 23, 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 6.
When to Plant Ageratum in Monroe 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.
Monroe County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 23 and the first fall frost is November 6, giving you a growing season of approximately 228 days.
At an elevation of 448 feet, Monroe County receives approximately 54.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Ageratum during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Ageratum, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Ageratum root diseases.
Monroe County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Ageratum Planting Timeline — Monroe County, MS
Ageratum Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 9 | Feb 9 – Feb 23 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 16 | Mar 16 – Mar 30 |
| Direct Sow | March 16 | Mar 16 – Apr 6 |
| Bloom | May 11 | May 11 – Sep 28 |
· 8" apart · Rows 10" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Direct Sow |
| 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 8a
📆 Growing Season
228 days in Monroe County
Growing Tips for Monroe 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
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Ageratum in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Ageratum in Monroe County, MS?
Monroe County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 23. Plan your Ageratum planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Monroe County, MS?
Monroe County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 23 and first fall frost is November 6.
When should I plant Ageratum in Monroe County, MS?
In Monroe County, MS, plant Ageratum after the last frost (around March 23) and before the first frost (around November 6). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Monroe County, MS for Ageratum?
Monroe County sits in USDA Zone 8a. Ageratum grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Ageratum grow in Monroe County's climate?
Yes — Ageratum grows well in Monroe County's temperate climate. Monroe County averages a 228-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 23 and first frost around November 6.
Your Monroe County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Monroe County (Zone 8a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.