When to plant Coreopsis in Pike County, MS
Plant Coreopsis in Pike County from February 27 to March 20 in spring. Pike County sits in USDA Zone 8b, with last frost around March 13 and first frost on November 16.
When to Plant Coreopsis in Pike County, MS
Coreopsis (Tickseed) is a cheerful, long-blooming native perennial that produces a continuous flush of bright yellow, gold, or bi-colored daisy-like flowers from early summer well into fall. One of the most reliable cut-and-come-again bloomers in the perennial garden, it thrives in hot, dry, sunny conditions and poor soil where many competitors struggle. An invaluable nectar source for native bees and butterflies, and a butterfly host plant for several species.
Pike County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 13 and the first fall frost is November 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 248 days.
At an elevation of 325 feet, Pike County receives approximately 49.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Coreopsis may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Coreopsis, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot.
Pike County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Coreopsis Planting Timeline — Pike County, MS
Coreopsis Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 16 | Jan 16 – Jan 30 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 13 | Mar 13 – Mar 27 |
| Direct Sow | February 27 | Feb 27 – Mar 20 |
| Bloom | May 15 | May 15 – Oct 9 |
Plant 0.1" deep · 18" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| May | Bloom |
| June | Bloom |
| July | Bloom |
| August | Bloom |
| September | Bloom |
| October | Bloom |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
60–80 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8b
📆 Growing Season
248 days in Pike County
Growing Tips for Pike County
Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost or direct sow after last frost. Seeds germinate easily without stratification. Thrives in poor to average, well-drained soil — rich soil promotes foliage over flowers. Drought tolerant once established; overwatering is the most common mistake. Deadhead spent blooms to maintain continuous flowering through the season. Shear plants by one-third in midsummer for a fresh flush of late-season blooms. Year 2+ plants bloom most heavily. Divide every 2–3 years in early spring to rejuvenate crowded clumps.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Coreopsis in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Coreopsis in Pike County, MS?
Pike County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 13. Plan your Coreopsis planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Pike County, MS?
Pike County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 13 and first fall frost is November 16.
When should I plant Coreopsis in Pike County, MS?
In Pike County, MS, plant Coreopsis after the last frost (around March 13) and before the first frost (around November 16). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Pike County, MS for Coreopsis?
Pike County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Coreopsis grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Coreopsis grow in Pike County's climate?
Yes — Coreopsis grows well in Pike County's temperate climate. Pike County averages a 248-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 13 and first frost around November 16.
Your Pike County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Pike 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.