When to plant Cardoon in Smith County, MS
Smith County's 245-day season only supports one Cardoon planting per year. Sow between March 27 and April 10 for the best chance at full maturity before November 13.
When to Plant Cardoon in Smith County, MS
Cardoon is a large thistle relative of the artichoke, grown for its edible leaf stalks. It has dramatic silvery foliage and makes a striking ornamental as well.
Smith County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 13 and the first fall frost is November 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 245 days.
At an elevation of 492 feet, Smith County receives approximately 58.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 96°F, so Cardoon may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Cardoon, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Cardoon root diseases.
Smith County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Cardoon Planting Timeline — Smith County, MS
Cardoon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | March 27 | Mar 27 – Apr 10 |
| Harvest | July 31 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
120–150 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8b
📆 Growing Season
245 days in Smith County
Growing Tips for Smith County
Blanch stalks by wrapping with cardboard or tying leaves together 3-4 weeks before harvest. Provide deep, rich soil and consistent moisture. Protect from hard frost.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
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Cardoon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Cardoon in Smith County, MS?
Smith County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 13. Plan your Cardoon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Smith County, MS?
Smith County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 13 and first fall frost is November 13.
When should I plant Cardoon in Smith County, MS?
In Smith County, MS, plant Cardoon after the last frost (around March 13) and before the first frost (around November 13). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Smith County, MS for Cardoon?
Smith County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Cardoon grows reliably in zones 7a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Cardoon grow in Smith County's climate?
Yes — Cardoon grows well in Smith County's temperate climate. Smith County averages a 245-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 13 and first frost around November 13.
Your Smith County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Smith 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.