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When to plant Cucumber in Smith County, MS

The best window to plant Cucumber in Smith County, is March 20–April 10, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits March 13; first frost November 13.

When to Plant Cucumber in Smith County, MS

Cucumbers are a warm-season vine crop available in slicing and pickling varieties. They are prolific producers when given warmth, moisture, and a trellis to climb.

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 Cucumber may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Cucumber, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Cucumber root diseases.

Smith County, MS (Zone 8b) Long season
245 days
Last Spring Frost March 13
245 growing days
First Fall Frost November 13

Smith County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH

6.0-7.0

Drainage

Well Drained

Cucumber Planting Timeline — Smith County, MS

Cucumber Planting Calendar

Activity When Date Range
Start Indoors February 13 Feb 13 – Feb 27
Transplant Outdoors March 27 Mar 27 – Apr 10
Direct Sow March 20 Mar 20 – Apr 10
Harvest May 22 May 22 – Jul 17

Plant 0.5" deep · 24" apart · Rows 48" apart

Month-by-Month Timeline

MonthActivities
January
February Start Indoors
March Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow
April Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow
May Harvest
June Harvest
July Harvest
August
September
October
November
December

Growing Conditions

☀️ Sun

Full Sun (6-8+ hours)

💧 Water

High — keep soil consistently moist

📅 Days to Maturity

50–70 days

🧪 Soil pH

Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A

🗺️ USDA Zone

Zone 8b

📆 Growing Season

245 days in Smith County

Growing Tips for Smith County

Direct sow after last frost or start indoors 3 weeks early. Provide a trellis for vining types to save space and improve air circulation. Harvest frequently to encourage production.

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Avoid Planting Near

  • Potatoes
  • Sage

Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Cucumber in Smith County, MS?

Smith County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 13. Plan your Cucumber 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 Cucumber in Smith County, MS?

In Smith County, MS, plant Cucumber 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 Cucumber?

Smith County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Cucumber grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.

Can Cucumber grow in Smith County's climate?

Yes — Cucumber 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.

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Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals. Frost dates are based on 50% probability averages for Smith County, MS. Local conditions may vary. Last updated: August 2026.

Sources & credits

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