When to plant Jostaberry in Smith County, MS
Smith County sits in cold Zone 8b. Plant Jostaberry April 3–April 17 for the single annual harvest; the November 13 first frost closes the window.
When to Plant Jostaberry in Smith County, MS
Jostaberry is a thornless hybrid of black currant and gooseberry, producing medium-sized, dark berries with a complex, tart-sweet flavor. It is vigorous and disease-resistant.
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 Jostaberry may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Jostaberry, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Jostaberry root diseases.
Smith County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Jostaberry Planting Timeline — Smith County, MS
Jostaberry Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 3 | Apr 3 – Apr 17 |
· 48" apart · Rows 72" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
730–1095 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–6.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8b
📆 Growing Season
245 days in Smith County
Growing Tips for Smith County
Plant in rich, well-drained soil. No special pruning required beyond removing old wood. Self-fertile but yields improve with a second bush. Berries ripen midsummer.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Jostaberry in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Jostaberry in Smith County, MS?
Smith County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 13. Plan your Jostaberry 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 Jostaberry in Smith County, MS?
In Smith County, MS, plant Jostaberry 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 Jostaberry?
Smith County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Jostaberry grows reliably in zones 3a through 8b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Jostaberry grow in Smith County's climate?
Yes — Jostaberry 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.