When to plant Celtuce in Stone County, MS
In Zone 9a (Stone County), direct-sow Celtuce between February 9 and March 2 for spring, after the March 2 last-frost mark. A second sowing from October 1 to October 15 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Celtuce in Stone County, MS
Celtuce (stem lettuce) is a Chinese vegetable grown for its thick, crunchy stem rather than its leaves. The peeled stem has a mild, cucumber-like flavor.
Stone County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 2 and the first fall frost is November 26, giving you a growing season of approximately 269 days.
At an elevation of 105 feet, Stone County receives approximately 57.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 96°F, so Celtuce may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Celtuce will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Celtuce root diseases.
Stone County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Celtuce Planting Timeline — Stone County, MS
Celtuce Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 2 | Feb 2 – Feb 16 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 2 | Mar 2 – Mar 16 |
| Direct Sow | February 9 | Feb 9 – Mar 2 |
| Harvest | May 4 | May 4 – Jun 15 |
| Fall Sowing | October 1 | Oct 1 – Oct 15 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
60–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9a
📆 Growing Season
269 days in Stone County
Growing Tips for Stone County
Direct sow in spring or start indoors. Space 12 inches apart. Harvest when stems are about 1 inch in diameter. Peel the tough outer skin to reveal the tender center.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Celtuce in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Celtuce in Stone County, MS?
Stone County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of March 2. Plan your Celtuce planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Stone County, MS?
Stone County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 2 and first fall frost is November 26.
When should I plant Celtuce in Stone County, MS?
In Stone County, MS, plant Celtuce after the last frost (around March 2) and before the first frost (around November 26). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Stone County, MS for Celtuce?
Stone County sits in USDA Zone 9a. Celtuce grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Celtuce grow in Stone County's climate?
Yes — Celtuce grows well in Stone County's temperate climate. Stone County averages a 269-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 2 and first frost around November 26.
Your Stone County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Stone County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.