When to plant Calendula in DeKalb County, MO
DeKalb County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Plant Calendula between March 17 (after last frost on April 14) and April 7.
When to Plant Calendula in DeKalb County, MO
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is a cheerful, edible-flowered cool-season annual valued by herbalists, chefs, and gardeners alike. Its golden-orange petals are used in salves, teas, and as a saffron substitute. Hardy enough to tolerate light frosts, it blooms prolifically in spring and fall, taking a pause during the hottest weeks of summer.
DeKalb County, Missouri is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 14 and the first fall frost is October 18, giving you a growing season of approximately 187 days.
At an elevation of 917 feet, DeKalb County receives approximately 39 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Calendula during the growing season.
DeKalb County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Calendula Planting Timeline — DeKalb County, MO
Calendula Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 3 | Mar 3 – Mar 17 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 14 | Apr 14 – Apr 28 |
| Direct Sow | March 17 | Mar 17 – Apr 7 |
| Bloom | June 2 | Jun 2 – Sep 1 |
Plant 0.3" deep · 9" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | Bloom |
| July | Bloom |
| August | Bloom |
| September | Bloom |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
50–70 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6a
📆 Growing Season
187 days in DeKalb County
Growing Tips for DeKalb County
Direct-sow in early spring as soon as soil can be worked — seeds germinate in cool soil (50-65°F). In zones 7+, also sow in fall for winter/spring bloom. Deadhead consistently to extend bloom. Plants self-seed readily; save a few spent heads and allow them to drop. Harvest petals when flowers are fully open for best flavor and medicinal value.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Calendula in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Calendula in DeKalb County, MO?
DeKalb County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 14. Plan your Calendula planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is DeKalb County, MO?
DeKalb County, Missouri is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 14 and first fall frost is October 18.
When should I plant Calendula in DeKalb County, MO?
In DeKalb County, MO, plant Calendula after the last frost (around April 14) and before the first frost (around October 18). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is DeKalb County, MO for Calendula?
DeKalb County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Calendula grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Calendula grow in DeKalb County's climate?
Yes — Calendula grows well in DeKalb County's temperate climate. DeKalb County averages a 187-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 14 and first frost around October 18.
Your DeKalb County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for DeKalb County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.