When to plant Cress in Jackson County, MO
In Jackson County, plant Cress in spring between March 29 and April 19, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Jackson County's last frost averages April 12, so time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival. For a fall crop, sow between August 17 and August 31 — roughly 14–21 days before the first frost on October 26.
When to Plant Cress in Jackson County, MO
Garden cress is one of the fastest-growing edibles, producing peppery sprouts in as little as two weeks. It is excellent for microgreens and garnishes.
Jackson County, Missouri is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 12 and the first fall frost is October 26, giving you a growing season of approximately 197 days.
At an elevation of 563 feet, Jackson County receives approximately 40.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Cress during the growing season.
Jackson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Cress Planting Timeline — Jackson County, MO
Cress Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 8 | Mar 8 – Mar 22 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 12 | Apr 12 – Apr 26 |
| Direct Sow | March 29 | Mar 29 – Apr 19 |
| Harvest | April 26 | Apr 26 – May 17 |
| Fall Sowing | August 17 | Aug 17 – Aug 31 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 2" apart · Rows 6" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
14–21 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
197 days in Jackson County
Growing Tips for Jackson County
Sow seeds thickly on moist soil or paper towels. Keep moist and harvest when 2-3 inches tall. Succession sow every few days for continuous supply. Grows well indoors year-round.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Cress in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Cress in Jackson County, MO?
Jackson County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 12. Plan your Cress planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Jackson County, MO?
Jackson County, Missouri is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 12 and first fall frost is October 26.
When should I plant Cress in Jackson County, MO?
In Jackson County, MO, plant Cress after the last frost (around April 12) and before the first frost (around October 26). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Jackson County, MO for Cress?
Jackson County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Cress grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Cress grow in Jackson County's climate?
Yes — Cress grows well in Jackson County's temperate climate. Jackson County averages a 197-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 12 and first frost around October 26.
Your Jackson County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Jackson County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.