When to plant Thyme in McDonald County, MO
In McDonald County, Thyme is a single-season spring crop — there's no second fall window. Plant April 15–April 29 for an 70–90-day harvest, finishing well before the October 27 first frost.
When to Plant Thyme in McDonald County, MO
Thyme is a low-growing perennial herb with tiny, aromatic leaves and a warm, earthy flavor. It is one of the most versatile culinary and medicinal herbs.
McDonald County, Missouri is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 8 and the first fall frost is October 27, giving you a growing season of approximately 202 days.
At an elevation of 977 feet, McDonald County receives approximately 39.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Thyme during the growing season.
McDonald County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.6-6.5
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Thyme
Thyme needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Thyme Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 4.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 4.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 3.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 2.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in McDonald County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Thyme Planting Timeline — McDonald County, MO
Thyme Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 15 | Apr 15 – Apr 29 |
| Harvest | June 24 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
70–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–8 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7a
📆 Growing Season
202 days in McDonald County
Growing Tips for McDonald County
Start from seed, cuttings, or divisions. Plant in well-drained, lean soil. Prune lightly after flowering. Replace plants every 3-4 years when they become woody.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Thyme in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Thyme in McDonald County, MO?
McDonald County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 8. Plan your Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is McDonald County, MO?
McDonald County, Missouri is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 8 and first fall frost is October 27.
When should I plant Thyme in McDonald County, MO?
In McDonald County, MO, plant Thyme after the last frost (around April 8) and before the first frost (around October 27). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is McDonald County, MO for Thyme?
McDonald County sits in USDA Zone 7a. Thyme grows reliably in zones 4a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Thyme grow in McDonald County's climate?
Yes — Thyme grows well in McDonald County's temperate climate. McDonald County averages a 202-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 8 and first frost around October 27.
Your McDonald County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for McDonald County (Zone 7a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.