Charleston County, SC — Planting Guide
May in the garden — Charleston County, South Carolina
If you only do a handful of things in the garden this May, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.
-
It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
Before June arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Charleston County is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 6 and the first fall frost is November 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 256 days.
At an elevation of 275 ft, Charleston County receives approximately 48.1 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 95°F with winter lows around 38°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
Based on 27 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 62 days year to year — ranging from January 27 in warm years to March 29 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 0.77 days per decade. Charleston County scores 69/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 6
🍂 First Frost
November 17
📅 Growing Season
256 days
⛰️ Elevation
275 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
48.1 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.9 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.2 in | 9 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Mar | 4.8 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.1 in | 8 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| May | 4 in | 9 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jun | 4 in | 10 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jul | 5.2 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.2 in | 11 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Sep | 4.1 in | 7 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Oct | 2.6 in | 7 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Nov | 3.7 in | 7 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Dec | 4.3 in | 10 days | — | None |
Annual total: 48.1 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Charleston County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
5-6
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 27 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Mar 29 | Dec 10 | 256 days |
| Cautious | Mar 14 | Nov 26 | 257 days |
| Average year | Mar 6 | Nov 17 | 256 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 20 | Nov 10 | 263 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 27 | Nov 1 | 278 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±62 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit longer (0.8 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Charleston County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Charleston County
Free expert help is closer than you think. Your county's cooperative extension office connects you with trained gardeners, soil testing labs, and local programs — all specific to Charleston County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Charleston County Clemson Cooperative Extension Extension Office
Phone: 864-656-3382
Visit Extension Office Website →
Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.
Master Gardener Program
Free gardening help from trained volunteers
Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.
Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.
Soil Testing
Available through your extension office
Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.
Services Available in Charleston County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Charleston County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Charleston County's soil and climate that big-box stores can't. Plants from local growers are typically hardier because they're already acclimated to your zone.
How to Find Them
Search for "nurseries near Charleston County SC" or "garden center Charleston County" on Google Maps. Also check with your extension office — they often maintain lists of reputable local nurseries and plant sales.
Community gardens & gardening groups
Community gardens are a great way to learn from experienced gardeners in your area, especially if you're limited on space. Search "community garden Charleston County SC" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Charleston County Gardeners" or "South Carolina Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
14.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.7 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.1 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.7 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.1 hr | 7.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 14 hr | 7.4 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.2 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.3 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.9 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
10 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 45°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 48°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 54°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 61°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 73°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 82°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 91°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 91°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 88°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 72°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 62°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 53°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Charleston County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Squash vine borers | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Charleston County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 10 | Sep 8 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 13 | Sep 22 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 19 | Sep 8 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 7 | Sep 8 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Mar 28 | Oct 20 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 11 | Feb 13 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 22 | Feb 13 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 28 | Feb 20 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 10 | Feb 20 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 8 | Feb 13 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 11 | Feb 20 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 27 | Feb 13 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 7 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.2/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (218 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
23,973 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Feb, Mar, Jul, Dec
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, Oct, Nov
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 48.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 23,973 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Apr, Oct, Nov)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Charleston County
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 5–6 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (48.1 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
256-day frost-free season
Your long season supports multiple successions and heat-demanding crops like melons, sweet potatoes, and peppers. Plant warm-season crops as soon as soil warms.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 24-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
Recommended for Your Garden
Reduce heat stress and sun scorch in hot climates with UV-stabilized shade cloth.
Retain moisture and nutrients in sandy soils with expanded vermiculite.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Charleston County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Charleston County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 20 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 10 – May 8 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 13 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jun 19 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 20 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 17 – May 22 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jun 19 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 1 – Jun 19 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jun 19 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 1 – May 29 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jul 10 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 – Apr 10 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 1 – May 29 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 13 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 10 – May 8 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 13 | — | May 29 – Jul 10 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 1 – May 29 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Nov 13 – Jan 8 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 20 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 22 – Aug 28 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 13 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Jun 5 – Aug 21 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 – Jun 19 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Aug 28 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 10 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 – Apr 10 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 13 | — | May 29 – Jul 10 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 1 – May 29 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 13 | — | Mar 13 – Apr 3 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 13 | — | May 8 – Jun 12 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 13 | — | May 29 – Jul 10 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 1 – May 29 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 23 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 13 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 20 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 10 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Nov 13 – Jan 8 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 13 | — | Mar 27 – May 1 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 10 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Sep 11 – Jan 8 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jun 19 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Charleston County
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Charleston County.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 20 | Jun 19 – Oct 2 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 20 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 20 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 20 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 20 | Jun 19 – Jan 15 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Charleston County
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Charleston County.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 29 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 23 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 12 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 13 | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 23 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 13 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Nov 13 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 3 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 23 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 23 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | May 29 – Aug 28 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 13 | Jun 5 – Oct 23 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 13 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 23 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 23 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 13 | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Charleston County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Charleston County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Charleston County, SC?
Charleston County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Charleston County, SC?
Based on 27 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Charleston County falls around March 6. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 27 and March 29 — a 62-day window of variability. Use March 29 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Charleston County, SC?
The median first fall frost in Charleston County arrives around November 17. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 1; in mild years as late as December 10. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Charleston County?
Charleston County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 256 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 0.77 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Charleston County for gardening?
Charleston County has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 5–6 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. The native soil conditions make raised beds a particularly good investment here — they let you control drainage and fertility independent of the ground soil.
What is grown commercially in Charleston County?
Charleston County has commercial agriculture that includes Cotton, Poultry, Soybeans, Peanuts, Corn. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Charleston County a good location for home gardening?
Charleston County scores 69/100 (Good) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Your Charleston County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Charleston 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.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log