When to Plant Pawpaw in McMullen County, TX
This month in McMullen County, Texas
Your McMullen County, Texas garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for May and why each task matters now.
Pawpaw is the largest native fruit tree in North America, producing tropical-tasting custard-like fruits. Young trees prefer shade but fruiting trees need good light.
McMullen County, Texas is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 20 and the first fall frost is December 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 284 days.
At an elevation of 3,741 feet, McMullen County receives approximately 58 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 103°F, so Pawpaw may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Pawpaw root diseases.
McMullen County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Soil Compatibility in McMullen County
How your county's soil matches Pawpaw's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (6.8–7.2) overlaps with Pawpaw's range (5.5–7.0), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The loam soil in McMullen County is excellent for Pawpaw — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.3%). Annual compost additions will help Pawpaw.
How to Plant Pawpaw
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Monthly Watering Guide for Pawpaw
Pawpaw needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Pawpaw Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | 4.3" | 2" | 2.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Mar | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 6.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 9.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 9.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 7.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 6.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 4.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.5" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 1.7" | 2.6" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Dec | 4.3" | 1.3" | 3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Dec in McMullen County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Pawpaw Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Pawpaw Planting Timeline — McMullen County, TX
Pawpaw Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | March 6 | Mar 6 – Mar 20 |
· 120" apart · Rows 144" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | — |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
1"/week · Only during dry spells
📅 Days to Maturity
1095–2555 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9b
📆 Growing Season
284 days in McMullen County
Growing Tips for Pawpaw in McMullen County
Direct sow Pawpaw outdoors after February 20 in McMullen County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
With summer highs reaching 103°F in McMullen County, provide afternoon shade for Pawpaw and water deeply in the morning.
Your 285.0-day growing season in McMullen County is tight for Pawpaw (1095.0-2555.0 days to maturity). Start indoors and choose early-maturing varieties.
General growing tips
Plant at least two genetically distinct trees for cross-pollination. Provide shade for young trees. Fruits ripen in fall and have a very short shelf life. Harvest when slightly soft.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Pawpaw in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Pawpaw in McMullen County, TX?
McMullen County is in Zone 9b with an average last frost of February 20. Plan your Pawpaw planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is McMullen County, TX?
McMullen County, Texas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 20 and first fall frost is December 1.
Your McMullen County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for McMullen County (Zone 9b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.