When to Plant Sunchoke in Reagan County, TX
Sunchokes (Jerusalem artichokes) are a native sunflower relative grown for their knobby, nutty-flavored tubers. They are extremely productive and nearly impossible to eradicate.
Reagan County, Texas is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 30 and the first fall frost is November 9, giving you a growing season of approximately 224 days.
At an elevation of 3,983 feet, Reagan County receives approximately 51.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Sunchoke may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Sunchoke will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Sunchoke root diseases.
Reagan County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7.7-8.9
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.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Sunchoke Planting Timeline — Reagan County, TX
Sunchoke Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 13 | Apr 13 – Apr 27 |
| Harvest | August 3 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
110–150 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 7b
Growing Season
224 days
Growing Tips for Reagan County
Plant tubers 4 inches deep in early spring. Contain plants with barriers as they spread aggressively. Harvest after frost or leave in ground and dig as needed through winter.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Sunchoke in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Sunchoke in Reagan County, TX?
Reagan County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of March 30. Plan your Sunchoke planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Reagan County, TX?
Reagan County, Texas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 30 and first fall frost is November 9.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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