When to Plant Milk Thistle in Zone 9
In USDA zone 9a, plant outdoors March 15 to August 12, and expect your first harvest around August 12. (9a shown here — see 9a and 9b dates separately below.)
Milk Thistle planting calendar for USDA Zone 9a
Average last spring frost
March 1
Average first fall frost
December 1
Direct sow
Mar 15
Projected first harvest
Aug 12
Milk Thistle is ready to harvest in about 150 days, needing roughly 275 frost-free days in zone 9a.
Milk Thistle planting calendar for USDA Zone 9b
Average last spring frost
February 15
Average first fall frost
December 15
Direct sow
Mar 1
Projected first harvest
Jul 29
Milk Thistle is ready to harvest in about 150 days, needing roughly 303 frost-free days in zone 9b.
Not sure whether you're in 9a or 9b? Set your ZIP in HomeSown for dates tuned to your exact location.
Varieties to grow
1 variety of milk thistle in the HomeSown library. Tap any for its full grow guide.
Common problems with milk thistle
What to watch for, with identification and treatment for each
🌱 Grow milk thistle with a calendar built for your exact yard
HomeSown turns your ZIP code into a personalized planting calendar, watering reminders, and pest help. Free to start.
Start your free garden →