2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Rice in Missouri
Complete guide to growing rice in Missouri with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from USDA and state extension services.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the rice growing season in Missouri. Red diamond markers indicate frost date boundaries.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
60°F (16°C) minimum
Growing Period
110-130 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
April 10
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
October 18
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing rice in Missouri.
January - March
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
April - May
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
June - August
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
September - October
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
November - December
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
Best Rice Varieties for Missouri
These varieties have proven performance in Missouri's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Diamond | Missouri climate |
| 2 | CL153 | Missouri climate |
| 3 | CL272 | Missouri climate |
| 4 | RT7521FP | Missouri climate |
Growing Tips for Missouri
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Missouri farmers.
Bootheel region (southeast MO) — heavy clay soils ideal
Clearfield varieties dominate for red rice control
Zero-grade levees reduce water use by 25%
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Stem borers
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Brown planthopper
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Rice blast fungus
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Leaf folder
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Rice bug
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside rice, improving pest control, pollination, and nutrient availability.
Frost Dates
Last Spring Frost
April 10
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
October 18
Plan to complete harvest of warm-season crops before this date arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant rice in Missouri?
The optimal planting window for rice in Missouri is April 15 to May 25. Soil temperature should reach at least 60°F (16°C) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 110-130 days.
What varieties of rice grow best in Missouri?
The best varieties for Missouri include Diamond, CL153, CL272, RT7521FP. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest rice in Missouri?
The harvest window for rice in Missouri is typically September 1 to October 15. The crop takes 110-130 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from USDA NASS Crop Planting Dates, Missouri Cooperative Extension Service, and NOAA frost date records. Last updated: March 2026.
Planting dates are averages and may vary by county, elevation, and local microclimate. Always consult your local extension office for the most precise recommendations.