When to Plant Arugula in Hamilton County, TX
Arugula is a fast-growing cool-season green with a peppery, nutty flavor. It is excellent in salads and can be harvested as baby greens or mature leaves.
Hamilton County, Texas is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 18 and the first fall frost is November 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 239 days.
At an elevation of 4,378 feet, Hamilton County receives approximately 65.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay soil. Summer highs average 93°F, providing good warmth for Arugula during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Arugula, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Arugula root diseases.
Hamilton County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay
Soil pH
6.9-8.2
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.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Arugula Planting Timeline — Hamilton County, TX
Arugula Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 11 | Feb 11 – Feb 25 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 18 | Mar 18 – Apr 1 |
| Direct Sow | March 4 | Mar 4 – Mar 25 |
| Fall Sowing | September 3 | Sep 3 – Sep 17 |
| Harvest | April 22 | Apr 22 – Jun 24 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
30–50 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
239 days
Growing Tips for Hamilton County
Sow seeds directly every 2-3 weeks for continuous harvest. Provide afternoon shade in warm weather to prevent bolting. Harvest outer leaves first to extend production.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Arugula in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Arugula in Hamilton County, TX?
Hamilton County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 18. Plan your Arugula planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Hamilton County, TX?
Hamilton County, Texas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 18 and first fall frost is November 12.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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