When to Plant Arugula in McMullen 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.
McMullen County, Texas is in USDA Zone 9a. 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 Arugula may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Arugula 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.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Arugula Planting Timeline — McMullen County, TX
Arugula Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 23 | Jan 23 – Feb 6 |
| Transplant Outdoors | February 20 | Feb 20 – Mar 6 |
| Direct Sow | January 30 | Jan 30 – Feb 20 |
| Fall Sowing | October 6 | Oct 6 – Oct 20 |
| Harvest | March 27 | Mar 27 – May 29 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| February | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Harvest |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| 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 9a
Growing Season
284 days
Growing Tips for McMullen 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 McMullen County, TX?
McMullen County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of February 20. Plan your Arugula 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 9a. The average last spring frost is February 20 and first fall frost is December 1.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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