When to Plant Loquat in Hood County, TX
Loquat is an attractive evergreen tree producing clusters of small, tangy-sweet, apricot-colored fruits in late winter to early spring. It also serves as an ornamental shade tree.
Hood County, Texas is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 21 and the first fall frost is November 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 236 days.
At an elevation of 1,554 feet, Hood County receives approximately 60.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay soil. Summer highs average 94°F, providing good warmth for Loquat during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Loquat, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Loquat root diseases.
Hood County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay
Soil pH
7.3-7.6
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
Loquat Planting Timeline — Hood County, TX
Loquat Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 11 | Apr 11 – Apr 25 |
· 120" apart · Rows 144" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
730–1825 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 7b
Growing Season
236 days
Growing Tips for Hood County
Plant in a sheltered location to protect winter flowers from frost. Loquats are self-fertile but produce better with cross-pollination. Thin fruit clusters for larger individual fruits.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Loquat in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Loquat in Hood County, TX?
Hood County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of March 21. Plan your Loquat planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Hood County, TX?
Hood County, Texas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 21 and first fall frost is November 12.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Hood County gardeners in Zone 7b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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