Coffee County, AL — Planting Guide
Coffee County is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 12 and the first fall frost is November 14, giving you a growing season of approximately 247 days.
At an elevation of 342 ft, Coffee County receives approximately 55.7 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 97°F with winter lows around 40°F. The predominant soil type is Clay Loam.
Based on 30 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 45 days year to year — ranging from February 17 in warm years to April 3 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 2.42 days per decade. Coffee County scores 48/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 12
🍂 First Frost
November 14
📅 Growing Season
247 days
⛰️ Elevation
342 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
55.7 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 5.2 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.7 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 5.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4.7 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| May | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.8 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.2 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.2 in | 8 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Oct | 3 in | 6 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.8 in | 7 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Dec | 4.8 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 55.8 in. Gardens typically need ~1 inch of water per week during the growing season. Months marked "None" for extra water are outside the active growing season for your zone — most gardens are dormant and don't need irrigation during those months.
Coffee County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.8-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data from 2 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 3 | Nov 30 | 241 days |
| Cautious | Mar 21 | Nov 19 | 243 days |
| Average year | Mar 12 | Nov 14 | 247 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 6 | Nov 8 | 247 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 17 | Oct 26 | 251 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±45 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 2.4 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Coffee County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Coffee County
Free expert help is closer than you think. Your county's cooperative extension office connects you with trained gardeners, soil testing labs, and local programs — all specific to Coffee County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Coffee County Alabama Cooperative Extension (Auburn / Alabama A&M) Extension Office
Phone: 334-844-4444
Visit Extension Office Website →
Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.
Master Gardener Program
Free gardening help from trained volunteers
Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.
Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.
Soil Testing
Available through your extension office
Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.
Services Available in Coffee County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Coffee County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Coffee County's soil and climate that big-box stores can't. Plants from local growers are typically hardier because they're already acclimated to your zone.
How to Find Them
Search for "nurseries near Coffee County AL" or "garden center Coffee County" on Google Maps. Also check with your extension office — they often maintain lists of reputable local nurseries and plant sales.
Community gardens & gardening groups
Community gardens are a great way to learn from experienced gardeners in your area, especially if you're limited on space. Search "community garden Coffee County AL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Coffee County Gardeners" or "Alabama Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
14 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.5 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.2 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 8 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.9 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 10 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
10 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 47°F | 54°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 48°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 54°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 65°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 73°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 82°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 91°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 92°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 86°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 73°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 61°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 52°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Coffee County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | High | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Low | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Coffee County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 13 | Feb 26 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 3 | Feb 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 20 | Feb 26 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 28 | Feb 26 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 12 | Feb 26 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 22 | Feb 19 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 11 | Feb 26 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 21 | Sep 5 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 18 | Sep 19 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 21 | Sep 5 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 10 | Sep 19 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Mar 28 | Oct 24 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 10 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 9 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
3.1/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (327 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
27,810 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, Mar, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Sep, Oct, Nov
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 55.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 27,810 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Your area gets ample rainfall — even small barrels make a big difference
- Consider a rain garden to handle overflow during heavy rainfall months
Soil & Growing Conditions in Coffee County
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH 5.8–6.7 · Somewhat Poorly Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (55.7 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
247-day frost-free season
Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
Recommended for Your Garden
Cedar raised bed kit — ideal for poor soil, clay, or small-space gardening.
Improve drainage and aeration in heavy clay soils with horticultural perlite.
Premium blend of topsoil, compost, and perlite formulated for raised beds.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Coffee County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Coffee County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 26 | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 26 | — | Apr 23 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 19 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 26 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 26 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jun 25 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jul 16 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jul 2 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 – Apr 16 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 26 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 26 | — | Apr 23 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 19 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 8 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Nov 26 – Dec 10 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 19 | — | May 14 – Jul 9 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 26 | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 8 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 4 – Sep 10 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 19 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 16 – Jun 25 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jul 2 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Sep 10 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 – Apr 16 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 16 – May 14 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 26 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 8 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 26 | — | Mar 26 – Apr 16 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 26 | — | May 21 – Jun 25 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 26 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 19 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 26 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jul 2 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Nov 26 – Dec 10 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 26 | — | Apr 9 – May 14 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 19 | — | May 14 – Jul 9 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 2 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Coffee County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Coffee County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 2 | Jul 2 – Oct 15 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 2 | Jul 2 – Dec 17 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Coffee County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Coffee County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 19 | Jul 23 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Nov 19 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 9 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 11 – Sep 10 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 11 – Oct 29 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 19 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 19 | Jul 23 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Coffee County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Coffee County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Coffee County, AL?
Coffee County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Coffee County, AL?
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Coffee County falls around March 12. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 17 and April 3 — a 45-day window of variability. Use April 3 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Coffee County, AL?
The median first fall frost in Coffee County arrives around November 14. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 26; in mild years as late as November 30. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Coffee County?
Coffee County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 247 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 2.42 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Coffee County for gardening?
Coffee County has predominantly Clay Loam soil with a pH range of 5.8–6.7 and Somewhat Poorly Drained drainage. The native soil conditions make raised beds a particularly good investment here — they let you control drainage and fertility independent of the ground soil.
What is grown commercially in Coffee County?
Coffee County has commercial agriculture that includes Cotton, Poultry, Peanuts, Pecans. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Coffee County a good location for home gardening?
Coffee County scores 48/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Gardening here benefits from close attention to frost timing and season extension due to the challenging microclimate factors.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Coffee County gardeners in Zone 8a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.
