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Covington County, AL — Planting Guide

Covington County, Alabama Zone 8b June

June in Covington County, Alabama — your action list

June is a pivotal month for Covington County, Alabama gardens. Focus on these tasks first and you'll set up the rest of the season for success.

Avg. last frost March 20
Avg. first frost November 11
Soil temp (4") 82°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14 hrs
  1. Start harvesting basil, carrots, and cucumber

    Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.

To set up a strong July, finish these tasks
  • First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans

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Covington County is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 20 and the first fall frost is November 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 236 days.

At an elevation of 392 ft, Covington County receives approximately 50.6 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 95°F with winter lows around 35°F. The predominant soil type is Clay Loam.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 36 days year to year — ranging from March 5 in warm years to April 11 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 1.4 days per decade. Covington County scores 63/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

8b (15°F to 20°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

March 20

🍂 First Frost

November 11

📅 Growing Season

236 days

⛰️ Elevation

392 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

50.6 in

Covington County, AL Long season
236 days
❄
Last Spring Frost March 20
➔ 236 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost November 11

Monthly Watering Calendar for Covington County

When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.

Why it matters: Watering math is simple: 1 inch of rainfall delivers ~600 gallons to a 1,000 sq ft garden. Covington County's 51" annual rainfall covers some months entirely; others need a few hours of drip irrigation per week. The calendar tells you which is which.

1"/wk 0" 1.3" 2.6" 3.9" 5.2" Jan 3.9" Feb 4.5" Mar 5.2" +0.4" Apr 3.9" May 4.7" Jun 4.5" Jul 5.1" Aug 4.7" +0.5" Sep 3.8" +1.3" Oct 3" +0.9" Nov 3.4" Dec 3.9"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 3.9 in 10 days — None
Feb 4.5 in 8 days — Low
Mar 5.2 in 10 days — Low
Apr 3.9 in 8 days 0.4 in Low
May 4.7 in 8 days — Low
Jun 4.5 in 11 days — Low
Jul 5.1 in 11 days — Low
Aug 4.7 in 12 days — Low
Sep 3.8 in 7 days 0.5 in Low
Oct 3 in 7 days 1.3 in Moderate
Nov 3.4 in 8 days 0.9 in Moderate
Dec 3.9 in 9 days — None

Annual total: 50.6 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.

Covington County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH

5.3-6.6

Drainage

Well Drained

Frost Risk Probability

Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 2 stations

Too early frost risk Safe to Plant Mar 20 → Nov 11 236 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: Apr 11 Protect by: Nov 24

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 11 Nov 24 227 days
Cautious Mar 27 Nov 14 232 days
Average year Mar 20 Nov 11 236 days
Optimistic Mar 12 Nov 2 235 days
Aggressive (risky) Mar 5 Oct 24 233 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

Not very — frost dates can vary by ±36 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.

🌱
Is the growing season changing?

Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 1.4 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.

Gardening Difficulty Score

63 Good
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
3.5/10
Soil Difficulty
1.0/10
Altitude Challenge
0.0/10
Climate Shift
5.6/10
Rainfall Challenge
2.2/10

Covington County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.

Zone 8b Frost Countdown
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Loading...
Last Frost: Mar 20 First Frost: Nov 11

Local Gardening Help in Covington 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 Covington County's climate and soil.

County Extension Office

Covington 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.

Find Master Gardeners in AL →

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.

Request a Soil Test →

Services Available in Covington County

Soil testing Pest identification Gardening workshops 4-H programs
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Covington County

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Covington 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 Covington County AL" or "garden center Covington 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 Covington County AL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Covington 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.

After Kale (harvest ends Jul 10) 124 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Watermelon (harvest ends Jul 31) 103 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Tomatoes (harvest ends Aug 14) 89 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Eggplant (harvest ends Aug 14) 89 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Lettuce (harvest ends Jul 3) 131 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d Green Beans 50-65d
After Chard (harvest ends Jul 3) 131 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
Show 6 more succession options
After Okra (harvest ends Jul 24) 110 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Squash (Summer) (harvest ends Jul 24) 110 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Corn (harvest ends Jul 17) 117 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Potatoes (harvest ends Aug 21) 82 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Squash (Winter) (harvest ends Aug 21) 82 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Cantaloupe (harvest ends Jul 24) 110 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d

Sunlight & Day Length in Covington County

Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.

Why it matters: The longest day at Covington County's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.

Longest Day

14 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

10 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

8.6 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.

14hr 12hr 3h 6h 9h 12h 15h Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Daylight hours (sunrise to sunset) Peak sun hours (direct sunlight after cloud cover) ▪ Gold zone = long day (14+ hr) ▪ Blue zone = short day (<12 hr)

Onion tip: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.

View detailed monthly data
MonthDaylight HoursPeak Sun HoursDay Length
January 10.2 hr 4.9 hr Short day
February 10.9 hr 5.7 hr Short day
March 11.8 hr 6.7 hr Short day
April 12.8 hr 7.7 hr Neutral
May 13.6 hr 8.6 hr Neutral
June 14 hr 8.3 hr Long day
July 13.8 hr 7.6 hr Neutral
August 13.1 hr 7.5 hr Neutral
September 12.2 hr 7.4 hr Neutral
October 11.2 hr 6.8 hr Short day
November 10.4 hr 5.7 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 in Covington County

Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.

Quick context: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. Covington County's typical curve helps you plan — but a $5 soil thermometer in the bed beats any average.

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.

60°F 70°F 30° 50° 70° 90° 110° Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
4" depth 8" depth - - - 60°F (corn, beans) - - - 70°F (tomatoes, peppers)
View detailed monthly data
MonthSoil 4" DeepSoil 8" DeepCompost ActivityTime to Finish
Jan 44°F 53°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Feb 48°F 52°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Mar 54°F 57°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Apr 63°F 64°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
May 75°F 70°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jun 82°F 79°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 90°F 85°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 91°F 89°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 86°F 84°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 73°F 78°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Nov 60°F 68°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Dec 50°F 58°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 Covington County

Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.

Why this matters: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Covington County's pest score is your early-warning system: high score means commit to disease-resistant varieties and accept some crop loss to bugs.

Insect Pest Pressure

7 / 10

High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.

Disease Risk

7.6 / 10

High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.

Seasonal Risk

Spring High
Summer High
Fall High
Winter Low
View 6 common pests in your area
PestRisk LevelPeak 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 High May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Spider mites Moderate Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Fire ants Moderate 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 Covington County

Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.

Why it matters: Cover crops fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.

Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat Mar 29 Sep 9 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Cowpeas (southern peas) Mar 27 Sep 2 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible
Sorghum-sudan grass Mar 31 Sep 16 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Feb 17 Sep 16 ✓ 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 31 Oct 21 — Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects
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 6 Feb 27 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Crimson clover Aug 31 Feb 27 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring
Daikon radish Sep 25 Feb 27 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Aug 28 Feb 27 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Oct 7 Feb 27 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Aug 4 Mar 6 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Aug 19 Feb 27 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Covington County

What this means for you: Why care about wind? Above about 10 mph, evaporation jumps and pollinators struggle to land on flowers. Covington County's 7.2 mph average means you can plant tall crops without much support, but it doesn't mean ignore wind — a 20+ mph storm still snaps unstaked tomatoes.

Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.

Seasonal Wind Speed

Spring: 8 mph   Summer: 7 mph

Fall: 9 mph   Winter: 9 mph

Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.

Windbreak Benefit

3.2/10

Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.

Frost Pocket Risk

Moderate

Some terrain variation (478 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.

Rainwater Harvesting in Covington County

How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.

Why this matters: Captured rainwater is better for plants than tap water (no chlorine), works during water restrictions, and reduces stormwater runoff. Covington County's 51" annual rainfall is a meaningful pool — most homes could capture 10,000+ gallons a year with a decent system.

Annual Collection

25,219 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 500 gal tank.

Legal Status

Unrestricted

Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.

Best Collection Months

Mar, May, 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 50.6 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 25,219 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 Covington County

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH 5.3–6.6 · Moderately Well Drained drainage

Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.

Watering Needs

Drought stress: 3.5/10

Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (50.6 in. annual rainfall)

Season Tips

236-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.

Your Free Printable Garden Planner

Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 22-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Recommended for Your Garden

📦
Raised Bed Garden Kit $40-120

Cedar raised bed kit — ideal for poor soil, clay, or small-space gardening.

Great for improving heavy clay soil drainage.

⬜
Perlite $10-18

Improve drainage and aeration in heavy clay soils with horticultural perlite.

Great for improving heavy clay soil drainage.

🏗️
Raised Bed Soil Mix $20-45

Premium blend of topsoil, compost, and perlite formulated for raised beds.

Great for improving heavy clay soil drainage.

🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Covington County

114 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Covington County.

Show all 114 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Feb 20 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 26 – Jul 31 80–100
Amaranth Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jul 3 – Aug 21 90–120
Artichoke — — Apr 3 — Aug 7 – Oct 16 120–180
Arugula Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Apr 24 – Jun 26 30–50
Asparagus — — Apr 3 — — 730–1095
Beets — Mar 6 — Sep 2 May 1 – May 29 50–70
Belgian Endive Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Jul 10 – Sep 4 110–150
Bitter Melon Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Jul 17 60–90
Black Beans — Mar 27 — — Jun 26 – Aug 14 90–120
Bok Choy Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 1 – Jun 5 40–60
Broccoli Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 22 – Jul 3 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 1 – Jun 5 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Jun 19 – Aug 14 90–130
Butternut Squash Feb 20 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jul 3 – Aug 7 85–110
Cabbage Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 22 – Jul 17 60–100
Calabash Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 26 – Aug 21 80–120
Cardoon — — Apr 3 — Aug 7 – Sep 18 120–150
Carrots — Mar 6 — Sep 2 May 8 – Jun 12 60–80
Cauliflower Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 15 – Jul 17 55–100
Celeriac Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Jul 3 – Aug 7 100–120
Celery Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Jun 12 – Aug 7 80–120
Celtuce Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 22 – Jul 3 60–90
Chard Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 15 – Jul 3 50–60
Chayote Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Aug 7 – Oct 16 120–180
Chickpeas Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Jun 12 – Jul 24 80–110
Chicory Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 22 – Jul 3 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 15 – Jun 12 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 26 – Jul 31 80–100
Collard Greens Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 15 – Jul 17 55–75
Corn — Mar 27 — — May 29 – Jul 24 60–100
Cowpeas — Mar 27 — — May 29 – Jul 10 60–90
Cress Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Apr 3 – Apr 24 14–21
Crookneck Squash Feb 20 Mar 27 Apr 3 — May 22 – Jun 19 45–60
Crosne — Mar 6 — Sep 2 Aug 7 – Oct 9 150–200
Cucumber Feb 20 Mar 27 Apr 3 — May 29 – Jul 24 50–70
Daikon — Mar 6 — Sep 2 May 1 – May 29 50–70
Delicata Squash Feb 20 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 26 – Jul 31 80–100
Edamame — Mar 27 — — Jun 12 – Jul 24 75–100
Eggplant Jan 16 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Aug 14 65–85
Endive Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 8 – Jun 12 45–65
Escarole Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 15 – Jun 12 50–70
Fava Beans Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Jun 5 – Jul 17 75–100
Fennel Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Jul 17 60–90
Garlic — — — Sep 30 Dec 30 – Jun 16 90–240
Ginger Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Dec 4 – Dec 18 240–300
Green Beans — Mar 27 — — May 22 – Jul 17 50–65
Horseradish — — Apr 3 — Aug 7 – Oct 16 120–180
Hot Peppers Jan 16 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Sep 18 70–120
Hubbard Squash Feb 20 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jul 17 – Aug 21 100–120
Jicama Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Aug 7 – Oct 16 120–180
Kabocha Feb 20 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jul 3 – Jul 31 85–100
Kai Lan Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 8 – Jun 5 45–60
Kale Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 15 – Jul 10 50–70
Kidney Beans — Mar 27 — — Jun 26 – Jul 31 85–110
Kohlrabi Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 8 – Jun 12 45–65
Komatsuna Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Apr 24 – May 29 35–50
Leeks Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Jun 19 – Sep 4 90–150
Lentils Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Jun 12 – Jul 24 80–110
Lettuce Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Apr 24 – Jul 3 30–60
Lima Beans — Mar 27 — — May 29 – Jul 10 60–90
Loofah Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jul 17 – Sep 18 100–150
Luffa Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jul 3 – Sep 18 90–150
Mache Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 1 – Jun 5 40–60
Malabar Spinach Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — May 29 – Jun 26 55–70
Melon Feb 20 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Jul 31 70–100
Microgreens Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Mar 27 – Apr 24 7–21
Mitsuba Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 13 Sep 2 May 8 – Jul 3 50–70
Mizuna Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Apr 24 – May 22 30–45
Mustard Greens Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Apr 24 – Jun 26 30–50
Napa Cabbage Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 15 – Jun 19 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — May 29 – Jun 26 55–70
Okra Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — May 29 – Jul 24 50–65
Onion Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Jun 19 – Aug 7 90–120
Pac Choi Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 1 – May 29 40–55
Parsnip — Mar 6 — Sep 2 Jun 19 – Jul 31 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Feb 20 Mar 27 Apr 3 — May 22 – Jun 19 45–60
Peas Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 15 – Jul 10 55–70
Peppers Jan 16 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Aug 14 60–90
Pole Beans Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — May 29 – Jul 24 55–70
Potatoes Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Aug 21 70–120
Pumpkin Feb 20 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jul 3 – Aug 21 85–120
Purslane Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 1 – Jun 5 40–60
Radicchio Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 22 – Jun 26 60–80
Radish — Mar 6 — Sep 2 Apr 3 – Apr 24 22–35
Rhubarb — — Apr 10 — — 365–730
Romanesco Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Jun 5 – Jul 17 75–100
Rutabaga — Mar 6 — Sep 2 May 29 – Jul 3 80–100
Salsify — Mar 6 — Sep 2 Jun 19 – Jul 31 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 29 – Jul 24 70–110
Scallions Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 15 – Jun 12 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Jul 10 60–80
Shallot Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Jun 19 – Aug 7 90–120
Shiso Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — May 29 – Jul 24 50–70
Snap Peas Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — May 29 – Jul 24 55–70
Snow Peas Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 15 – Jul 10 50–65
Soybeans — Mar 27 — — Jun 19 – Aug 14 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Feb 20 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jul 3 – Jul 31 85–100
Spinach Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Apr 24 – Jun 26 35–50
Squash (Summer) Feb 20 Mar 27 Apr 3 — May 22 – Jul 24 45–65
Squash (Winter) Feb 20 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 26 – Aug 21 80–120
Sunchoke — — Apr 3 — Jul 24 – Sep 18 110–150
Sweet Corn — Mar 27 — — May 29 – Jul 10 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jul 3 – Aug 21 90–120
Tatsoi Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 Apr 24 – May 29 35–50
Tomatillo Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Aug 14 60–85
Tomatoes Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Aug 14 60–85
Turmeric Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Dec 4 – Dec 18 240–300
Turnip — Mar 6 — Sep 2 Apr 17 – May 22 40–60
Watercress Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 20 Sep 2 May 1 – Jun 5 40–60
Watermelon Feb 20 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Jul 31 70–100
Wax Beans — Mar 27 — — May 22 – Jul 17 50–65
Winter Melon Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jul 3 – Aug 21 90–120
Yard Long Beans Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — May 29 – Jul 10 55–80
Zucchini Feb 20 Mar 27 Apr 3 — May 22 – Jul 17 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Covington County

27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Covington County.

Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — Apr 10 — Jul 10 – Oct 23 90–180
Aronia — — Apr 10 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — Apr 10 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — Apr 10 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — Apr 10 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — Apr 10 — Jun 19 – Jul 24 70–90
Che Fruit — — Apr 10 — — 1095–1825
Elderberries — — Apr 10 — — 730–1095
Figs — — Apr 10 — — 730–1825
Goji Berries — — Apr 10 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — Apr 10 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — Apr 10 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — Apr 10 — Jun 19 – Aug 14 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — Apr 10 — — 1095–1825
Honeydew — — Apr 10 — Jul 3 – Aug 14 80–110
Jostaberry — — Apr 10 — — 730–1095
Kiwi — — Apr 10 — — 1095–1825
Loquat — — Apr 10 — — 730–1825
Medlar — — Apr 10 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — Apr 10 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — Apr 10 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — Apr 10 — — 1095–2555
Pomegranate — — Apr 10 — — 730–1095
Quince — — Apr 10 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — Apr 10 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — Apr 10 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — Apr 10 — Jul 10 – Dec 25 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Covington County

39 herbs that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Covington County.

Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 13 Sep 2 — 365–730
Anise Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 13 Sep 2 Jun 12 – Aug 28 90–120
Basil Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — May 29 – Jul 31 50–75
Bee Balm — — Mar 27 — Jun 26 – Sep 11 90–120
Borage Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 13 Sep 2 May 8 – Jun 26 50–60
Caraway Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 13 Sep 2 — 365–450
Catnip — — Mar 27 — May 29 – Jul 31 60–80
Chamomile Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 13 Sep 2 May 15 – Jul 24 60–90
Chervil Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 13 Sep 2 Apr 24 – Jun 26 40–60
Chives — — Mar 27 — May 29 – Aug 7 60–90
Cilantro Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 13 Sep 2 Apr 24 – Jun 26 40–60
Comfrey — — Mar 27 — May 29 – Aug 7 60–90
Cumin Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 13 Sep 2 Jun 26 – Aug 28 100–120
Dill Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 13 Sep 2 Apr 24 – Jun 26 40–60
Epazote Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — May 22 – Jul 17 45–60
Fennel (herb) Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 13 Sep 2 May 15 – Jul 24 60–90
Feverfew — — Mar 27 — Jun 26 – Sep 11 90–120
Garlic Chives — — Mar 27 — May 29 – Aug 7 60–90
Horehound — — Mar 27 — Jun 12 – Aug 7 75–90
Hyssop — — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Aug 7 70–90
Lemon Balm — — Mar 27 — May 29 – Jul 17 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Aug 7 70–90
Lemon Verbena Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Aug 14 60–90
Lemongrass Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 19 – Sep 18 75–120
Lovage — — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Aug 7 70–90
Marjoram — — Mar 27 — May 29 – Aug 7 60–90
Mint — — Mar 27 — May 29 – Aug 7 60–90
Oregano — — Mar 27 — May 29 – Aug 7 60–90
Parsley Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 13 Sep 2 May 15 – Jul 17 60–80
Rosemary — — Mar 27 — Jun 19 – Nov 6 80–180
Rue — — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Aug 7 70–90
Sage — — Mar 27 — Jun 12 – Aug 7 75–90
Savory — — Mar 27 — May 22 – Jul 17 50–70
Sorrel Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 13 Sep 2 Apr 24 – Jun 26 40–60
Stevia Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Aug 14 60–90
Tarragon — — Mar 27 — May 29 – Aug 7 60–90
Thai Basil Jan 30 Mar 27 Apr 3 — May 29 – Jul 31 50–75
Thyme — — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Aug 7 70–90
Valerian — — Mar 27 — Jul 31 – Nov 6 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Covington County

54 flowers that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Covington County.

Show all 54 flowers with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Feb 6 Mar 6 Mar 6 — May 1 – Oct 2 60–75
Alliums — — — Oct 14 Nov 11 – Dec 2 28–42
Anemones — — — Sep 16 Sep 23 – Oct 21 90–120
Astilbe Jan 23 — Mar 20 — May 29 – Jul 17 70–100
Bachelor's Button — Jan 30 Feb 27 Sep 16 May 1 – Aug 28 60–90
Begonias Jan 9 — Mar 6 — May 15 – Oct 16 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 20 — May 29 – Oct 23 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Jan 23 — Mar 20 — May 8 – Jun 5 60–90
Calendula — Jan 30 Feb 27 Sep 2 Apr 17 – Sep 11 50–70
California Poppy — — — Sep 2 Nov 11 – Mar 3 60–90
Celosia Feb 20 Mar 6 Mar 6 — May 8 – Oct 16 60–90
Columbine Jan 23 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 8 – Jun 5 70–100
Coreopsis Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 20 — May 22 – Oct 16 60–80
Cosmos Feb 20 Feb 27 Feb 27 — May 8 – Oct 9 60–90
Crocus — — — Oct 14 Sep 16 – Oct 7 10–20
Daffodils — — — Oct 14 Sep 23 – Oct 21 20–40
Dahlias Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 29 – Nov 13 70–120
Daylily Jan 23 — Mar 20 — May 29 – Oct 30 60–90
Dianthus Jan 23 Jan 30 Feb 6 — Mar 27 – Jun 5 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Jan 23 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 29 – Oct 16 70–90
Foxglove Jan 23 Mar 13 Mar 13 — May 1 – May 29 80–120
Freesia — — — Sep 30 Oct 21 – Nov 25 84–112
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Feb 6 Mar 6 Mar 6 — May 15 – Oct 30 70–100
Geraniums Jan 9 — Mar 6 — May 15 – Oct 16 70–100
Gladiolus — Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 29 – Nov 13 70–100
Hostas Jan 16 — Mar 20 — May 29 – Oct 2 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Oct 14 Oct 7 – Oct 28 14–28
Hydrangeas Jan 16 — Mar 13 — May 22 – Sep 25 90–150
Impatiens Jan 23 — Mar 13 — May 22 – Oct 23 60–75
Irises — Division Mar 13 — May 1 – Jun 5 60–100
Larkspur — — — Sep 2 Nov 11 – Mar 3 60–90
Lavender Jan 23 — Mar 20 — May 29 – Sep 4 90–120
Lilies — Division Mar 13 — May 22 – Sep 11 70–120
Lobelia Jan 23 — Feb 6 — Apr 3 – May 15 70–80
Lupine Jan 23 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 8 – Jun 5 75–100
Marigolds Feb 13 Mar 6 Mar 6 — May 1 – Sep 18 50–70
Nasturtium Feb 20 Mar 6 Mar 6 — May 1 – Oct 16 55–65
Pansy Jan 9 — Feb 27 Sep 2 Apr 24 – Aug 14 70–90
Peonies — Division Mar 20 — May 15 – Jun 12 90–120
Petunia Jan 23 — Mar 13 — May 22 – Oct 9 70–90
Phlox Jan 23 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 29 – Aug 7 80–110
Portulaca Feb 20 Mar 6 Mar 6 — Apr 24 – Oct 2 50–70
Ranunculus — — — Sep 16 Sep 30 – Oct 28 90–120
Roses Jan 16 — Mar 13 — May 22 – Oct 23 90–180
Salvia Jan 23 — Mar 6 — May 15 – Oct 16 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Jan 23 — Mar 20 — Jul 10 – Oct 2 60–90
Snapdragon Jan 9 Feb 6 Feb 27 Sep 2 May 8 – Sep 11 70–100
Sunflower Feb 27 Mar 6 Mar 6 — May 29 – Oct 16 70–100
Sweet Alyssum Feb 6 Feb 6 Feb 27 Sep 16 Apr 10 – Aug 14 45–60
Sweet Pea — — — Sep 9 Nov 18 – Jan 27 65–85
Tulips — — — Oct 14 Sep 30 – Oct 28 15–30
Vinca (Annual) Jan 9 — Mar 6 — May 15 – Oct 16 70–90
Yarrow Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 20 — May 22 – Oct 16 60–90
Zinnia Feb 20 Mar 6 Mar 6 — May 15 – Oct 16 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for Covington County