Dale County, AL — Planting Guide
Dale County is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 6 and the first fall frost is November 19, giving you a growing season of approximately 258 days.
At an elevation of 396 ft, Dale County receives approximately 60.3 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 96°F with winter lows around 35°F. The predominant soil type is Clay Loam.
Based on 30 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 43 days year to year — ranging from February 13 in warm years to March 28 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 6.14 days per decade. Dale County scores 49/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 6
🍂 First Frost
November 19
📅 Growing Season
258 days
⛰️ Elevation
396 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
60.3 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 | 5.6 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 5.3 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 6.1 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4.7 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| May | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 6 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.4 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.8 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.7 in | 7 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4.1 in | 8 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Dec | 4.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 60.2 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.
Dale County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.5
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) | Mar 28 | Dec 7 | 254 days |
| Cautious | Mar 16 | Nov 26 | 255 days |
| Average year | Mar 6 | Nov 19 | 258 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 1 | Nov 12 | 256 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 13 | Oct 28 | 257 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±43 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 6.1 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Dale County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Dale 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 Dale County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Dale 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 Dale County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Dale County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Dale 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 Dale County AL" or "garden center Dale 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 Dale County AL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Dale 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
8.6 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.
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 | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.9 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 5.9 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 Oct.
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 | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 48°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 54°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 63°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 72°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 84°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 89°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 91°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 87°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 74°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 60°F | 68°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 50°F | 56°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 Dale 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 | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | High | 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 Dale 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 8 | Feb 13 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 13 | Feb 13 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 5 | Feb 20 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 24 | Feb 13 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 20 | Feb 20 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 23 | Feb 20 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 14 | Feb 20 | — | 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 13 | Sep 17 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 7 | Sep 17 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 8 | Sep 24 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 5 | Sep 10 | ✓ 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 29 | — | 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: 7 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 8 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 (376 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
30,003 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, Jun, Jul
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
May, 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 60.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 30,003 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 Dale County
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH 5.7–6.5 · Moderately Well 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. (60.3 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
258-day frost-free season
Your long season supports multiple successions and heat-demanding crops like melons, sweet potatoes, and peppers. Plant warm-season crops as soon as soil warms.
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 Dale County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Dale County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 20 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – May 15 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 13 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jun 19 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 20 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – May 29 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jun 19 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 1 – Jun 19 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jun 19 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 1 – May 29 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jul 10 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 – Apr 10 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 20 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 6 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – May 15 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 13 | — | May 29 – Jul 10 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 2 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 1 – May 29 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Nov 20 – Dec 4 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 20 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 2 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 29 – Sep 4 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 6 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 13 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Jun 5 – Aug 21 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 – Jun 19 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jun 19 – Sep 4 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 6 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 – Apr 10 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 20 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 2 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 29 – Aug 7 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 6 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 20 | — | Mar 20 – Apr 10 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 20 | — | May 15 – Jun 19 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 20 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 1 – May 29 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 13 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 6 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 6 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 20 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Nov 20 – Dec 4 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 20 | — | Apr 3 – May 8 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 6 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jun 26 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 6 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Dale County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Dale County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 27 | Jun 26 – Oct 9 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 27 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 27 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 27 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 27 | Jun 26 – Dec 11 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Dale County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Dale County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 29 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 12 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 13 | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 13 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Nov 13 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 3 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jun 5 – Sep 4 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 13 | Jun 5 – Oct 23 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 13 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 13 | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Dale County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Dale County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Dale County, AL?
Dale 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 Dale County, AL?
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Dale County falls around March 6. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 13 and March 28 — a 43-day window of variability. Use March 28 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Dale County, AL?
The median first fall frost in Dale County arrives around November 19. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 28; in mild years as late as December 7. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Dale County?
Dale County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 258 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 6.14 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Dale County for gardening?
Dale County has predominantly Clay Loam soil with a pH range of 5.7–6.5 and Moderately Well 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 Dale County?
Dale County has commercial agriculture that includes Poultry, Cotton, Peanuts, Soybeans, Corn. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Dale County a good location for home gardening?
Dale County scores 49/100 (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 Dale 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.
