Blog

🔍

Fayette County, AL — Planting Guide

Fayette County, Alabama Zone 8a June

June to-do list for Fayette County, Alabama

Here's what deserves your attention in Fayette County, Alabama this month. Everything below is tailored to Zone 8a and timed around your local frost dates.

Avg. last frost March 26
Avg. first frost November 5
Soil temp (4") 80°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14.2 hrs
  1. Indoor seed-starting week for begonias, geraniums, and pansy

    Starting these indoors now means sturdy transplants ready the moment your soil warms up.

  2. It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber

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

A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
  • First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Fayette County is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 26 and the first fall frost is November 5, giving you a growing season of approximately 224 days.

At an elevation of 336 ft, Fayette County receives approximately 55.7 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 90°F with winter lows around 33°F. The predominant soil type is Clay Loam.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 39 days year to year — ranging from March 7 in warm years to April 15 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 2.64 days per decade. Fayette County scores 55/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

8a (10°F to 15°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

March 26

🍂 First Frost

November 5

📅 Growing Season

224 days

⛰️ Elevation

336 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

55.7 in

Fayette County, AL Long season
224 days
❄
Last Spring Frost March 26
➔ 224 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost November 5

Monthly Watering Calendar for Fayette County

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

Why this matters: Watering math is simple: 1 inch of rainfall delivers ~600 gallons to a 1,000 sq ft garden. Fayette County's 56" 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" 1.4" 2.9" 4.3" 5.7" Jan 4.1" Feb 3.9" Mar 5.7" +0.7" Apr 3.6" May 5" Jun 5.5" Jul 5.5" Aug 5.4" Sep 4.5" +1.2" Oct 3.1" Nov 4.3" Dec 5"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 4.1 in 9 days — None
Feb 3.9 in 9 days — None
Mar 5.7 in 10 days — Low
Apr 3.6 in 8 days 0.7 in Moderate
May 5 in 10 days — Low
Jun 5.5 in 11 days — Low
Jul 5.5 in 11 days — Low
Aug 5.4 in 11 days — Low
Sep 4.5 in 8 days — Low
Oct 3.1 in 7 days 1.2 in Moderate
Nov 4.3 in 7 days — None
Dec 5 in 9 days — None

Annual total: 55.6 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.

Fayette County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH

5.2-6.3

Drainage

Well Drained

Frost Risk Probability

Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations

Too early frost risk Safe to Plant Mar 26 → Nov 5 224 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: Apr 15 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 15 Nov 24 223 days
Cautious Apr 1 Nov 15 228 days
Average year Mar 26 Nov 5 224 days
Optimistic Mar 19 Oct 30 225 days
Aggressive (risky) Mar 7 Oct 21 228 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

Not very — frost dates can vary by ±39 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 2.6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.

Gardening Difficulty Score

55 Moderate
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
1.5/10
Soil Difficulty
1.0/10
Altitude Challenge
0.0/10
Climate Shift
10.0/10
Rainfall Challenge
4.3/10

Fayette County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.

Zone 8a Frost Countdown
--
Loading...
Last Frost: Mar 26 First Frost: Nov 5

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

County Extension Office

Fayette 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 Fayette County

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

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Fayette 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 Fayette County AL" or "garden center Fayette 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 Fayette County AL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Fayette 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 Zucchini (harvest ends Jul 23) 105 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d Green Beans 50-65d
After Beets (harvest ends Jun 18) 140 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Spinach (harvest ends Jul 2) 126 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Pole Beans (harvest ends Jul 30) 98 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Hot Peppers (harvest ends Sep 24) 42 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Eggplant (harvest ends Aug 20) 77 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
Show 6 more succession options
After Potatoes (harvest ends Aug 27) 70 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Squash (Winter) (harvest ends Aug 27) 70 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Melon (harvest ends Aug 6) 91 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Peppers (harvest ends Aug 20) 77 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Kale (harvest ends Jul 16) 112 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Okra (harvest ends Jul 30) 98 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d

Sunlight & Day Length in Fayette County

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

Quick context: Photoperiod-sensitive crops will fail spectacularly if planted at the wrong latitude. Sweet onions in Michigan? Tiny. Spanish onions in Florida? Tiny. Match variety to Fayette County's daylight pattern and you'll see the difference.

Longest Day

14.2 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

9.8 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

8.7 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 10h 13h 16h 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 hr 4.8 hr Short day
February 10.8 hr 5.5 hr Short day
March 11.7 hr 6.1 hr Short day
April 12.8 hr 7.7 hr Neutral
May 13.7 hr 8.7 hr Neutral
June 14.2 hr 8.4 hr Long day
July 14 hr 7.3 hr Long day
August 13.3 hr 7.6 hr Neutral
September 12.2 hr 7.3 hr Neutral
October 11.1 hr 7.2 hr Short day
November 10.2 hr 5.8 hr Short day
December 9.8 hr 4.8 hr Short day

Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.

Soil Temperature & Composting in Fayette County

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

What this means for you: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Fayette County's soil temperature curve also tells you when your compost is working and when it's napping.

Plant Warm Crops When

Soil reaches 60°F+

Soil warm enough from May through Oct.

Best Month to Compost

May

Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.

Active Composting

8 months

Nearly year-round composting.

60°F 70°F 20° 40° 60° 80° 100° 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 37°F 45°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Feb 38°F 45°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Mar 47°F 50°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Apr 56°F 58°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
May 70°F 67°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jun 80°F 75°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 85°F 80°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 87°F 83°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 82°F 80°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 68°F 73°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Nov 56°F 61°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Dec 46°F 53°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks

Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.

Pest & Disease Pressure in Fayette County

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

For new gardeners: Pest score isn't pass/fail. It's a planning input. Higher scores mean: more compost (resilient plants), wider spacing (air circulation), resistant varieties (built-in defense), and inspection (catch issues at egg stage).

Insect Pest Pressure

6.3 / 10

Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.

Disease Risk

7.2 / 10

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

Seasonal Risk

Spring Moderate
Summer High
Fall Low
Winter Low
View 6 common pests in your area
PestRisk LevelPeak Months
Aphids Moderate Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Japanese beetles Moderate Jun, Jul, Aug
Squash vine borers High May, Jun, Jul
Stink bugs High May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Whiteflies Low Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Spider mites Moderate Jul, Aug
Organic pest management tips
  • Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
  • Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
  • Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
  • Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
  • Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
  • Watch for powdery mildew, downy mildew, blight — common in your climate

Cover Crops for Fayette County

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

Why it matters: A fall-planted cover crop in Fayette County is the closest thing to free soil amendment. Plant cereal rye or hairy vetch after harvest; chop it down before it flowers in spring; the soil it leaves behind out-grows any store-bought compost.

Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat Mar 30 Aug 27 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Cowpeas (southern peas) Apr 1 Aug 27 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible
Sorghum-sudan grass Apr 2 Aug 27 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Feb 23 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 Apr 26 Oct 22 — 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 Mar 5 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Crimson clover Aug 24 Mar 12 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring
Daikon radish Sep 20 Mar 5 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Aug 21 Mar 5 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Sep 29 Mar 12 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Aug 14 Mar 5 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Aug 3 Mar 12 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Fayette County

Why this matters: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Fayette County's 6.5 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.

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: 7 mph   Winter: 9 mph

Prevailing wind: SW. Low wind — no windbreak needed for most crops.

Windbreak Benefit

3.2/10

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

Frost Pocket Risk

Moderate

Some terrain variation (474 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.

Rainwater Harvesting in Fayette County

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

Why it matters: A single rain barrel under a downspout catches 50 gallons in a 0.5" storm. Fayette County's 56" annual rainfall means even modest harvesting systems quickly amortize their cost in water savings.

Annual Collection

27,711 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

Mar, Jun, Jul, Aug

Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.

Months to Draw From Storage

Feb, Apr, Oct

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 55.6 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 27,711 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 Fayette County

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH 5.2–6.3 · Well Drained drainage

Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.

Watering Needs

Drought stress: 1.5/10

Fayette County has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.

Season Tips

224-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 Fayette County

114 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Fayette County.

Show all 114 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 2 – Aug 6 80–100
Amaranth Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 9 – Aug 27 90–120
Artichoke — — Apr 9 — Aug 13 – Oct 22 120–180
Arugula Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Apr 30 – Jul 2 30–50
Asparagus — — Apr 9 — — 730–1095
Beets — Mar 12 — Aug 27 May 7 – Jun 4 50–70
Belgian Endive Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Jul 16 – Sep 10 110–150
Bitter Melon Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 11 – Jul 23 60–90
Black Beans — Apr 2 — — Jul 2 – Aug 20 90–120
Bok Choy Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 7 – Jun 11 40–60
Broccoli Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 28 – Jul 9 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 7 – Jun 11 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Jun 25 – Aug 20 90–130
Butternut Squash Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 9 – Aug 13 85–110
Cabbage Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 28 – Jul 23 60–100
Calabash Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 2 – Aug 27 80–120
Cardoon — — Apr 9 — Aug 13 – Sep 24 120–150
Carrots — Mar 12 — Aug 27 May 14 – Jun 18 60–80
Cauliflower Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 21 – Jul 23 55–100
Celeriac Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Jul 9 – Aug 13 100–120
Celery Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Jun 18 – Aug 13 80–120
Celtuce Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 28 – Jul 9 60–90
Chard Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 21 – Jul 9 50–60
Chayote Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Aug 13 – Oct 22 120–180
Chickpeas Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Jun 18 – Jul 30 80–110
Chicory Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 28 – Jul 9 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 21 – Jun 18 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 2 – Aug 6 80–100
Collard Greens Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 21 – Jul 23 55–75
Corn — Apr 2 — — Jun 4 – Jul 30 60–100
Cowpeas — Apr 2 — — Jun 4 – Jul 16 60–90
Cress Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Apr 9 – Apr 30 14–21
Crookneck Squash Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — May 28 – Jun 25 45–60
Crosne — Mar 12 — Aug 27 Aug 13 – Oct 15 150–200
Cucumber Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Jul 30 50–70
Daikon — Mar 12 — Aug 27 May 7 – Jun 4 50–70
Delicata Squash Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 2 – Aug 6 80–100
Edamame — Apr 2 — — Jun 18 – Jul 30 75–100
Eggplant Jan 22 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 18 – Aug 20 65–85
Endive Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 14 – Jun 18 45–65
Escarole Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 21 – Jun 18 50–70
Fava Beans Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Jun 11 – Jul 23 75–100
Fennel Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 11 – Jul 23 60–90
Garlic — — — Sep 24 Dec 24 – Jun 10 90–240
Ginger Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Dec 10 – Dec 24 240–300
Green Beans — Apr 2 — — May 28 – Jul 23 50–65
Horseradish — — Apr 9 — Aug 13 – Oct 22 120–180
Hot Peppers Jan 22 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 18 – Sep 24 70–120
Hubbard Squash Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 23 – Aug 27 100–120
Jicama Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Aug 13 – Oct 22 120–180
Kabocha Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 9 – Aug 6 85–100
Kai Lan Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 14 – Jun 11 45–60
Kale Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 21 – Jul 16 50–70
Kidney Beans — Apr 2 — — Jul 2 – Aug 6 85–110
Kohlrabi Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 14 – Jun 18 45–65
Komatsuna Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Apr 30 – Jun 4 35–50
Leeks Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Jun 25 – Sep 10 90–150
Lentils Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Jun 18 – Jul 30 80–110
Lettuce Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Apr 30 – Jul 9 30–60
Lima Beans — Apr 2 — — Jun 4 – Jul 16 60–90
Loofah Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 23 – Sep 24 100–150
Luffa Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 9 – Sep 24 90–150
Mache Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 7 – Jun 11 40–60
Malabar Spinach Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Jul 2 55–70
Melon Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 18 – Aug 6 70–100
Microgreens Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Apr 2 – Apr 30 7–21
Mitsuba Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Aug 27 May 14 – Jul 9 50–70
Mizuna Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Apr 30 – May 28 30–45
Mustard Greens Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Apr 30 – Jul 2 30–50
Napa Cabbage Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 21 – Jun 25 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Jul 2 55–70
Okra Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Jul 30 50–65
Onion Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Jun 25 – Aug 13 90–120
Pac Choi Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 7 – Jun 4 40–55
Parsnip — Mar 12 — Aug 27 Jun 25 – Aug 6 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — May 28 – Jun 25 45–60
Peas Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 21 – Jul 16 55–70
Peppers Jan 22 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 11 – Aug 20 60–90
Pole Beans Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Jul 30 55–70
Potatoes Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 18 – Aug 27 70–120
Pumpkin Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 9 – Aug 27 85–120
Purslane Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 7 – Jun 11 40–60
Radicchio Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 28 – Jul 2 60–80
Radish — Mar 12 — Aug 27 Apr 9 – Apr 30 22–35
Rhubarb — — Apr 16 — — 365–730
Romanesco Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Jun 11 – Jul 23 75–100
Rutabaga — Mar 12 — Aug 27 Jun 4 – Jul 9 80–100
Salsify — Mar 12 — Aug 27 Jun 25 – Aug 6 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Jun 4 – Jul 30 70–110
Scallions Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 21 – Jun 18 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 11 – Jul 16 60–80
Shallot Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Jun 25 – Aug 13 90–120
Shiso Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Jul 30 50–70
Snap Peas Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Jul 30 55–70
Snow Peas Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 21 – Jul 16 50–65
Soybeans — Apr 2 — — Jun 25 – Aug 20 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 9 – Aug 6 85–100
Spinach Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Apr 30 – Jul 2 35–50
Squash (Summer) Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — May 28 – Jul 30 45–65
Squash (Winter) Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 2 – Aug 27 80–120
Sunchoke — — Apr 9 — Jul 30 – Sep 24 110–150
Sweet Corn — Apr 2 — — Jun 4 – Jul 16 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 9 – Aug 27 90–120
Tatsoi Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 Apr 30 – Jun 4 35–50
Tomatillo Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 11 – Aug 20 60–85
Tomatoes Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 11 – Aug 20 60–85
Turmeric Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Dec 10 – Dec 24 240–300
Turnip — Mar 12 — Aug 27 Apr 23 – May 28 40–60
Watercress Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Aug 27 May 7 – Jun 11 40–60
Watermelon Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 18 – Aug 6 70–100
Wax Beans — Apr 2 — — May 28 – Jul 23 50–65
Winter Melon Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 9 – Aug 27 90–120
Yard Long Beans Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Jul 16 55–80
Zucchini Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — May 28 – Jul 23 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Fayette County

27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Fayette County.

Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — Apr 16 — Jul 16 – Oct 29 90–180
Aronia — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — Apr 16 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — Apr 16 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — Apr 16 — Jun 25 – Jul 30 70–90
Che Fruit — — Apr 16 — — 1095–1825
Elderberries — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Figs — — Apr 16 — — 730–1825
Goji Berries — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — Apr 16 — Jun 25 – Aug 20 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — Apr 16 — — 1095–1825
Honeydew — — Apr 16 — Jul 9 – Aug 20 80–110
Jostaberry — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Kiwi — — Apr 16 — — 1095–1825
Loquat — — Apr 16 — — 730–1825
Medlar — — Apr 16 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — Apr 16 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — Apr 16 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — Apr 16 — — 1095–2555
Pomegranate — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Quince — — Apr 16 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — Apr 16 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — Apr 16 — Jul 16 – Dec 31 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Fayette County

39 herbs that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Fayette County.

Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Aug 27 — 365–730
Anise Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Aug 27 Jun 18 – Sep 3 90–120
Basil Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Aug 6 50–75
Bee Balm — — Apr 2 — Jul 2 – Sep 17 90–120
Borage Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Aug 27 May 14 – Jul 2 50–60
Caraway Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Aug 27 — 365–450
Catnip — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Aug 6 60–80
Chamomile Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Aug 27 May 21 – Jul 30 60–90
Chervil Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Aug 27 Apr 30 – Jul 2 40–60
Chives — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Aug 13 60–90
Cilantro Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Aug 27 Apr 30 – Jul 2 40–60
Comfrey — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Aug 13 60–90
Cumin Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Aug 27 Jul 2 – Sep 3 100–120
Dill Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Aug 27 Apr 30 – Jul 2 40–60
Epazote Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — May 28 – Jul 23 45–60
Fennel (herb) Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Aug 27 May 21 – Jul 30 60–90
Feverfew — — Apr 2 — Jul 2 – Sep 17 90–120
Garlic Chives — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Aug 13 60–90
Horehound — — Apr 2 — Jun 18 – Aug 13 75–90
Hyssop — — Apr 2 — Jun 11 – Aug 13 70–90
Lemon Balm — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Jul 23 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — Apr 2 — Jun 11 – Aug 13 70–90
Lemon Verbena Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 11 – Aug 20 60–90
Lemongrass Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 25 – Sep 24 75–120
Lovage — — Apr 2 — Jun 11 – Aug 13 70–90
Marjoram — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Aug 13 60–90
Mint — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Aug 13 60–90
Oregano — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Aug 13 60–90
Parsley Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Aug 27 May 21 – Jul 23 60–80
Rosemary — — Apr 2 — Jun 25 – Nov 12 80–180
Rue — — Apr 2 — Jun 11 – Aug 13 70–90
Sage — — Apr 2 — Jun 18 – Aug 13 75–90
Savory — — Apr 2 — May 28 – Jul 23 50–70
Sorrel Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Aug 27 Apr 30 – Jul 2 40–60
Stevia Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 11 – Aug 20 60–90
Tarragon — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Aug 13 60–90
Thai Basil Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Aug 6 50–75
Thyme — — Apr 2 — Jun 11 – Aug 13 70–90
Valerian — — Apr 2 — Aug 6 – Nov 12 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Fayette County

54 flowers that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Fayette County.

Show all 54 flowers with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 19 — May 14 – Oct 1 60–75
Alliums — — — Oct 1 Oct 29 – Nov 19 28–42
Anemones — — — Sep 10 Sep 24 – Oct 22 90–120
Astilbe Jan 29 — Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Jul 23 70–100
Bachelor's Button — Feb 12 Mar 12 Sep 10 May 14 – Aug 27 60–90
Begonias Jan 15 — Mar 19 — May 28 – Oct 15 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Jan 29 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Oct 22 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Jan 29 — Mar 26 — May 14 – Jun 11 60–90
Calendula — Feb 12 Mar 12 Aug 27 Apr 30 – Sep 10 50–70
California Poppy — — — Sep 10 Nov 19 – Feb 25 60–90
Celosia Feb 26 Mar 19 Mar 19 — May 21 – Oct 15 60–90
Columbine Jan 29 Mar 26 Mar 26 — May 14 – Jun 11 70–100
Coreopsis Jan 29 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 28 – Oct 22 60–80
Cosmos Feb 26 Mar 12 Mar 12 — May 21 – Oct 8 60–90
Crocus — — — Oct 8 Sep 10 – Oct 1 10–20
Daffodils — — — Oct 1 Sep 10 – Oct 8 20–40
Dahlias Mar 5 Mar 26 Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Nov 5 70–120
Daylily Jan 29 — Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Oct 22 60–90
Dianthus Jan 29 Feb 12 Feb 19 — Apr 9 – Jun 25 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Jan 29 Mar 26 Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Oct 22 70–90
Foxglove Jan 29 Mar 26 Mar 26 — May 14 – Jun 11 80–120
Freesia — — — Sep 24 Oct 22 – Nov 19 84–112
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Feb 5 Mar 19 Mar 19 — May 28 – Nov 12 70–100
Geraniums Jan 15 — Mar 19 — May 28 – Oct 15 70–100
Gladiolus — Mar 26 Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Nov 5 70–100
Hostas Jan 22 — Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Oct 8 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Oct 8 Oct 1 – Oct 22 14–28
Hydrangeas Jan 22 — Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Oct 8 90–150
Impatiens Jan 29 — Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Oct 22 60–75
Irises — Division Mar 26 — May 14 – Jun 18 60–100
Larkspur — Feb 26 — Aug 27 May 7 – Aug 13 60–90
Lavender Jan 22 — Apr 2 — Jun 11 – Sep 17 90–120
Lilies — Division Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Sep 24 70–120
Lobelia Jan 29 — Feb 19 — Apr 16 – Jun 11 70–80
Lupine Jan 29 Mar 26 Mar 26 — May 14 – Jun 11 75–100
Marigolds Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 19 — May 14 – Sep 17 50–70
Nasturtium Feb 26 Mar 19 Mar 19 — May 14 – Oct 15 55–65
Pansy Jan 15 — Mar 12 Aug 27 May 7 – Aug 13 70–90
Peonies — Division Mar 26 — May 21 – Jun 18 90–120
Petunia Jan 29 — Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Oct 8 70–90
Phlox Jan 29 Mar 26 Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Aug 13 80–110
Portulaca Feb 26 Mar 19 Mar 19 — May 7 – Oct 1 50–70
Ranunculus — — — Sep 10 Sep 24 – Oct 29 90–120
Roses Jan 22 — Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Oct 22 90–180
Salvia Jan 29 — Mar 19 — May 28 – Oct 15 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Jan 29 — Mar 26 — Jul 16 – Oct 8 60–90
Snapdragon Jan 15 Feb 19 Mar 12 Aug 27 May 21 – Sep 10 70–100
Sunflower Mar 5 Mar 19 Mar 19 — Jun 11 – Oct 15 70–100
Sweet Alyssum Feb 12 Feb 19 Mar 12 Sep 10 Apr 23 – Aug 13 45–60
Sweet Pea — — — Sep 3 Nov 12 – Feb 4 65–85
Tulips — — — Oct 8 Sep 24 – Oct 22 15–30
Vinca (Annual) Jan 15 — Mar 19 — May 28 – Oct 15 70–90
Yarrow Jan 29 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 28 – Oct 22 60–90
Zinnia Feb 26 Mar 19 Mar 19 — May 28 – Oct 15 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for Fayette County