Jackson County, AL — Planting Guide
Jackson County is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 7 and the first fall frost is October 29, giving you a growing season of approximately 205 days.
At an elevation of 302 ft, Jackson County receives approximately 59.3 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 93°F with winter lows around 28°F. The predominant soil type is Clay Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 31 days year to year — ranging from March 19 in warm years to April 19 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 2.54 days per decade. Jackson County scores 45/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 7
🍂 First Frost
October 29
📅 Growing Season
205 days
⛰️ Elevation
302 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
59.3 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 | 4.9 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.4 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.9 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4.9 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| May | 4.6 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.7 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 6.7 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.9 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.5 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.1 in | 7 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Nov | 4.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 5.2 in | 10 days | — | None |
Annual total: 59.3 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.
Jackson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.5
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 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 19 | Nov 11 | 206 days |
| Cautious | Apr 13 | Nov 1 | 202 days |
| Average year | Apr 7 | Oct 29 | 205 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 29 | Oct 22 | 207 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 19 | Oct 16 | 211 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±31 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 2.5 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Jackson County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Jackson 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 Jackson County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Jackson 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 Jackson County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Jackson County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Jackson 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 Jackson County AL" or "garden center Jackson 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 Jackson County AL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Jackson 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
14.3 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.7 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.3 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 | 9.9 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.7 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 7.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.8 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.3 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.1 hr | 8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.1 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.7 hr | 4.5 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 May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 39°F | 46°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 39°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 45°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 59°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 68°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 77°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 87°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 88°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 81°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 71°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 56°F | 62°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 Jackson County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
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 | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
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 Jackson 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 | Aug 21 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 21 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 18 | Mar 17 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 10 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 15 | Mar 24 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 22 | Mar 24 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 9 | Mar 17 | — | 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 | Apr 16 | Aug 27 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 18 | Aug 20 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 13 | Aug 27 | ✓ 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 28 | Oct 1 | — | 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: 9 mph Summer: 7 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 9 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
2.6/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (364 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
29,555 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, Jul, Aug, Dec
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, 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 59.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 29,555 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 Jackson County
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH 5.5–6.5 · Somewhat Poorly 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. (59.3 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
205-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 Jackson County
113 vegetables that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Jackson County.
Show all 113 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 21 | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 24 | — | May 19 – Jun 16 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 21 | Aug 25 – Oct 6 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 24 | — | May 26 – Jun 30 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 – May 12 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 27 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 24 | — | May 19 – Jun 16 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 3 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 21 | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 3 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Sep 22 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 – May 12 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | May 12 – Jun 9 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 24 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 3 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 24 | — | Apr 21 – May 12 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 24 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 24 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 21 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 24 | — | May 5 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Jackson County
31 fruits that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Jackson County.
Show all 31 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 28 | Jul 28 – Nov 10 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 28 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 28 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 28 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 28 | Jul 28 – Dec 8 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Jackson County
39 herbs that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Jackson County.
Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 30 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jul 14 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 14 | Aug 18 – Nov 24 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Nov 24 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 14 | Jul 7 – Nov 24 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 14 | Aug 18 – Nov 24 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Jackson County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Jackson County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Jackson County, AL?
Jackson County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. 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 Jackson County, AL?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Jackson County falls around April 7. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 19 and April 19 — a 31-day window of variability. Use April 19 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Jackson County, AL?
The median first fall frost in Jackson County arrives around October 29. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 16; in mild years as late as November 11. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Jackson County?
Jackson County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 205 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 2.54 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Jackson County for gardening?
Jackson County has predominantly Clay Loam soil with a pH range of 5.5–6.5 and Somewhat Poorly Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Jackson County?
Jackson County has commercial agriculture that includes Poultry, Cotton, Soybeans, Peanuts, Hay. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Jackson County a good location for home gardening?
Jackson County scores 45/100 (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 Jackson County gardeners in Zone 7a 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.
