Axis, AL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June in Mobile County, Alabama — your action list
June is a pivotal month for Mobile County, Alabama gardens. Focus on these tasks first and you'll set up the rest of the season for success.
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Bring in the basil, cucumber, and green beans
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
- First harvests: basil, peppers, and thai basil
Axis gardens in a wet, humid climate (69" annually). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive in spring and fall. The biggest challenges are fungal disease and humidity-loving pests in summer — leaf spot, blight, squash bugs, vine borers. Drip irrigation (not overhead), wide plant spacing for air circulation, and disease-resistant varieties make the difference.
Native soil is Sandy Loam — warms fast and drains free, but nutrients and water wash through. Plan on heavy organic-matter additions and either drip irrigation or frequent shallow waterings to keep crops happy.
Axis averages 21.2 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
9a (20°F to 25°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 3
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 24
📅 Growing Season
266 days
🌧️ Climate
Very Humid 68.8" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
21.2 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Axis
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
What this means for you: The 1-inch-per-week rule applies to most vegetable crops. Axis averages 69" a year — divide by 52 and compare to that 1" target. Some months are above, some below; that's where the calendar earns its keep.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.7 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.5 in | 9 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 4.9 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.7 in | 8 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.5 in | 9 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 4 in | 12 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jul | 5.5 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.2 in | 9 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.6 in | 8 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.5 in | 7 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4.3 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Dec | 4 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 48.4 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.
Axis Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
4.8-6.1
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) | Mar 20 | Dec 11 | 266 days |
| Cautious | Mar 8 | Nov 30 | 267 days |
| Average year | Mar 3 | Nov 24 | 266 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 19 | Nov 17 | 271 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 11 | Nov 12 | 274 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±37 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 shorter here (about 3.1 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Mobile County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Mobile 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 Mobile County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Mobile 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 Mobile County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Mobile County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Mobile 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 Mobile County AL" or "garden center Mobile 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 Mobile County AL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Mobile 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 in Axis
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: Onion varieties are sold by "short-day," "intermediate-day," and "long-day." Axis's latitude determines which to buy — and getting it wrong is the difference between baseball-sized bulbs and marbles.
Longest Day
14 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.5 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.2 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.8 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 10 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Axis
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Soil heats slower than air in spring and cools slower in fall. That's why "warm" April air doesn't mean "plant tomatoes" — soil still trails by weeks. Axis's monthly soil curve makes the lag visible.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
10 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 44°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 45°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 54°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 63°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 71°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 81°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 91°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 90°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 85°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 76°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 64°F | 68°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 51°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Axis
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Axis's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.
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 | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | 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 Axis
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: In Axis, cover crops also crowd out weeds. The denser the cover, the less weed pressure next season. Pays for itself in saved weeding time.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 7 | Sep 29 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 12 | Sep 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 9 | Sep 29 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 6 | Sep 15 | ✓ 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 16 | Oct 27 | — | 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 30 | Feb 10 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 19 | Feb 17 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 10 | Feb 17 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 8 | Feb 17 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 19 | Feb 10 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 18 | Feb 10 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 19 | Feb 17 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Axis
Quick context: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Axis averages 7.0 mph — fine for most days. But every region has its windy days, and the first time a row of unstaked peppers leans over after a storm is a lesson you only need once.
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: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Low wind — no windbreak needed for most crops.
Windbreak Benefit
3.1/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (351 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Axis
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Axis, that's your 69" times your roof.
Annual Collection
24,122 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, Jul, Aug, Nov
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, May, 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 48.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 24,122 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, May, Oct)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Axis
114 vegetables matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Axis.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 17 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 10 | — | Sep 29 | Apr 7 – May 5 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jun 23 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | — | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | May 5 – Jun 16 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 17 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 10 | — | Sep 29 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | May 5 – Jun 16 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 28 – Jun 16 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | May 26 – Jul 7 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | May 5 – Jun 16 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 10 | — | — | May 12 – Jul 7 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 10 | — | — | May 12 – Jun 23 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Mar 17 – Apr 7 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Apr 28 – May 26 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 10 | — | Sep 29 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 10 | — | Sep 29 | Apr 7 – May 5 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 10 | — | — | May 26 – Jul 7 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 19 – Jul 21 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 21 – May 26 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | May 19 – Jun 30 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jun 23 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 13 | Jan 12 – Jun 29 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Nov 10 – Jan 5 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | — | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 17 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 19 – Aug 25 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 21 – May 19 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 28 – Jun 23 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | — | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 21 – May 26 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 7 – May 12 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Jun 2 – Aug 18 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | May 26 – Jul 7 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 7 – Jun 16 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | — | May 12 – Jun 23 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 25 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 2 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 19 – Jul 7 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Mar 10 – Apr 7 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Sep 29 | Apr 21 – Jun 16 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 7 – May 5 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 28 – Jun 2 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 2 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 14 – May 12 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 10 | — | Sep 29 | May 26 – Jul 7 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Apr 28 – May 26 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 28 – Jun 23 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 30 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 19 – Jul 28 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 10 | — | Sep 29 | Mar 10 – Mar 31 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | May 19 – Jun 30 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 10 | — | Sep 29 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 10 | — | Sep 29 | May 26 – Jul 7 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jun 16 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 20 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 30 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 28 – Jun 23 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 10 | — | — | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 17 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 10 | — | — | May 12 – Jun 23 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 7 – May 12 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Nov 10 – Jan 5 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 10 | — | Sep 29 | Mar 24 – Apr 28 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 19 – Jul 7 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | — | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Sep 8 – Jan 5 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 20 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 16 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Apr 28 – Jun 23 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Axis
24 fruits matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Axis.
Show all 24 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 17 | — | Jun 16 – Sep 29 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 17 | — | May 26 – Jun 30 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 17 | — | May 26 – Jul 21 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 17 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 17 | — | Jun 16 – Jan 12 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Axis
37 herbs matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Axis.
Show all 37 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Sep 29 | May 26 – Aug 11 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 20 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jul 7 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 10 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Sep 29 | Apr 21 – Jun 9 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Sep 29 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jul 14 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Sep 29 | Apr 28 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Sep 29 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Sep 29 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Sep 29 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Sep 29 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 20 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | — | Apr 28 – Jun 23 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Sep 29 | Apr 28 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 10 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 10 | — | May 26 – Jul 21 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 10 | — | May 19 – Jul 21 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jun 30 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 10 | — | May 19 – Jul 21 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 20 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 20 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | — | May 26 – Aug 25 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Sep 29 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 10 | — | Jun 2 – Oct 20 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 10 | — | May 19 – Jul 21 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 10 | — | May 26 – Jul 21 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 | Sep 29 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 20 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 20 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jul 7 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 10 | — | May 19 – Jul 21 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 10 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Axis
49 flowers matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Axis.
Show all 49 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Jan 20 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | — | Apr 14 – Sep 29 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 27 | Nov 24 – Dec 15 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Oct 6 – Nov 3 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Jan 6 | Feb 3 | Sep 15 | Mar 31 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Dec 23 | — | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 6 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 – Sep 15 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 6 | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 7 – Apr 28 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Jan 6 | Feb 3 | Sep 1 | Mar 17 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 1 | Nov 10 – Mar 16 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 3 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | — | Apr 21 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 6 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | — | Apr 7 – Apr 28 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 6 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | — | Apr 14 – Sep 15 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 3 | Feb 3 | Feb 3 | — | Apr 14 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 27 | Oct 13 – Nov 3 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | — | Mar 3 | Mar 3 | — | May 12 – Nov 10 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 6 | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 – Oct 13 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 6 | Jan 6 | Jan 6 | — | Feb 24 – Apr 28 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 6 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 – Sep 15 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 6 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | — | Apr 7 – Apr 28 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 13 | Oct 27 – Nov 24 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Jan 20 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 – Oct 27 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Dec 23 | — | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 3 | Mar 3 | — | May 12 – Nov 10 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 6 | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 27 | Oct 27 – Nov 17 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 6 | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 – Aug 18 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 6 | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 – Oct 13 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Feb 17 | — | Apr 7 – May 12 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Nov 24 – Mar 16 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 6 | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 – Aug 4 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 – Aug 4 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 6 | — | Jan 6 | — | Mar 3 – Mar 31 | 70–80 |
| Marigolds | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | — | Apr 14 – Sep 15 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 10 | — | Apr 7 – Oct 6 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Dec 23 | — | Feb 3 | Sep 1 | Mar 24 – Jun 23 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Jan 6 | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 – Sep 29 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 6 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 – Jun 23 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 3 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | — | Apr 7 – Oct 13 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Oct 13 – Nov 10 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 6 | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 – Oct 13 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 6 | — | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 6 | — | Feb 17 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Jan 6 | Feb 3 | Sep 1 | Apr 7 – Aug 4 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Feb 10 | Feb 10 | Feb 10 | — | May 5 – Oct 6 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Jan 6 | Feb 3 | Sep 15 | Mar 10 – Jun 23 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Nov 24 – Jan 19 | 65–85 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Dec 23 | — | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 6 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | — | Apr 14 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 – Oct 6 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Axis
ZIP Codes in Axis
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Mobile County.
Your Mobile County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Mobile County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log