Kellerman, AL — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your July planting checklist for Tuscaloosa County, Alabama
Welcome to July in Zone 8b. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
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Collect basil, cucumber, and green beans at their peak
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
Coming up in August — start thinking about
- First harvests: basil, peppers, and thai basil
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Kellerman gardens in a wet, humid climate (60" 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.
The dominant soil here is Clay Loam — holds water well but slow to warm in spring and prone to compaction. Raised beds and generous compost transform what's available into productive growing space.
Drought pressure is moderate (19.1 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 22
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 9
📅 Growing Season
232 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 59.5" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 4.9 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
19.1 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Kellerman
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: Plants need different amounts of water at different growth stages — heavy at flowering and fruit-set, lighter at establishment. Kellerman's 60" annual rainfall is your starting math; the timing tells you when natural rain will cover you and when you need to step in.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.7 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 5.2 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4.1 in | 7 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| May | 3.6 in | 7 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 4.7 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.3 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.4 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.5 in | 8 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.9 in | 7 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Nov | 4.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 4.6 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 53 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.
Kellerman Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 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 14 | Nov 26 | 226 days |
| Cautious | Mar 31 | Nov 15 | 229 days |
| Average year | Mar 22 | Nov 9 | 232 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 13 | Oct 31 | 232 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 2 | Oct 24 | 236 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±42 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 5.1 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Tuscaloosa County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Tuscaloosa 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 Tuscaloosa County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Tuscaloosa 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 Tuscaloosa County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Tuscaloosa County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Tuscaloosa 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 Tuscaloosa County AL" or "garden center Tuscaloosa 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 Tuscaloosa County AL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Tuscaloosa 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 Kellerman
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: Lettuce and cilantro "bolt" (go to seed) when days lengthen. Knowing your day-length curve helps you time spring plantings to harvest before the bolting trigger hits. Kellerman's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
Longest Day
14.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.8 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 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.7 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.2 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 14 hr | 7.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.2 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.2 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.8 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Kellerman
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. Kellerman's typical curve helps you plan — but a $5 soil thermometer in the bed beats any average.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from 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 | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 41°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 47°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 58°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 67°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 79°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 86°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 86°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 79°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 72°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 58°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 46°F | 52°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 Kellerman
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: High pest pressure means weekly inspection. Low pest pressure means monthly. The score tells you which routine to set up before you have a problem.
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 | High | 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 | Moderate | 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 Kellerman
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: Cover crops do four things at once: fix nitrogen (legumes), suppress weeds (any), prevent erosion, and add organic matter when chopped down. Kellerman's seasonal pattern determines which species fit which gap.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 29 | Sep 7 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 28 | Sep 14 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 27 | Sep 7 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 19 | Sep 7 | ✓ 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 20 | Oct 12 | — | 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 17 | Mar 8 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 15 | Mar 8 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 22 | Mar 1 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 15 | Mar 8 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 5 | Mar 8 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 6 | Mar 1 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 20 | Mar 1 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Kellerman
Why it matters: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Kellerman's 4.9 mph background level is a baseline you should know before placing the tallest crops (sunflowers, pole beans, sweet corn).
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 9 mph Summer: 6 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 9 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
Moderate
Some terrain variation (515 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Kellerman
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: Even in arid regions, rainwater harvesting works — you just need bigger storage and patience. In wet regions like Kellerman (60" annually), you're mostly limited by how much water you can store between storms.
Annual Collection
26,415 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
Feb, Mar, Jun, Jul
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
May, Sep, 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 53.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 26,415 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
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Kellerman
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Kellerman.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 18 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 8 | — | Aug 31 | May 3 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 29 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 8 | — | Aug 31 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 17 – Jul 5 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 18 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 29 | — | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 29 | — | — | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Apr 5 – Apr 26 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jun 21 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 8 | — | Aug 31 | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 8 | — | Aug 31 | May 3 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 29 | — | — | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 18 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 28 | Dec 28 – Jun 14 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Dec 6 – Dec 20 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 29 | — | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 18 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 18 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Sep 20 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 18 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 10 – Jun 7 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 29 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Jun 21 – Sep 6 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Apr 26 – Jul 5 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 29 | — | — | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 20 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jun 28 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Mar 29 – Apr 26 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Aug 31 | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Apr 26 – May 24 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jun 28 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 3 – May 31 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 8 | — | Aug 31 | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jun 21 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 18 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 8 | — | Aug 31 | Apr 5 – Apr 26 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 8 | — | Aug 31 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 8 | — | Aug 31 | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 29 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 5 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 29 | — | — | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Dec 6 – Dec 20 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 8 | — | Aug 31 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Aug 31 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 29 | — | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jul 12 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Kellerman
27 fruits matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Kellerman.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 25 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jul 12 – Dec 27 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Kellerman
39 herbs matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Kellerman.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Aug 31 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Aug 31 | Jun 14 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Aug 2 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Aug 31 | May 10 – Jun 28 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Aug 31 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Aug 2 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Aug 31 | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Aug 31 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Aug 31 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Aug 31 | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Aug 31 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Aug 31 | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Jul 19 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 21 – Sep 20 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Aug 31 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 21 – Nov 8 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Aug 31 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Aug 2 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Kellerman
54 flowers matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Kellerman.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | May 3 – Oct 4 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 12 | Nov 9 – Nov 30 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Sep 21 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Jul 19 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 1 | Mar 1 | Sep 14 | May 3 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 11 | — | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Oct 18 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Oct 25 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 1 | Mar 1 | Aug 31 | Apr 19 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Nov 9 – Mar 1 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | May 10 – Oct 18 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 22 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | — | May 24 – Oct 18 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Mar 1 | — | May 10 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 12 | Sep 14 – Oct 5 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 12 | Sep 21 – Oct 19 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Nov 15 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Nov 1 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 8 | — | Mar 29 – Jun 7 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Oct 18 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 3 – May 31 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 28 | Oct 19 – Nov 23 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 11 | — | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Oct 18 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 22 | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Nov 15 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 18 | — | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 12 | Oct 5 – Oct 26 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 18 | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Sep 27 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 25 | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Oct 25 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Mar 15 | — | May 3 – Jun 7 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Nov 9 – Mar 1 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Sep 13 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 25 | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 – May 17 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 22 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | May 3 – Sep 20 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | May 3 – Oct 18 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 11 | — | Mar 1 | Aug 31 | Apr 26 – Aug 16 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Mar 22 | — | May 17 – Jun 14 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Jan 25 | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | Apr 26 – Oct 4 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Sep 28 – Oct 26 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 18 | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Oct 25 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 25 | — | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Oct 18 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 11 | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Aug 31 | May 10 – Sep 13 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 1 | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | May 31 – Oct 18 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 8 | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Sep 14 | Apr 12 – Aug 16 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 7 | Nov 16 – Jan 25 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 12 | Sep 28 – Oct 26 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 11 | — | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Oct 18 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | — | May 24 – Oct 18 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Oct 18 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Kellerman
ZIP Codes in Kellerman
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 Tuscaloosa County.
Your Tuscaloosa County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Tuscaloosa County (Zone 8b). 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