Randolph County, AL — Planting Guide
This month in Randolph County, Alabama
Your Randolph County, Alabama garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for May and why each task matters now.
-
Start basil, kale, and lettuce indoors
Bottom-water once the first true leaves appear — it keeps stems dry and knocks back damping-off.
-
Collect carrots, green beans, and kale at their peak
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
Before June arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Randolph County is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 27 and the first fall frost is November 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 219 days.
At an elevation of 151 ft, Randolph County receives approximately 52.8 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 92°F with winter lows around 30°F. The predominant soil type is Clay Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 39 days year to year — ranging from March 8 in warm years to April 17 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 2.49 days per decade. Randolph County scores 54/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 27
🍂 First Frost
November 1
📅 Growing Season
219 days
⛰️ Elevation
151 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
52.8 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 | 3.8 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.4 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.6 in | 8 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.3 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.6 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.7 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.7 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4 in | 9 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.7 in | 6 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 4.3 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 52.7 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.
Randolph County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.8
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 17 | Nov 15 | 212 days |
| Cautious | Apr 7 | Nov 6 | 213 days |
| Average year | Mar 27 | Nov 1 | 219 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 22 | Oct 25 | 217 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 8 | Oct 18 | 224 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±39 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
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
Randolph County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Randolph 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 Randolph County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Randolph 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 Randolph County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Randolph County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Randolph 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 Randolph County AL" or "garden center Randolph 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 Randolph County AL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Randolph 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
14.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.8 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.4 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 | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.7 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.2 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 14 hr | 7.4 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.2 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.2 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.8 hr | 4.7 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 | 37°F | 47°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 40°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 45°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 56°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 69°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 78°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 87°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 89°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 81°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 71°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 57°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 45°F | 51°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 Randolph 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 | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- 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 Randolph County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 2 | Aug 30 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 4 | Sep 6 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 2 | Aug 30 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 28 | Aug 23 | ✓ 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 8 | Oct 18 | — | 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 | Aug 21 | Mar 13 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 27 | Mar 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 13 | Mar 13 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 13 | Mar 13 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 26 | Mar 13 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 23 | Mar 13 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 1 | Mar 6 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 8 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 9 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
2.5/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (480 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
26,265 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, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Apr, Oct
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 52.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 26,265 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 Randolph County
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH 5.2–6.8 · Well 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. (52.8 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
219-day frost-free season
Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 24-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
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 Randolph County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Randolph County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 10 | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jun 5 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 3 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 10 | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jun 19 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 22 – Jul 10 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 – May 1 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 16 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jun 5 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 23 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Dec 11 – Dec 25 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 10 | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 23 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 19 – Sep 25 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 3 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Jun 26 – Sep 11 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jul 10 – Sep 25 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 – May 1 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 1 – May 29 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 13 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 23 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 13 | — | Apr 10 – May 1 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 13 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 13 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 10 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Dec 11 – Dec 25 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 13 | — | Apr 24 – May 29 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Randolph County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Randolph County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 17 | Jul 17 – Oct 30 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 17 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 17 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 17 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 17 | Jul 17 – Jan 1 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Randolph County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Randolph County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jun 19 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 3 | Jul 3 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jul 3 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 3 | Aug 7 – Nov 13 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 3 | Jul 3 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 3 | Jul 3 – Dec 4 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 26 – Sep 25 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 26 – Nov 13 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 3 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 3 | Aug 7 – Nov 13 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 3 | Jul 3 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Randolph County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Randolph County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Randolph County, AL?
Randolph County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Randolph County, AL?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Randolph County falls around March 27. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 8 and April 17 — a 39-day window of variability. Use April 17 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Randolph County, AL?
The median first fall frost in Randolph County arrives around November 1. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 18; in mild years as late as November 15. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Randolph County?
Randolph County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 219 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 2.49 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Randolph County for gardening?
Randolph County has predominantly Clay Loam soil with a pH range of 5.2–6.8 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Randolph County?
Randolph County has commercial agriculture that includes Cotton, Peanuts, Poultry. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Randolph County a good location for home gardening?
Randolph County scores 54/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Your Randolph County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Randolph County (Zone 8a). 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