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St. Clair County, AL — Planting Guide

St. Clair County, Alabama Zone 8a June

Your June planting checklist for St. Clair County, Alabama

If you only do a handful of things in the garden this June, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.

Avg. last frost March 27
Avg. first frost November 1
Soil temp (4") 79°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14.2 hrs
  1. Get begonias, geraniums, and pansy seeds going inside

    Give them 6–8 weeks indoors before the last frost and you'll transplant into warm soil with seedlings that are already leaping.

  2. Start harvesting basil, carrots, and cucumber

    Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.

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

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St. Clair 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 211 ft, St. Clair County receives approximately 48.4 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 89°F with winter lows around 32°F. The predominant soil type is Clay Loam.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 38 days year to year — ranging from March 7 in warm years to April 15 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 2.27 days per decade. St. Clair County scores 62/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

8a (10°F to 15°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

March 27

🍂 First Frost

November 1

📅 Growing Season

219 days

⛰️ Elevation

211 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

48.4 in

St. Clair County, AL Long season
219 days
❄
Last Spring Frost March 27
➔ 219 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost November 1

Monthly Watering Calendar for St. Clair County

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: A drip irrigation system pays for itself in 1-2 seasons in any climate. St. Clair County's 48" annual rainfall determines whether you'll run it weekly (dry zones) or maybe just during summer dry spells (wet zones).

1"/wk 0" 1.3" 2.5" 3.8" 5" Jan 3.9" Feb 3.6" Mar 4.3" +0.5" Apr 3.8" +0.6" May 3.7" Jun 4.8" Jul 4.8" Aug 4.4" Sep 4.3" +0.7" Oct 3.6" Nov 3.4" Dec 3.7"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 3.9 in 11 days — None
Feb 3.6 in 9 days — None
Mar 4.3 in 9 days — Low
Apr 3.8 in 6 days 0.5 in Low
May 3.7 in 9 days 0.6 in Moderate
Jun 4.8 in 10 days — Low
Jul 4.8 in 13 days — Low
Aug 4.4 in 11 days — Low
Sep 4.3 in 8 days — Low
Oct 3.6 in 7 days 0.7 in Moderate
Nov 3.4 in 7 days — None
Dec 3.7 in 7 days — None

Annual total: 48.3 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.

St. Clair County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH

5.3-6.8

Drainage

Well Drained

Frost Risk Probability

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

Too early frost risk Safe to Plant Mar 27 → Nov 1 219 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: Apr 15 Protect by: Nov 16

Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.

How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.

Planting Strategy Last Spring Frost First Fall Frost Frost-Free Days
Conservative (safest) Apr 15 Nov 16 215 days
Cautious Apr 2 Nov 7 219 days
Average year Mar 27 Nov 1 219 days
Optimistic Mar 20 Oct 28 222 days
Aggressive (risky) Mar 7 Oct 19 226 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

Not very — frost dates can vary by ±38 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.

🌱
Is the growing season changing?

Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 2.3 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.

Gardening Difficulty Score

62 Good
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
1.5/10
Soil Difficulty
1.0/10
Altitude Challenge
0.0/10
Climate Shift
9.1/10
Rainfall Challenge
1.4/10

St. Clair County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.

Zone 8a Frost Countdown
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Last Frost: Mar 27 First Frost: Nov 1

Local Gardening Help in St. Clair 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 St. Clair County's climate and soil.

County Extension Office

St. Clair County Alabama Cooperative Extension (Auburn / Alabama A&M) Extension Office

Phone: 334-844-4444

Visit Extension Office Website →

Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.

Master Gardener Program

Free gardening help from trained volunteers

Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.

Find Master Gardeners in AL →

Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.

Soil Testing

Available through your extension office

Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.

Request a Soil Test →

Services Available in St. Clair County

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

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to St. Clair 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 St. Clair County AL" or "garden center St. Clair 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 St. Clair County AL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "St. Clair County Gardeners" or "Alabama Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.

What to Plant After Your Harvest

After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.

After Melon (harvest ends Aug 7) 86 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Basil (harvest ends Aug 7) 86 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Cucumber 50-70d Green Beans 50-65d
After Squash (Summer) (harvest ends Jul 31) 93 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Chard (harvest ends Jul 10) 114 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Eggplant (harvest ends Aug 21) 72 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Carrots (harvest ends Jul 3) 121 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
Show 6 more succession options
After Cantaloupe (harvest ends Jul 31) 93 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Broccoli (harvest ends Jul 10) 114 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Sweet Potatoes (harvest ends Aug 28) 65 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Spinach (harvest ends Jul 3) 121 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Lettuce (harvest ends Jul 10) 114 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d Green Beans 50-65d
After Watermelon (harvest ends Aug 7) 86 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d

Sunlight & Day Length in St. Clair County

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

For new gardeners: A 14-hour day in June produces dramatically more photosynthesis than a 10-hour day in November. St. Clair County's seasonal swing determines which crops can pack growth into spring vs. limp through fall.

Longest Day

14.2 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

9.8 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

8.1 hr/day peak (summer)

Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.

14hr 12hr 3h 6h 10h 13h 16h Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Daylight hours (sunrise to sunset) Peak sun hours (direct sunlight after cloud cover) ▪ Gold zone = long day (14+ hr) ▪ Blue zone = short day (<12 hr)

Onion tip: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.

View detailed monthly data
MonthDaylight HoursPeak Sun HoursDay Length
January 10 hr 4.8 hr Short day
February 10.8 hr 5.9 hr Short day
March 11.7 hr 6.2 hr Short day
April 12.8 hr 7.9 hr Neutral
May 13.7 hr 8.1 hr Neutral
June 14.2 hr 8 hr Long day
July 14 hr 7.6 hr Long day
August 13.3 hr 7 hr Neutral
September 12.2 hr 6.8 hr Neutral
October 11.1 hr 7.1 hr Short day
November 10.2 hr 5.7 hr Short day
December 9.8 hr 4.6 hr Short day

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

Soil Temperature & Composting in St. Clair County

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

Why it matters: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. St. Clair County'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.

60°F 70°F 20° 40° 60° 80° 100° Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
4" depth 8" depth - - - 60°F (corn, beans) - - - 70°F (tomatoes, peppers)
View detailed monthly data
MonthSoil 4" DeepSoil 8" DeepCompost ActivityTime to Finish
Jan 38°F 47°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Feb 38°F 46°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Mar 45°F 48°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Apr 57°F 56°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
May 67°F 67°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jun 79°F 74°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 85°F 82°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 86°F 83°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 82°F 81°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 71°F 72°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Nov 54°F 61°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Dec 43°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 St. Clair County

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

Quick context: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. St. Clair County's pest score is your early-warning system: high score means commit to disease-resistant varieties and accept some crop loss to bugs.

Insect Pest Pressure

6.4 / 10

Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.

Disease Risk

8 / 10

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

Seasonal Risk

Spring Moderate
Summer High
Fall Low
Winter Low
View 6 common pests in your area
PestRisk LevelPeak Months
Aphids Moderate Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Japanese beetles Moderate Jun, Jul, Aug
Squash vine borers Moderate May, Jun, Jul
Stink bugs Moderate 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 St. Clair County

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

What this means for you: Cover crops are the experienced gardener's secret weapon. St. Clair County's climate determines which species thrive: clover and vetch in mild winters, cereal rye and Austrian peas in cold ones.

Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat Apr 5 Aug 30 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Cowpeas (southern peas) Apr 1 Aug 30 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible
Sorghum-sudan grass Mar 29 Sep 6 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Mar 2 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 11 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 Sep 9 Mar 6 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Crimson clover Sep 4 Mar 13 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring
Daikon radish Sep 12 Mar 13 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Aug 23 Mar 6 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Oct 3 Mar 13 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Jul 24 Mar 13 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Aug 9 Mar 13 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in St. Clair County

Why this matters: Light wind is good (strengthens stems, aids pollination); strong wind is bad (snaps stems, dries leaves, scatters seeds). St. Clair County averages 8.0 mph. If you garden near coast, ridge, or open plains, you're likely above that — plan for it.

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: 7 mph   Winter: 10 mph

Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.

Windbreak Benefit

2.6/10

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

Frost Pocket Risk

Low

Relatively flat terrain (252 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.

Rainwater Harvesting in St. Clair County

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

For new gardeners: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. St. Clair County's 48" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.

Annual Collection

24,072 gal

Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)

Recommended Setup

6 rain barrels (55 gal each)

For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 250 gal tank.

Legal Status

Unrestricted

Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.

Best Collection Months

Mar, Jun, Jul, Aug

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

Months to Draw From Storage

Feb, Oct, Nov

Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.

Rainwater collection tips for your area
  • Your county receives approximately 48.3 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 24,072 gallons annually
  • Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
  • Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Oct, Nov)
  • Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection

Soil & Growing Conditions in St. Clair County

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH 5.3–6.8 · Moderately Well Drained drainage

Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.

Watering Needs

Drought stress: 1.5/10

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

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 22-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Recommended for Your Garden

📦
Raised Bed Garden Kit $40-120

Cedar raised bed kit — ideal for poor soil, clay, or small-space gardening.

Great for improving heavy clay soil drainage.

⬜
Perlite $10-18

Improve drainage and aeration in heavy clay soils with horticultural perlite.

Great for improving heavy clay soil drainage.

🏗️
Raised Bed Soil Mix $20-45

Premium blend of topsoil, compost, and perlite formulated for raised beds.

Great for improving heavy clay soil drainage.

🥬 Vegetables to Grow in St. Clair County

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

Show all 114 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant 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 Aug 23 May 1 – Jul 3 30–50
Asparagus — — Apr 10 — — 730–1095
Beets — Mar 13 — Aug 23 May 8 – Jun 5 50–70
Belgian Endive Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 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 Aug 23 May 8 – Jun 12 40–60
Broccoli Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 May 29 – Jul 10 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 May 8 – Jun 12 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 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 Aug 23 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 — Aug 23 May 15 – Jun 19 60–80
Cauliflower Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 May 22 – Jul 24 55–100
Celeriac Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 Jul 10 – Aug 14 100–120
Celery Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 Jun 19 – Aug 14 80–120
Celtuce Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 May 29 – Jul 10 60–90
Chard Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 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 Aug 23 Jun 19 – Jul 31 80–110
Chicory Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 May 29 – Jul 10 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 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 Aug 23 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 Aug 23 Apr 10 – May 1 14–21
Crookneck Squash Feb 27 Apr 3 Apr 10 — May 29 – Jun 26 45–60
Crosne — Mar 13 — Aug 23 Aug 14 – Oct 16 150–200
Cucumber Feb 27 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 5 – Jul 31 50–70
Daikon — Mar 13 — Aug 23 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 Aug 23 May 15 – Jun 19 45–65
Escarole Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 May 22 – Jun 19 50–70
Fava Beans Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 Jun 12 – Jul 24 75–100
Fennel Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Jul 24 60–90
Garlic — — — Sep 20 Dec 20 – Jun 6 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 Aug 23 May 15 – Jun 12 45–60
Kale Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 May 22 – Jul 17 50–70
Kidney Beans — Apr 3 — — Jul 3 – Aug 7 85–110
Kohlrabi Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 May 15 – Jun 19 45–65
Komatsuna Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 May 1 – Jun 5 35–50
Leeks Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 Jun 26 – Sep 11 90–150
Lentils Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 Jun 19 – Jul 31 80–110
Lettuce Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 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 Aug 23 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 Aug 23 Apr 3 – May 1 7–21
Mitsuba Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 23 May 15 – Jul 10 50–70
Mizuna Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 May 1 – May 29 30–45
Mustard Greens Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 May 1 – Jul 3 30–50
Napa Cabbage Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 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 Aug 23 Jun 26 – Aug 14 90–120
Pac Choi Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 May 8 – Jun 5 40–55
Parsnip — Mar 13 — Aug 23 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 Aug 23 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 Aug 23 May 8 – Jun 12 40–60
Radicchio Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 May 29 – Jul 3 60–80
Radish — Mar 13 — Aug 23 Apr 10 – May 1 22–35
Rhubarb — — Apr 17 — — 365–730
Romanesco Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 Jun 12 – Jul 24 75–100
Rutabaga — Mar 13 — Aug 23 Jun 5 – Jul 10 80–100
Salsify — Mar 13 — Aug 23 Jun 26 – Aug 7 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 Jun 5 – Jul 31 70–110
Scallions Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 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 Aug 23 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 Aug 23 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 Aug 23 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
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 Aug 23 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 — Aug 23 Apr 24 – May 29 40–60
Watercress Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 23 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 St. Clair County

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

Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant 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 St. Clair County

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

Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 23 — 365–730
Anise Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 23 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 Aug 23 May 15 – Jul 3 50–60
Caraway Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 23 — 365–450
Catnip — — Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Aug 7 60–80
Chamomile Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 23 May 22 – Jul 31 60–90
Chervil Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 23 May 1 – Jul 3 40–60
Chives — — Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Aug 14 60–90
Cilantro Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 23 May 1 – Jul 3 40–60
Comfrey — — Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Aug 14 60–90
Cumin Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 23 Jul 3 – Sep 4 100–120
Dill Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 23 May 1 – Jul 3 40–60
Epazote Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — May 29 – Jul 24 45–60
Fennel (herb) Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 23 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
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 Aug 23 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 Aug 23 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

🌸 Flowers to Grow in St. Clair County

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

Show all 54 flowers with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Feb 13 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 15 – Oct 2 60–75
Alliums — — — Sep 27 Oct 25 – Nov 15 28–42
Anemones — — — Sep 6 Sep 20 – Oct 18 90–120
Astilbe Jan 30 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Jul 24 70–100
Bachelor's Button — Feb 13 Mar 13 Sep 6 May 15 – Aug 28 60–90
Begonias Jan 16 — Mar 20 — May 29 – Oct 16 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Jan 30 Mar 20 Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 23 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Jan 30 — Mar 27 — May 15 – Jun 12 60–90
Calendula — Feb 13 Mar 13 Aug 23 May 1 – Sep 11 50–70
California Poppy — — — Sep 6 Nov 15 – Feb 21 60–90
Celosia Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 22 – Oct 16 60–90
Columbine Jan 30 Mar 27 Mar 27 — May 15 – Jun 12 70–100
Coreopsis Jan 30 Mar 20 Mar 27 — May 29 – Oct 23 60–80
Cosmos Feb 27 Mar 13 Mar 13 — May 22 – Oct 9 60–90
Crocus — — — Oct 4 Sep 6 – Sep 27 10–20
Daffodils — — — Sep 27 Sep 6 – Oct 4 20–40
Dahlias Mar 6 Mar 27 Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Nov 6 70–120
Daylily Jan 30 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 23 60–90
Dianthus Jan 30 Feb 13 Feb 20 — Apr 10 – Jun 26 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Jan 30 Mar 27 Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 23 70–90
Foxglove Jan 30 Mar 27 Mar 27 — May 15 – Jun 12 80–120
Freesia — — — Sep 20 Oct 18 – Nov 15 84–112
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Feb 6 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 29 – Nov 13 70–100
Geraniums Jan 16 — Mar 20 — May 29 – Oct 16 70–100
Gladiolus — Mar 27 Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Nov 6 70–100
Hostas Jan 23 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 9 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Oct 4 Sep 27 – Oct 18 14–28
Hydrangeas Jan 23 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 9 90–150
Impatiens Jan 30 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 23 60–75
Irises — Division Mar 27 — May 15 – Jun 19 60–100
Larkspur — Feb 27 — Aug 23 May 8 – Aug 14 60–90
Lavender Jan 23 — Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Sep 18 90–120
Lilies — Division Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Sep 25 70–120
Lobelia Jan 30 — Feb 20 — Apr 17 – Jun 12 70–80
Lupine Jan 30 Mar 27 Mar 27 — May 15 – Jun 12 75–100
Marigolds Feb 13 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 15 – Sep 18 50–70
Nasturtium Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 15 – Oct 16 55–65
Pansy Jan 16 — Mar 13 Aug 23 May 8 – Aug 14 70–90
Peonies — Division Mar 27 — May 22 – Jun 19 90–120
Petunia Jan 30 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 9 70–90
Phlox Jan 30 Mar 27 Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Aug 14 80–110
Portulaca Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 8 – Oct 2 50–70
Ranunculus — — — Sep 6 Sep 20 – Oct 25 90–120
Roses Jan 23 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 23 90–180
Salvia Jan 30 — Mar 20 — May 29 – Oct 16 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Jan 30 — Mar 27 — Jul 17 – Oct 9 60–90
Snapdragon Jan 16 Feb 20 Mar 13 Aug 23 May 22 – Sep 11 70–100
Sunflower Mar 6 Mar 20 Mar 20 — Jun 12 – Oct 16 70–100
Sweet Alyssum Feb 13 Feb 20 Mar 13 Sep 6 Apr 24 – Aug 14 45–60
Sweet Pea — — — Aug 30 Nov 8 – Jan 31 65–85
Tulips — — — Oct 4 Sep 20 – Oct 18 15–30
Vinca (Annual) Jan 16 — Mar 20 — May 29 – Oct 16 70–90
Yarrow Jan 30 Mar 20 Mar 27 — May 29 – Oct 23 60–90
Zinnia Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 29 – Oct 16 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for St. Clair County