Walker County, AL — Planting Guide
Walker County is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is March 30 and the first fall frost is November 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 218 days.
At an elevation of 129 ft, Walker County receives approximately 51.6 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 88°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 11 in warm years to April 19 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 3.85 days per decade. Walker County scores 58/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 30
🍂 First Frost
November 3
📅 Growing Season
218 days
⛰️ Elevation
129 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
51.6 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.3 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.8 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4 in | 8 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| May | 4.6 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.2 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.5 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.7 in | 7 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.9 in | 6 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4.1 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 51.6 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.
Walker County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 19 | Nov 23 | 218 days |
| Cautious | Apr 11 | Nov 13 | 216 days |
| Average year | Mar 30 | Nov 3 | 218 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 22 | Oct 26 | 218 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 11 | Oct 19 | 222 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 3.9 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Walker County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Walker 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 Walker County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Walker 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 Walker County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Walker County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Walker 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 Walker County AL" or "garden center Walker 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 Walker County AL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Walker 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
8.6 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 | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.8 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.2 hr | 8.6 hr | Long day |
| July | 14 hr | 7.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 6.9 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 | 39°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 37°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 46°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 58°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 70°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 78°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 86°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 89°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 80°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 68°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 57°F | 61°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 Walker County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | 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 Walker 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 7 | Sep 8 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 5 | Sep 8 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 7 | Aug 25 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 1 | Sep 1 | ✓ 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 14 | Oct 6 | — | 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 1 | Mar 9 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 26 | Mar 16 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 10 | Mar 9 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 15 | Mar 16 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 30 | Mar 9 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 14 | Mar 16 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 29 | Mar 16 | — | 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: 9 mph Summer: 6 mph
Fall: 7 mph Winter: 8 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Low wind — no windbreak needed for most crops.
Windbreak Benefit
2.9/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (576 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
25,717 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, May, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, 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 51.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 25,717 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 Walker County
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH 5.5–6.3 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 1.5/10
Walker County has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.
Season Tips
218-day frost-free season
Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
Recommended for Your Garden
Cedar raised bed kit — ideal for poor soil, clay, or small-space gardening.
Improve drainage and aeration in heavy clay soils with horticultural perlite.
Premium blend of topsoil, compost, and perlite formulated for raised beds.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Walker County
113 vegetables that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Walker County.
Show all 113 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 13 | Aug 17 – Oct 26 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 13 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 16 | — | May 11 – Jun 8 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 6 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 13 | Aug 17 – Sep 28 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 16 | — | May 18 – Jun 22 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 13 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Aug 17 – Oct 26 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 – May 4 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 16 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 19 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 16 | — | May 11 – Jun 8 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 26 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 13 | Aug 17 – Oct 26 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 26 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 22 – Sep 28 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Aug 17 – Oct 26 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 6 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 – May 4 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 4 – Jun 1 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 16 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 26 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 16 | — | Apr 13 – May 4 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 16 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 16 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 13 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 16 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Walker County
31 fruits that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Walker County.
Show all 31 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 20 | Jul 20 – Nov 2 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 20 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 20 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 20 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 20 | Jul 20 – Nov 30 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Walker County
39 herbs that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Walker County.
Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 6 | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jul 6 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 6 | Aug 10 – Nov 16 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 6 | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 6 | Jul 6 – Nov 16 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 29 – Nov 16 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 6 | Aug 10 – Nov 16 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 6 | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Walker County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Walker County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Walker County, AL?
Walker County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Walker County, AL?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Walker County falls around March 30. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 11 and April 19 — a 39-day window of variability. Use April 19 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Walker County, AL?
The median first fall frost in Walker County arrives around November 3. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 19; in mild years as late as November 23. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Walker County?
Walker County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 218 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 3.85 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Walker County for gardening?
Walker County has predominantly Clay Loam soil with a pH range of 5.5–6.3 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. The native soil conditions make raised beds a particularly good investment here — they let you control drainage and fertility independent of the ground soil.
What is grown commercially in Walker County?
Walker County has commercial agriculture that includes Poultry, Cotton, Peanuts, Soybeans, Hay. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Walker County a good location for home gardening?
Walker County scores 58/100 (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.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Walker County gardeners in Zone 7a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.
