Bradley County, AR — Planting Guide
What to do in May
A quick May briefing for Bradley County, Arkansas gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
-
Time to start basil, peppers, and pole beans inside
Starting these indoors now means sturdy transplants ready the moment your soil warms up.
-
Pick basil, carrots, and cucumber
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
June prep starts now
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Bradley County is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 22 and the first fall frost is November 4, giving you a growing season of approximately 227 days.
At an elevation of 614 ft, Bradley County receives approximately 51.6 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 91°F with winter lows around 35°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 37 days year to year — ranging from March 3 in warm years to April 9 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 3.18 days per decade. Bradley County scores 55/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 22
🍂 First Frost
November 4
📅 Growing Season
227 days
⛰️ Elevation
614 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 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.7 in | 8 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 5.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4.1 in | 9 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| May | 4.4 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.9 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.6 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.4 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.1 in | 7 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.4 in | 7 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Dec | 4.6 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.
Bradley County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.7
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 9 | Nov 25 | 230 days |
| Cautious | Apr 1 | Nov 12 | 225 days |
| Average year | Mar 22 | Nov 4 | 227 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 13 | Oct 29 | 230 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 3 | Oct 22 | 233 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±37 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 3.2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Bradley County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Bradley 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 Bradley County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Bradley County University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Extension Extension Office
Phone: 501-671-2000
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 Bradley County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Bradley County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Bradley 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 Bradley County AR" or "garden center Bradley 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 Bradley County AR" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Bradley County Gardeners" or "Arkansas 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
8.7 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 | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.7 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.2 hr | 8 hr | Long day |
| July | 14 hr | 7.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.2 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 6.7 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 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 Apr through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
10 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 44°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 45°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 54°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 63°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 73°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 83°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 89°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 90°F | 88°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 87°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 73°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 59°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 52°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Bradley 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, Nov |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | High | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Bradley 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 3 | Sep 2 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 22 | Sep 2 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 22 | Sep 2 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 20 | Sep 2 | ✓ 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 15 | Oct 14 | — | 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 3 | Mar 8 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 24 | Mar 1 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 25 | Mar 8 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 19 | Mar 8 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 6 | Mar 8 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 12 | Mar 8 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 28 | Mar 8 | — | 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: 7 mph
Fall: 7 mph Winter: 9 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Low wind — no windbreak needed for most crops.
Windbreak Benefit
3.2/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (242 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
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 500 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 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 Bradley County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 5.3–6.7 · Moderately 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. (51.6 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
227-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
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Bradley County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Bradley County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | 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 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 8 | — | May 3 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | 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 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | 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 | 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 | — | May 10 – Jun 14 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | 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 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | 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 | 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 | Apr 5 – Apr 26 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 8 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 8 | — | 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 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 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 | May 10 – Jun 7 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Jun 21 – Sep 6 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | 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 | 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 | Mar 29 – Apr 26 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Apr 26 – May 24 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | 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 | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 3 – May 31 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 8 | — | 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 | 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 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 8 | — | Apr 5 – Apr 26 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 8 | — | May 31 – Jul 5 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 8 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 |
| Sunflower | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 70–100 |
| 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 | 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 | — | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | 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 Bradley County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Bradley County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | 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 Bradley County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Bradley County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | 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 | May 10 – Jun 28 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 29 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 29 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 29 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 29 | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | 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 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Nov 29 | 90–200 |
| 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 | 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 | 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 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Bradley County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Bradley County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Bradley County, AR?
Bradley 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 Bradley County, AR?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Bradley County falls around March 22. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 3 and April 9 — a 37-day window of variability. Use April 9 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Bradley County, AR?
The median first fall frost in Bradley County arrives around November 4. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 22; in mild years as late as November 25. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Bradley County?
Bradley County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 227 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 3.18 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Bradley County for gardening?
Bradley County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 5.3–6.7 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Bradley County?
Bradley County has commercial agriculture that includes Rice, Soybeans, Poultry, Cotton. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Bradley County a good location for home gardening?
Bradley County scores 55/100 (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 Bradley County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Bradley 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