Clay County, AR — Planting Guide
Clay County is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is March 27 and the first fall frost is November 2, giving you a growing season of approximately 220 days.
At an elevation of 1,448 ft, Clay County receives approximately 54.6 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 90°F with winter lows around 33°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 10 in warm years to April 16 in cold years. Clay County scores 69/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 27
🍂 First Frost
November 2
📅 Growing Season
220 days
⛰️ Elevation
1,448 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
54.6 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 | 4.2 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.9 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 5.7 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4.4 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| May | 4.6 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 5.5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.3 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.6 in | 7 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.5 in | 7 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.9 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 4.2 in | 10 days | — | None |
Annual total: 54.8 in. Gardens typically need ~1 inch of water per week during the growing season. Months marked "None" for extra water are outside the active growing season for your zone — most gardens are dormant and don't need irrigation during those months.
Clay 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 16 | Nov 22 | 220 days |
| Cautious | Apr 5 | Nov 9 | 218 days |
| Average year | Mar 27 | Nov 2 | 220 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 19 | Oct 28 | 223 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 10 | Oct 23 | 227 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.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit longer (0.3 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Clay County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Clay 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 Clay County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Clay 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 Clay County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Clay County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Clay 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 Clay County AR" or "garden center Clay 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 Clay County AR" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Clay 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
14.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.5 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.8 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 | 9.8 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.7 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.9 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.5 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.2 hr | 7.9 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 10 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.5 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 | 35°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 39°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 45°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 56°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 67°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 78°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 82°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 85°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 77°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 67°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 53°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 42°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 Clay 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 | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | 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 Clay County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
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 25 | Mar 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 29 | Mar 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 16 | 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 25 | Mar 6 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 27 | Mar 13 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 26 | Mar 13 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 2 | Aug 31 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 29 | Aug 24 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 2 | Aug 31 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 1 | Aug 31 | ✓ 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 26 | Oct 19 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
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: 9 mph Winter: 8 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 (303 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
27,312 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
Sep, 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 54.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 27,312 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 Clay 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: 1.5/10
Clay County has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.
Season Tips
220-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
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 Clay County
113 vegetables that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Clay County.
Show all 113 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 Clay County
31 fruits that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Clay County.
Show all 31 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 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| 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 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 17 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| 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 – Nov 27 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Clay County
39 herbs that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Clay County.
Show all 39 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 – Nov 13 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 3 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| 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 |
| 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 Clay County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Clay County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Clay County, AR?
Clay 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 Clay County, AR?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Clay County falls around March 27. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 10 and April 16 — a 37-day window of variability. Use April 16 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Clay County, AR?
The median first fall frost in Clay County arrives around November 2. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 23; in mild years as late as November 22. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Clay County?
Clay County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 220 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons.
What is the soil like in Clay County for gardening?
Clay 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 Clay County?
Clay County has commercial agriculture that includes Soybeans, Rice, 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 Clay County a good location for home gardening?
Clay County scores 69/100 (Good) 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 Clay 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.
