Stephens, AR — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June gardening checklist
Here's what deserves your attention in Ouachita County, Arkansas this month. Everything below is tailored to Zone 8a and timed around your local frost dates.
-
Sow begonias, geraniums, and pansy in trays indoors
These need a head start before your last frost (March 23). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
Looking ahead to July
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Stephens gardens in a wet, humid climate (53" annually). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive in spring and fall. The biggest challenges are fungal disease and humidity-loving pests in summer — leaf spot, blight, squash bugs, vine borers. Drip irrigation (not overhead), wide plant spacing for air circulation, and disease-resistant varieties make the difference.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Stephens averages 20.9 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 23
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 3
📅 Growing Season
225 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 52.5" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 5.4 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
20.9 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Stephens
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: Mulch reduces watering needs 30-50% by cutting evaporation. Stephens's 53" annual rainfall might be enough for vegetables in some months and not in others — a 2-3" mulch layer evens the swing.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.2 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 4.4 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.1 in | 8 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Jun | 3.9 in | 12 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jul | 5.6 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.8 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.1 in | 7 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.4 in | 7 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4 in | 7 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Dec | 3.4 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 48.7 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Stephens Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.6-7.1
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 14 | Nov 24 | 224 days |
| Cautious | Apr 4 | Nov 13 | 223 days |
| Average year | Mar 23 | Nov 3 | 225 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 13 | Oct 29 | 230 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 4 | Oct 19 | 229 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±40 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Ouachita County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Ouachita 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 Ouachita County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Ouachita 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 Ouachita County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Ouachita County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Ouachita 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 Ouachita County AR" or "garden center Ouachita 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 Ouachita County AR" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Ouachita 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 in Stephens
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: The longest day at Stephens's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.
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 | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.7 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.2 hr | 8.6 hr | Long day |
| July | 14 hr | 7.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.2 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.8 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Stephens
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Air temperature lies. Your air can be 70°F in April but the soil 4 inches down is still 50°F — too cold for tomatoes or peppers to root properly. Stephens's soil temperature curve tells you the real planting window. A $5 soil thermometer pays for itself in one season.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
9 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 46°F | 54°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 45°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 52°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 62°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 73°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 81°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 92°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 92°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 87°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 76°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 62°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 49°F | 58°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 Stephens
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Pest score isn't pass/fail. It's a planning input. Higher scores mean: more compost (resilient plants), wider spacing (air circulation), resistant varieties (built-in defense), and inspection (catch issues at egg stage).
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
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 | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | Moderate | 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 Stephens
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: A fall-planted cover crop in Stephens is the closest thing to free soil amendment. Plant cereal rye or hairy vetch after harvest; chop it down before it flowers in spring; the soil it leaves behind out-grows any store-bought compost.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 2 | Sep 1 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 31 | Sep 1 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 26 | Sep 8 | ✓ 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 20 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 25 | Mar 9 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 27 | Mar 9 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 21 | Mar 9 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 20 | Mar 2 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 19 | Mar 9 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 25 | Mar 2 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 3 | Mar 9 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Stephens
Quick context: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Stephens's 5.4 mph background level is a baseline you should know before placing the tallest crops (sunflowers, pole beans, sweet corn).
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 9 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 7 mph Winter: 9 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
2.9/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (571 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Stephens
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: Even in arid regions, rainwater harvesting works — you just need bigger storage and patience. In wet regions like Stephens (53" annually), you're mostly limited by how much water you can store between storms.
Annual Collection
24,272 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
Jan, Mar, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, Oct, Dec
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 48.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 24,272 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Apr, Oct, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Stephens
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Stephens.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 6 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 19 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 9 | — | Aug 25 | May 4 – Jun 1 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 30 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 6 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 9 | — | Aug 25 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jul 6 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 19 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 30 | — | — | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 30 | — | — | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Apr 6 – Apr 27 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 9 | — | Aug 25 | Aug 10 – Oct 12 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 9 | — | Aug 25 | May 4 – Jun 1 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 30 | — | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 19 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Dec 22 – Jun 8 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Dec 7 – Dec 21 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 30 | — | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 6 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 19 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 19 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Sep 21 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 19 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 30 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Jun 22 – Sep 7 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 30 | — | — | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Mar 30 – Apr 27 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Aug 25 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 4 – Jun 1 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 9 | — | Aug 25 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 19 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 9 | — | Aug 25 | Apr 6 – Apr 27 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 9 | — | Aug 25 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 9 | — | Aug 25 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 30 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jul 27 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 6 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 30 | — | — | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Dec 7 – Dec 21 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 9 | — | Aug 25 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Aug 25 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 30 | — | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Stephens
27 fruits matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Stephens.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 26 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 13 – Dec 28 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Stephens
39 herbs matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Stephens.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Aug 25 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Aug 25 | Jun 15 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Aug 25 | May 11 – Jun 29 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Aug 25 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Aug 25 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Aug 25 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Aug 25 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Aug 25 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 21 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 22 – Nov 9 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Aug 25 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Stephens
54 flowers matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Stephens.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 9 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 11 – Sep 28 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Oct 27 – Nov 17 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 26 | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 9 | Mar 9 | Sep 8 | May 11 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 12 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 26 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 19 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 26 | — | Mar 23 | — | May 11 – Jun 8 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 9 | Mar 9 | Aug 25 | Apr 27 – Sep 7 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Nov 17 – Feb 23 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 18 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 23 | — | May 11 – Jun 8 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 26 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Oct 19 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Sep 8 – Sep 29 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Sep 8 – Oct 6 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Nov 2 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 26 | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 26 | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | — | Apr 6 – Jun 22 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 23 | — | May 11 – Jun 8 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Oct 20 – Nov 17 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 2 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Nov 9 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 12 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 23 | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Nov 2 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 19 | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Sep 29 – Oct 20 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 19 | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 5 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 26 | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 19 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Mar 23 | — | May 11 – Jun 15 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Feb 23 | — | Aug 25 | May 4 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 19 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Sep 21 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 26 | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 13 – Jun 8 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 23 | — | May 11 – Jun 8 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 9 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 11 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 11 – Oct 12 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 12 | — | Mar 9 | Aug 25 | May 4 – Aug 10 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Mar 23 | — | May 18 – Jun 15 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Jan 26 | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 4 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Sep 22 – Oct 27 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 19 | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 19 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 26 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 26 | — | Mar 23 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 12 | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Sep 7 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 9 | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Sep 8 | Apr 20 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 1 | Nov 10 – Feb 2 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 12 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 26 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Oct 12 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Stephens
ZIP Codes in Stephens
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Ouachita County.
Your Ouachita County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Ouachita 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