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Dawson County, GA — Planting Guide

Dawson County, Georgia Zone 8a June

Your June gardening checklist

A quick June briefing for Dawson County, Georgia gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.

Avg. last frost March 31
Avg. first frost November 3
Soil temp (4") 78°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14.3 hrs
  1. Start peppers, begonias, and eggplant indoors

    You're about 19 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.

  2. Bring in the basil, carrots, and cucumber

    Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.

Get ahead of July
  • First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans

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Dawson County is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 31 and the first fall frost is November 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 217 days.

At an elevation of 433 ft, Dawson County receives approximately 54.8 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 94°F with winter lows around 29°F. The predominant soil type is Clay Loam.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 46 days year to year — ranging from March 10 in warm years to April 25 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 2 days per decade. Dawson County scores 59/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

8a (10°F to 15°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

March 31

🍂 First Frost

November 3

📅 Growing Season

217 days

⛰️ Elevation

433 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

54.8 in

Dawson County, GA Long season
217 days
❄
Last Spring Frost March 31
➔ 217 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost November 3

Monthly Watering Calendar for Dawson County

When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.

The practical takeaway: Mulch reduces watering needs 30-50% by cutting evaporation. Dawson County's 55" annual rainfall might be enough for vegetables in some months and not in others — a 2-3" mulch layer evens the swing.

1"/wk 0" 1.5" 2.9" 4.4" 5.8" Jan 3.8" Feb 4.5" Mar 4.9" Apr 4.4" May 4.6" Jun 4.6" Jul 5.6" Aug 5.8" Sep 4.5" +0.7" Oct 3.6" Nov 4.6" Dec 3.8"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 3.8 in 9 days — None
Feb 4.5 in 9 days — None
Mar 4.9 in 9 days — Low
Apr 4.4 in 6 days — Low
May 4.6 in 7 days — Low
Jun 4.6 in 10 days — Low
Jul 5.6 in 11 days — Low
Aug 5.8 in 10 days — Low
Sep 4.5 in 9 days — Low
Oct 3.6 in 7 days 0.7 in Moderate
Nov 4.6 in 7 days — None
Dec 3.8 in 8 days — None

Annual total: 54.7 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.

Dawson County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH

5.2-6.3

Drainage

Well Drained

Frost Risk Probability

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

Too early frost risk Safe to Plant Mar 31 → Nov 3 217 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: Apr 25 Protect by: Nov 23

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 25 Nov 23 212 days
Cautious Apr 10 Nov 13 217 days
Average year Mar 31 Nov 3 217 days
Optimistic Mar 23 Oct 23 214 days
Aggressive (risky) Mar 10 Oct 16 220 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

Not very — frost dates can vary by ±46 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.

⚠️
Is the growing season changing?

Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 2 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.

Gardening Difficulty Score

59 Moderate
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
1.5/10
Soil Difficulty
1.0/10
Altitude Challenge
0.0/10
Climate Shift
8.0/10
Rainfall Challenge
3.9/10

Dawson County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.

Zone 8a Frost Countdown
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Loading...
Last Frost: Mar 31 First Frost: Nov 3

Local Gardening Help in Dawson 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 Dawson County's climate and soil.

County Extension Office

Dawson County University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Extension Office

Phone: 706-542-3824

Visit Extension Office Website →

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

Master Gardener Program

Free gardening help from trained volunteers

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

Find Master Gardeners in GA →

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

Soil Testing

Available through your extension office

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

Request a Soil Test →

Services Available in Dawson County

Soil testing Pest identification Master Gardener program Food preservation
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Dawson County

Why Buy Local

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

What to Plant After Your Harvest

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

After Zucchini (harvest ends Jul 28) 98 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d Green Beans 50-65d
After Watermelon (harvest ends Aug 11) 84 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Hot Peppers (harvest ends Sep 29) 35 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Eggplant (harvest ends Aug 25) 70 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Sweet Corn (harvest ends Jul 14) 112 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Tomatoes (harvest ends Aug 25) 70 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
Show 6 more succession options
After Basil (harvest ends Aug 11) 84 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Cucumber 50-70d Green Beans 50-65d
After Spinach (harvest ends Jul 7) 119 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Corn (harvest ends Jul 28) 98 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Green Beans (harvest ends Jul 21) 105 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Cabbage (harvest ends Jul 28) 98 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Potatoes (harvest ends Sep 1) 63 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d

Sunlight & Day Length in Dawson County

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

Why this matters: Plants use day length as their seasonal clock. Some crops flower when days lengthen (most flowers), some when days shorten (chrysanthemums, soybeans). Dawson County's curve is the timing layer beneath everything you grow.

Longest Day

14.3 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

9.7 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

8.4 hr/day peak (summer)

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

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

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

View detailed monthly data
MonthDaylight HoursPeak Sun HoursDay Length
January 9.9 hr 4.7 hr Short day
February 10.8 hr 5.5 hr Short day
March 11.7 hr 6.6 hr Short day
April 12.9 hr 7.9 hr Neutral
May 13.8 hr 8.4 hr Neutral
June 14.3 hr 8 hr Long day
July 14.1 hr 8 hr Long day
August 13.3 hr 7 hr Neutral
September 12.2 hr 7.2 hr Neutral
October 11.1 hr 6.6 hr Short day
November 10.2 hr 5.5 hr Short day
December 9.7 hr 4.6 hr Short day

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

Soil Temperature & Composting in Dawson County

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

Why this matters: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. Dawson County's typical curve helps you plan — but a $5 soil thermometer in the bed beats any average.

Plant Warm Crops When

Soil reaches 60°F+

Soil warm enough from May through Oct.

Best Month to Compost

May

Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.

Active Composting

8 months

Nearly year-round composting.

60°F 70°F 20° 40° 60° 80° 100° Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
4" depth 8" depth - - - 60°F (corn, beans) - - - 70°F (tomatoes, peppers)
View detailed monthly data
MonthSoil 4" DeepSoil 8" DeepCompost ActivityTime to Finish
Jan 37°F 45°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Feb 40°F 45°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Mar 46°F 48°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Apr 59°F 56°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
May 69°F 65°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jun 78°F 74°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 86°F 80°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 89°F 83°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 83°F 81°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 70°F 72°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Nov 58°F 60°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Dec 43°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 Dawson County

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

Why this matters: Pest and disease pressure is the X-factor most beginners under-plan for. Dawson County's climate determines whether you can mostly "plant and see" or whether you need a pest-management routine from the first seedling.

Insect Pest Pressure

6.2 / 10

Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.

Disease Risk

7.2 / 10

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

Seasonal Risk

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

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

The practical takeaway: The "chop and drop" approach to cover crops: cut them down right before flowering, let them lay on the surface as mulch, plant your vegetables through the mulch. Less work, healthier soil.

Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat Apr 2 Sep 8 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Cowpeas (southern peas) Apr 6 Sep 1 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible
Sorghum-sudan grass Apr 7 Sep 1 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Mar 2 Aug 25 ✓ 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 24 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 29 Mar 10 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Crimson clover Sep 5 Mar 10 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring
Daikon radish Sep 14 Mar 10 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Aug 28 Mar 17 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Sep 21 Mar 10 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Aug 14 Mar 17 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Jul 31 Mar 10 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Dawson County

The practical takeaway: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Dawson County's 6.5 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.

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: 10 mph

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

Windbreak Benefit

2.8/10

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

Frost Pocket Risk

Low

Relatively flat terrain (225 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.

Rainwater Harvesting in Dawson County

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

For new gardeners: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Dawson County's 55" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.

Annual Collection

27,262 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

Jan, 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 54.7 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 27,262 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 Dawson County

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH 5.2–6.3 · Moderately Well Drained drainage

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

Watering Needs

Drought stress: 1.5/10

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

Season Tips

217-day frost-free season

Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.

Your Free Printable Garden Planner

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

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Recommended for Your Garden

📦
Raised Bed Garden Kit $40-120

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

Great for improving heavy clay soil drainage.

⬜
Perlite $10-18

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

Great for improving heavy clay soil drainage.

🏗️
Raised Bed Soil Mix $20-45

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

Great for improving heavy clay soil drainage.

🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Dawson County

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

Show all 114 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Mar 3 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jul 7 – Aug 11 80–100
Amaranth Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jul 14 – Sep 1 90–120
Artichoke — — Apr 14 — Aug 18 – Oct 27 120–180
Arugula Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 5 – Jul 7 30–50
Asparagus — — Apr 14 — — 730–1095
Beets — Mar 17 — Aug 25 May 12 – Jun 9 50–70
Belgian Endive Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Jul 21 – Sep 15 110–150
Bitter Melon Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 16 – Jul 28 60–90
Black Beans — Apr 7 — — Jul 7 – Aug 25 90–120
Bok Choy Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 12 – Jun 16 40–60
Broccoli Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Jun 2 – Jul 14 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 12 – Jun 16 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Jun 30 – Aug 25 90–130
Butternut Squash Mar 3 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jul 14 – Aug 18 85–110
Cabbage Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Jun 2 – Jul 28 60–100
Calabash Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jul 7 – Sep 1 80–120
Cardoon — — Apr 14 — Aug 18 – Sep 29 120–150
Carrots — Mar 17 — Aug 25 May 19 – Jun 23 60–80
Cauliflower Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 26 – Jul 28 55–100
Celeriac Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Jul 14 – Aug 18 100–120
Celery Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Jun 23 – Aug 18 80–120
Celtuce Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Jun 2 – Jul 14 60–90
Chard Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 26 – Jul 14 50–60
Chayote Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Aug 18 – Oct 27 120–180
Chickpeas Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Jun 23 – Aug 4 80–110
Chicory Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Jun 2 – Jul 14 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 26 – Jun 23 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jul 7 – Aug 11 80–100
Collard Greens Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 26 – Jul 28 55–75
Corn — Apr 7 — — Jun 9 – Aug 4 60–100
Cowpeas — Apr 7 — — Jun 9 – Jul 21 60–90
Cress Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Apr 14 – May 5 14–21
Crookneck Squash Mar 3 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 2 – Jun 30 45–60
Crosne — Mar 17 — Aug 25 Aug 18 – Oct 20 150–200
Cucumber Mar 3 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 9 – Aug 4 50–70
Daikon — Mar 17 — Aug 25 May 12 – Jun 9 50–70
Delicata Squash Mar 3 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jul 7 – Aug 11 80–100
Edamame — Apr 7 — — Jun 23 – Aug 4 75–100
Eggplant Jan 27 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 23 – Aug 25 65–85
Endive Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 19 – Jun 23 45–65
Escarole Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 26 – Jun 23 50–70
Fava Beans Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Jun 16 – Jul 28 75–100
Fennel Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 16 – Jul 28 60–90
Garlic — — — Sep 22 Dec 22 – Jun 8 90–240
Ginger Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Dec 15 – Dec 29 240–300
Green Beans — Apr 7 — — Jun 2 – Jul 28 50–65
Horseradish — — Apr 14 — Aug 18 – Oct 27 120–180
Hot Peppers Jan 27 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 23 – Sep 29 70–120
Hubbard Squash Mar 3 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jul 28 – Sep 1 100–120
Jicama Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Aug 18 – Oct 27 120–180
Kabocha Mar 3 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jul 14 – Aug 11 85–100
Kai Lan Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 19 – Jun 16 45–60
Kale Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 26 – Jul 21 50–70
Kidney Beans — Apr 7 — — Jul 7 – Aug 11 85–110
Kohlrabi Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 19 – Jun 23 45–65
Komatsuna Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 5 – Jun 9 35–50
Leeks Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Jun 30 – Sep 15 90–150
Lentils Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Jun 23 – Aug 4 80–110
Lettuce Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 5 – Jul 14 30–60
Lima Beans — Apr 7 — — Jun 9 – Jul 21 60–90
Loofah Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jul 28 – Sep 29 100–150
Luffa Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jul 14 – Sep 29 90–150
Mache Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 12 – Jun 16 40–60
Malabar Spinach Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 9 – Jul 7 55–70
Melon Mar 3 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 23 – Aug 11 70–100
Microgreens Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Apr 7 – May 5 7–21
Mitsuba Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 24 Aug 25 May 19 – Jul 14 50–70
Mizuna Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 5 – Jun 2 30–45
Mustard Greens Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 5 – Jul 7 30–50
Napa Cabbage Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 26 – Jun 30 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 9 – Jul 7 55–70
Okra Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 9 – Aug 4 50–65
Onion Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Jun 30 – Aug 18 90–120
Pac Choi Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 12 – Jun 9 40–55
Parsnip — Mar 17 — Aug 25 Jun 30 – Aug 11 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Mar 3 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 2 – Jun 30 45–60
Peas Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 26 – Jul 21 55–70
Peppers Jan 27 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 16 – Aug 25 60–90
Pole Beans Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 9 – Aug 4 55–70
Potatoes Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 23 – Sep 1 70–120
Pumpkin Mar 3 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jul 14 – Sep 1 85–120
Purslane Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 12 – Jun 16 40–60
Radicchio Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Jun 2 – Jul 7 60–80
Radish — Mar 17 — Aug 25 Apr 14 – May 5 22–35
Rhubarb — — Apr 21 — — 365–730
Romanesco Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Jun 16 – Jul 28 75–100
Rutabaga — Mar 17 — Aug 25 Jun 9 – Jul 14 80–100
Salsify — Mar 17 — Aug 25 Jun 30 – Aug 11 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Jun 9 – Aug 4 70–110
Scallions Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 26 – Jun 23 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 16 – Jul 21 60–80
Shallot Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 Jun 30 – Aug 18 90–120
Shiso Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 9 – Aug 4 50–70
Snap Peas Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 9 – Aug 4 55–70
Snow Peas Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 26 – Jul 21 50–65
Soybeans — Apr 7 — — Jun 30 – Aug 25 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Mar 3 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jul 14 – Aug 11 85–100
Spinach Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 5 – Jul 7 35–50
Squash (Summer) Mar 3 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 2 – Aug 4 45–65
Squash (Winter) Mar 3 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jul 7 – Sep 1 80–120
Sunchoke — — Apr 14 — Aug 4 – Sep 29 110–150
Sweet Corn — Apr 7 — — Jun 9 – Jul 21 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jul 14 – Sep 1 90–120
Tatsoi Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 5 – Jun 9 35–50
Tomatillo Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 16 – Aug 25 60–85
Tomatoes Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 16 – Aug 25 60–85
Turmeric Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Dec 15 – Dec 29 240–300
Turnip — Mar 17 — Aug 25 Apr 28 – Jun 2 40–60
Watercress Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 31 Aug 25 May 12 – Jun 16 40–60
Watermelon Mar 3 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 23 – Aug 11 70–100
Wax Beans — Apr 7 — — Jun 2 – Jul 28 50–65
Winter Melon Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jul 14 – Sep 1 90–120
Yard Long Beans Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 9 – Jul 21 55–80
Zucchini Mar 3 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 2 – Jul 28 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Dawson County

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

Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — Apr 21 — Jul 21 – Nov 3 90–180
Aronia — — Apr 21 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — Apr 21 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — Apr 21 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — Apr 21 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Aug 4 70–90
Che Fruit — — Apr 21 — — 1095–1825
Elderberries — — Apr 21 — — 730–1095
Figs — — Apr 21 — — 730–1825
Goji Berries — — Apr 21 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — Apr 21 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — Apr 21 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Aug 25 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — Apr 21 — — 1095–1825
Honeydew — — Apr 21 — Jul 14 – Aug 25 80–110
Jostaberry — — Apr 21 — — 730–1095
Kiwi — — Apr 21 — — 1095–1825
Loquat — — Apr 21 — — 730–1825
Medlar — — Apr 21 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — Apr 21 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — Apr 21 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — Apr 21 — — 1095–2555
Pomegranate — — Apr 21 — — 730–1095
Quince — — Apr 21 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — Apr 21 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — Apr 21 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — Apr 21 — Jul 21 – Jan 5 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Dawson County

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

Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 24 Aug 25 — 365–730
Anise Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 24 Aug 25 Jun 23 – Sep 8 90–120
Basil Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 9 – Aug 11 50–75
Bee Balm — — Apr 7 — Jul 7 – Sep 22 90–120
Borage Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 24 Aug 25 May 19 – Jul 7 50–60
Caraway Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 24 Aug 25 — 365–450
Catnip — — Apr 7 — Jun 9 – Aug 11 60–80
Chamomile Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 24 Aug 25 May 26 – Aug 4 60–90
Chervil Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 24 Aug 25 May 5 – Jul 7 40–60
Chives — — Apr 7 — Jun 9 – Aug 18 60–90
Cilantro Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 24 Aug 25 May 5 – Jul 7 40–60
Comfrey — — Apr 7 — Jun 9 – Aug 18 60–90
Cumin Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 24 Aug 25 Jul 7 – Sep 8 100–120
Dill Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 24 Aug 25 May 5 – Jul 7 40–60
Epazote Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 2 – Jul 28 45–60
Fennel (herb) Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 24 Aug 25 May 26 – Aug 4 60–90
Feverfew — — Apr 7 — Jul 7 – Sep 22 90–120
Garlic Chives — — Apr 7 — Jun 9 – Aug 18 60–90
Horehound — — Apr 7 — Jun 23 – Aug 18 75–90
Hyssop — — Apr 7 — Jun 16 – Aug 18 70–90
Lemon Balm — — Apr 7 — Jun 9 – Jul 28 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — Apr 7 — Jun 16 – Aug 18 70–90
Lemon Verbena Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 16 – Aug 25 60–90
Lemongrass Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 30 – Sep 29 75–120
Lovage — — Apr 7 — Jun 16 – Aug 18 70–90
Marjoram — — Apr 7 — Jun 9 – Aug 18 60–90
Mint — — Apr 7 — Jun 9 – Aug 18 60–90
Oregano — — Apr 7 — Jun 9 – Aug 18 60–90
Parsley Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 24 Aug 25 May 26 – Jul 28 60–80
Rosemary — — Apr 7 — Jun 30 – Nov 17 80–180
Rue — — Apr 7 — Jun 16 – Aug 18 70–90
Sage — — Apr 7 — Jun 23 – Aug 18 75–90
Savory — — Apr 7 — Jun 2 – Jul 28 50–70
Sorrel Feb 24 Mar 17 Mar 24 Aug 25 May 5 – Jul 7 40–60
Stevia Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 16 – Aug 25 60–90
Tarragon — — Apr 7 — Jun 9 – Aug 18 60–90
Thai Basil Feb 10 Apr 7 Apr 14 — Jun 9 – Aug 11 50–75
Thyme — — Apr 7 — Jun 16 – Aug 18 70–90
Valerian — — Apr 7 — Aug 11 – Nov 17 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Dawson County

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

Show all 54 flowers with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Feb 17 Mar 24 Mar 24 — May 19 – Oct 6 60–75
Alliums — — — Sep 29 Oct 27 – Nov 17 28–42
Anemones — — — Sep 8 Sep 22 – Oct 20 90–120
Astilbe Feb 3 — Mar 31 — Jun 9 – Jul 28 70–100
Bachelor's Button — Feb 17 Mar 17 Sep 8 May 19 – Sep 1 60–90
Begonias Jan 20 — Mar 24 — Jun 2 – Oct 20 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Feb 3 Mar 24 Mar 31 — Jun 9 – Oct 27 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Feb 3 — Mar 31 — May 19 – Jun 16 60–90
Calendula — Feb 17 Mar 17 Aug 25 May 5 – Sep 15 50–70
California Poppy — — — Sep 8 Nov 17 – Feb 23 60–90
Celosia Mar 3 Mar 24 Mar 24 — May 26 – Oct 20 60–90
Columbine Feb 3 Mar 31 Mar 31 — May 19 – Jun 16 70–100
Coreopsis Feb 3 Mar 24 Mar 31 — Jun 2 – Oct 27 60–80
Cosmos Mar 3 Mar 17 Mar 17 — May 26 – Oct 13 60–90
Crocus — — — Oct 6 Sep 8 – Sep 29 10–20
Daffodils — — — Sep 29 Sep 8 – Oct 6 20–40
Dahlias Mar 10 Mar 31 Mar 31 — Jun 9 – Nov 10 70–120
Daylily Feb 3 — Mar 31 — Jun 9 – Oct 27 60–90
Dianthus Feb 3 Feb 17 Feb 24 — Apr 14 – Jun 30 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Feb 3 Mar 31 Mar 31 — Jun 9 – Oct 27 70–90
Foxglove Feb 3 Mar 31 Mar 31 — May 19 – Jun 16 80–120
Freesia — — — Sep 22 Oct 20 – Nov 17 84–112
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Feb 10 Mar 24 Mar 24 — Jun 2 – Nov 17 70–100
Geraniums Jan 20 — Mar 24 — Jun 2 – Oct 20 70–100
Gladiolus — Mar 31 Mar 31 — Jun 9 – Nov 10 70–100
Hostas Jan 27 — Mar 31 — Jun 9 – Oct 13 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Oct 6 Sep 29 – Oct 20 14–28
Hydrangeas Jan 27 — Mar 31 — Jun 9 – Oct 13 90–150
Impatiens Feb 3 — Mar 31 — Jun 9 – Oct 27 60–75
Irises — Division Mar 31 — May 19 – Jun 23 60–100
Larkspur — Mar 3 — Aug 25 May 12 – Aug 18 60–90
Lavender Jan 27 — Apr 7 — Jun 16 – Sep 22 90–120
Lilies — Division Mar 31 — Jun 9 – Sep 29 70–120
Lobelia Feb 3 — Feb 24 — Apr 21 – Jun 16 70–80
Lupine Feb 3 Mar 31 Mar 31 — May 19 – Jun 16 75–100
Marigolds Feb 17 Mar 24 Mar 24 — May 19 – Sep 22 50–70
Nasturtium Mar 3 Mar 24 Mar 24 — May 19 – Oct 20 55–65
Pansy Jan 20 — Mar 17 Aug 25 May 12 – Aug 18 70–90
Peonies — Division Mar 31 — May 26 – Jun 23 90–120
Petunia Feb 3 — Mar 31 — Jun 9 – Oct 13 70–90
Phlox Feb 3 Mar 31 Mar 31 — Jun 9 – Aug 18 80–110
Portulaca Mar 3 Mar 24 Mar 24 — May 12 – Oct 6 50–70
Ranunculus — — — Sep 8 Sep 22 – Oct 27 90–120
Roses Jan 27 — Mar 31 — Jun 9 – Oct 27 90–180
Salvia Feb 3 — Mar 24 — Jun 2 – Oct 20 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Feb 3 — Mar 31 — Jul 21 – Oct 13 60–90
Snapdragon Jan 20 Feb 24 Mar 17 Aug 25 May 26 – Sep 15 70–100
Sunflower Mar 10 Mar 24 Mar 24 — Jun 16 – Oct 20 70–100
Sweet Alyssum Feb 17 Feb 24 Mar 17 Sep 8 Apr 28 – Aug 18 45–60
Sweet Pea — — — Sep 1 Nov 10 – Feb 2 65–85
Tulips — — — Oct 6 Sep 22 – Oct 20 15–30
Vinca (Annual) Jan 20 — Mar 24 — Jun 2 – Oct 20 70–90
Yarrow Feb 3 Mar 24 Mar 31 — Jun 2 – Oct 27 60–90
Zinnia Mar 3 Mar 24 Mar 24 — Jun 2 – Oct 20 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for Dawson County