Union County, GA — Planting Guide
Union County is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 11 and the first fall frost is October 23, giving you a growing season of approximately 195 days.
At an elevation of 175 ft, Union County receives approximately 61.4 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 93°F with winter lows around 31°F. The predominant soil type is Clay Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 54 days year to year — ranging from March 10 in warm years to May 3 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 2.41 days per decade. Union County scores 49/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 11
🍂 First Frost
October 23
📅 Growing Season
195 days
⛰️ Elevation
175 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
61.4 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 | 6 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.6 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 5.8 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4.5 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| May | 5.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 5.1 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.7 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 6.2 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.8 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.6 in | 6 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4.2 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 5.6 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 61.4 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.
Union County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.8-6.2
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) | May 3 | Nov 19 | 200 days |
| Cautious | Apr 24 | Nov 3 | 193 days |
| Average year | Apr 11 | Oct 23 | 195 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 31 | Oct 17 | 200 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 10 | Oct 8 | 212 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±54 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 2.4 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Union County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Union 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 Union County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Union 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.
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 Union County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Union County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Union 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 Union County GA" or "garden center Union 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 Union County GA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Union 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.
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
14.3 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.7 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 | 9.9 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.7 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.8 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.3 hr | 8.6 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.1 hr | 7.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.1 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.7 hr | 4.5 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 | 41°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 38°F | 46°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 46°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 57°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 69°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 77°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 84°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 88°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 81°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 68°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 54°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 46°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Union County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Low | 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 Union County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 14 | Aug 28 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 16 | Aug 28 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 18 | Aug 14 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 12 | Aug 14 | ✓ 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 | May 10 | Oct 2 | — | 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 22 | Mar 28 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 26 | Mar 21 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 14 | Mar 28 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 7 | Mar 21 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 24 | Mar 21 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 22 | Mar 21 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 18 | Mar 28 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 6 mph
Fall: 7 mph Winter: 10 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 (537 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
30,601 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
Jan, Mar, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, 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 61.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 30,601 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 Union County
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH 5.8–6.2 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (61.4 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
195-day frost-free season
Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
Recommended for Your Garden
Cedar raised bed kit — ideal for poor soil, clay, or small-space gardening.
Improve drainage and aeration in heavy clay soils with horticultural perlite.
Premium blend of topsoil, compost, and perlite formulated for raised beds.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Union County
113 vegetables that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Union County.
Show all 113 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 25 | Aug 29 – Nov 7 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Jun 20 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 25 | Aug 29 – Oct 10 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Jul 4 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Aug 29 – Nov 7 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 – May 16 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 31 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Jun 20 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 25 | Aug 29 – Nov 7 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 4 – Oct 10 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Aug 29 – Nov 7 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jul 11 – Sep 26 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 – May 16 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | May 30 – Jul 25 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 16 – Jun 13 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 23 – Jun 20 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 28 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 28 | — | Apr 25 – May 16 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 28 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 25 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 28 | — | May 9 – Jun 13 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Union County
31 fruits that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Union County.
Show all 31 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 2 | Aug 1 – Nov 14 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 2 | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 2 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 2 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 2 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 2 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 2 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 2 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 2 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 2 | Aug 1 – Dec 12 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Union County
39 herbs that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Union County.
Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Jul 4 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 18 | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | May 30 – Jul 18 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 18 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Jun 6 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 18 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 18 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 18 | Aug 22 – Nov 28 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Jun 6 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 18 | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 18 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 18 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 18 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 18 | Jul 18 – Nov 28 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 18 | Jun 20 – Aug 8 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 18 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 18 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 18 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 18 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 18 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 18 | Jul 11 – Nov 28 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 18 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 18 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 18 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 18 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 18 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 18 | Aug 22 – Nov 28 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 18 | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Union County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Union County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Union County, GA?
Union 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 Union County, GA?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Union County falls around April 11. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 10 and May 3 — a 54-day window of variability. Use May 3 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Union County, GA?
The median first fall frost in Union County arrives around October 23. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 8; in mild years as late as November 19. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Union County?
Union County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 195 days. This is enough time for most warm-season crops including tomatoes, peppers, and squash with proper timing. Climate records show the growing season is trending shorter by about 2.41 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Union County for gardening?
Union County has predominantly Clay Loam soil with a pH range of 5.8–6.2 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Union County?
Union County has commercial agriculture that includes Cotton, Poultry, Peanuts, Pecans. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Union County a good location for home gardening?
Union County scores 49/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Gardening here benefits from close attention to frost timing and season extension due to the challenging microclimate factors.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Union 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.
