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Franklin County, MS — Planting Guide

Franklin County, Mississippi Zone 8b June

Your June gardening checklist

June rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Franklin County, Mississippi.

Avg. last frost March 12
Avg. first frost November 13
Soil temp (4") 82°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14 hrs
  1. Start harvesting basil, carrots, and cucumber

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

July will be here before you know it — start on
  • First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans

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Franklin County is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 12 and the first fall frost is November 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 246 days.

At an elevation of 281 ft, Franklin County receives approximately 54 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 93°F with winter lows around 36°F. The predominant soil type is Clay Loam.

Based on 28 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 49 days year to year — ranging from February 19 in warm years to April 8 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 1.61 days per decade. Franklin County scores 56/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

8b (15°F to 20°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

March 12

🍂 First Frost

November 13

📅 Growing Season

246 days

⛰️ Elevation

281 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

54 in

Franklin County, MS Long season
246 days
❄
Last Spring Frost March 12
➔ 246 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost November 13

Monthly Watering Calendar for Franklin County

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

What this means for you: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Franklin County gets 54" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.

1"/wk 0" 1.3" 2.6" 3.9" 5.2" Jan 4.7" Feb 4.6" Mar 5.1" Apr 4.2" May 4.3" Jun 4.4" Jul 5.2" Aug 4.4" Sep 4.1" +0.5" Oct 3.8" Nov 4.5" Dec 4.8"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 4.7 in 10 days — None
Feb 4.6 in 7 days — Low
Mar 5.1 in 11 days — Low
Apr 4.2 in 7 days 0.1 in Low
May 4.3 in 8 days — Low
Jun 4.4 in 11 days — Low
Jul 5.2 in 13 days — Low
Aug 4.4 in 10 days — Low
Sep 4.1 in 7 days 0.2 in Low
Oct 3.8 in 7 days 0.5 in Low
Nov 4.5 in 8 days — Low
Dec 4.8 in 8 days — None

Annual total: 54.1 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.

Franklin County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH

5.6-6.5

Drainage

Well Drained

Frost Risk Probability

Based on 28 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations

Too early frost risk Safe to Plant Mar 12 → Nov 13 246 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: Apr 8 Protect by: Nov 30

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 8 Nov 30 236 days
Cautious Mar 22 Nov 21 244 days
Average year Mar 12 Nov 13 246 days
Optimistic Mar 6 Nov 3 242 days
Aggressive (risky) Feb 19 Oct 25 248 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

Not very — frost dates can vary by ±49 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 longer here (about 1.6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.

Gardening Difficulty Score

56 Moderate
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
5.5/10
Soil Difficulty
1.0/10
Altitude Challenge
0.0/10
Climate Shift
6.4/10
Rainfall Challenge
3.6/10

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

Zone 8b Frost Countdown
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Loading...
Last Frost: Mar 12 First Frost: Nov 13

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

County Extension Office

Franklin County Mississippi State University Extension Extension Office

Phone: 662-325-3935

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 MS →

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 Franklin County

Soil testing Pest identification Gardening workshops
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Franklin County

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Franklin 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 Franklin County MS" or "garden center Franklin 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 Franklin County MS" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Franklin County Gardeners" or "Mississippi 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 Watermelon (harvest ends Jul 23) 113 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Spinach (harvest ends Jun 18) 148 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Sweet Corn (harvest ends Jun 25) 141 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Broccoli (harvest ends Jun 25) 141 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Cabbage (harvest ends Jul 9) 127 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Melon (harvest ends Jul 23) 113 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
Show 6 more succession options
After Squash (Summer) (harvest ends Jul 16) 120 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Carrots (harvest ends Jun 18) 148 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Green Beans (harvest ends Jul 2) 134 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Potatoes (harvest ends Aug 13) 92 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Beets (harvest ends Jun 4) 162 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Cauliflower (harvest ends Jul 9) 127 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d

Sunlight & Day Length in Franklin County

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

For new gardeners: Day length triggers flowering in many crops. Some need short days (sweet potatoes), some long (most flowers), and some are day-neutral (most modern tomatoes). Franklin County's latitude determines which varieties fit your beds.

Longest Day

14 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

10 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

8.5 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 9h 12h 15h 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 10.2 hr 5.2 hr Short day
February 10.9 hr 5.7 hr Short day
March 11.8 hr 6.6 hr Short day
April 12.8 hr 7.4 hr Neutral
May 13.6 hr 8.4 hr Neutral
June 14 hr 8.5 hr Long day
July 13.9 hr 7.7 hr Neutral
August 13.2 hr 7.2 hr Neutral
September 12.2 hr 7.1 hr Neutral
October 11.2 hr 6.8 hr Short day
November 10.4 hr 5.5 hr Short day
December 10 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 Franklin 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. Franklin 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 Apr through Nov.

Best Month to Compost

May

Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.

Active Composting

10 months

Nearly year-round composting.

60°F 70°F 30° 48° 65° 83° 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 46°F 53°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Feb 48°F 51°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Mar 53°F 57°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Apr 63°F 63°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
May 73°F 70°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jun 82°F 79°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 90°F 87°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 90°F 87°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 86°F 85°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 76°F 78°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Nov 63°F 68°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Dec 52°F 57°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks

Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.

Pest & Disease Pressure in Franklin County

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

Why this matters: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Franklin County's pest score is your early-warning system: high score means commit to disease-resistant varieties and accept some crop loss to bugs.

Insect Pest Pressure

7.6 / 10

High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.

Disease Risk

8.5 / 10

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

Seasonal Risk

Spring High
Summer High
Fall High
Winter Low
View 6 common pests in your area
PestRisk LevelPeak 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 High Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Fire ants Low 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 Franklin County

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

Why this matters: Cover crops protect microbial life through winter and summer. Bare soil bakes; covered soil stays cooler, moister, and biologically active. The difference shows up in next year's crops.

Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat Mar 24 Sep 4 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Cowpeas (southern peas) Mar 21 Sep 4 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible
Sorghum-sudan grass Mar 19 Sep 4 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Feb 9 Sep 11 ✓ 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 10 Oct 30 — Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Austrian winter peas Sep 16 Feb 26 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Crimson clover Sep 5 Feb 26 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring
Daikon radish Sep 27 Feb 19 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Aug 22 Feb 19 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Oct 4 Feb 26 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Aug 14 Feb 19 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Aug 4 Feb 26 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Franklin County

Why this matters: Pollinators avoid windy days. Franklin County's 7.1 mph average wind isn't enough to stop bees and butterflies — but plant fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) in protected microclimates and you'll see noticeably better fruit set.

Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.

Seasonal Wind Speed

Spring: 9 mph   Summer: 7 mph

Fall: 9 mph   Winter: 8 mph

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

Windbreak Benefit

3/10

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

Frost Pocket Risk

Moderate

Some terrain variation (579 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.

Rainwater Harvesting in Franklin County

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

What this means for you: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Franklin County's 54" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.

Annual Collection

26,963 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, Dec

Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.

Months to Draw From Storage

Apr, Sep, Oct

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 54.1 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 26,963 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 Franklin County

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH 5.6–6.5 · Moderately Well Drained drainage

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

Watering Needs

Drought stress: 5.5/10

Moderate drought pressure. Drip irrigation and mulching are highly recommended to maintain soil moisture through summer.

Season Tips

246-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 Franklin County

114 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Franklin County.

Show all 114 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 18 – Jul 23 80–100
Amaranth Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 25 – Aug 13 90–120
Artichoke — — Mar 26 — Jul 30 – Oct 8 120–180
Arugula Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Apr 16 – Jun 18 30–50
Asparagus — — Mar 26 — — 730–1095
Beets — Feb 26 — Sep 4 Apr 23 – May 21 50–70
Belgian Endive Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Jul 2 – Aug 27 110–150
Bitter Melon Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 28 – Jul 9 60–90
Black Beans — Mar 19 — — Jun 18 – Aug 6 90–120
Bok Choy Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Apr 23 – May 28 40–60
Broccoli Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 14 – Jun 25 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Apr 23 – May 28 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Jun 11 – Aug 6 90–130
Butternut Squash Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 25 – Jul 30 85–110
Cabbage Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 14 – Jul 9 60–100
Calabash Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 18 – Aug 13 80–120
Cardoon — — Mar 26 — Jul 30 – Sep 10 120–150
Carrots — Feb 26 — Sep 4 Apr 30 – Jun 4 60–80
Cauliflower Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 7 – Jul 9 55–100
Celeriac Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Jun 25 – Jul 30 100–120
Celery Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Jun 4 – Jul 30 80–120
Celtuce Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 14 – Jun 25 60–90
Chard Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 7 – Jun 25 50–60
Chayote Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jul 30 – Oct 8 120–180
Chickpeas Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Jun 4 – Jul 16 80–110
Chicory Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 14 – Jun 25 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 7 – Jun 4 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 18 – Jul 23 80–100
Collard Greens Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 7 – Jul 9 55–75
Corn — Mar 19 — — May 21 – Jul 16 60–100
Cowpeas — Mar 19 — — May 21 – Jul 2 60–90
Cress Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Mar 26 – Apr 16 14–21
Crookneck Squash Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 14 – Jun 11 45–60
Crosne — Feb 26 — Sep 4 Jul 30 – Oct 1 150–200
Cucumber Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 21 – Jul 16 50–70
Daikon — Feb 26 — Sep 4 Apr 23 – May 21 50–70
Delicata Squash Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 18 – Jul 23 80–100
Edamame — Mar 19 — — Jun 4 – Jul 16 75–100
Eggplant Jan 8 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Aug 6 65–85
Endive Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Apr 30 – Jun 4 45–65
Escarole Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 7 – Jun 4 50–70
Fava Beans Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 28 – Jul 9 75–100
Fennel Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 28 – Jul 9 60–90
Garlic — — — Oct 2 Jan 1 – Jun 18 90–240
Ginger Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Nov 26 – Dec 10 240–300
Green Beans — Mar 19 — — May 14 – Jul 9 50–65
Horseradish — — Mar 26 — Jul 30 – Oct 8 120–180
Hot Peppers Jan 8 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Sep 10 70–120
Hubbard Squash Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jul 9 – Aug 13 100–120
Jicama Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jul 30 – Oct 8 120–180
Kabocha Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 25 – Jul 23 85–100
Kai Lan Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Apr 30 – May 28 45–60
Kale Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 7 – Jul 2 50–70
Kidney Beans — Mar 19 — — Jun 18 – Jul 23 85–110
Kohlrabi Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Apr 30 – Jun 4 45–65
Komatsuna Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Apr 16 – May 21 35–50
Leeks Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Jun 11 – Aug 27 90–150
Lentils Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Jun 4 – Jul 16 80–110
Lettuce Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Apr 16 – Jun 25 30–60
Lima Beans — Mar 19 — — May 21 – Jul 2 60–90
Loofah Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jul 9 – Sep 10 100–150
Luffa Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 25 – Sep 10 90–150
Mache Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Apr 23 – May 28 40–60
Malabar Spinach Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 21 – Jun 18 55–70
Melon Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Jul 23 70–100
Microgreens Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Mar 19 – Apr 16 7–21
Mitsuba Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 5 Sep 4 Apr 30 – Jun 25 50–70
Mizuna Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Apr 16 – May 14 30–45
Mustard Greens Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Apr 16 – Jun 18 30–50
Napa Cabbage Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 7 – Jun 11 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 21 – Jun 18 55–70
Okra Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 21 – Jul 16 50–65
Onion Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Jun 11 – Jul 30 90–120
Pac Choi Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Apr 23 – May 21 40–55
Parsnip — Feb 26 — Sep 4 Jun 11 – Jul 23 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 14 – Jun 11 45–60
Peas Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 7 – Jul 2 55–70
Peppers Jan 8 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 28 – Aug 6 60–90
Pole Beans Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 21 – Jul 16 55–70
Potatoes Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Aug 13 70–120
Pumpkin Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 25 – Aug 13 85–120
Purslane Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Apr 23 – May 28 40–60
Radicchio Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 14 – Jun 18 60–80
Radish — Feb 26 — Sep 4 Mar 26 – Apr 16 22–35
Rhubarb — — Apr 2 — — 365–730
Romanesco Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 28 – Jul 9 75–100
Rutabaga — Feb 26 — Sep 4 May 21 – Jun 25 80–100
Salsify — Feb 26 — Sep 4 Jun 11 – Jul 23 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 21 – Jul 16 70–110
Scallions Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 7 – Jun 4 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 28 – Jul 2 60–80
Shallot Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Jun 11 – Jul 30 90–120
Shiso Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 21 – Jul 16 50–70
Snap Peas Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 21 – Jul 16 55–70
Snow Peas Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 May 7 – Jul 2 50–65
Soybeans — Mar 19 — — Jun 11 – Aug 6 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 25 – Jul 23 85–100
Spinach Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Apr 16 – Jun 18 35–50
Squash (Summer) Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 14 – Jul 16 45–65
Squash (Winter) Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 18 – Aug 13 80–120
Sunchoke — — Mar 26 — Jul 16 – Sep 10 110–150
Sweet Corn — Mar 19 — — May 21 – Jul 2 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 25 – Aug 13 90–120
Tatsoi Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Apr 16 – May 21 35–50
Tomatillo Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 28 – Aug 6 60–85
Tomatoes Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 28 – Aug 6 60–85
Turmeric Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Nov 26 – Dec 10 240–300
Turnip — Feb 26 — Sep 4 Apr 9 – May 14 40–60
Watercress Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 12 Sep 4 Apr 23 – May 28 40–60
Watermelon Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 4 – Jul 23 70–100
Wax Beans — Mar 19 — — May 14 – Jul 9 50–65
Winter Melon Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 25 – Aug 13 90–120
Yard Long Beans Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 21 – Jul 2 55–80
Zucchini Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 14 – Jul 9 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Franklin County

27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Franklin County.

Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — Apr 2 — Jul 2 – Oct 15 90–180
Aronia — — Apr 2 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — Apr 2 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — Apr 2 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — Apr 2 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — Apr 2 — Jun 11 – Jul 16 70–90
Che Fruit — — Apr 2 — — 1095–1825
Elderberries — — Apr 2 — — 730–1095
Figs — — Apr 2 — — 730–1825
Goji Berries — — Apr 2 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — Apr 2 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — Apr 2 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — Apr 2 — Jun 11 – Aug 6 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — Apr 2 — — 1095–1825
Honeydew — — Apr 2 — Jun 25 – Aug 6 80–110
Jostaberry — — Apr 2 — — 730–1095
Kiwi — — Apr 2 — — 1095–1825
Loquat — — Apr 2 — — 730–1825
Medlar — — Apr 2 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — Apr 2 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — Apr 2 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — Apr 2 — — 1095–2555
Pomegranate — — Apr 2 — — 730–1095
Quince — — Apr 2 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — Apr 2 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — Apr 2 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — Apr 2 — Jul 2 – Dec 17 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Franklin County

39 herbs that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Franklin County.

Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 5 Sep 4 — 365–730
Anise Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 5 Sep 4 Jun 4 – Aug 20 90–120
Basil Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 21 – Jul 23 50–75
Bee Balm — — Mar 19 — Jun 18 – Sep 3 90–120
Borage Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 5 Sep 4 Apr 30 – Jun 18 50–60
Caraway Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 5 Sep 4 — 365–450
Catnip — — Mar 19 — May 21 – Jul 23 60–80
Chamomile Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 5 Sep 4 May 7 – Jul 16 60–90
Chervil Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 5 Sep 4 Apr 16 – Jun 18 40–60
Chives — — Mar 19 — May 21 – Jul 30 60–90
Cilantro Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 5 Sep 4 Apr 16 – Jun 18 40–60
Comfrey — — Mar 19 — May 21 – Jul 30 60–90
Cumin Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 5 Sep 4 Jun 18 – Aug 20 100–120
Dill Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 5 Sep 4 Apr 16 – Jun 18 40–60
Epazote Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 14 – Jul 9 45–60
Fennel (herb) Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 5 Sep 4 May 7 – Jul 16 60–90
Feverfew — — Mar 19 — Jun 18 – Sep 3 90–120
Garlic Chives — — Mar 19 — May 21 – Jul 30 60–90
Horehound — — Mar 19 — Jun 4 – Jul 30 75–90
Hyssop — — Mar 19 — May 28 – Jul 30 70–90
Lemon Balm — — Mar 19 — May 21 – Jul 9 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — Mar 19 — May 28 – Jul 30 70–90
Lemon Verbena Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 28 – Aug 6 60–90
Lemongrass Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — Jun 11 – Sep 10 75–120
Lovage — — Mar 19 — May 28 – Jul 30 70–90
Marjoram — — Mar 19 — May 21 – Jul 30 60–90
Mint — — Mar 19 — May 21 – Jul 30 60–90
Oregano — — Mar 19 — May 21 – Jul 30 60–90
Parsley Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 5 Sep 4 May 7 – Jul 9 60–80
Rosemary — — Mar 19 — Jun 11 – Oct 29 80–180
Rue — — Mar 19 — May 28 – Jul 30 70–90
Sage — — Mar 19 — Jun 4 – Jul 30 75–90
Savory — — Mar 19 — May 14 – Jul 9 50–70
Sorrel Feb 5 Feb 26 Mar 5 Sep 4 Apr 16 – Jun 18 40–60
Stevia Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 28 – Aug 6 60–90
Tarragon — — Mar 19 — May 21 – Jul 30 60–90
Thai Basil Jan 22 Mar 19 Mar 26 — May 21 – Jul 23 50–75
Thyme — — Mar 19 — May 28 – Jul 30 70–90
Valerian — — Mar 19 — Jul 23 – Oct 29 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Franklin County

54 flowers that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Franklin County.

Show all 54 flowers with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Jan 29 Feb 26 Feb 26 — Apr 23 – Sep 24 60–75
Alliums — — — Oct 16 Nov 13 – Dec 4 28–42
Anemones — — — Sep 18 Sep 25 – Oct 23 90–120
Astilbe Jan 15 — Mar 12 — May 21 – Jul 9 70–100
Bachelor's Button — Jan 22 Feb 19 Sep 18 Apr 23 – Aug 20 60–90
Begonias Jan 1 — Feb 26 — May 7 – Oct 8 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Jan 15 Feb 26 Mar 12 — May 21 – Oct 15 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Jan 15 — Mar 12 — Apr 30 – May 28 60–90
Calendula — Jan 22 Feb 19 Sep 4 Apr 9 – Sep 3 50–70
California Poppy — — — Sep 4 Nov 13 – Mar 5 60–90
Celosia Feb 12 Feb 26 Feb 26 — Apr 30 – Oct 8 60–90
Columbine Jan 15 Mar 12 Mar 12 — Apr 30 – May 28 70–100
Coreopsis Jan 15 Feb 26 Mar 12 — May 14 – Oct 8 60–80
Cosmos Feb 12 Feb 19 Feb 19 — Apr 30 – Oct 1 60–90
Crocus — — — Oct 16 Sep 18 – Oct 9 10–20
Daffodils — — — Oct 16 Sep 25 – Oct 23 20–40
Dahlias Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 12 — May 21 – Nov 5 70–120
Daylily Jan 15 — Mar 12 — May 21 – Oct 22 60–90
Dianthus Jan 15 Jan 22 Jan 29 — Mar 19 – May 28 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Jan 15 Mar 12 Mar 12 — May 21 – Oct 8 70–90
Foxglove Jan 15 Mar 5 Mar 5 — Apr 23 – May 21 80–120
Freesia — — — Oct 2 Oct 23 – Nov 27 84–112
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Jan 29 Feb 26 Feb 26 — May 7 – Oct 22 70–100
Geraniums Jan 1 — Feb 26 — May 7 – Oct 8 70–100
Gladiolus — Mar 12 Mar 12 — May 21 – Nov 5 70–100
Hostas Jan 8 — Mar 12 — May 21 – Sep 24 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Oct 16 Oct 9 – Oct 30 14–28
Hydrangeas Jan 8 — Mar 5 — May 14 – Sep 17 90–150
Impatiens Jan 15 — Mar 5 — May 14 – Oct 15 60–75
Irises — Division Mar 5 — Apr 23 – May 28 60–100
Larkspur — — — Sep 4 Nov 13 – Mar 5 60–90
Lavender Jan 15 — Mar 12 — May 21 – Aug 27 90–120
Lilies — Division Mar 5 — May 14 – Sep 3 70–120
Lobelia Jan 15 — Jan 29 — Mar 26 – May 7 70–80
Lupine Jan 15 Mar 12 Mar 12 — Apr 30 – May 28 75–100
Marigolds Feb 5 Feb 26 Feb 26 — Apr 23 – Sep 10 50–70
Nasturtium Feb 12 Feb 26 Feb 26 — Apr 23 – Oct 8 55–65
Pansy Jan 1 — Feb 19 Sep 4 Apr 16 – Aug 6 70–90
Peonies — Division Mar 12 — May 7 – Jun 4 90–120
Petunia Jan 15 — Mar 5 — May 14 – Oct 1 70–90
Phlox Jan 15 Mar 12 Mar 12 — May 21 – Jul 30 80–110
Portulaca Feb 12 Feb 26 Feb 26 — Apr 16 – Sep 24 50–70
Ranunculus — — — Sep 18 Oct 2 – Oct 30 90–120
Roses Jan 8 — Mar 5 — May 14 – Oct 15 90–180
Salvia Jan 15 — Feb 26 — May 7 – Oct 8 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Jan 15 — Mar 12 — Jul 2 – Sep 24 60–90
Snapdragon Jan 1 Jan 29 Feb 19 Sep 4 Apr 30 – Sep 3 70–100
Sunflower Feb 19 Feb 26 Feb 26 — May 21 – Oct 8 70–100
Sweet Alyssum Jan 29 Jan 29 Feb 19 Sep 18 Apr 2 – Aug 6 45–60
Sweet Pea — — — Sep 11 Nov 20 – Jan 29 65–85
Tulips — — — Oct 16 Oct 2 – Oct 30 15–30
Vinca (Annual) Jan 1 — Feb 26 — May 7 – Oct 8 70–90
Yarrow Jan 15 Feb 26 Mar 12 — May 14 – Oct 8 60–90
Zinnia Feb 12 Feb 26 Feb 26 — May 7 – Oct 8 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for Franklin County