George County, MS — Planting Guide
George County is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 3 and the first fall frost is November 25, giving you a growing season of approximately 267 days.
At an elevation of 393 ft, George County receives approximately 54 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 93°F with winter lows around 41°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 51 days year to year — ranging from February 3 in warm years to March 25 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 0.7 days per decade. George County scores 57/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 3
🍂 First Frost
November 25
📅 Growing Season
267 days
⛰️ Elevation
393 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
54 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.6 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 5.6 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.6 in | 7 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.1 in | 9 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.8 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 6.1 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.6 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4 in | 9 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Oct | 2.8 in | 7 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4.2 in | 8 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Dec | 3.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 54 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.
George County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
5.2-5.9
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) | Mar 25 | Dec 17 | 267 days |
| Cautious | Mar 10 | Dec 3 | 268 days |
| Average year | Mar 3 | Nov 25 | 267 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 13 | Nov 17 | 277 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 3 | Nov 10 | 280 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±51 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit longer (0.7 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
George County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in George 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 George County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
George 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.
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 George County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in George County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to George 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 George County MS" or "garden center George 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 George County MS" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "George 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.
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 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.8 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.2 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.8 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 10 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from 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 | 47°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 48°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 55°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 62°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 73°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 84°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 93°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 94°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 87°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 73°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 63°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 50°F | 57°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 George County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
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 | 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 George 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 | Mar 11 | Sep 30 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 9 | Sep 16 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 8 | Sep 23 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 2 | Sep 30 | ✓ 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 | Mar 22 | Nov 11 | — | 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 15 | Feb 17 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 3 | Feb 17 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 8 | Feb 17 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 14 | Feb 10 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 11 | Feb 10 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 24 | Feb 10 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 23 | Feb 10 | — | 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: 10 mph Summer: 6 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 8 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
3.5/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (496 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
26,913 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 54.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 26,913 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 George County
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 5.2–5.9 · Somewhat Poorly Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (54 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
267-day frost-free season
Your long season supports multiple successions and heat-demanding crops like melons, sweet potatoes, and peppers. Plant warm-season crops as soon as soil warms.
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
Retain moisture and nutrients in sandy soils with expanded vermiculite.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in George County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for George County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 17 | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 14 – May 12 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jun 30 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 5 – Jun 16 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 17 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 21 – May 26 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 5 – Jun 16 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 16 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 26 – Jul 7 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 5 – Jun 16 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jul 7 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jun 23 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 – Apr 7 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 5 – Jun 2 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 17 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 14 – May 12 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 10 | — | May 26 – Jul 7 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 30 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 21 – May 26 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 19 – Jun 30 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jun 30 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Nov 17 – Dec 1 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 17 | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 30 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 26 – Sep 1 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 21 – May 19 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 23 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 21 – May 26 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – May 12 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Jun 2 – Aug 18 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 26 – Jul 7 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – Jun 16 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jun 23 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Sep 1 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jun 9 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 26 – Jul 14 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 – Apr 7 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 21 – Jun 16 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – May 5 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 2 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jun 9 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 12 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 17 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 5 – Jun 2 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 23 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 30 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 26 – Aug 4 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 17 | — | Mar 17 – Apr 7 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 19 – Jun 30 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 17 | — | May 12 – Jun 16 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 17 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 28 – Jun 23 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 10 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 5 – Jul 7 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 17 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 26 – Jul 14 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jun 23 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 – May 12 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Nov 17 – Dec 1 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 17 | — | Mar 31 – May 5 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Mar 3 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 26 – Jul 14 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jun 23 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in George County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for George County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 23 – Oct 6 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 23 – Dec 8 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in George County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for George County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | May 26 – Aug 11 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 21 – Jun 9 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 28 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 10 | Jul 14 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 28 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 10 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 10 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Nov 10 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jun 30 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 10 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 2 – Sep 1 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 10 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 10 | Jun 2 – Oct 20 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 10 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 10 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 10 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 27 | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 13 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 10 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 10 | Jul 14 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for George County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in George County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is George County, MS?
George County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. 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 George County, MS?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in George County falls around March 3. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 3 and March 25 — a 51-day window of variability. Use March 25 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in George County, MS?
The median first fall frost in George County arrives around November 25. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 10; in mild years as late as December 17. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in George County?
George County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 267 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 0.7 days per decade.
What is the soil like in George County for gardening?
George County has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 5.2–5.9 and Somewhat Poorly Drained drainage. The native soil conditions make raised beds a particularly good investment here — they let you control drainage and fertility independent of the ground soil.
What is grown commercially in George County?
George County has commercial agriculture that includes Cotton, Peanuts, Poultry. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is George County a good location for home gardening?
George County scores 57/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help George County gardeners in Zone 8b 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.
