Quitman County, MS — Planting Guide
Quitman County is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 20 and the first fall frost is November 5, giving you a growing season of approximately 230 days.
At an elevation of 474 ft, Quitman County receives approximately 56.5 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 92°F with winter lows around 36°F. The predominant soil type is Clay Loam.
Based on 29 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 38 days year to year — ranging from March 3 in warm years to April 10 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 1.28 days per decade. Quitman County scores 60/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 20
🍂 First Frost
November 5
📅 Growing Season
230 days
⛰️ Elevation
474 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
56.5 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 | 4.7 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 5.9 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4.6 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| May | 4.9 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.3 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.8 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.8 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.8 in | 6 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Nov | 4.1 in | 8 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Dec | 4.2 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 56.5 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.
Quitman County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 29 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 10 | Nov 26 | 230 days |
| Cautious | Mar 27 | Nov 13 | 231 days |
| Average year | Mar 20 | Nov 5 | 230 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 11 | Oct 30 | 233 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 3 | Oct 23 | 234 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±38 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 1.3 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Quitman County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Quitman 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 Quitman County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Quitman 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 Quitman County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Quitman County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Quitman 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 Quitman County MS" or "garden center Quitman 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 Quitman County MS" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Quitman 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
14.3 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.7 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 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 7.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.8 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.3 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.1 hr | 7.9 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.2 hr | 5.6 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 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 | 45°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 46°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 54°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 63°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 73°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 82°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 89°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 90°F | 88°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 87°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 75°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 61°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 49°F | 58°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Quitman 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 | High | 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 Quitman 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 26 | Sep 10 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 26 | Sep 10 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 23 | Aug 27 | ✓ 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 8 | Oct 22 | — | 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 24 | Feb 27 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 27 | Mar 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 24 | Mar 6 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 28 | Mar 6 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 9 | Mar 6 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 7 | Feb 27 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 10 | Feb 27 | — | 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: 9 mph Summer: 6 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 9 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Low wind — no windbreak needed for most crops.
Windbreak Benefit
3.3/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (413 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
28,159 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, Jun, Jul
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Oct, Nov, 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 56.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 28,159 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 Quitman County
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH 5.5–6.2 · 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. (56.5 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
230-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 Quitman County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Quitman County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 3 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 3 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – May 29 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 3 | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jun 12 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jul 3 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 – Apr 24 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 6 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – May 29 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 16 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Dec 4 – Dec 18 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 3 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 16 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 12 – Sep 18 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Jun 19 – Sep 4 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jul 3 – Sep 18 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 – Apr 24 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 1 – May 29 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 6 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 16 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 6 | — | Apr 3 – Apr 24 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 6 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 6 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 3 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Dec 4 – Dec 18 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 6 | — | Apr 17 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Quitman County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Quitman County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 10 | Jul 10 – Oct 23 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 10 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 10 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 10 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 10 | Jul 10 – Dec 25 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Quitman County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Quitman County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 27 | Jun 26 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jun 26 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 27 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 27 | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 27 | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 27 | Jul 31 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 27 | Jun 26 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 27 | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 27 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 27 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 27 | Jun 26 – Nov 27 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 27 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 27 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 19 – Sep 18 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 27 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 27 | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 27 | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 27 | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 27 | Jun 19 – Nov 6 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 27 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 27 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 27 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 27 | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 27 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 27 | Jul 31 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 27 | Jun 26 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Quitman County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Quitman County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Quitman County, MS?
Quitman County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. 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 Quitman County, MS?
Based on 29 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Quitman County falls around March 20. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 3 and April 10 — a 38-day window of variability. Use April 10 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Quitman County, MS?
The median first fall frost in Quitman County arrives around November 5. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 23; in mild years as late as November 26. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Quitman County?
Quitman County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 230 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 shorter by about 1.28 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Quitman County for gardening?
Quitman County has predominantly Clay Loam soil with a pH range of 5.5–6.2 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Quitman County?
Quitman County has commercial agriculture that includes Cotton, Peanuts, Poultry, Hay, Corn. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Quitman County a good location for home gardening?
Quitman County scores 60/100 (Good) 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 Quitman County gardeners in Zone 8a 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.
