Dare County, NC — Planting Guide
This month in Dare County, North Carolina
Each item below is timed to Dare County, North Carolina's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
-
Indoor seed-starting week for basil, peppers, and pole beans
You're about 28 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
Start harvesting basil, carrots, and cucumber
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
Coming up in June — start thinking about
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Dare County is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 23 and the first fall frost is November 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 243 days.
At an elevation of 787 ft, Dare County receives approximately 51.9 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 92°F with winter lows around 39°F. The predominant soil type is Clay Loam.
Based on 30 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 35 days year to year — ranging from March 6 in warm years to April 11 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 2.9 days per decade. Dare County scores 55/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 23
🍂 First Frost
November 21
📅 Growing Season
243 days
⛰️ Elevation
787 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
51.9 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 | 3.9 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.5 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 5.1 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.5 in | 7 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.2 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.2 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.6 in | 7 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.1 in | 6 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4.2 in | 8 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Dec | 4.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 51.9 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.
Dare County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 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 11 | Dec 12 | 245 days |
| Cautious | Apr 1 | Nov 28 | 241 days |
| Average year | Mar 23 | Nov 21 | 243 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 16 | Nov 11 | 240 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 6 | Nov 2 | 241 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±35 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 longer here (about 2.9 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Dare County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Dare 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 Dare County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Dare County NC State Extension Extension Office
Phone: 919-515-3113
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 Dare County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Dare County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Dare 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 Dare County NC" or "garden center Dare 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 Dare County NC" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Dare County Gardeners" or "North Carolina 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
14.4 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.6 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 | 9.8 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.7 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.9 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.4 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.2 hr | 7.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.1 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.6 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 | 44°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 47°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 53°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 61°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 73°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 83°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 89°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 92°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 84°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 73°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 62°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 Dare 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 Dare 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 29 | Sep 19 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 24 | Sep 19 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 2 | Sep 12 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 25 | Sep 26 | ✓ 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 13 | Oct 24 | — | 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 13 | Mar 9 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 9 | Mar 9 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 5 | Mar 2 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 30 | Mar 2 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 8 | Mar 9 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 31 | Mar 2 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 27 | Mar 2 | — | 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: 8 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (593 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
25,866 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, Jun, Jul, Aug
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 51.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 25,866 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 Dare County
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH 5.3–6.6 · 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. (51.9 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
243-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 24-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.
Recommended for Your Garden
Reduce heat stress and sun scorch in hot climates with UV-stabilized shade cloth.
Cedar raised bed kit — ideal for poor soil, clay, or small-space gardening.
Improve drainage and aeration in heavy clay soils with horticultural perlite.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Dare County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Dare County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 6 | Aug 10 – Oct 19 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 2 | — | Apr 27 – May 25 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 6 | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 2 | — | May 4 – Jun 8 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jul 6 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 – Apr 27 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 2 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 2 | — | Apr 27 – May 25 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Nov 30 – Jan 25 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 6 | Aug 10 – Oct 19 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Sep 14 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Sep 7 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 – Apr 27 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 4 – Jun 1 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 2 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 2 | — | Mar 30 – Apr 20 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 2 | — | May 25 – Jun 29 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 2 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 6 | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Nov 30 – Jan 25 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 2 | — | Apr 13 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Sep 28 – Jan 25 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Dare County
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Dare County.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 6 | Jul 6 – Oct 19 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 6 | Jul 6 – Feb 1 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Dare County
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Dare County.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Jun 15 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jun 29 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 30 | Aug 3 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Nov 30 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | Jun 15 – Sep 14 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 22 – Nov 9 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 30 | Aug 3 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Dare County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Dare County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Dare County, NC?
Dare County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. 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 Dare County, NC?
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Dare County falls around March 23. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 6 and April 11 — a 35-day window of variability. Use April 11 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Dare County, NC?
The median first fall frost in Dare County arrives around November 21. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 2; in mild years as late as December 12. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Dare County?
Dare County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 243 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 2.9 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Dare County for gardening?
Dare County has predominantly Clay Loam soil with a pH range of 5.3–6.6 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Dare County?
Dare County has commercial agriculture that includes Poultry, Tobacco, Soybeans. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Dare County a good location for home gardening?
Dare County scores 55/100 (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.
Your Dare County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Dare County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log