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Johnston County, NC — Planting Guide

Johnston County, North Carolina Zone 8a June

Top priorities for Johnston County, North Carolina gardeners in June

Each item below is timed to Johnston County, North Carolina's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.

Avg. last frost April 3
Avg. first frost November 3
Soil temp (4") 78°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14.4 hrs
  1. Sow peppers, begonias, and eggplant in trays indoors

    Starting these indoors now means sturdy transplants ready the moment your soil warms up.

  2. Harvest basil, carrots, and cucumber as they ripen

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

To set up a strong July, finish these tasks
  • First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Johnston County is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is April 3 and the first fall frost is November 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 214 days.

At an elevation of 1,120 ft, Johnston County receives approximately 49.4 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 92°F with winter lows around 32°F. The predominant soil type is Clay Loam.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 43 days year to year — ranging from March 16 in warm years to April 28 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 1.98 days per decade. Johnston County scores 54/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

8a (10°F to 15°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

April 3

🍂 First Frost

November 3

📅 Growing Season

214 days

⛰️ Elevation

1,120 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

49.4 in

Johnston County, NC Long season
214 days
❄
Last Spring Frost April 3
➔ 214 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost November 3

Monthly Watering Calendar for Johnston 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: Mulch reduces watering needs 30-50% by cutting evaporation. Johnston County's 49" annual rainfall might be enough for vegetables in some months and not in others — a 2-3" mulch layer evens the swing.

1"/wk 0" 1.3" 2.7" 4" 5.3" Jan 4.4" Feb 4.4" Mar 5.3" Apr 4.1" +1" May 3.3" Jun 4.4" Jul 4.4" Aug 4.1" Sep 4.2" +1.6" Oct 2.7" Nov 3.9" Dec 4.2"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 4.4 in 11 days — None
Feb 4.4 in 9 days — None
Mar 5.3 in 8 days — Low
Apr 4.1 in 8 days 0.2 in Low
May 3.3 in 8 days 1 in Moderate
Jun 4.4 in 11 days — Low
Jul 4.4 in 11 days — Low
Aug 4.1 in 10 days 0.2 in Low
Sep 4.2 in 7 days 0.1 in Low
Oct 2.7 in 6 days 1.6 in High
Nov 3.9 in 7 days — None
Dec 4.2 in 9 days — None

Annual total: 49.4 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.

Johnston County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH

5.6-6.7

Drainage

Well Drained

Frost Risk Probability

Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations

Too early frost risk Safe to Plant Apr 3 → Nov 3 214 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: Apr 28 Protect by: Nov 17

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 28 Nov 17 203 days
Cautious Apr 10 Nov 8 212 days
Average year Apr 3 Nov 3 214 days
Optimistic Mar 27 Oct 27 214 days
Aggressive (risky) Mar 16 Oct 14 212 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

Not very — frost dates can vary by ±43 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 2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.

Gardening Difficulty Score

54 Moderate
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
3.5/10
Soil Difficulty
4.0/10
Altitude Challenge
0.2/10
Climate Shift
7.9/10
Rainfall Challenge
1.8/10

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

Zone 8a Frost Countdown
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Loading...
Last Frost: Apr 3 First Frost: Nov 3

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

County Extension Office

Johnston 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.

Find Master Gardeners in NC →

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 Johnston County

Soil testing Pest identification Master Gardener program
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Johnston County

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Johnston 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 Johnston County NC" or "garden center Johnston 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 Johnston County NC" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Johnston 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.

After Melon (harvest ends Aug 14) 81 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Broccoli (harvest ends Jul 17) 109 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Cantaloupe (harvest ends Aug 7) 88 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Carrots (harvest ends Jul 10) 116 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Corn (harvest ends Jul 31) 95 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Hot Peppers (harvest ends Oct 2) 32 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
Show 6 more succession options
After Spinach (harvest ends Jul 10) 116 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Squash (Winter) (harvest ends Sep 4) 60 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Eggplant (harvest ends Aug 28) 67 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Tomatoes (harvest ends Aug 28) 67 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Lettuce (harvest ends Jul 17) 109 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d Green Beans 50-65d
After Onion (harvest ends Aug 21) 74 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d

Sunlight & Day Length in Johnston County

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

What this means for you: Photoperiod-sensitive crops will fail spectacularly if planted at the wrong latitude. Sweet onions in Michigan? Tiny. Spanish onions in Florida? Tiny. Match variety to Johnston County's daylight pattern and you'll see the difference.

Longest Day

14.4 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

9.6 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

9 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 10h 13h 16h 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 9.9 hr 5.1 hr Short day
February 10.7 hr 5.8 hr Short day
March 11.7 hr 6.7 hr Short day
April 12.9 hr 7.8 hr Neutral
May 13.9 hr 9 hr Neutral
June 14.4 hr 8 hr Long day
July 14.2 hr 8.1 hr Long day
August 13.3 hr 7.5 hr Neutral
September 12.2 hr 6.7 hr Neutral
October 11.1 hr 6.9 hr Short day
November 10.1 hr 5.6 hr Short day
December 9.6 hr 4.6 hr Short day

Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.

Soil Temperature & Composting in Johnston County

Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.

Why it matters: Lettuce germinates at 35°F. Beans want 60°F. Tomatoes 65°F+. Soil temp, not air temp, is what plants feel. Johnston County's monthly curve tells you when each crop actually has the conditions to take off.

Plant Warm Crops When

Soil reaches 60°F+

Soil warm enough from May through Oct.

Best Month to Compost

May

Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.

Active Composting

8 months

Nearly year-round composting.

60°F 70°F 20° 40° 60° 80° 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 39°F 46°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Feb 40°F 45°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Mar 48°F 47°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Apr 59°F 57°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
May 66°F 65°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jun 78°F 74°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 84°F 79°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 85°F 82°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 82°F 78°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 67°F 71°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Nov 56°F 60°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Dec 45°F 52°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks

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

Pest & Disease Pressure in Johnston County

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

Why this matters: High pest pressure means weekly inspection. Low pest pressure means monthly. The score tells you which routine to set up before you have a problem.

Insect Pest Pressure

6.9 / 10

Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.

Disease Risk

7.9 / 10

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

Seasonal Risk

Spring Moderate
Summer High
Fall Low
Winter Low
View 6 common pests in your area
PestRisk LevelPeak Months
Aphids High Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Japanese beetles Moderate Jun, Jul, Aug
Squash vine borers High May, Jun, Jul
Stink bugs Moderate May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Whiteflies Moderate Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Spider mites Moderate Jul, Aug
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 Johnston County

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

For new gardeners: Cover crops fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.

Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat Apr 7 Sep 8 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Cowpeas (southern peas) Apr 9 Sep 8 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible
Sorghum-sudan grass Apr 10 Sep 8 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Mar 8 Sep 8 ✓ 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 28 Oct 6 — 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 4 Mar 20 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Crimson clover Sep 3 Mar 20 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring
Daikon radish Sep 20 Mar 20 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Aug 15 Mar 20 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Sep 26 Mar 20 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Aug 13 Mar 13 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Aug 1 Mar 13 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Johnston County

Why it matters: Pollinators avoid windy days. Johnston County's 8.7 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: 12 mph   Summer: 9 mph

Fall: 9 mph   Winter: 11 mph

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

Windbreak Benefit

5.4/10

Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.

Frost Pocket Risk

Low

Relatively flat terrain (203 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.

Rainwater Harvesting in Johnston County

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

Why this matters: Most gardens use 0.5-1 gallon per square foot per week in summer. Johnston County's 49" annual rainfall is enough to cover most needs if you can capture it. Rain barrels under downspouts are the simplest entry point.

Annual Collection

24,620 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 750 gal tank.

Legal Status

Unrestricted

Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.

Best Collection Months

Jan, Feb, Mar, Jun

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

Months to Draw From Storage

May, Oct, Nov

Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.

Rainwater collection tips for your area
  • Your county receives approximately 49.4 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 24,620 gallons annually
  • Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
  • Stock up on stored water before your dry season (May, Oct, Nov)
  • Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection

Soil & Growing Conditions in Johnston County

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH 5.6–6.7 · 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. (49.4 in. annual rainfall)

Season Tips

214-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 Johnston County

114 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Johnston County.

Show all 114 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Mar 6 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jul 10 – Aug 14 80–100
Amaranth Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jul 17 – Sep 4 90–120
Artichoke — — Apr 17 — Aug 21 – Oct 30 120–180
Arugula Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 8 – Jul 10 30–50
Asparagus — — Apr 17 — — 730–1095
Beets — Mar 20 — Aug 25 May 15 – Jun 12 50–70
Belgian Endive Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Jul 24 – Sep 18 110–150
Bitter Melon Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 19 – Jul 31 60–90
Black Beans — Apr 10 — — Jul 10 – Aug 28 90–120
Bok Choy Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 15 – Jun 19 40–60
Broccoli Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Jun 5 – Jul 17 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 15 – Jun 19 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Jul 3 – Aug 28 90–130
Butternut Squash Mar 6 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jul 17 – Aug 21 85–110
Cabbage Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Jun 5 – Jul 31 60–100
Calabash Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jul 10 – Sep 4 80–120
Cardoon — — Apr 17 — Aug 21 – Oct 2 120–150
Carrots — Mar 20 — Aug 25 May 22 – Jun 26 60–80
Cauliflower Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 29 – Jul 31 55–100
Celeriac Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Jul 17 – Aug 21 100–120
Celery Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Jun 26 – Aug 21 80–120
Celtuce Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Jun 5 – Jul 17 60–90
Chard Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 29 – Jul 17 50–60
Chayote Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Aug 21 – Oct 30 120–180
Chickpeas Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Jun 26 – Aug 7 80–110
Chicory Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Jun 5 – Jul 17 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 29 – Jun 26 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jul 10 – Aug 14 80–100
Collard Greens Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 29 – Jul 31 55–75
Corn — Apr 10 — — Jun 12 – Aug 7 60–100
Cowpeas — Apr 10 — — Jun 12 – Jul 24 60–90
Cress Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Apr 17 – May 8 14–21
Crookneck Squash Mar 6 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 5 – Jul 3 45–60
Crosne — Mar 20 — Aug 25 Aug 21 – Oct 23 150–200
Cucumber Mar 6 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 12 – Aug 7 50–70
Daikon — Mar 20 — Aug 25 May 15 – Jun 12 50–70
Delicata Squash Mar 6 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jul 10 – Aug 14 80–100
Edamame — Apr 10 — — Jun 26 – Aug 7 75–100
Eggplant Jan 30 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 26 – Aug 28 65–85
Endive Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 22 – Jun 26 45–65
Escarole Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 29 – Jun 26 50–70
Fava Beans Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Jun 19 – Jul 31 75–100
Fennel Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 19 – Jul 31 60–90
Garlic — — — Sep 22 Dec 22 – Jun 8 90–240
Ginger Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Dec 18 – Jan 1 240–300
Green Beans — Apr 10 — — Jun 5 – Jul 31 50–65
Horseradish — — Apr 17 — Aug 21 – Oct 30 120–180
Hot Peppers Jan 30 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 26 – Oct 2 70–120
Hubbard Squash Mar 6 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jul 31 – Sep 4 100–120
Jicama Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Aug 21 – Oct 30 120–180
Kabocha Mar 6 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jul 17 – Aug 14 85–100
Kai Lan Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 22 – Jun 19 45–60
Kale Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 29 – Jul 24 50–70
Kidney Beans — Apr 10 — — Jul 10 – Aug 14 85–110
Kohlrabi Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 22 – Jun 26 45–65
Komatsuna Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 8 – Jun 12 35–50
Leeks Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Jul 3 – Sep 18 90–150
Lentils Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Jun 26 – Aug 7 80–110
Lettuce Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 8 – Jul 17 30–60
Lima Beans — Apr 10 — — Jun 12 – Jul 24 60–90
Loofah Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jul 31 – Oct 2 100–150
Luffa Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jul 17 – Oct 2 90–150
Mache Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 15 – Jun 19 40–60
Malabar Spinach Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 12 – Jul 10 55–70
Melon Mar 6 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 26 – Aug 14 70–100
Microgreens Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Apr 10 – May 8 7–21
Mitsuba Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 27 Aug 25 May 22 – Jul 17 50–70
Mizuna Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 8 – Jun 5 30–45
Mustard Greens Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 8 – Jul 10 30–50
Napa Cabbage Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 29 – Jul 3 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 12 – Jul 10 55–70
Okra Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 12 – Aug 7 50–65
Onion Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Jul 3 – Aug 21 90–120
Pac Choi Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 15 – Jun 12 40–55
Parsnip — Mar 20 — Aug 25 Jul 3 – Aug 14 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Mar 6 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 5 – Jul 3 45–60
Peas Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 29 – Jul 24 55–70
Peppers Jan 30 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 19 – Aug 28 60–90
Pole Beans Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 12 – Aug 7 55–70
Potatoes Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 26 – Sep 4 70–120
Pumpkin Mar 6 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jul 17 – Sep 4 85–120
Purslane Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 15 – Jun 19 40–60
Radicchio Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Jun 5 – Jul 10 60–80
Radish — Mar 20 — Aug 25 Apr 17 – May 8 22–35
Rhubarb — — Apr 24 — — 365–730
Romanesco Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Jun 19 – Jul 31 75–100
Rutabaga — Mar 20 — Aug 25 Jun 12 – Jul 17 80–100
Salsify — Mar 20 — Aug 25 Jul 3 – Aug 14 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Jun 12 – Aug 7 70–110
Scallions Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 29 – Jun 26 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 19 – Jul 24 60–80
Shallot Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 Jul 3 – Aug 21 90–120
Shiso Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 12 – Aug 7 50–70
Snap Peas Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 12 – Aug 7 55–70
Snow Peas Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 29 – Jul 24 50–65
Soybeans — Apr 10 — — Jul 3 – Aug 28 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Mar 6 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jul 17 – Aug 14 85–100
Spinach Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 8 – Jul 10 35–50
Squash (Summer) Mar 6 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 5 – Aug 7 45–65
Squash (Winter) Mar 6 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jul 10 – Sep 4 80–120
Sunchoke — — Apr 17 — Aug 7 – Oct 2 110–150
Sweet Corn — Apr 10 — — Jun 12 – Jul 24 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jul 17 – Sep 4 90–120
Tatsoi Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 8 – Jun 12 35–50
Tomatillo Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 19 – Aug 28 60–85
Tomatoes Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 19 – Aug 28 60–85
Turmeric Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Dec 18 – Jan 1 240–300
Turnip — Mar 20 — Aug 25 May 1 – Jun 5 40–60
Watercress Feb 27 Mar 20 Apr 3 Aug 25 May 15 – Jun 19 40–60
Watermelon Mar 6 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 26 – Aug 14 70–100
Wax Beans — Apr 10 — — Jun 5 – Jul 31 50–65
Winter Melon Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jul 17 – Sep 4 90–120
Yard Long Beans Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 12 – Jul 24 55–80
Zucchini Mar 6 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 5 – Jul 31 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Johnston County

27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Johnston County.

Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — Apr 24 — Jul 24 – Nov 6 90–180
Aronia — — Apr 24 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — Apr 24 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — Apr 24 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — Apr 24 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — Apr 24 — Jul 3 – Aug 7 70–90
Che Fruit — — Apr 24 — — 1095–1825
Elderberries — — Apr 24 — — 730–1095
Figs — — Apr 24 — — 730–1825
Goji Berries — — Apr 24 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — Apr 24 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — Apr 24 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — Apr 24 — Jul 3 – Aug 28 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — Apr 24 — — 1095–1825
Honeydew — — Apr 24 — Jul 17 – Aug 28 80–110
Jostaberry — — Apr 24 — — 730–1095
Kiwi — — Apr 24 — — 1095–1825
Loquat — — Apr 24 — — 730–1825
Medlar — — Apr 24 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — Apr 24 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — Apr 24 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — Apr 24 — — 1095–2555
Pomegranate — — Apr 24 — — 730–1095
Quince — — Apr 24 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — Apr 24 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — Apr 24 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — Apr 24 — Jul 24 – Jan 8 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Johnston County

39 herbs that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Johnston County.

Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 27 Aug 25 — 365–730
Anise Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 27 Aug 25 Jun 26 – Sep 11 90–120
Basil Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 12 – Aug 14 50–75
Bee Balm — — Apr 10 — Jul 10 – Sep 25 90–120
Borage Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 27 Aug 25 May 22 – Jul 10 50–60
Caraway Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 27 Aug 25 — 365–450
Catnip — — Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Aug 14 60–80
Chamomile Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 27 Aug 25 May 29 – Aug 7 60–90
Chervil Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 27 Aug 25 May 8 – Jul 10 40–60
Chives — — Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Aug 21 60–90
Cilantro Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 27 Aug 25 May 8 – Jul 10 40–60
Comfrey — — Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Aug 21 60–90
Cumin Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 27 Aug 25 Jul 10 – Sep 11 100–120
Dill Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 27 Aug 25 May 8 – Jul 10 40–60
Epazote Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 5 – Jul 31 45–60
Fennel (herb) Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 27 Aug 25 May 29 – Aug 7 60–90
Feverfew — — Apr 10 — Jul 10 – Sep 25 90–120
Garlic Chives — — Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Aug 21 60–90
Horehound — — Apr 10 — Jun 26 – Aug 21 75–90
Hyssop — — Apr 10 — Jun 19 – Aug 21 70–90
Lemon Balm — — Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Jul 31 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — Apr 10 — Jun 19 – Aug 21 70–90
Lemon Verbena Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 19 – Aug 28 60–90
Lemongrass Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jul 3 – Oct 2 75–120
Lovage — — Apr 10 — Jun 19 – Aug 21 70–90
Marjoram — — Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Aug 21 60–90
Mint — — Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Aug 21 60–90
Oregano — — Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Aug 21 60–90
Parsley Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 27 Aug 25 May 29 – Jul 31 60–80
Rosemary — — Apr 10 — Jul 3 – Nov 20 80–180
Rue — — Apr 10 — Jun 19 – Aug 21 70–90
Sage — — Apr 10 — Jun 26 – Aug 21 75–90
Savory — — Apr 10 — Jun 5 – Jul 31 50–70
Sorrel Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 27 Aug 25 May 8 – Jul 10 40–60
Stevia Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 19 – Aug 28 60–90
Tarragon — — Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Aug 21 60–90
Thai Basil Feb 13 Apr 10 Apr 17 — Jun 12 – Aug 14 50–75
Thyme — — Apr 10 — Jun 19 – Aug 21 70–90
Valerian — — Apr 10 — Aug 14 – Nov 20 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Johnston County

54 flowers that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Johnston County.

Show all 54 flowers with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Feb 20 Mar 27 Mar 27 — May 22 – Oct 9 60–75
Alliums — — — Sep 29 Oct 27 – Nov 17 28–42
Anemones — — — Sep 8 Sep 22 – Oct 20 90–120
Astilbe Feb 6 — Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Jul 31 70–100
Bachelor's Button — Feb 20 Mar 20 Sep 8 May 22 – Sep 4 60–90
Begonias Jan 23 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 23 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Feb 6 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Oct 30 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Feb 6 — Apr 3 — May 22 – Jun 19 60–90
Calendula — Feb 20 Mar 20 Aug 25 May 8 – Sep 18 50–70
California Poppy — — — Sep 8 Nov 17 – Feb 23 60–90
Celosia Mar 6 Mar 27 Mar 27 — May 29 – Oct 23 60–90
Columbine Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 3 — May 22 – Jun 19 70–100
Coreopsis Feb 6 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Oct 30 60–80
Cosmos Mar 6 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 29 – Oct 16 60–90
Crocus — — — Oct 6 Sep 8 – Sep 29 10–20
Daffodils — — — Sep 29 Sep 8 – Oct 6 20–40
Dahlias Mar 13 Apr 3 Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Nov 13 70–120
Daylily Feb 6 — Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Oct 30 60–90
Dianthus Feb 6 Feb 20 Feb 27 — Apr 17 – Jul 3 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Oct 30 70–90
Foxglove Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 3 — May 22 – Jun 19 80–120
Freesia — — — Sep 22 Oct 20 – Nov 17 84–112
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Feb 13 Mar 27 Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Nov 20 70–100
Geraniums Jan 23 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 23 70–100
Gladiolus — Apr 3 Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Nov 13 70–100
Hostas Jan 30 — Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Oct 16 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Oct 6 Sep 29 – Oct 20 14–28
Hydrangeas Jan 30 — Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Oct 16 90–150
Impatiens Feb 6 — Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Oct 30 60–75
Irises — Division Apr 3 — May 22 – Jun 26 60–100
Larkspur — Mar 6 — Aug 25 May 15 – Aug 21 60–90
Lavender Jan 30 — Apr 10 — Jun 19 – Sep 25 90–120
Lilies — Division Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Oct 2 70–120
Lobelia Feb 6 — Feb 27 — Apr 24 – Jun 19 70–80
Lupine Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 3 — May 22 – Jun 19 75–100
Marigolds Feb 20 Mar 27 Mar 27 — May 22 – Sep 25 50–70
Nasturtium Mar 6 Mar 27 Mar 27 — May 22 – Oct 23 55–65
Pansy Jan 23 — Mar 20 Aug 25 May 15 – Aug 21 70–90
Peonies — Division Apr 3 — May 29 – Jun 26 90–120
Petunia Feb 6 — Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Oct 16 70–90
Phlox Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Aug 21 80–110
Portulaca Mar 6 Mar 27 Mar 27 — May 15 – Oct 9 50–70
Ranunculus — — — Sep 8 Sep 22 – Oct 27 90–120
Roses Jan 30 — Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Oct 30 90–180
Salvia Feb 6 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 23 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Feb 6 — Apr 3 — Jul 24 – Oct 16 60–90
Snapdragon Jan 23 Feb 27 Mar 20 Aug 25 May 29 – Sep 18 70–100
Sunflower Mar 13 Mar 27 Mar 27 — Jun 19 – Oct 23 70–100
Sweet Alyssum Feb 20 Feb 27 Mar 20 Sep 8 May 1 – Aug 21 45–60
Sweet Pea — — — Sep 1 Nov 10 – Feb 2 65–85
Tulips — — — Oct 6 Sep 22 – Oct 20 15–30
Vinca (Annual) Jan 23 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 23 70–90
Yarrow Feb 6 Mar 27 Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Oct 30 60–90
Zinnia Mar 6 Mar 27 Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 23 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for Johnston County