Pitt County, NC — Planting Guide
What to do in May
Each item below is timed to Pitt County, North Carolina's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
-
Get basil, peppers, and pole beans seeds going inside
A seed-starting mix and a sunny window (or a grow light) are all you need. Keep soil warm — around 70°F — for fast germination.
-
It's harvest week for carrots, green beans, and kale
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
Get ahead of June
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Pitt County is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 26 and the first fall frost is November 10, giving you a growing season of approximately 229 days.
At an elevation of 542 ft, Pitt County receives approximately 46.1 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 94°F with winter lows around 30°F. The predominant soil type is Clay Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 31 days year to year — ranging from March 8 in warm years to April 9 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 2.52 days per decade. Pitt County scores 55/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 26
🍂 First Frost
November 10
📅 Growing Season
229 days
⛰️ Elevation
542 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
46.1 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 | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.4 in | 9 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.9 in | 9 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jun | 3.7 in | 9 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 4 in | 10 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Aug | 4.6 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.2 in | 7 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.8 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 46.1 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Pitt County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.8
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) | Apr 9 | Nov 27 | 232 days |
| Cautious | Mar 29 | Nov 16 | 232 days |
| Average year | Mar 26 | Nov 10 | 229 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 17 | Nov 4 | 232 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 8 | Oct 29 | 235 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±31 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 2.5 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Pitt County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Pitt 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 Pitt County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Pitt 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 Pitt County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Pitt County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Pitt 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 Pitt County NC" or "garden center Pitt 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 Pitt County NC" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Pitt 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
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.
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 | 4.9 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 | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.9 hr | 9 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.4 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.2 hr | 7.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.1 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.6 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 May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 39°F | 47°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 41°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 48°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 57°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 69°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 77°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 84°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 88°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 81°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 71°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 54°F | 62°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 Pitt 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 |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Low | 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 Pitt 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 1 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 4 | Sep 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 4 | Sep 8 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 25 | Sep 15 | ✓ 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 19 | Oct 20 | — | 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 12 | Mar 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 16 | Mar 5 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 29 | Mar 12 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 18 | Mar 5 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 1 | Mar 5 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 12 | Mar 12 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 20 | Mar 12 | — | 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: 11 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (346 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
22,976 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
Feb, Mar, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Sep, 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 46.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 22,976 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Sep, Oct, Nov)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Pitt County
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH 5.5–6.8 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 5.5/10
Moderate drought pressure. Drip irrigation and mulching are highly recommended to maintain soil moisture through summer.
Season Tips
229-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
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 Pitt County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Pitt County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 9 | Aug 13 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jun 4 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 2 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 9 | Aug 13 – Sep 24 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jun 18 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 9 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 13 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 – Apr 30 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 12 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 15 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jun 4 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 22 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Dec 10 – Dec 24 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Jul 23 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 9 | Aug 13 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 22 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 18 – Sep 24 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 13 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 2 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Sep 10 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Sep 24 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 – Apr 30 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 12 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 22 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 12 | — | Apr 9 – Apr 30 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 12 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 12 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 9 | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Dec 10 – Dec 24 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 12 | — | Apr 23 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Jul 23 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Pitt County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Pitt County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Oct 29 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 16 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 16 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 16 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Dec 31 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Pitt County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Pitt County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 2 | Jul 2 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 14 – Jul 2 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 2 | Aug 6 – Nov 12 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 2 | Jul 2 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 2 | Jul 2 – Dec 3 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 25 – Sep 24 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 25 – Nov 12 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 2 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 2 | Aug 6 – Nov 12 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 2 | Jul 2 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Pitt County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Pitt County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Pitt County, NC?
Pitt 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 Pitt County, NC?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Pitt County falls around March 26. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 8 and April 9 — a 31-day window of variability. Use April 9 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Pitt County, NC?
The median first fall frost in Pitt County arrives around November 10. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 29; in mild years as late as November 27. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Pitt County?
Pitt County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 229 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 2.52 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Pitt County for gardening?
Pitt County has predominantly Clay Loam soil with a pH range of 5.5–6.8 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Pitt County?
Pitt County has commercial agriculture that includes Poultry, Corn, Soybeans, Cotton, Tobacco. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Pitt County a good location for home gardening?
Pitt 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 Pitt County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Pitt County (Zone 8a). 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