Johnston County, OK — Planting Guide
Johnston County is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 25 and the first fall frost is November 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 231 days.
At an elevation of 700 ft, Johnston County receives approximately 32.9 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 92°F with winter lows around 29°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 46 days year to year — ranging from March 1 in warm years to April 15 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 1.8 days per decade. Johnston County scores 66/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
7b (5°F to 10°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 25
🍂 First Frost
November 11
📅 Growing Season
231 days
⛰️ Elevation
700 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
32.9 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 | 0.8 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.3 in | 6 days | 2 in | High |
| Apr | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| May | 5.1 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 5.2 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.8 in | 7 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.7 in | 7 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3.7 in | 5 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.1 in | 5 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Nov | 1 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.8 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 32.9 in. Gardens typically need ~1 inch of water per week during the growing season. Months marked "None" for extra water are outside the active growing season for your zone — most gardens are dormant and don't need irrigation during those months.
Johnston County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.3
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 15 | Nov 29 | 228 days |
| Cautious | Apr 6 | Nov 21 | 229 days |
| Average year | Mar 25 | Nov 11 | 231 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 13 | Oct 31 | 232 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 1 | Oct 18 | 231 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±46 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 1.8 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Johnston County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
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 Oklahoma State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 405-744-5398
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 Johnston County
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 OK" 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 OK" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Johnston County Gardeners" or "Oklahoma 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
10.1 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 | 9.9 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.8 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.3 hr | 10.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.1 hr | 9.9 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 9.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.2 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.7 hr | 5.3 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 | 37°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 37°F | 46°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 47°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 57°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 68°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 78°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 84°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 86°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 83°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 69°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 54°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 43°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.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Johnston County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
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 3 | Mar 4 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 7 | Mar 11 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 18 | Mar 4 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 22 | Mar 4 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 6 | Mar 4 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 18 | Mar 4 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 15 | Mar 11 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 26 | Sep 2 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 1 | Sep 16 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 31 | Sep 2 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 23 | Sep 16 | ✓ 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 21 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 15 mph Summer: 12 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.2/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (362 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
16,397 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 2,000 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, 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 32.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 16,397 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Johnston County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.3–7.3 · Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (32.9 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
231-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
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Johnston County
113 vegetables that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Johnston County.
Show all 113 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 8 | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 11 | — | May 6 – Jun 3 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 1 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 19 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 27 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 8 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 11 | — | May 13 – Jun 17 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 27 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jul 8 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 27 – Jul 8 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jun 17 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 – Apr 29 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 11 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 14 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 11 | — | May 6 – Jun 3 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 21 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jun 17 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 1 | — | May 27 – Jul 22 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 8 | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 21 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 17 – Sep 23 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 13 – Jun 10 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 1 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Jun 24 – Sep 9 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Sep 23 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Apr 1 – Apr 29 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Apr 29 – May 27 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 6 – Jun 3 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 11 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 21 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 11 | — | Apr 8 – Apr 29 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 11 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 11 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jun 17 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 8 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 11 | — | Apr 22 – May 27 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 1 | — | May 27 – Jul 22 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Johnston County
31 fruits that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Johnston County.
Show all 31 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Oct 28 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 15 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Nov 25 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Johnston County
39 herbs that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Johnston County.
Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jun 17 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 1 | Jul 1 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 13 – Jul 1 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 1 | Aug 5 – Nov 11 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 1 | Jul 1 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 1 | Jul 1 – Nov 11 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 24 – Nov 11 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 1 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 1 | Aug 5 – Nov 11 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 1 | Jul 1 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Johnston County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Johnston County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Johnston County, OK?
Johnston County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. 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 Johnston County, OK?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Johnston County falls around March 25. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 1 and April 15 — a 46-day window of variability. Use April 15 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Johnston County, OK?
The median first fall frost in Johnston County arrives around November 11. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 18; in mild years as late as November 29. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Johnston County?
Johnston County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 231 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 1.8 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Johnston County for gardening?
Johnston County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.3–7.3 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Johnston County?
Johnston County has commercial agriculture that includes Wheat, Cattle, Hay, Soybeans. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Johnston County a good location for home gardening?
Johnston County scores 66/100 (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 Johnston County gardeners in Zone 7b 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.
