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Shelby County, TN — Planting Guide

Shelby County, Tennessee Zone 8a June

June in Shelby County, Tennessee — your action list

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

Avg. last frost March 21
Avg. first frost November 5
Soil temp (4") 71°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14.4 hrs
  1. Pick basil, carrots, and cucumber

    This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.

Get ahead of July
  • First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Shelby County is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 21 and the first fall frost is November 5, giving you a growing season of approximately 229 days.

At an elevation of 3,465 ft, Shelby County receives approximately 45.7 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 89°F with winter lows around 34°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 37 days year to year — ranging from March 4 in warm years to April 10 in cold years. Shelby County scores 64/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

8a (10°F to 15°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

March 21

🍂 First Frost

November 5

📅 Growing Season

229 days

⛰️ Elevation

3,465 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

45.7 in

Shelby County, TN Long season
229 days
❄
Last Spring Frost March 21
➔ 229 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost November 5

Monthly Watering Calendar for Shelby County

When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.

The practical takeaway: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Shelby County gets 46" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.

1"/wk 0" 1.3" 2.6" 3.8" 5.1" Jan 3.3" Feb 3.8" Mar 4.2" +1.4" Apr 2.9" +0.7" May 3.6" Jun 4.6" Jul 5.1" Aug 4.7" +1.3" Sep 3" +1" Oct 3.3" Nov 3.5" Dec 3.7"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 3.3 in 11 days — None
Feb 3.8 in 10 days — None
Mar 4.2 in 10 days 0.1 in Low
Apr 2.9 in 8 days 1.4 in Moderate
May 3.6 in 7 days 0.7 in Moderate
Jun 4.6 in 9 days — Low
Jul 5.1 in 10 days — Low
Aug 4.7 in 12 days — Low
Sep 3 in 8 days 1.3 in Moderate
Oct 3.3 in 7 days 1 in Moderate
Nov 3.5 in 7 days — None
Dec 3.7 in 9 days — None

Annual total: 45.7 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.

Shelby County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Silt Loam

Soil pH

5.3-7

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 Mar 21 → Nov 5 229 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: Apr 10 Protect by: Nov 25

Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.

How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.

Planting Strategy Last Spring Frost First Fall Frost Frost-Free Days
Conservative (safest) Apr 10 Nov 25 229 days
Cautious Mar 31 Nov 15 229 days
Average year Mar 21 Nov 5 229 days
Optimistic Mar 14 Nov 1 232 days
Aggressive (risky) Mar 4 Oct 27 237 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

Not very — frost dates can vary by ±37 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?

Slightly — seasons are trending a bit longer (0.4 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.

Gardening Difficulty Score

64 Good
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
3.5/10
Soil Difficulty
1.0/10
Altitude Challenge
4.9/10
Climate Shift
1.8/10
Rainfall Challenge
0.3/10

Shelby County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.

Zone 8a Frost Countdown
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Loading...
Last Frost: Mar 21 First Frost: Nov 5

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

County Extension Office

Shelby County University of Tennessee Extension Extension Office

Phone: 865-974-7114

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 TN →

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 Shelby County

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

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Shelby 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 Shelby County TN" or "garden center Shelby 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 Shelby County TN" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Shelby County Gardeners" or "Tennessee 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 Squash (Winter) (harvest ends Aug 22) 75 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Beets (harvest ends Jun 13) 145 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Peas (harvest ends Jul 11) 117 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Cabbage (harvest ends Jul 18) 110 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Eggplant (harvest ends Aug 15) 82 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Squash (Summer) (harvest ends Jul 25) 103 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
Show 6 more succession options
After Cauliflower (harvest ends Jul 18) 110 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Okra (harvest ends Jul 25) 103 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Melon (harvest ends Aug 1) 96 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Kale (harvest ends Jul 11) 117 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Green Beans (harvest ends Jul 11) 117 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Spinach (harvest ends Jun 27) 131 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d

Sunlight & Day Length in Shelby County

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

For new gardeners: Onions are a great example of why day length matters. They "bulb up" only when daylight hits a specific number of hours — plant the wrong variety (short-day in the north, long-day in the south) and you'll get tiny bulbs no matter how well you grow them. Shelby County's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.

Longest Day

14.4 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

9.6 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

8.5 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 4.7 hr Short day
February 10.7 hr 5.8 hr Short day
March 11.7 hr 6.6 hr Short day
April 12.9 hr 8.1 hr Neutral
May 13.8 hr 8.5 hr Neutral
June 14.4 hr 8.4 hr Long day
July 14.2 hr 7.4 hr Long day
August 13.3 hr 7.5 hr Neutral
September 12.2 hr 7.1 hr Neutral
October 11.1 hr 6.6 hr Short day
November 10.1 hr 5.8 hr Short day
December 9.6 hr 4.4 hr Short day

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

Soil Temperature & Composting in Shelby County

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

Why this matters: Most root crops germinate well at 50-60°F. Most fruit-bearing crops want 65-75°F. Shelby County's monthly soil curve maps these windows to actual months.

Plant Warm Crops When

Soil reaches 60°F+

Soil warm enough from Jun through Oct.

Best Month to Compost

Jun

Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.

Active Composting

6 months

Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.

60°F 70°F 10° 30° 50° 70° 90° 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 28°F 38°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Feb 31°F 37°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Mar 38°F 41°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Apr 47°F 49°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
May 60°F 56°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Jun 71°F 64°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 79°F 71°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 80°F 76°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 71°F 71°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 63°F 63°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Nov 48°F 52°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Dec 36°F 43°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks

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

Pest & Disease Pressure in Shelby County

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

The practical takeaway: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Shelby County's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.

Insect Pest Pressure

6.4 / 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 Moderate 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
  • 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 Shelby County

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

What this means for you: The "chop and drop" approach to cover crops: cut them down right before flowering, let them lay on the surface as mulch, plant your vegetables through the mulch. Less work, healthier soil.

Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat Mar 27 Sep 10 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Cowpeas (southern peas) Mar 29 Sep 10 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible
Sorghum-sudan grass Mar 27 Aug 27 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Feb 22 Sep 10 ✓ 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 18 Oct 8 — Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Austrian winter peas Aug 26 Mar 7 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Crimson clover Aug 24 Feb 28 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring
Daikon radish Sep 9 Mar 7 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Aug 10 Mar 7 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Sep 27 Feb 28 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Aug 1 Mar 7 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Aug 7 Mar 7 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Shelby County

The practical takeaway: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Shelby County's 8.7 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.

Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.

Seasonal Wind Speed

Spring: 10 mph   Summer: 9 mph

Fall: 10 mph   Winter: 12 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 (413 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.

Rainwater Harvesting in Shelby County

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

What this means for you: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Shelby County, that's your 46" times your roof.

Annual Collection

22,776 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

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 45.7 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 22,776 gallons annually
  • Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
  • Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Apr, Sep, Oct)
  • Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection

Soil & Growing Conditions in Shelby County

Soil Type

Silt Loam

Soil pH 5.3–7 · 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. (45.7 in. annual rainfall)

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 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

🧪
Soil Test Kit $12-25

Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.

Know your soil before you plant for best results.

📏
Digital pH Meter $10-20

Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.

Helpful for your garden setup.

🍂
Organic Compost $8-30

Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.

Helpful for your garden setup.

🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Shelby County

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

Show all 114 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 27 – Aug 1 80–100
Amaranth Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Aug 22 90–120
Artichoke — — Apr 4 — Aug 8 – Oct 17 120–180
Arugula Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Apr 25 – Jun 27 30–50
Asparagus — — Apr 4 — — 730–1095
Beets — Mar 7 — Aug 27 May 2 – May 30 50–70
Belgian Endive Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Jul 11 – Sep 5 110–150
Bitter Melon Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 6 – Jul 18 60–90
Black Beans — Mar 28 — — Jun 27 – Aug 15 90–120
Bok Choy Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 2 – Jun 6 40–60
Broccoli Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 23 – Jul 4 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 2 – Jun 6 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Jun 20 – Aug 15 90–130
Butternut Squash Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Aug 8 85–110
Cabbage Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 23 – Jul 18 60–100
Calabash Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 27 – Aug 22 80–120
Cardoon — — Apr 4 — Aug 8 – Sep 19 120–150
Carrots — Mar 7 — Aug 27 May 9 – Jun 13 60–80
Cauliflower Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 16 – Jul 18 55–100
Celeriac Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Jul 4 – Aug 8 100–120
Celery Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Jun 13 – Aug 8 80–120
Celtuce Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 23 – Jul 4 60–90
Chard Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 16 – Jul 4 50–60
Chayote Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Aug 8 – Oct 17 120–180
Chickpeas Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Jun 13 – Jul 25 80–110
Chicory Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 23 – Jul 4 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 16 – Jun 13 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 27 – Aug 1 80–100
Collard Greens Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 16 – Jul 18 55–75
Corn — Mar 28 — — May 30 – Jul 25 60–100
Cowpeas — Mar 28 — — May 30 – Jul 11 60–90
Cress Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Apr 4 – Apr 25 14–21
Crookneck Squash Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 23 – Jun 20 45–60
Crosne — Mar 7 — Aug 27 Aug 8 – Oct 10 150–200
Cucumber Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Jul 25 50–70
Daikon — Mar 7 — Aug 27 May 2 – May 30 50–70
Delicata Squash Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 27 – Aug 1 80–100
Edamame — Mar 28 — — Jun 13 – Jul 25 75–100
Eggplant Jan 17 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 13 – Aug 15 65–85
Endive Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 9 – Jun 13 45–65
Escarole Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 16 – Jun 13 50–70
Fava Beans Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Jun 6 – Jul 18 75–100
Fennel Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 6 – Jul 18 60–90
Garlic — — — Sep 24 Dec 24 – Jun 10 90–240
Ginger Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Dec 5 – Dec 19 240–300
Green Beans — Mar 28 — — May 23 – Jul 18 50–65
Horseradish — — Apr 4 — Aug 8 – Oct 17 120–180
Hot Peppers Jan 17 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 13 – Sep 19 70–120
Hubbard Squash Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 18 – Aug 22 100–120
Jicama Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Aug 8 – Oct 17 120–180
Kabocha Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Aug 1 85–100
Kai Lan Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 9 – Jun 6 45–60
Kale Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 16 – Jul 11 50–70
Kidney Beans — Mar 28 — — Jun 27 – Aug 1 85–110
Kohlrabi Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 9 – Jun 13 45–65
Komatsuna Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Apr 25 – May 30 35–50
Leeks Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Jun 20 – Sep 5 90–150
Lentils Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Jun 13 – Jul 25 80–110
Lettuce Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Apr 25 – Jul 4 30–60
Lima Beans — Mar 28 — — May 30 – Jul 11 60–90
Loofah Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 18 – Sep 19 100–150
Luffa Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Sep 19 90–150
Mache Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 2 – Jun 6 40–60
Malabar Spinach Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Jun 27 55–70
Melon Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 13 – Aug 1 70–100
Microgreens Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Mar 28 – Apr 25 7–21
Mitsuba Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Aug 27 May 9 – Jul 4 50–70
Mizuna Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Apr 25 – May 23 30–45
Mustard Greens Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Apr 25 – Jun 27 30–50
Napa Cabbage Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 16 – Jun 20 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Jun 27 55–70
Okra Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Jul 25 50–65
Onion Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Jun 20 – Aug 8 90–120
Pac Choi Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 2 – May 30 40–55
Parsnip — Mar 7 — Aug 27 Jun 20 – Aug 1 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 23 – Jun 20 45–60
Peas Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 16 – Jul 11 55–70
Peppers Jan 17 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 6 – Aug 15 60–90
Pole Beans Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Jul 25 55–70
Potatoes Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 13 – Aug 22 70–120
Pumpkin Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Aug 22 85–120
Purslane Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 2 – Jun 6 40–60
Radicchio Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 23 – Jun 27 60–80
Radish — Mar 7 — Aug 27 Apr 4 – Apr 25 22–35
Rhubarb — — Apr 11 — — 365–730
Romanesco Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Jun 6 – Jul 18 75–100
Rutabaga — Mar 7 — Aug 27 May 30 – Jul 4 80–100
Salsify — Mar 7 — Aug 27 Jun 20 – Aug 1 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 30 – Jul 25 70–110
Scallions Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 16 – Jun 13 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 6 – Jul 11 60–80
Shallot Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Jun 20 – Aug 8 90–120
Shiso Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Jul 25 50–70
Snap Peas Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Jul 25 55–70
Snow Peas Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 16 – Jul 11 50–65
Soybeans — Mar 28 — — Jun 20 – Aug 15 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Aug 1 85–100
Spinach Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Apr 25 – Jun 27 35–50
Squash (Summer) Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 23 – Jul 25 45–65
Squash (Winter) Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 27 – Aug 22 80–120
Sunchoke — — Apr 4 — Jul 25 – Sep 19 110–150
Sweet Corn — Mar 28 — — May 30 – Jul 11 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Aug 22 90–120
Tatsoi Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 Apr 25 – May 30 35–50
Tomatillo Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 6 – Aug 15 60–85
Tomatoes Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 6 – Aug 15 60–85
Turmeric Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Dec 5 – Dec 19 240–300
Turnip — Mar 7 — Aug 27 Apr 18 – May 23 40–60
Watercress Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Aug 27 May 2 – Jun 6 40–60
Watermelon Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 13 – Aug 1 70–100
Wax Beans — Mar 28 — — May 23 – Jul 18 50–65
Winter Melon Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Aug 22 90–120
Yard Long Beans Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Jul 11 55–80
Zucchini Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 23 – Jul 18 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Shelby County

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

Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — Apr 11 — Jul 11 – Oct 24 90–180
Aronia — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — Apr 11 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — Apr 11 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — Apr 11 — Jun 20 – Jul 25 70–90
Che Fruit — — Apr 11 — — 1095–1825
Elderberries — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Figs — — Apr 11 — — 730–1825
Goji Berries — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — Apr 11 — Jun 20 – Aug 15 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — Apr 11 — — 1095–1825
Honeydew — — Apr 11 — Jul 4 – Aug 15 80–110
Jostaberry — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Kiwi — — Apr 11 — — 1095–1825
Loquat — — Apr 11 — — 730–1825
Medlar — — Apr 11 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — Apr 11 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — Apr 11 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — Apr 11 — — 1095–2555
Pomegranate — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Quince — — Apr 11 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — Apr 11 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — Apr 11 — Jul 11 – Dec 26 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Shelby County

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

Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Aug 27 — 365–730
Anise Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Aug 27 Jun 13 – Aug 29 90–120
Basil Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Aug 1 50–75
Bee Balm — — Mar 28 — Jun 27 – Sep 12 90–120
Borage Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Aug 27 May 9 – Jun 27 50–60
Caraway Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Aug 27 — 365–450
Catnip — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 1 60–80
Chamomile Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Aug 27 May 16 – Jul 25 60–90
Chervil Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Aug 27 Apr 25 – Jun 27 40–60
Chives — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–90
Cilantro Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Aug 27 Apr 25 – Jun 27 40–60
Comfrey — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–90
Cumin Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Aug 27 Jun 27 – Aug 29 100–120
Dill Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Aug 27 Apr 25 – Jun 27 40–60
Epazote Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 23 – Jul 18 45–60
Fennel (herb) Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Aug 27 May 16 – Jul 25 60–90
Feverfew — — Mar 28 — Jun 27 – Sep 12 90–120
Garlic Chives — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–90
Horehound — — Mar 28 — Jun 13 – Aug 8 75–90
Hyssop — — Mar 28 — Jun 6 – Aug 8 70–90
Lemon Balm — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Jul 18 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — Mar 28 — Jun 6 – Aug 8 70–90
Lemon Verbena Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 6 – Aug 15 60–90
Lemongrass Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 20 – Sep 19 75–120
Lovage — — Mar 28 — Jun 6 – Aug 8 70–90
Marjoram — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–90
Mint — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–90
Oregano — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–90
Parsley Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Aug 27 May 16 – Jul 18 60–80
Rosemary — — Mar 28 — Jun 20 – Nov 7 80–180
Rue — — Mar 28 — Jun 6 – Aug 8 70–90
Sage — — Mar 28 — Jun 13 – Aug 8 75–90
Savory — — Mar 28 — May 23 – Jul 18 50–70
Sorrel Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Aug 27 Apr 25 – Jun 27 40–60
Stevia Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 6 – Aug 15 60–90
Tarragon — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–90
Thai Basil Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Aug 1 50–75
Thyme — — Mar 28 — Jun 6 – Aug 8 70–90
Valerian — — Mar 28 — Aug 1 – Nov 7 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Shelby County

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

Show all 54 flowers with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Feb 7 Mar 14 Mar 14 — May 9 – Sep 26 60–75
Alliums — — — Oct 1 Oct 29 – Nov 19 28–42
Anemones — — — Sep 10 Sep 24 – Oct 22 90–120
Astilbe Jan 24 — Mar 21 — May 30 – Jul 18 70–100
Bachelor's Button — Feb 7 Mar 7 Sep 10 May 9 – Aug 22 60–90
Begonias Jan 10 — Mar 14 — May 23 – Oct 10 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Jan 24 Mar 14 Mar 21 — May 30 – Oct 17 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Jan 24 — Mar 21 — May 9 – Jun 6 60–90
Calendula — Feb 7 Mar 7 Aug 27 Apr 25 – Sep 5 50–70
California Poppy — — — Sep 10 Nov 19 – Feb 25 60–90
Celosia Feb 21 Mar 14 Mar 14 — May 16 – Oct 10 60–90
Columbine Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 21 — May 9 – Jun 6 70–100
Coreopsis Jan 24 Mar 14 Mar 21 — May 23 – Oct 17 60–80
Cosmos Feb 21 Mar 7 Mar 7 — May 16 – Oct 3 60–90
Crocus — — — Oct 8 Sep 10 – Oct 1 10–20
Daffodils — — — Oct 1 Sep 10 – Oct 8 20–40
Dahlias Feb 28 Mar 21 Mar 21 — May 30 – Oct 31 70–120
Daylily Jan 24 — Mar 21 — May 30 – Oct 17 60–90
Dianthus Jan 24 Feb 7 Feb 14 — Apr 4 – Jun 20 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 21 — May 30 – Oct 17 70–90
Foxglove Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 21 — May 9 – Jun 6 80–120
Freesia — — — Sep 24 Oct 22 – Nov 19 84–112
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Jan 31 Mar 14 Mar 14 — May 23 – Nov 7 70–100
Geraniums Jan 10 — Mar 14 — May 23 – Oct 10 70–100
Gladiolus — Mar 21 Mar 21 — May 30 – Oct 31 70–100
Hostas Jan 17 — Mar 21 — May 30 – Oct 3 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Oct 8 Oct 1 – Oct 22 14–28
Hydrangeas Jan 17 — Mar 21 — May 30 – Oct 3 90–150
Impatiens Jan 24 — Mar 21 — May 30 – Oct 17 60–75
Irises — Division Mar 21 — May 9 – Jun 13 60–100
Larkspur — Feb 21 — Aug 27 May 2 – Aug 8 60–90
Lavender Jan 17 — Mar 28 — Jun 6 – Sep 12 90–120
Lilies — Division Mar 21 — May 30 – Sep 19 70–120
Lobelia Jan 24 — Feb 14 — Apr 11 – Jun 6 70–80
Lupine Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 21 — May 9 – Jun 6 75–100
Marigolds Feb 7 Mar 14 Mar 14 — May 9 – Sep 12 50–70
Nasturtium Feb 21 Mar 14 Mar 14 — May 9 – Oct 10 55–65
Pansy Jan 10 — Mar 7 Aug 27 May 2 – Aug 8 70–90
Peonies — Division Mar 21 — May 16 – Jun 13 90–120
Petunia Jan 24 — Mar 21 — May 30 – Oct 3 70–90
Phlox Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 21 — May 30 – Aug 8 80–110
Portulaca Feb 21 Mar 14 Mar 14 — May 2 – Sep 26 50–70
Ranunculus — — — Sep 10 Sep 24 – Oct 29 90–120
Roses Jan 17 — Mar 21 — May 30 – Oct 17 90–180
Salvia Jan 24 — Mar 14 — May 23 – Oct 10 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Jan 24 — Mar 21 — Jul 11 – Oct 3 60–90
Snapdragon Jan 10 Feb 14 Mar 7 Aug 27 May 16 – Sep 5 70–100
Sunflower Feb 28 Mar 14 Mar 14 — Jun 6 – Oct 10 70–100
Sweet Alyssum Feb 7 Feb 14 Mar 7 Sep 10 Apr 18 – Aug 8 45–60
Sweet Pea — — — Sep 3 Nov 12 – Feb 4 65–85
Tulips — — — Oct 8 Sep 24 – Oct 22 15–30
Vinca (Annual) Jan 10 — Mar 14 — May 23 – Oct 10 70–90
Yarrow Jan 24 Mar 14 Mar 21 — May 23 – Oct 17 60–90
Zinnia Feb 21 Mar 14 Mar 14 — May 23 – Oct 10 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for Shelby County