Austin County, TX — Planting Guide
Austin County is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is February 28 and the first fall frost is November 29, giving you a growing season of approximately 275 days.
At an elevation of 350 ft, Austin County receives approximately 68.9 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 90°F with winter lows around 40°F. The predominant soil type is Clay.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 60 days year to year — ranging from January 22 in warm years to March 22 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 2.07 days per decade. Austin County scores 38/100 (Challenging) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 28
🍂 First Frost
November 29
📅 Growing Season
275 days
⛰️ Elevation
350 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
68.9 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 | 1.7 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.4 in | 5 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Mar | 4.3 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 7.2 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| May | 9.6 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 11.9 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 8.5 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 9.2 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 5.7 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.6 in | 4 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.2 in | 3 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Dec | 1.8 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 69.1 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.
Austin County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay
Soil pH
6.8-8.1
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) | Mar 22 | Dec 21 | 274 days |
| Cautious | Mar 8 | Dec 7 | 274 days |
| Average year | Feb 28 | Nov 29 | 274 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 13 | Nov 15 | 275 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 22 | Nov 2 | 284 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±60 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 2.1 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Austin County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Austin 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 Austin County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Austin County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Extension Office
Phone: 979-845-7800
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 Austin County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Austin County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Austin 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 Austin County TX" or "garden center Austin 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 Austin County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Austin County Gardeners" or "Texas 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
13.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.9 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: Your shorter days favor short-day onion varieties like Vidalia, Texas 1015, and Red Creole. Plant in fall for best results.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.3 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 11 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.9 hr | 9.9 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.7 hr | 9.7 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 9.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.5 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.1 hr | 5.5 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 Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
10 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 45°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 47°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 53°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 63°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 72°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 84°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 90°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 93°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 84°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 75°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 61°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 51°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Austin County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Squash vine borers | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Austin 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 7 | Sep 27 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 7 | Sep 27 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 4 | Oct 4 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 28 | Sep 20 | ✓ 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 | Mar 28 | Nov 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 | Sep 29 | Feb 14 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 18 | Feb 7 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 12 | Feb 7 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 19 | Feb 7 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 24 | Feb 14 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 30 | Feb 7 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 24 | Feb 14 | — | 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: 15 mph Summer: 12 mph
Fall: 13 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
8.8/10
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 (380 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
34,439 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 1,250 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, Nov, 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 69.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 34,439 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Your area gets ample rainfall — even small barrels make a big difference
- Consider a rain garden to handle overflow during heavy rainfall months
Soil & Growing Conditions in Austin County
Soil Type
Clay
Soil pH 6.8–8.1 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
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
275-day frost-free season
Your long season supports multiple successions and heat-demanding crops like melons, sweet potatoes, and peppers. Plant warm-season crops as soon as soil warms.
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
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 Austin County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Austin County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 31 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 14 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 4 – Jun 6 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 14 | — | Apr 11 – May 9 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jun 27 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 7 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 11 – May 16 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 2 – Jun 13 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 11 – May 16 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 30 – Jul 25 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 31 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 14 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 14 | — | Apr 18 – May 23 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – Jun 27 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 23 – Jul 18 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 2 – Jun 13 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – Jun 13 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 23 – Jul 4 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 2 – Jun 13 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – Jun 27 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 7 | — | May 9 – Jul 4 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 7 | — | May 9 – Jun 20 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 – Apr 4 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 31 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 2 – May 30 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 14 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 31 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 14 | — | Apr 11 – May 9 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 31 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 7 | — | May 23 – Jul 4 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 27 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 16 – Jun 27 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jun 27 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Nov 14 – Nov 28 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 7 | — | May 2 – Jun 27 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 14 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 27 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 23 – Aug 29 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 31 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 31 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 18 – May 16 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – Jun 20 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 7 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 4 – May 9 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 30 – Aug 15 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 23 – Jul 4 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 4 – Jun 13 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 7 | — | May 9 – Jun 20 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 29 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 11 – May 16 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jun 6 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 31 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 23 – Jul 11 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 – Apr 4 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | Apr 18 – Jun 13 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 4 – May 2 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 4 – Jun 6 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – May 30 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jun 6 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 30 – Jul 18 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 11 – May 9 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 14 | — | May 30 – Jul 11 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 31 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 2 – May 30 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – Jun 20 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 27 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 23 – Aug 1 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 31 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 11 – May 16 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 2 – Jun 6 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 14 | — | Mar 14 – Apr 4 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 16 – Jun 27 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 14 | — | May 9 – Jun 13 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 14 | — | May 30 – Jul 11 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 30 – Jul 18 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – Jun 20 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 7 | — | May 30 – Jul 25 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 31 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 4 – Jun 6 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 31 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 2 – Jul 4 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 31 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 14 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 23 – Jul 11 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 7 | — | May 9 – Jun 20 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 4 – May 9 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Nov 14 – Nov 28 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 14 | — | Mar 28 – May 2 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 11 – May 16 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 31 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 23 – Jul 11 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 7 | — | May 2 – Jun 27 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jun 20 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 31 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Austin County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Austin County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 21 | Jun 20 – Oct 3 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 21 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 21 | May 30 – Jul 25 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 21 | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 21 | Jun 20 – Dec 5 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Austin County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Austin County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | May 23 – Aug 8 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jul 11 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Aug 22 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | Apr 18 – Jun 6 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 11 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | Apr 25 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | Apr 4 – Jun 6 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | Apr 4 – Jun 6 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | Apr 4 – Jun 6 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 7 | Jul 11 – Oct 17 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | Apr 25 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Aug 22 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 7 | May 23 – Jul 18 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 7 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Nov 7 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jun 27 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 7 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 30 – Aug 29 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 7 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | Apr 25 – Jun 27 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 7 | May 30 – Oct 17 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 7 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 7 | May 23 – Jul 18 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 24 | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | Apr 4 – Jun 6 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 10 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jul 11 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 7 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 7 | Jul 11 – Oct 17 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Aug 22 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Austin County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Austin County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Austin County, TX?
Austin County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. 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 Austin County, TX?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Austin County falls around February 28. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 22 and March 22 — a 60-day window of variability. Use March 22 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Austin County, TX?
The median first fall frost in Austin County arrives around November 29. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 2; in mild years as late as December 21. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Austin County?
Austin County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 275 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 2.07 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Austin County for gardening?
Austin County has predominantly Clay soil with a pH range of 6.8–8.1 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. The native soil conditions make raised beds a particularly good investment here — they let you control drainage and fertility independent of the ground soil.
What is grown commercially in Austin County?
Austin County has commercial agriculture that includes Cotton, Cattle, Sorghum, Wheat. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Austin County a good location for home gardening?
Austin County scores 38/100 (Challenging) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Gardening here benefits from close attention to frost timing and season extension due to the challenging microclimate factors.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Austin County gardeners in Zone 8b 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.
