Bastrop County, TX — Planting Guide
Bastrop County is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is February 27 and the first fall frost is December 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 278 days.
At an elevation of 3,716 ft, Bastrop County receives approximately 57 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 91°F with winter lows around 39°F. The predominant soil type is Clay.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 55 days year to year — ranging from January 26 in warm years to March 22 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 4.16 days per decade. Bastrop County scores 34/100 (Challenging) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 27
🍂 First Frost
December 1
📅 Growing Season
278 days
⛰️ Elevation
3,716 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
57 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 | 1.5 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.1 in | 4 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Mar | 4.1 in | 5 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Apr | 6.1 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| May | 8.8 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 9.4 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 6.7 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.8 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 5.6 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.5 in | 5 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 1.9 in | 4 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Dec | 1.5 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 57 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.
Bastrop County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay
Soil pH
7.2-7.9
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 13 | 266 days |
| Cautious | Mar 7 | Dec 7 | 275 days |
| Average year | Feb 27 | Dec 1 | 277 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 13 | Nov 19 | 279 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 26 | Nov 11 | 289 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±55 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 4.2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Bastrop County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Bastrop 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 Bastrop County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Bastrop 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 Bastrop County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Bastrop County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Bastrop 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 Bastrop County TX" or "garden center Bastrop 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 Bastrop County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Bastrop 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
10 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 | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 11 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.9 hr | 9.4 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.8 hr | 10 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 7.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.5 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.1 hr | 5.8 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
Jun
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 | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 39°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 46°F | 46°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 54°F | 52°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 64°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 74°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 80°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 81°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 78°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 65°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 52°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 43°F | 48°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 Bastrop 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 | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | High | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Low | 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 Bastrop 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 10 | Oct 6 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 8 | Sep 22 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 10 | Sep 29 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 30 | Sep 29 | ✓ 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 20 | Nov 3 | — | 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 | Oct 1 | Feb 13 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 2 | Feb 13 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 5 | Feb 6 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 8 | Feb 13 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 31 | Feb 6 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 31 | Feb 6 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 28 | Feb 13 | — | 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: 19 mph Summer: 13 mph
Fall: 15 mph Winter: 17 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
9.5/10
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 (242 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
28,408 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 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
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 57.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 28,408 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 Bastrop County
Soil Type
Clay
Soil pH 7.2–7.9 · 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
278-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 Bastrop County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Bastrop County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 30 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 13 | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 3 – Jun 5 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 13 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 10 – May 8 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 6 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jun 12 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 30 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 13 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 17 – May 22 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jun 12 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 12 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jun 12 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jul 3 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jun 19 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 – Apr 3 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 30 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 1 – May 29 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 13 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 30 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 10 – May 8 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 30 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 6 | — | May 22 – Jul 3 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 26 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 15 – Jun 26 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Nov 13 – Nov 27 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – Jun 26 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 13 | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 26 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 22 – Aug 28 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 30 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 30 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 6 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 3 – May 8 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 29 – Aug 14 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 3 – Jun 12 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jun 19 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Aug 28 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 30 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 10 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 – Apr 3 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 3 – May 1 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 3 – Jun 5 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 13 | — | May 29 – Jul 10 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 30 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 1 – May 29 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 26 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 30 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 13 | — | Mar 13 – Apr 3 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 15 – Jun 26 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 13 | — | May 8 – Jun 12 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 13 | — | May 29 – Jul 10 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 6 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 30 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 3 – Jun 5 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 30 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 30 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 13 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 10 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jun 19 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 3 – May 8 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Nov 13 – Nov 27 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 13 | — | Mar 27 – May 1 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 30 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 22 – Jul 10 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – Jun 26 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jun 19 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 30 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Bastrop County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Bastrop County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 20 | Jun 19 – Oct 2 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 20 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 20 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 20 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 20 | Jun 19 – Dec 4 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Bastrop County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Bastrop County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 22 – Aug 7 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 6 | Jun 5 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – Jun 5 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 3 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 3 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 3 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 6 | Jul 10 – Oct 16 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 6 | Jun 5 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 6 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 6 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 6 | Jun 5 – Nov 6 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jun 26 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 6 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 29 – Aug 28 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 6 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 6 | May 29 – Oct 16 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 6 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 6 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 6 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 3 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 6 | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 9 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 6 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 6 | Jul 10 – Oct 16 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 6 | Jun 5 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Bastrop County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Bastrop County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Bastrop County, TX?
Bastrop 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 Bastrop County, TX?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Bastrop County falls around February 27. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 26 and March 22 — a 55-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 Bastrop County, TX?
The median first fall frost in Bastrop County arrives around December 1. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 11; in mild years as late as December 13. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Bastrop County?
Bastrop County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 278 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 4.16 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Bastrop County for gardening?
Bastrop County has predominantly Clay soil with a pH range of 7.2–7.9 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 Bastrop County?
Bastrop County has commercial agriculture that includes Cotton, Cattle, Sorghum, Corn, Hay. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Bastrop County a good location for home gardening?
Bastrop County scores 34/100 (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 Bastrop 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.
