Bexar County, TX — Planting Guide
Bexar County is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 11 and the first fall frost is November 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 251 days.
At an elevation of 3,197 ft, Bexar County receives approximately 52.1 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 93°F with winter lows around 38°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 54 days year to year — ranging from February 12 in warm years to April 7 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 7.36 days per decade. Bexar County scores 47/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 11
🍂 First Frost
November 17
📅 Growing Season
251 days
⛰️ Elevation
3,197 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
52.1 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.4 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.7 in | 4 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Mar | 3.6 in | 6 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 5.6 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| May | 7.5 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 8.2 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 6.3 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 6.3 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.9 in | 5 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.5 in | 5 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 1.9 in | 3 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Dec | 1.3 in | 4 days | — | None |
Annual total: 52.2 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.
Bexar County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.5-7.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 7 | Dec 11 | 248 days |
| Cautious | Mar 22 | Nov 28 | 251 days |
| Average year | Mar 11 | Nov 17 | 251 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 1 | Nov 12 | 256 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 12 | Oct 28 | 258 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±54 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 7.4 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Bexar County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Bexar 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 Bexar County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Bexar 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 Bexar County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Bexar County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Bexar 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 Bexar County TX" or "garden center Bexar 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 Bexar County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Bexar 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
9.7 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 | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 11 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.9 hr | 9.7 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.7 hr | 9.7 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 7.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.5 hr | 5.9 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 | 38°F | 46°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 38°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 46°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 55°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 64°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 74°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 82°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 84°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 78°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 67°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 55°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 42°F | 51°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 Bexar 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 | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | Moderate | 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 Bexar 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 16 | Sep 15 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 14 | Sep 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 18 | Sep 8 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 13 | Sep 8 | ✓ 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 9 | Oct 20 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 11 | Feb 25 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 15 | Feb 25 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 5 | Feb 18 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 27 | Feb 18 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 13 | Feb 25 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 16 | Feb 18 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 15 | Feb 25 | — | 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: 18 mph Summer: 14 mph
Fall: 13 mph Winter: 17 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
9.1/10
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 (323 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
26,016 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
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, 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 52.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 26,016 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 Bexar County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.5–7.8 · Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (52.1 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
251-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
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 Bexar County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Bexar County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 11 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 25 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 25 | — | Apr 22 – May 20 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 27 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 18 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Apr 22 – May 27 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 13 – Jun 24 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Apr 22 – May 27 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 11 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 25 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 25 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 13 – Jun 24 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 6 – Jun 24 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 13 – Jun 24 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 6 – Jun 3 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 18 | — | May 20 – Jul 15 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 18 | — | May 20 – Jul 1 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 – Apr 15 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 11 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 13 – Jun 10 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 25 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 11 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 25 | — | Apr 22 – May 20 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 11 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 18 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 7 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 6 – Jun 3 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 27 – Jul 8 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 27 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Nov 25 – Dec 9 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 18 | — | May 13 – Jul 8 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 25 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 7 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 3 – Sep 9 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 11 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 11 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Apr 29 – May 27 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 6 – Jul 1 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 18 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Apr 15 – May 20 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Jun 10 – Aug 26 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Apr 15 – Jun 24 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 18 | — | May 20 – Jul 1 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 24 – Sep 9 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Apr 22 – May 27 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jun 17 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 11 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 – Apr 15 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Apr 15 – May 13 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jun 17 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Jun 10 – Jul 29 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Apr 22 – May 20 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 25 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 11 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 13 – Jun 10 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 6 – Jul 1 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 7 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 11 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Apr 22 – May 27 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 25 | — | Mar 25 – Apr 15 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 27 – Jul 8 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 25 | — | May 20 – Jun 24 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 25 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 6 – Jun 3 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Jun 10 – Jul 29 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | May 6 – Jul 1 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 18 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 11 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 11 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 11 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 25 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 18 | — | May 20 – Jul 1 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Apr 15 – May 20 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Nov 25 – Dec 9 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 25 | — | Apr 8 – May 13 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Apr 22 – May 27 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 11 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 18 | — | May 13 – Jul 8 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jul 1 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 11 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Bexar County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Bexar County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 1 | Jul 1 – Oct 14 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 1 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 1 | Jul 1 – Dec 16 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Bexar County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Bexar County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Aug 19 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 18 | Jun 17 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 17 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 18 | Jul 22 – Oct 28 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 18 | Jun 17 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 18 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 18 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 18 | Jun 17 – Nov 18 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 8 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 18 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 10 – Sep 9 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 18 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 18 | Jun 10 – Oct 28 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 18 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 18 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 18 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 21 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 18 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 18 | Jul 22 – Oct 28 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 18 | Jun 17 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Bexar County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Bexar County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Bexar County, TX?
Bexar 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 Bexar County, TX?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Bexar County falls around March 11. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 12 and April 7 — a 54-day window of variability. Use April 7 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Bexar County, TX?
The median first fall frost in Bexar County arrives around November 17. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 28; in mild years as late as December 11. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Bexar County?
Bexar County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 251 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 7.36 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Bexar County for gardening?
Bexar County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.5–7.8 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Bexar County?
Bexar County has commercial agriculture that includes Cattle, Cotton, Sorghum, Wheat, Hay. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Bexar County a good location for home gardening?
Bexar County scores 47/100 (Moderate) 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 Bexar 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.
