Brown County, TX — Planting Guide
Brown County is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 22 and the first fall frost is November 14, giving you a growing season of approximately 237 days.
At an elevation of 4,423 ft, Brown County receives approximately 55.4 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 96°F with winter lows around 36°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 30 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 46 days year to year — ranging from February 27 in warm years to April 13 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 10.59 days per decade. Brown County scores 41/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 22
🍂 First Frost
November 14
📅 Growing Season
237 days
⛰️ Elevation
4,423 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
55.4 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 | 1.6 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.6 in | 4 days | 2.7 in | High |
| Mar | 3.8 in | 6 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Apr | 5.9 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| May | 7.8 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 8.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 7.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 7.3 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 5.4 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.1 in | 4 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 1.7 in | 3 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Dec | 1.6 in | 4 days | — | None |
Annual total: 55.5 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.
Brown County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-7.5
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 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 13 | Dec 4 | 235 days |
| Cautious | Apr 5 | Nov 23 | 232 days |
| Average year | Mar 22 | Nov 14 | 237 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 9 | Nov 2 | 238 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 27 | Oct 25 | 240 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±46 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 10.6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Brown County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Brown 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 Brown County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Brown 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 Brown County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Brown County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Brown 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 Brown County TX" or "garden center Brown 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 Brown County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Brown 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
14.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.9 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: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.1 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.1 hr | 9.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.9 hr | 10 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.2 hr | 9.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.3 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.9 hr | 5.6 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
7 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 35°F | 41°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 33°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 42°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 51°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 60°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 70°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 79°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 81°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 75°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 61°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 48°F | 55°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 41°F | 47°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 Brown 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 | 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 Brown 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 29 | Sep 5 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 29 | Sep 12 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 26 | Sep 19 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 19 | Sep 5 | ✓ 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 5 | Oct 17 | — | 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 | Mar 1 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 8 | Mar 8 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 27 | Mar 1 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 31 | Mar 8 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 6 | Mar 1 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 12 | Mar 1 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 9 | Mar 1 | — | 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: 13 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
9.2/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (322 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
27,661 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 55.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 27,661 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 Brown County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.8–7.5 · 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. (55.4 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
237-day frost-free season
Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
Recommended for Your Garden
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Brown County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Brown County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 5 | Aug 9 – Oct 18 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 8 | — | May 3 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 5 | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 8 | — | May 10 – Jun 14 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 17 – Jul 5 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 9 – Oct 18 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 – Apr 26 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 8 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 8 | — | May 3 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 18 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Dec 6 – Dec 20 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 29 | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 5 | Aug 9 – Oct 18 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 18 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 14 – Sep 20 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 9 – Oct 18 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 10 – Jun 7 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Jun 21 – Sep 6 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Apr 26 – Jul 5 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jul 5 – Sep 20 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 – Apr 26 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Apr 26 – May 24 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 3 – May 31 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 8 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 18 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 8 | — | Apr 5 – Apr 26 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 8 | — | May 31 – Jul 5 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 8 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 5 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Dec 6 – Dec 20 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 8 | — | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 29 | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Brown County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Brown County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 12 | Jul 12 – Oct 25 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 12 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 12 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 12 | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 12 | Jul 12 – Dec 27 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Brown County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Brown County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Jun 14 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | May 10 – Jun 28 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 29 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 29 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 29 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 29 | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 29 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 29 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 29 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Nov 29 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 29 | May 31 – Jul 19 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 29 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 21 – Sep 20 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 29 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 29 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 29 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 29 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 29 | Jun 21 – Nov 8 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 29 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 29 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 29 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 29 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 29 | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Brown County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Brown County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Brown County, TX?
Brown County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. 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 Brown County, TX?
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Brown County falls around March 22. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 27 and April 13 — a 46-day window of variability. Use April 13 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Brown County, TX?
The median first fall frost in Brown County arrives around November 14. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 25; in mild years as late as December 4. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Brown County?
Brown County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 237 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 10.59 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Brown County for gardening?
Brown County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.8–7.5 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Brown County?
Brown County has commercial agriculture that includes Cotton, Cattle, Sorghum. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Brown County a good location for home gardening?
Brown County scores 41/100 (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 Brown County gardeners in Zone 8a 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.
