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Cooke County, TX — Planting Guide

Cooke County, Texas Zone 8a June

Your June planting checklist for Cooke County, Texas

If you only do a handful of things in the garden this June, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.

Avg. last frost March 26
Avg. first frost November 11
Soil temp (4") 76°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14.2 hrs
  1. Time to start begonias, geraniums, and pansy inside

    You're about 21 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.

  2. Bring in the basil, carrots, and cucumber

    Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.

A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
  • First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans

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Cooke County is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 26 and the first fall frost is November 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 230 days.

At an elevation of 1,818 ft, Cooke County receives approximately 69.5 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 88°F with winter lows around 28°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 46 days year to year — ranging from March 1 in warm years to April 15 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 1.19 days per decade. Cooke County scores 49/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

8a (10°F to 15°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

March 26

🍂 First Frost

November 11

📅 Growing Season

230 days

⛰️ Elevation

1,818 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

69.5 in

Cooke County, TX Long season
230 days
❄
Last Spring Frost March 26
➔ 230 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost November 11

Monthly Watering Calendar for Cooke County

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

The practical takeaway: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Cooke County gets 70" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.

1"/wk 0" 2.7" 5.4" 8.1" 10.8" Jan 1.5" Feb 2.6" Mar 4.6" Apr 8.1" May 9.9" Jun 10.8" Jul 9.9" Aug 7.5" Sep 6.7" Oct 3.9" Nov 2.2" Dec 1.8"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 1.5 in 4 days — None
Feb 2.6 in 5 days — None
Mar 4.6 in 6 days — Low
Apr 8.1 in 7 days — Low
May 9.9 in 10 days — Low
Jun 10.8 in 9 days — Low
Jul 9.9 in 7 days — Low
Aug 7.5 in 7 days — Low
Sep 6.7 in 6 days — Low
Oct 3.9 in 5 days 0.4 in Low
Nov 2.2 in 3 days — None
Dec 1.8 in 4 days — None

Annual total: 69.5 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.

Cooke County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Loam

Soil pH

6.2-7.6

Drainage

Well Drained

Frost Risk Probability

Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations

Too early frost risk Safe to Plant Mar 26 → Nov 11 230 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: Apr 15 Protect by: Nov 28

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 15 Nov 28 227 days
Cautious Apr 7 Nov 19 226 days
Average year Mar 26 Nov 11 230 days
Optimistic Mar 14 Nov 2 233 days
Aggressive (risky) Mar 1 Oct 23 236 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

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.

⚠️
Is the growing season changing?

Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 1.2 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.

Gardening Difficulty Score

49 Moderate
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
3.5/10
Soil Difficulty
1.0/10
Altitude Challenge
1.6/10
Climate Shift
4.8/10
Rainfall Challenge
9.8/10

Cooke County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.

Zone 8a Frost Countdown
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Loading...
Last Frost: Mar 26 First Frost: Nov 11

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

County Extension Office

Cooke 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.

Find Master Gardeners in TX →

Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.

Soil Testing

Available through your extension office

Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.

Request a Soil Test →

Services Available in Cooke County

Soil testing Pest management Master Gardener program Water conservation
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Cooke County

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Cooke 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 Cooke County TX" or "garden center Cooke 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 Cooke County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Cooke 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.

After Peas (harvest ends Jul 16) 118 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Squash (Summer) (harvest ends Jul 30) 104 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Sweet Potatoes (harvest ends Aug 27) 76 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Zucchini (harvest ends Jul 23) 111 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d Green Beans 50-65d
After Pole Beans (harvest ends Jul 30) 104 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Carrots (harvest ends Jul 2) 132 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
Show 6 more succession options
After Eggplant (harvest ends Aug 20) 83 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Snap Peas (harvest ends Jul 30) 104 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Peppers (harvest ends Aug 20) 83 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Watermelon (harvest ends Aug 6) 97 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Okra (harvest ends Jul 30) 104 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Spinach (harvest ends Jul 2) 132 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d

Sunlight & Day Length in Cooke County

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

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

Longest Day

14.2 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

9.8 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

10.5 hr/day peak (summer)

Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.

14hr 12hr 4h 7h 10h 13h 16h Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Daylight hours (sunrise to sunset) Peak sun hours (direct sunlight after cloud cover) ▪ Gold zone = long day (14+ hr) ▪ Blue zone = short day (<12 hr)

Onion tip: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.

View detailed monthly data
MonthDaylight HoursPeak Sun HoursDay Length
January 10 hr 5.3 hr Short day
February 10.8 hr 6.3 hr Short day
March 11.7 hr 7.4 hr Short day
April 12.8 hr 8 hr Neutral
May 13.7 hr 8.6 hr Neutral
June 14.2 hr 9.7 hr Long day
July 14 hr 10.5 hr Long day
August 13.3 hr 9 hr Neutral
September 12.2 hr 8.2 hr Neutral
October 11.1 hr 7.3 hr Short day
November 10.2 hr 5.9 hr Short day
December 9.8 hr 5.4 hr Short day

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

Soil Temperature & Composting in Cooke County

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

Why it matters: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Cooke County, an aggressive mulch program shifts your effective soil temperature curve toward optimal for most crops.

Plant Warm Crops When

Soil reaches 60°F+

Soil warm enough from May through Oct.

Best Month to Compost

May

Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.

Active Composting

8 months

Nearly year-round composting.

60°F 70°F 20° 40° 60° 80° 100° Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
4" depth 8" depth - - - 60°F (corn, beans) - - - 70°F (tomatoes, peppers)
View detailed monthly data
MonthSoil 4" DeepSoil 8" DeepCompost ActivityTime to Finish
Jan 34°F 43°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Feb 38°F 42°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Mar 44°F 47°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Apr 56°F 53°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
May 65°F 64°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jun 76°F 71°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 85°F 77°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 84°F 81°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 79°F 78°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 65°F 70°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Nov 53°F 58°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Dec 42°F 50°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 Cooke County

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

For new gardeners: Pest score isn't pass/fail. It's a planning input. Higher scores mean: more compost (resilient plants), wider spacing (air circulation), resistant varieties (built-in defense), and inspection (catch issues at egg stage).

Insect Pest Pressure

6.4 / 10

Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.

Disease Risk

7.6 / 10

High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.

Seasonal Risk

Spring Moderate
Summer High
Fall Low
Winter Low
View 6 common pests in your area
PestRisk LevelPeak Months
Aphids High Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Japanese beetles Moderate Jun, Jul, Aug
Squash vine borers High May, Jun, Jul
Stink bugs High May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Whiteflies Moderate Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Spider mites Moderate Jul, Aug
Organic pest management tips
  • Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
  • Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
  • Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
  • Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
  • Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
  • Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash

Cover Crops for Cooke County

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

What this means for you: Cover crops fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.

Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat Apr 2 Sep 2 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Cowpeas (southern peas) Apr 4 Sep 2 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible
Sorghum-sudan grass Apr 4 Sep 2 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Feb 25 Sep 16 ✓ 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 11 Oct 14 — 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 2 Mar 5 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Crimson clover Sep 6 Mar 5 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring
Daikon radish Sep 23 Mar 5 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Sep 4 Mar 12 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Sep 30 Mar 12 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Aug 6 Mar 12 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Aug 10 Mar 5 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Cooke County

Why it matters: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Cooke County averages 12.2 mph — fine for most days. But every region has its windy days, and the first time a row of unstaked peppers leans over after a storm is a lesson you only need once.

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: 14 mph   Winter: 15 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 (274 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.

Rainwater Harvesting in Cooke County

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

What this means for you: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Cooke County gets 70" of rain a year — a couple of well-placed rain barrels can cover most summer watering. In dry climates the math's even better: every captured gallon is one you don't buy.

Annual Collection

34,638 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 69.5 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 34,638 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 Cooke County

Soil Type

Loam

Soil pH 6.2–7.6 · Moderately 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. (69.5 in. annual rainfall)

Season Tips

230-day frost-free season

Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.

Your Free Printable Garden Planner

Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 22-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Recommended for Your Garden

🧪
Soil Test Kit $12-25

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

Know your soil before you plant for best results.

📏
Digital pH Meter $10-20

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

Helpful for your garden setup.

🍂
Organic Compost $8-30

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

Helpful for your garden setup.

🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Cooke County

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

Show all 114 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 2 – Aug 6 80–100
Amaranth Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 9 – Aug 27 90–120
Artichoke — — Apr 9 — Aug 13 – Oct 22 120–180
Arugula Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Apr 30 – Jul 2 30–50
Asparagus — — Apr 9 — — 730–1095
Beets — Mar 12 — Sep 2 May 7 – Jun 4 50–70
Belgian Endive Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Jul 16 – Sep 10 110–150
Bitter Melon Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 11 – Jul 23 60–90
Black Beans — Apr 2 — — Jul 2 – Aug 20 90–120
Bok Choy Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 7 – Jun 11 40–60
Broccoli Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 28 – Jul 9 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 7 – Jun 11 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Jun 25 – Aug 20 90–130
Butternut Squash Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 9 – Aug 13 85–110
Cabbage Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 28 – Jul 23 60–100
Calabash Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 2 – Aug 27 80–120
Cardoon — — Apr 9 — Aug 13 – Sep 24 120–150
Carrots — Mar 12 — Sep 2 May 14 – Jun 18 60–80
Cauliflower Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 21 – Jul 23 55–100
Celeriac Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Jul 9 – Aug 13 100–120
Celery Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Jun 18 – Aug 13 80–120
Celtuce Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 28 – Jul 9 60–90
Chard Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 21 – Jul 9 50–60
Chayote Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Aug 13 – Oct 22 120–180
Chickpeas Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Jun 18 – Jul 30 80–110
Chicory Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 28 – Jul 9 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 21 – Jun 18 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 2 – Aug 6 80–100
Collard Greens Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 21 – Jul 23 55–75
Corn — Apr 2 — — Jun 4 – Jul 30 60–100
Cowpeas — Apr 2 — — Jun 4 – Jul 16 60–90
Cress Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Apr 9 – Apr 30 14–21
Crookneck Squash Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — May 28 – Jun 25 45–60
Crosne — Mar 12 — Sep 2 Aug 13 – Oct 15 150–200
Cucumber Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Jul 30 50–70
Daikon — Mar 12 — Sep 2 May 7 – Jun 4 50–70
Delicata Squash Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 2 – Aug 6 80–100
Edamame — Apr 2 — — Jun 18 – Jul 30 75–100
Eggplant Jan 22 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 18 – Aug 20 65–85
Endive Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 14 – Jun 18 45–65
Escarole Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 21 – Jun 18 50–70
Fava Beans Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Jun 11 – Jul 23 75–100
Fennel Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 11 – Jul 23 60–90
Garlic — — — Sep 30 Dec 30 – Jun 16 90–240
Ginger Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Dec 10 – Dec 24 240–300
Green Beans — Apr 2 — — May 28 – Jul 23 50–65
Horseradish — — Apr 9 — Aug 13 – Oct 22 120–180
Hot Peppers Jan 22 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 18 – Sep 24 70–120
Hubbard Squash Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 23 – Aug 27 100–120
Jicama Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Aug 13 – Oct 22 120–180
Kabocha Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 9 – Aug 6 85–100
Kai Lan Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 14 – Jun 11 45–60
Kale Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 21 – Jul 16 50–70
Kidney Beans — Apr 2 — — Jul 2 – Aug 6 85–110
Kohlrabi Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 14 – Jun 18 45–65
Komatsuna Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Apr 30 – Jun 4 35–50
Leeks Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Jun 25 – Sep 10 90–150
Lentils Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Jun 18 – Jul 30 80–110
Lettuce Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Apr 30 – Jul 9 30–60
Lima Beans — Apr 2 — — Jun 4 – Jul 16 60–90
Loofah Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 23 – Sep 24 100–150
Luffa Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 9 – Sep 24 90–150
Mache Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 7 – Jun 11 40–60
Malabar Spinach Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Jul 2 55–70
Melon Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 18 – Aug 6 70–100
Microgreens Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Apr 2 – Apr 30 7–21
Mitsuba Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Sep 2 May 14 – Jul 9 50–70
Mizuna Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Apr 30 – May 28 30–45
Mustard Greens Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Apr 30 – Jul 2 30–50
Napa Cabbage Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 21 – Jun 25 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Jul 2 55–70
Okra Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Jul 30 50–65
Onion Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Jun 25 – Aug 13 90–120
Pac Choi Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 7 – Jun 4 40–55
Parsnip — Mar 12 — Sep 2 Jun 25 – Aug 6 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — May 28 – Jun 25 45–60
Peas Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 21 – Jul 16 55–70
Peppers Jan 22 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 11 – Aug 20 60–90
Pole Beans Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Jul 30 55–70
Potatoes Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 18 – Aug 27 70–120
Pumpkin Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 9 – Aug 27 85–120
Purslane Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 7 – Jun 11 40–60
Radicchio Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 28 – Jul 2 60–80
Radish — Mar 12 — Sep 2 Apr 9 – Apr 30 22–35
Rhubarb — — Apr 16 — — 365–730
Romanesco Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Jun 11 – Jul 23 75–100
Rutabaga — Mar 12 — Sep 2 Jun 4 – Jul 9 80–100
Salsify — Mar 12 — Sep 2 Jun 25 – Aug 6 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Jun 4 – Jul 30 70–110
Scallions Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 21 – Jun 18 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 11 – Jul 16 60–80
Shallot Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Jun 25 – Aug 13 90–120
Shiso Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Jul 30 50–70
Snap Peas Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Jul 30 55–70
Snow Peas Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 21 – Jul 16 50–65
Soybeans — Apr 2 — — Jun 25 – Aug 20 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 9 – Aug 6 85–100
Spinach Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Apr 30 – Jul 2 35–50
Squash (Summer) Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — May 28 – Jul 30 45–65
Squash (Winter) Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 2 – Aug 27 80–120
Sunchoke — — Apr 9 — Jul 30 – Sep 24 110–150
Sweet Corn — Apr 2 — — Jun 4 – Jul 16 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 9 – Aug 27 90–120
Tatsoi Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 Apr 30 – Jun 4 35–50
Tomatillo Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 11 – Aug 20 60–85
Tomatoes Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 11 – Aug 20 60–85
Turmeric Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Dec 10 – Dec 24 240–300
Turnip — Mar 12 — Sep 2 Apr 23 – May 28 40–60
Watercress Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 26 Sep 2 May 7 – Jun 11 40–60
Watermelon Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 18 – Aug 6 70–100
Wax Beans — Apr 2 — — May 28 – Jul 23 50–65
Winter Melon Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jul 9 – Aug 27 90–120
Yard Long Beans Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Jul 16 55–80
Zucchini Feb 26 Apr 2 Apr 9 — May 28 – Jul 23 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Cooke County

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

Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — Apr 16 — Jul 16 – Oct 29 90–180
Aronia — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — Apr 16 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — Apr 16 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — Apr 16 — Jun 25 – Jul 30 70–90
Che Fruit — — Apr 16 — — 1095–1825
Elderberries — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Figs — — Apr 16 — — 730–1825
Goji Berries — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — Apr 16 — Jun 25 – Aug 20 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — Apr 16 — — 1095–1825
Honeydew — — Apr 16 — Jul 9 – Aug 20 80–110
Jostaberry — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Kiwi — — Apr 16 — — 1095–1825
Loquat — — Apr 16 — — 730–1825
Medlar — — Apr 16 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — Apr 16 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — Apr 16 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — Apr 16 — — 1095–2555
Pomegranate — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Quince — — Apr 16 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — Apr 16 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — Apr 16 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — Apr 16 — Jul 16 – Dec 31 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Cooke County

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

Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Sep 2 — 365–730
Anise Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Sep 2 Jun 18 – Sep 3 90–120
Basil Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Aug 6 50–75
Bee Balm — — Apr 2 — Jul 2 – Sep 17 90–120
Borage Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Sep 2 May 14 – Jul 2 50–60
Caraway Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Sep 2 — 365–450
Catnip — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Aug 6 60–80
Chamomile Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Sep 2 May 21 – Jul 30 60–90
Chervil Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Sep 2 Apr 30 – Jul 2 40–60
Chives — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Aug 13 60–90
Cilantro Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Sep 2 Apr 30 – Jul 2 40–60
Comfrey — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Aug 13 60–90
Cumin Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Sep 2 Jul 2 – Sep 3 100–120
Dill Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Sep 2 Apr 30 – Jul 2 40–60
Epazote Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — May 28 – Jul 23 45–60
Fennel (herb) Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Sep 2 May 21 – Jul 30 60–90
Feverfew — — Apr 2 — Jul 2 – Sep 17 90–120
Garlic Chives — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Aug 13 60–90
Horehound — — Apr 2 — Jun 18 – Aug 13 75–90
Hyssop — — Apr 2 — Jun 11 – Aug 13 70–90
Lemon Balm — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Jul 23 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — Apr 2 — Jun 11 – Aug 13 70–90
Lemon Verbena Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 11 – Aug 20 60–90
Lemongrass Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 25 – Sep 24 75–120
Lovage — — Apr 2 — Jun 11 – Aug 13 70–90
Marjoram — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Aug 13 60–90
Mint — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Aug 13 60–90
Oregano — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Aug 13 60–90
Parsley Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Sep 2 May 21 – Jul 23 60–80
Rosemary — — Apr 2 — Jun 25 – Nov 12 80–180
Rue — — Apr 2 — Jun 11 – Aug 13 70–90
Sage — — Apr 2 — Jun 18 – Aug 13 75–90
Savory — — Apr 2 — May 28 – Jul 23 50–70
Sorrel Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 Sep 2 Apr 30 – Jul 2 40–60
Stevia Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 11 – Aug 20 60–90
Tarragon — — Apr 2 — Jun 4 – Aug 13 60–90
Thai Basil Feb 5 Apr 2 Apr 9 — Jun 4 – Aug 6 50–75
Thyme — — Apr 2 — Jun 11 – Aug 13 70–90
Valerian — — Apr 2 — Aug 6 – Nov 12 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Cooke County

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

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

Monthly Planting Guide for Cooke County