Dawson County, TX — Planting Guide
What to do in May
Welcome to May in Zone 8a. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
-
Start basil, kale, and lettuce under lights
Give them 6–8 weeks indoors before the last frost and you'll transplant into warm soil with seedlings that are already leaping.
-
Bring in the carrots, kale, and lettuce
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
To set up a strong June, finish these tasks
- Starting indoors: peppers, eggplant, and hot peppers
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Dawson County is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is April 1 and the first fall frost is November 10, giving you a growing season of approximately 223 days.
At an elevation of 4,748 ft, Dawson County receives approximately 46.1 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 102°F with winter lows around 33°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 41 days year to year — ranging from March 9 in warm years to April 19 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 1.75 days per decade. Dawson County scores 41/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 1
🍂 First Frost
November 10
📅 Growing Season
223 days
⛰️ Elevation
4,748 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
46.1 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 | 3.7 in | 2 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.7 in | 2 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.6 in | 2 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Apr | 1.6 in | 0 days | 2.7 in | High |
| May | 1 in | 1 days | 3.3 in | Critical |
| Jun | 1.9 in | 2 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Jul | 7.4 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 9.2 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 5.9 in | 4 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.2 in | 2 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Nov | 2.8 in | 1 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3 in | 2 days | — | None |
Annual total: 46 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.
Dawson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7.8-8.4
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 19 | Nov 22 | 217 days |
| Cautious | Apr 8 | Nov 14 | 220 days |
| Average year | Apr 1 | Nov 10 | 223 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 24 | Nov 2 | 223 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 9 | Oct 24 | 229 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±41 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 1.8 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Dawson County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Dawson 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 Dawson County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Dawson 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 Dawson County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Dawson County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Dawson 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 Dawson County TX" or "garden center Dawson 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 Dawson County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Dawson 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 | 10.8 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.7 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.1 hr | 9.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 14 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.2 hr | 9.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.3 hr | 6.3 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 Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 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 | 28°F | 33°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 27°F | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 33°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 45°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 55°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 68°F | 62°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 72°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 74°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 67°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 57°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 44°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 31°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Dawson 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 |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Low | 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 Dawson 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 | Apr 9 | Sep 8 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 8 | Sep 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 8 | Sep 15 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 3 | 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 21 | Oct 27 | — | 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 18 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 7 | Mar 11 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 24 | Mar 18 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 22 | Mar 18 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 12 | Mar 18 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 19 | Mar 11 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 11 | Mar 11 | — | 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: 14 mph Winter: 17 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
8.9/10
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 (316 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
22,926 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 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, May, Jun
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 46.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 22,926 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Apr, May, Jun)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Dawson County
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 7.8–8.4 · Well Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 7.5/10
High drought stress. Consistent irrigation is essential — consider drip systems, heavy mulch, and drought-tolerant varieties.
Season Tips
223-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 24-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.
Recommended for Your Garden
Retain moisture and nutrients in sandy soils with expanded vermiculite.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Dawson County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Dawson County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 4 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 15 | Aug 19 – Oct 28 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 15 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 18 | — | May 13 – Jun 10 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 8 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 4 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 15 | Aug 19 – Sep 30 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 18 | — | May 20 – Jun 24 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 27 – Jul 15 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 19 – Oct 28 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 8 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 8 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 – May 6 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 4 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 18 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 21 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 4 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 18 | — | May 13 – Jun 10 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 4 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 8 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 28 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Dec 16 – Dec 30 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 8 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 15 | Aug 19 – Oct 28 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 28 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Sep 30 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 4 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 19 – Oct 28 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 4 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 20 – Jun 17 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 8 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jul 1 – Sep 16 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 8 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 30 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 4 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 – May 6 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 6 – Jun 3 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jul 1 – Aug 19 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 13 – Jun 10 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 18 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 4 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 28 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 4 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 18 | — | Apr 15 – May 6 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 18 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 18 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jul 1 – Aug 19 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 8 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 4 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 4 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 4 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 15 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 8 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Dec 16 – Dec 30 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 18 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 4 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 8 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 4 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Dawson County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Dawson County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 22 | Jul 22 – Nov 4 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 22 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 22 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 22 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 22 | Jul 22 – Jan 6 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Dawson County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Dawson County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jun 24 – Sep 9 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Jul 8 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 8 | Aug 12 – Nov 18 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 8 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 8 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Dec 9 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Jul 29 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 8 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 1 – Sep 30 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 8 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 8 | Jul 1 – Nov 18 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 8 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 8 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 8 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 8 | Aug 12 – Nov 18 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Dawson County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Dawson County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Dawson County, TX?
Dawson 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 Dawson County, TX?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Dawson County falls around April 1. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 9 and April 19 — a 41-day window of variability. Use April 19 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Dawson County, TX?
The median first fall frost in Dawson County arrives around November 10. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 24; in mild years as late as November 22. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Dawson County?
Dawson County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 223 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 1.75 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Dawson County for gardening?
Dawson County has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 7.8–8.4 and 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 Dawson County?
Dawson County has commercial agriculture that includes Cotton, Cattle, Sorghum, Hay, Wheat. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Dawson County a good location for home gardening?
Dawson 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.
Your Dawson County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Dawson County (Zone 8a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log