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Franklin County, TX — Planting Guide

Franklin County, Texas Zone 8b June

Your June game plan for Franklin County, Texas

Here's what deserves your attention in Franklin County, Texas this month. Everything below is tailored to Zone 8b and timed around your local frost dates.

Avg. last frost March 18
Avg. first frost November 11
Soil temp (4") 83°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14.2 hrs
  1. Basket week: basil, carrots, and cucumber

    The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.

July prep starts now
  • First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans

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Franklin County is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 18 and the first fall frost is November 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 238 days.

At an elevation of 324 ft, Franklin County receives approximately 60 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 97°F with winter lows around 36°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 42 days year to year — ranging from February 26 in warm years to April 8 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 4.31 days per decade. Franklin County scores 49/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

8b (15°F to 20°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

March 18

🍂 First Frost

November 11

📅 Growing Season

238 days

⛰️ Elevation

324 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

60 in

Franklin County, TX Long season
238 days
❄
Last Spring Frost March 18
➔ 238 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost November 11

Monthly Watering Calendar for Franklin County

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

What this means for you: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Franklin County gets 60" 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" 2.5" 5" 7.4" 9.9" Jan 1.5" +2.4" Feb 1.9" Mar 4.1" Apr 5.6" May 7.9" Jun 9.9" Jul 8.3" Aug 7.1" Sep 6" Oct 3.9" +2" Nov 2.3" Dec 1.6"
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 3 days — None
Feb 1.9 in 5 days 2.4 in High
Mar 4.1 in 6 days 0.2 in Low
Apr 5.6 in 8 days — Low
May 7.9 in 10 days — Low
Jun 9.9 in 9 days — Low
Jul 8.3 in 8 days — Low
Aug 7.1 in 7 days — Low
Sep 6 in 5 days — Low
Oct 3.9 in 5 days 0.4 in Low
Nov 2.3 in 3 days 2 in High
Dec 1.6 in 3 days — None

Annual total: 60.1 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.

Franklin County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Sandy Loam

Soil pH

5.4-6.3

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 18 → Nov 11 238 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: Apr 8 Protect by: Nov 27

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 8 Nov 27 233 days
Cautious Mar 25 Nov 20 240 days
Average year Mar 18 Nov 11 238 days
Optimistic Mar 8 Nov 2 239 days
Aggressive (risky) Feb 26 Oct 27 243 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

Not very — frost dates can vary by ±42 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 longer here (about 4.3 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.

Gardening Difficulty Score

49 Moderate
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
3.5/10
Soil Difficulty
1.0/10
Altitude Challenge
0.0/10
Climate Shift
10.0/10
Rainfall Challenge
6.0/10

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

Zone 8b Frost Countdown
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Loading...
Last Frost: Mar 18 First Frost: Nov 11

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

County Extension Office

Franklin 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 Franklin County

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

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Franklin 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 Franklin County TX" or "garden center Franklin 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 Franklin County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Franklin 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 Beets (harvest ends Jun 10) 154 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Green Beans (harvest ends Jul 8) 126 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Broccoli (harvest ends Jul 1) 133 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Peas (harvest ends Jul 8) 126 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Onion (harvest ends Aug 5) 98 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Melon (harvest ends Jul 29) 105 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
Show 6 more succession options
After Pole Beans (harvest ends Jul 22) 112 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Carrots (harvest ends Jun 24) 140 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Eggplant (harvest ends Aug 12) 91 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Spinach (harvest ends Jun 24) 140 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Corn (harvest ends Jul 15) 119 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Okra (harvest ends Jul 22) 112 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d

Sunlight & Day Length in Franklin County

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

For new gardeners: Day length triggers flowering in many crops. Some need short days (sweet potatoes), some long (most flowers), and some are day-neutral (most modern tomatoes). Franklin County's latitude determines which varieties fit your beds.

Longest Day

14.2 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

9.8 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.

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 5.4 hr Short day
February 10.8 hr 6.1 hr Short day
March 11.8 hr 6.9 hr Short day
April 12.8 hr 7.9 hr Neutral
May 13.7 hr 8.6 hr Neutral
June 14.2 hr 9.7 hr Long day
July 14 hr 9.6 hr Long day
August 13.2 hr 9.6 hr Neutral
September 12.2 hr 7.9 hr Neutral
October 11.2 hr 7.5 hr Short day
November 10.3 hr 6 hr Short day
December 9.8 hr 5.5 hr Short day

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

Soil Temperature & Composting in Franklin County

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

Why this matters: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. Franklin County's typical curve helps you plan — but a $5 soil thermometer in the bed beats any average.

Plant Warm Crops When

Soil reaches 60°F+

Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.

Best Month to Compost

May

Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.

Active Composting

10 months

Nearly year-round composting.

60°F 70°F 30° 50° 70° 90° 110° 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 45°F 51°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Feb 45°F 52°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Mar 54°F 56°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Apr 61°F 64°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
May 71°F 71°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jun 83°F 79°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 91°F 86°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 91°F 88°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 86°F 83°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 74°F 77°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Nov 63°F 66°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Dec 51°F 56°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks

Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.

Pest & Disease Pressure in Franklin County

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

Why this matters: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Franklin County's pest score is your early-warning system: high score means commit to disease-resistant varieties and accept some crop loss to bugs.

Insect Pest Pressure

7.2 / 10

High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.

Disease Risk

7.3 / 10

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

Seasonal Risk

Spring High
Summer High
Fall High
Winter Low
View 6 common pests in your area
PestRisk LevelPeak Months
Aphids High Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Squash vine borers High 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 Moderate 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 Franklin County

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

Why this matters: Cover crops protect microbial life through winter and summer. Bare soil bakes; covered soil stays cooler, moister, and biologically active. The difference shows up in next year's crops.

Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat Mar 23 Sep 16 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Cowpeas (southern peas) Mar 22 Sep 9 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible
Sorghum-sudan grass Mar 21 Sep 2 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Feb 20 Sep 2 ✓ Yes Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Sunflowers Mar 31 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 3 Mar 4 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Crimson clover Sep 8 Feb 25 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring
Daikon radish Oct 2 Mar 4 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Aug 21 Mar 4 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Oct 10 Feb 25 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Aug 3 Mar 4 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Aug 15 Mar 4 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Franklin County

Why this matters: Pollinators avoid windy days. Franklin County's 11.5 mph average wind isn't enough to stop bees and butterflies — but plant fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) in protected microclimates and you'll see noticeably better fruit set.

Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.

Seasonal Wind Speed

Spring: 16 mph   Summer: 12 mph

Fall: 12 mph   Winter: 15 mph

Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.

Windbreak Benefit

7.1/10

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 (251 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.

Rainwater Harvesting in Franklin 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: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Franklin County's 60" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.

Annual Collection

29,953 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 60.1 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 29,953 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 Franklin County

Soil Type

Sandy Loam

Soil pH 5.4–6.3 · Excessively Drained drainage

Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.

Watering Needs

Drought stress: 3.5/10

Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (60 in. annual rainfall)

Season Tips

238-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

🫧
Vermiculite $12-22

Retain moisture and nutrients in sandy soils with expanded vermiculite.

Helps sandy soil retain moisture and nutrients.

🧪
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.

🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Franklin County

114 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Franklin County.

Show all 114 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Feb 18 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 24 – Jul 29 80–100
Amaranth Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jul 1 – Aug 19 90–120
Artichoke — — Apr 1 — Aug 5 – Oct 14 120–180
Arugula Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Apr 22 – Jun 24 30–50
Asparagus — — Apr 1 — — 730–1095
Beets — Mar 4 — Sep 2 Apr 29 – May 27 50–70
Belgian Endive Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Jul 8 – Sep 2 110–150
Bitter Melon Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 3 – Jul 15 60–90
Black Beans — Mar 25 — — Jun 24 – Aug 12 90–120
Bok Choy Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Apr 29 – Jun 3 40–60
Broccoli Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 20 – Jul 1 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Apr 29 – Jun 3 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Jun 17 – Aug 12 90–130
Butternut Squash Feb 18 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jul 1 – Aug 5 85–110
Cabbage Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 20 – Jul 15 60–100
Calabash Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 24 – Aug 19 80–120
Cardoon — — Apr 1 — Aug 5 – Sep 16 120–150
Carrots — Mar 4 — Sep 2 May 6 – Jun 10 60–80
Cauliflower Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 13 – Jul 15 55–100
Celeriac Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Jul 1 – Aug 5 100–120
Celery Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Jun 10 – Aug 5 80–120
Celtuce Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 20 – Jul 1 60–90
Chard Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 13 – Jul 1 50–60
Chayote Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Aug 5 – Oct 14 120–180
Chickpeas Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Jun 10 – Jul 22 80–110
Chicory Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 20 – Jul 1 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 13 – Jun 10 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 24 – Jul 29 80–100
Collard Greens Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 13 – Jul 15 55–75
Corn — Mar 25 — — May 27 – Jul 22 60–100
Cowpeas — Mar 25 — — May 27 – Jul 8 60–90
Cress Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Apr 1 – Apr 22 14–21
Crookneck Squash Feb 18 Mar 25 Apr 1 — May 20 – Jun 17 45–60
Crosne — Mar 4 — Sep 2 Aug 5 – Oct 7 150–200
Cucumber Feb 18 Mar 25 Apr 1 — May 27 – Jul 22 50–70
Daikon — Mar 4 — Sep 2 Apr 29 – May 27 50–70
Delicata Squash Feb 18 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 24 – Jul 29 80–100
Edamame — Mar 25 — — Jun 10 – Jul 22 75–100
Eggplant Jan 14 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 10 – Aug 12 65–85
Endive Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 6 – Jun 10 45–65
Escarole Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 13 – Jun 10 50–70
Fava Beans Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Jun 3 – Jul 15 75–100
Fennel Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 3 – Jul 15 60–90
Garlic — — — Sep 30 Dec 30 – Jun 16 90–240
Ginger Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Dec 2 – Dec 16 240–300
Green Beans — Mar 25 — — May 20 – Jul 15 50–65
Horseradish — — Apr 1 — Aug 5 – Oct 14 120–180
Hot Peppers Jan 14 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 10 – Sep 16 70–120
Hubbard Squash Feb 18 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jul 15 – Aug 19 100–120
Jicama Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Aug 5 – Oct 14 120–180
Kabocha Feb 18 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jul 1 – Jul 29 85–100
Kai Lan Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 6 – Jun 3 45–60
Kale Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 13 – Jul 8 50–70
Kidney Beans — Mar 25 — — Jun 24 – Jul 29 85–110
Kohlrabi Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 6 – Jun 10 45–65
Komatsuna Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Apr 22 – May 27 35–50
Leeks Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Jun 17 – Sep 2 90–150
Lentils Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Jun 10 – Jul 22 80–110
Lettuce Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Apr 22 – Jul 1 30–60
Lima Beans — Mar 25 — — May 27 – Jul 8 60–90
Loofah Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jul 15 – Sep 16 100–150
Luffa Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jul 1 – Sep 16 90–150
Mache Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Apr 29 – Jun 3 40–60
Malabar Spinach Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — May 27 – Jun 24 55–70
Melon Feb 18 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 10 – Jul 29 70–100
Microgreens Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Mar 25 – Apr 22 7–21
Mitsuba Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 11 Sep 2 May 6 – Jul 1 50–70
Mizuna Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Apr 22 – May 20 30–45
Mustard Greens Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Apr 22 – Jun 24 30–50
Napa Cabbage Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 13 – Jun 17 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — May 27 – Jun 24 55–70
Okra Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — May 27 – Jul 22 50–65
Onion Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Jun 17 – Aug 5 90–120
Pac Choi Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Apr 29 – May 27 40–55
Parsnip — Mar 4 — Sep 2 Jun 17 – Jul 29 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Feb 18 Mar 25 Apr 1 — May 20 – Jun 17 45–60
Peas Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 13 – Jul 8 55–70
Peppers Jan 14 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 3 – Aug 12 60–90
Pole Beans Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — May 27 – Jul 22 55–70
Potatoes Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 10 – Aug 19 70–120
Pumpkin Feb 18 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jul 1 – Aug 19 85–120
Purslane Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Apr 29 – Jun 3 40–60
Radicchio Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 20 – Jun 24 60–80
Radish — Mar 4 — Sep 2 Apr 1 – Apr 22 22–35
Rhubarb — — Apr 8 — — 365–730
Romanesco Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Jun 3 – Jul 15 75–100
Rutabaga — Mar 4 — Sep 2 May 27 – Jul 1 80–100
Salsify — Mar 4 — Sep 2 Jun 17 – Jul 29 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 27 – Jul 22 70–110
Scallions Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 13 – Jun 10 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 3 – Jul 8 60–80
Shallot Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Jun 17 – Aug 5 90–120
Shiso Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — May 27 – Jul 22 50–70
Snap Peas Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — May 27 – Jul 22 55–70
Snow Peas Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 May 13 – Jul 8 50–65
Soybeans — Mar 25 — — Jun 17 – Aug 12 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Feb 18 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jul 1 – Jul 29 85–100
Spinach Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Apr 22 – Jun 24 35–50
Squash (Summer) Feb 18 Mar 25 Apr 1 — May 20 – Jul 22 45–65
Squash (Winter) Feb 18 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 24 – Aug 19 80–120
Sunchoke — — Apr 1 — Jul 22 – Sep 16 110–150
Sweet Corn — Mar 25 — — May 27 – Jul 8 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jul 1 – Aug 19 90–120
Tatsoi Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Apr 22 – May 27 35–50
Tomatillo Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 3 – Aug 12 60–85
Tomatoes Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 3 – Aug 12 60–85
Turmeric Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Dec 2 – Dec 16 240–300
Turnip — Mar 4 — Sep 2 Apr 15 – May 20 40–60
Watercress Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 18 Sep 2 Apr 29 – Jun 3 40–60
Watermelon Feb 18 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 10 – Jul 29 70–100
Wax Beans — Mar 25 — — May 20 – Jul 15 50–65
Winter Melon Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jul 1 – Aug 19 90–120
Yard Long Beans Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — May 27 – Jul 8 55–80
Zucchini Feb 18 Mar 25 Apr 1 — May 20 – Jul 15 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Franklin County

27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Franklin County.

Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — Apr 8 — Jul 8 – Oct 21 90–180
Aronia — — Apr 8 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — Apr 8 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — Apr 8 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — Apr 8 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — Apr 8 — Jun 17 – Jul 22 70–90
Che Fruit — — Apr 8 — — 1095–1825
Elderberries — — Apr 8 — — 730–1095
Figs — — Apr 8 — — 730–1825
Goji Berries — — Apr 8 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — Apr 8 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — Apr 8 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — Apr 8 — Jun 17 – Aug 12 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — Apr 8 — — 1095–1825
Honeydew — — Apr 8 — Jul 1 – Aug 12 80–110
Jostaberry — — Apr 8 — — 730–1095
Kiwi — — Apr 8 — — 1095–1825
Loquat — — Apr 8 — — 730–1825
Medlar — — Apr 8 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — Apr 8 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — Apr 8 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — Apr 8 — — 1095–2555
Pomegranate — — Apr 8 — — 730–1095
Quince — — Apr 8 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — Apr 8 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — Apr 8 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — Apr 8 — Jul 8 – Dec 23 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Franklin County

39 herbs that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Franklin County.

Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 11 Sep 2 — 365–730
Anise Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 11 Sep 2 Jun 10 – Aug 26 90–120
Basil Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — May 27 – Jul 29 50–75
Bee Balm — — Mar 25 — Jun 24 – Sep 9 90–120
Borage Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 11 Sep 2 May 6 – Jun 24 50–60
Caraway Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 11 Sep 2 — 365–450
Catnip — — Mar 25 — May 27 – Jul 29 60–80
Chamomile Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 11 Sep 2 May 13 – Jul 22 60–90
Chervil Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 11 Sep 2 Apr 22 – Jun 24 40–60
Chives — — Mar 25 — May 27 – Aug 5 60–90
Cilantro Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 11 Sep 2 Apr 22 – Jun 24 40–60
Comfrey — — Mar 25 — May 27 – Aug 5 60–90
Cumin Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 11 Sep 2 Jun 24 – Aug 26 100–120
Dill Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 11 Sep 2 Apr 22 – Jun 24 40–60
Epazote Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — May 20 – Jul 15 45–60
Fennel (herb) Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 11 Sep 2 May 13 – Jul 22 60–90
Feverfew — — Mar 25 — Jun 24 – Sep 9 90–120
Garlic Chives — — Mar 25 — May 27 – Aug 5 60–90
Horehound — — Mar 25 — Jun 10 – Aug 5 75–90
Hyssop — — Mar 25 — Jun 3 – Aug 5 70–90
Lemon Balm — — Mar 25 — May 27 – Jul 15 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — Mar 25 — Jun 3 – Aug 5 70–90
Lemon Verbena Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 3 – Aug 12 60–90
Lemongrass Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 17 – Sep 16 75–120
Lovage — — Mar 25 — Jun 3 – Aug 5 70–90
Marjoram — — Mar 25 — May 27 – Aug 5 60–90
Mint — — Mar 25 — May 27 – Aug 5 60–90
Oregano — — Mar 25 — May 27 – Aug 5 60–90
Parsley Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 11 Sep 2 May 13 – Jul 15 60–80
Rosemary — — Mar 25 — Jun 17 – Nov 4 80–180
Rue — — Mar 25 — Jun 3 – Aug 5 70–90
Sage — — Mar 25 — Jun 10 – Aug 5 75–90
Savory — — Mar 25 — May 20 – Jul 15 50–70
Sorrel Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 11 Sep 2 Apr 22 – Jun 24 40–60
Stevia Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — Jun 3 – Aug 12 60–90
Tarragon — — Mar 25 — May 27 – Aug 5 60–90
Thai Basil Jan 28 Mar 25 Apr 1 — May 27 – Jul 29 50–75
Thyme — — Mar 25 — Jun 3 – Aug 5 70–90
Valerian — — Mar 25 — Jul 29 – Nov 4 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Franklin County

54 flowers that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Franklin County.

Show all 54 flowers with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Feb 4 Mar 4 Mar 4 — Apr 29 – Sep 30 60–75
Alliums — — — Oct 14 Nov 11 – Dec 2 28–42
Anemones — — — Sep 16 Sep 23 – Oct 21 90–120
Astilbe Jan 21 — Mar 18 — May 27 – Jul 15 70–100
Bachelor's Button — Jan 28 Feb 25 Sep 16 Apr 29 – Aug 26 60–90
Begonias Jan 7 — Mar 4 — May 13 – Oct 14 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Jan 21 Mar 4 Mar 18 — May 27 – Oct 21 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Jan 21 — Mar 18 — May 6 – Jun 3 60–90
Calendula — Jan 28 Feb 25 Sep 2 Apr 15 – Sep 9 50–70
California Poppy — — — Sep 2 Nov 11 – Mar 3 60–90
Celosia Feb 18 Mar 4 Mar 4 — May 6 – Oct 14 60–90
Columbine Jan 21 Mar 18 Mar 18 — May 6 – Jun 3 70–100
Coreopsis Jan 21 Mar 4 Mar 18 — May 20 – Oct 14 60–80
Cosmos Feb 18 Feb 25 Feb 25 — May 6 – Oct 7 60–90
Crocus — — — Oct 14 Sep 16 – Oct 7 10–20
Daffodils — — — Oct 14 Sep 23 – Oct 21 20–40
Dahlias Feb 25 Mar 18 Mar 18 — May 27 – Nov 11 70–120
Daylily Jan 21 — Mar 18 — May 27 – Oct 28 60–90
Dianthus Jan 21 Jan 28 Feb 4 — Mar 25 – Jun 3 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Jan 21 Mar 18 Mar 18 — May 27 – Oct 14 70–90
Foxglove Jan 21 Mar 11 Mar 11 — Apr 29 – May 27 80–120
Freesia — — — Sep 30 Oct 21 – Nov 25 84–112
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Feb 4 Mar 4 Mar 4 — May 13 – Oct 28 70–100
Geraniums Jan 7 — Mar 4 — May 13 – Oct 14 70–100
Gladiolus — Mar 18 Mar 18 — May 27 – Nov 11 70–100
Hostas Jan 14 — Mar 18 — May 27 – Sep 30 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Oct 14 Oct 7 – Oct 28 14–28
Hydrangeas Jan 14 — Mar 11 — May 20 – Sep 23 90–150
Impatiens Jan 21 — Mar 11 — May 20 – Oct 21 60–75
Irises — Division Mar 11 — Apr 29 – Jun 3 60–100
Larkspur — — — Sep 2 Nov 11 – Mar 3 60–90
Lavender Jan 21 — Mar 18 — May 27 – Sep 2 90–120
Lilies — Division Mar 11 — May 20 – Sep 9 70–120
Lobelia Jan 21 — Feb 4 — Apr 1 – May 13 70–80
Lupine Jan 21 Mar 18 Mar 18 — May 6 – Jun 3 75–100
Marigolds Feb 11 Mar 4 Mar 4 — Apr 29 – Sep 16 50–70
Nasturtium Feb 18 Mar 4 Mar 4 — Apr 29 – Oct 14 55–65
Pansy Jan 7 — Feb 25 Sep 2 Apr 22 – Aug 12 70–90
Peonies — Division Mar 18 — May 13 – Jun 10 90–120
Petunia Jan 21 — Mar 11 — May 20 – Oct 7 70–90
Phlox Jan 21 Mar 18 Mar 18 — May 27 – Aug 5 80–110
Portulaca Feb 18 Mar 4 Mar 4 — Apr 22 – Sep 30 50–70
Ranunculus — — — Sep 16 Sep 30 – Oct 28 90–120
Roses Jan 14 — Mar 11 — May 20 – Oct 21 90–180
Salvia Jan 21 — Mar 4 — May 13 – Oct 14 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Jan 21 — Mar 18 — Jul 8 – Sep 30 60–90
Snapdragon Jan 7 Feb 4 Feb 25 Sep 2 May 6 – Sep 9 70–100
Sunflower Feb 25 Mar 4 Mar 4 — May 27 – Oct 14 70–100
Sweet Alyssum Feb 4 Feb 4 Feb 25 Sep 16 Apr 8 – Aug 12 45–60
Sweet Pea — — — Sep 9 Nov 18 – Jan 27 65–85
Tulips — — — Oct 14 Sep 30 – Oct 28 15–30
Vinca (Annual) Jan 7 — Mar 4 — May 13 – Oct 14 70–90
Yarrow Jan 21 Mar 4 Mar 18 — May 20 – Oct 14 60–90
Zinnia Feb 18 Mar 4 Mar 4 — May 13 – Oct 14 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for Franklin County