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Hays County, TX — Planting Guide

Hays County, Texas Zone 9a June

What to do in June

Your garden in Hays County, Texas is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this June.

Avg. last frost March 6
Avg. first frost November 22
Soil temp (4") 75°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 13.9 hrs
  1. Collect basil, cucumber, and green beans at their peak

    This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.

July will be here before you know it — start on
  • First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans

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Hays County is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 6 and the first fall frost is November 22, giving you a growing season of approximately 261 days.

At an elevation of 3,119 ft, Hays County receives approximately 61.8 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 90°F with winter lows around 41°F. The predominant soil type is Clay.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 51 days year to year — ranging from February 11 in warm years to April 2 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 6.4 days per decade. Hays County scores 36/100 (Challenging) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

9a (20°F to 25°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

March 6

🍂 First Frost

November 22

📅 Growing Season

261 days

⛰️ Elevation

3,119 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

61.8 in

Hays County, TX Long season
261 days
❄
Last Spring Frost March 6
➔ 261 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost November 22

Monthly Watering Calendar for Hays County

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

Quick context: Over-watering kills more plants than under-watering. Hays County's 62" annual rainfall changes the gardening playbook — humid-region gardeners often water by the calendar when they should water by the soil moisture.

1"/wk 0" 2.5" 4.9" 7.4" 9.8" Jan 1.6" +2" Feb 2.3" +0.8" Mar 3.5" Apr 6.5" May 9.5" Jun 9.8" Jul 7" Aug 8.1" Sep 5.1" Oct 4.2" +2" Nov 2.3" Dec 1.9"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 1.6 in 3 days — None
Feb 2.3 in 4 days 2 in High
Mar 3.5 in 6 days 0.8 in Moderate
Apr 6.5 in 7 days — Low
May 9.5 in 11 days — Low
Jun 9.8 in 9 days — Low
Jul 7 in 8 days — Low
Aug 8.1 in 5 days — Low
Sep 5.1 in 6 days — Low
Oct 4.2 in 4 days 0.1 in Low
Nov 2.3 in 3 days 2 in High
Dec 1.9 in 4 days — None

Annual total: 61.8 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.

Hays County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay

Soil pH

7-8

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 6 → Nov 22 261 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: Apr 2 Protect by: Dec 11

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 2 Dec 11 253 days
Cautious Mar 14 Dec 1 262 days
Average year Mar 6 Nov 22 261 days
Optimistic Feb 24 Nov 14 263 days
Aggressive (risky) Feb 11 Nov 1 263 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

Not very — frost dates can vary by ±51 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 6.4 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.

Gardening Difficulty Score

36 Challenging
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
3.5/10
Soil Difficulty
4.0/10
Altitude Challenge
4.2/10
Climate Shift
10.0/10
Rainfall Challenge
6.7/10

Hays County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.

Zone 9a Frost Countdown
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Loading...
Last Frost: Mar 6 First Frost: Nov 22

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

County Extension Office

Hays 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 Hays County

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

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Hays 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 Hays County TX" or "garden center Hays 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 Hays County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Hays 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 Broccoli (harvest ends Jun 19) 156 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Carrots (harvest ends Jun 12) 163 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Sweet Potatoes (harvest ends Jul 31) 114 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Okra (harvest ends Jul 3) 142 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Green Beans (harvest ends Jun 26) 149 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Squash (Winter) (harvest ends Jul 31) 114 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 3) 142 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Potatoes (harvest ends Jul 31) 114 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Snap Peas (harvest ends Jul 3) 142 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Watermelon (harvest ends Jul 10) 135 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Onion (harvest ends Jul 24) 121 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Basil (harvest ends Jul 10) 135 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Cucumber 50-70d Green Beans 50-65d

Sunlight & Day Length in Hays County

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

The practical takeaway: The longest day at Hays County's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.

Longest Day

13.9 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

10.1 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

9.8 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 12h 15h 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: Your shorter days favor short-day onion varieties like Vidalia, Texas 1015, and Red Creole. Plant in fall for best results.

View detailed monthly data
MonthDaylight HoursPeak Sun HoursDay Length
January 10.3 hr 5.7 hr Short day
February 11 hr 6.4 hr Short day
March 11.8 hr 7.3 hr Short day
April 12.7 hr 7.7 hr Neutral
May 13.5 hr 8 hr Neutral
June 13.9 hr 9.7 hr Neutral
July 13.8 hr 9.8 hr Neutral
August 13.1 hr 9.1 hr Neutral
September 12.2 hr 8.3 hr Neutral
October 11.3 hr 7.6 hr Short day
November 10.5 hr 6 hr Short day
December 10.1 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 in Hays County

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

Why it matters: Most root crops germinate well at 50-60°F. Most fruit-bearing crops want 65-75°F. Hays County's monthly soil curve maps these windows to actual months.

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 39°F 45°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Feb 41°F 44°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Mar 44°F 50°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Apr 55°F 55°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
May 66°F 65°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jun 75°F 72°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 81°F 78°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 85°F 79°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 77°F 78°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 68°F 69°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Nov 55°F 59°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Dec 46°F 52°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 Hays County

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

For new gardeners: The most successful gardeners in high-pressure regions don't spray more — they design around the problem. Crop rotation, companion planting, and resistant varieties beat reactive spraying.

Insect Pest Pressure

7.7 / 10

High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.

Disease Risk

7.5 / 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 Moderate May, Jun, Jul
Stink bugs High Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Whiteflies High May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Spider mites Moderate Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Fire ants Low Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Organic pest management tips
  • Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
  • Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
  • Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
  • Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
  • Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
  • Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash

Cover Crops for Hays County

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

For new gardeners: In Hays County, cover crops also crowd out weeds. The denser the cover, the less weed pressure next season. Pays for itself in saved weeding time.

Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat Mar 12 Sep 27 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Cowpeas (southern peas) Mar 11 Sep 13 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible
Sorghum-sudan grass Mar 14 Sep 27 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Feb 7 Sep 27 ✓ Yes Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Sunflowers Apr 5 Nov 1 — 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 14 Feb 13 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Crimson clover Sep 21 Feb 13 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring
Daikon radish Sep 24 Feb 20 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Sep 4 Feb 13 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Oct 13 Feb 13 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Aug 23 Feb 20 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Aug 21 Feb 20 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Hays County

Why it matters: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Hays County's 13.0 mph background level is a baseline you should know before placing the tallest crops (sunflowers, pole beans, sweet corn).

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

Seasonal Wind Speed

Spring: 18 mph   Summer: 13 mph

Fall: 15 mph   Winter: 16 mph

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

Windbreak Benefit

8.5/10

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

Rainwater Harvesting in Hays County

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

The practical takeaway: Rainwater scales linearly with roof area. A 2,000 sq ft roof in Hays County captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 62" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.

Annual Collection

30,801 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 1,250 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, 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 61.8 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 30,801 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 Hays County

Soil Type

Clay

Soil pH 7–8 · Moderately Well Drained drainage

Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.

Watering Needs

Drought stress: 3.5/10

Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (61.8 in. annual rainfall)

Season Tips

261-day frost-free season

Your long season supports multiple successions and heat-demanding crops like melons, sweet potatoes, and peppers. Plant warm-season crops as soon as soil warms.

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

☀️
Garden Shade Cloth $15-35

Reduce heat stress and sun scorch in hot climates with UV-stabilized shade cloth.

Helps protect plants from intense heat in zones 9+.

📦
Raised Bed Garden Kit $40-120

Cedar raised bed kit — ideal for poor soil, clay, or small-space gardening.

Great for improving heavy clay soil drainage.

⬜
Perlite $10-18

Improve drainage and aeration in heavy clay soils with horticultural perlite.

Great for improving heavy clay soil drainage.

🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Hays County

114 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Hays County.

Show all 114 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Feb 6 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Jun 5 – Jul 10 80–100
Amaranth Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Jun 12 – Jul 31 90–120
Artichoke — — Mar 20 — Jul 24 – Oct 2 120–180
Arugula Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Apr 10 – Jun 12 30–50
Asparagus — — Mar 20 — — 730–1095
Beets — Feb 13 — Sep 27 Apr 10 – May 8 50–70
Belgian Endive Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Jun 26 – Aug 21 110–150
Bitter Melon Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 15 – Jun 26 60–90
Black Beans — Mar 13 — — Jun 12 – Jul 31 90–120
Bok Choy Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Apr 17 – May 22 40–60
Broccoli Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 8 – Jun 19 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Apr 17 – May 22 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Jun 5 – Jul 31 90–130
Butternut Squash Feb 6 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Jun 12 – Jul 17 85–110
Cabbage Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 8 – Jul 3 60–100
Calabash Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Jun 5 – Jul 31 80–120
Cardoon — — Mar 20 — Jul 24 – Sep 4 120–150
Carrots — Feb 13 — Sep 27 Apr 17 – May 22 60–80
Cauliflower Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 1 – Jul 3 55–100
Celeriac Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Jun 19 – Jul 24 100–120
Celery Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 29 – Jul 24 80–120
Celtuce Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 8 – Jun 19 60–90
Chard Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 1 – Jun 19 50–60
Chayote Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Jul 17 – Sep 25 120–180
Chickpeas Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 29 – Jul 10 80–110
Chicory Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 8 – Jun 19 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 1 – May 29 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Jun 5 – Jul 10 80–100
Collard Greens Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 1 – Jul 3 55–75
Corn — Mar 13 — — May 15 – Jul 10 60–100
Cowpeas — Mar 13 — — May 15 – Jun 26 60–90
Cress Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Mar 20 – Apr 10 14–21
Crookneck Squash Feb 6 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 1 – May 29 45–60
Crosne — Feb 13 — Sep 27 Jul 17 – Sep 18 150–200
Cucumber Feb 6 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 8 – Jul 3 50–70
Daikon — Feb 13 — Sep 27 Apr 10 – May 8 50–70
Delicata Squash Feb 6 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Jun 5 – Jul 10 80–100
Edamame — Mar 13 — — May 29 – Jul 10 75–100
Eggplant Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 22 – Jul 24 65–85
Endive Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Apr 24 – May 29 45–65
Escarole Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 1 – May 29 50–70
Fava Beans Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 22 – Jul 3 75–100
Fennel Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 15 – Jun 26 60–90
Garlic — — — Oct 11 Jan 10 – Jun 27 90–240
Ginger Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Nov 13 – Jan 8 240–300
Green Beans — Mar 13 — — May 8 – Jul 3 50–65
Horseradish — — Mar 20 — Jul 24 – Oct 2 120–180
Hot Peppers Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 22 – Aug 28 70–120
Hubbard Squash Feb 6 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Jun 26 – Jul 31 100–120
Jicama Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Jul 17 – Sep 25 120–180
Kabocha Feb 6 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Jun 12 – Jul 10 85–100
Kai Lan Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Apr 24 – May 22 45–60
Kale Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 1 – Jun 26 50–70
Kidney Beans — Mar 13 — — Jun 12 – Jul 17 85–110
Kohlrabi Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Apr 24 – May 29 45–65
Komatsuna Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Apr 10 – May 15 35–50
Leeks Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Jun 5 – Aug 21 90–150
Lentils Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 29 – Jul 10 80–110
Lettuce Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Apr 10 – Jun 19 30–60
Lima Beans — Mar 13 — — May 15 – Jun 26 60–90
Loofah Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Jun 26 – Aug 28 100–150
Luffa Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Jun 12 – Aug 28 90–150
Mache Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Apr 17 – May 22 40–60
Malabar Spinach Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 8 – Jun 5 55–70
Melon Feb 6 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 22 – Jul 10 70–100
Microgreens Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Mar 13 – Apr 10 7–21
Mitsuba Feb 6 Feb 13 Feb 27 Sep 27 Apr 24 – Jun 19 50–70
Mizuna Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Apr 10 – May 8 30–45
Mustard Greens Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Apr 10 – Jun 12 30–50
Napa Cabbage Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 1 – Jun 5 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 8 – Jun 5 55–70
Okra Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 8 – Jul 3 50–65
Onion Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Jun 5 – Jul 24 90–120
Pac Choi Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Apr 17 – May 15 40–55
Parsnip — Feb 13 — Sep 27 May 29 – Jul 10 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Feb 6 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 1 – May 29 45–60
Peas Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 1 – Jun 26 55–70
Peppers Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 15 – Jul 24 60–90
Pole Beans Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 8 – Jul 3 55–70
Potatoes Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 22 – Jul 31 70–120
Pumpkin Feb 6 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Jun 12 – Jul 31 85–120
Purslane Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Apr 17 – May 22 40–60
Radicchio Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 8 – Jun 12 60–80
Radish — Feb 13 — Sep 27 Mar 13 – Apr 3 22–35
Romanesco Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 22 – Jul 3 75–100
Rutabaga — Feb 13 — Sep 27 May 8 – Jun 12 80–100
Salsify — Feb 13 — Sep 27 May 29 – Jul 10 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 15 – Jul 10 70–110
Scallions Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 1 – May 29 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 15 – Jun 19 60–80
Shallot Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Jun 5 – Jul 24 90–120
Shiso Jan 23 Mar 13 Mar 13 — May 8 – Jul 3 50–70
Snap Peas Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 8 – Jul 3 55–70
Snow Peas Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 May 1 – Jun 26 50–65
Soybeans — Mar 13 — — Jun 5 – Jul 31 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Feb 6 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Jun 12 – Jul 10 85–100
Spinach Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Apr 10 – Jun 12 35–50
Squash (Summer) Feb 6 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 1 – Jul 3 45–65
Squash (Winter) Feb 6 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Jun 5 – Jul 31 80–120
Sunchoke — — Mar 20 — Jul 10 – Sep 4 110–150
Sweet Corn — Mar 13 — — May 15 – Jun 26 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Jun 12 – Jul 31 90–120
Tatsoi Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Apr 10 – May 15 35–50
Tomatillo Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 15 – Jul 24 60–85
Tomatoes Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 15 – Jul 24 60–85
Turmeric Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Nov 13 – Jan 8 240–300
Turnip — Feb 13 — Sep 27 Mar 27 – May 1 40–60
Watercress Feb 6 Feb 13 Mar 6 Sep 27 Apr 17 – May 22 40–60
Watermelon Feb 6 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 22 – Jul 10 70–100
Wax Beans — Mar 13 — — May 8 – Jul 3 50–65
Winter Melon Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Jun 12 – Jul 31 90–120
Yam Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — Sep 11 – Jan 8 180–330
Yard Long Beans Jan 23 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 8 – Jun 19 55–80
Zucchini Feb 6 Mar 6 Mar 13 — May 1 – Jun 26 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Hays County

24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Hays County.

Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — Mar 20 — Jun 19 – Oct 2 90–180
Blackberries — — Mar 20 — — 365–730
Boysenberries — — Mar 20 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — Mar 20 — May 29 – Jul 3 70–90
Che Fruit — — Mar 20 — — 1095–1825
Dragon Fruit — — Mar 20 — — 365–730
Elderberries — — Mar 20 — — 730–1095
Figs — — Mar 20 — — 730–1825
Goji Berries — — Mar 20 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — Mar 20 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — Mar 20 — May 29 – Jul 24 65–80
Guava — — Mar 20 — — 365–730
Honeydew — — Mar 20 — Jun 12 – Jul 24 80–110
Kiwi — — Mar 20 — — 1095–1825
Loquat — — Mar 20 — — 730–1825
Mulberries — — Mar 20 — — 730–1825
Passion Fruit — — Mar 20 — — 365–545
Pawpaw — — Mar 20 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — Mar 20 — — 1095–2555
Pomegranate — — Mar 20 — — 730–1095
Quince — — Mar 20 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — Mar 20 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — Mar 20 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — Mar 20 — Jun 19 – Jan 15 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Hays County

37 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Hays County.

Show all 37 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Anise Feb 6 Feb 13 Feb 27 Sep 27 May 29 – Aug 14 90–120
Basil Jan 23 Mar 13 Mar 13 — May 8 – Jul 10 50–75
Bee Balm — — Mar 13 — Jun 12 – Aug 28 90–120
Borage Feb 6 Feb 13 Feb 27 Sep 27 Apr 24 – Jun 12 50–60
Caraway Feb 6 Feb 13 Feb 27 Sep 27 — 365–450
Catnip — — Mar 13 — May 15 – Jul 17 60–80
Chamomile Feb 6 Feb 13 Feb 27 Sep 27 May 1 – Jul 10 60–90
Chervil Feb 6 Feb 13 Feb 27 Sep 27 Apr 10 – Jun 12 40–60
Chives — — Mar 13 — May 15 – Jul 24 60–90
Cilantro Feb 6 Feb 13 Feb 27 Sep 27 Apr 10 – Jun 12 40–60
Comfrey — — Mar 13 — May 15 – Jul 24 60–90
Cumin Feb 6 Feb 13 Feb 27 Sep 27 Jun 12 – Aug 14 100–120
Dill Feb 6 Feb 13 Feb 27 Sep 27 Apr 10 – Jun 12 40–60
Epazote Jan 23 Mar 13 Mar 13 — May 1 – Jun 26 45–60
Fennel (herb) Feb 6 Feb 13 Feb 27 Sep 27 May 1 – Jul 10 60–90
Feverfew — — Mar 13 — Jun 12 – Aug 28 90–120
Garlic Chives — — Mar 13 — May 15 – Jul 24 60–90
Horehound — — Mar 13 — May 29 – Jul 24 75–90
Hyssop — — Mar 13 — May 22 – Jul 24 70–90
Lemon Balm — — Mar 13 — May 15 – Jul 3 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — Mar 13 — May 22 – Jul 24 70–90
Lemon Verbena Jan 23 Mar 13 Mar 13 — May 15 – Jul 24 60–90
Lemongrass Jan 23 Mar 13 Mar 13 — May 29 – Aug 28 75–120
Marjoram — — Mar 13 — May 15 – Jul 24 60–90
Mint — — Mar 13 — May 15 – Jul 24 60–90
Oregano — — Mar 13 — May 15 – Jul 24 60–90
Parsley Feb 6 Feb 13 Feb 27 Sep 27 May 1 – Jul 3 60–80
Rosemary — — Mar 13 — Jun 5 – Oct 23 80–180
Rue — — Mar 13 — May 22 – Jul 24 70–90
Sage — — Mar 13 — May 29 – Jul 24 75–90
Savory — — Mar 13 — May 8 – Jul 3 50–70
Sorrel Feb 6 Feb 13 Feb 27 Sep 27 Apr 10 – Jun 12 40–60
Stevia Jan 23 Mar 13 Mar 13 — May 15 – Jul 24 60–90
Tarragon — — Mar 13 — May 15 – Jul 24 60–90
Thai Basil Jan 23 Mar 13 Mar 13 — May 8 – Jul 10 50–75
Thyme — — Mar 13 — May 22 – Jul 24 70–90
Valerian — — Mar 13 — Jul 17 – Oct 23 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Hays County

49 flowers that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Hays County.

Show all 49 flowers with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Jan 23 Feb 20 Feb 20 — Apr 17 – Oct 2 60–75
Alliums — — — Oct 25 Nov 22 – Dec 13 28–42
Anemones — — — Sep 27 Oct 4 – Nov 1 90–120
Bachelor's Button — Jan 9 Feb 6 Sep 13 Apr 3 – Jul 24 60–90
Begonias Dec 26 — Feb 13 — Apr 24 – Oct 23 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Jan 9 Feb 20 Feb 20 — May 1 – Sep 18 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Jan 9 — Feb 20 — Apr 10 – May 1 60–90
Calendula — Jan 9 Feb 6 Aug 30 Mar 20 – Jul 24 50–70
California Poppy — — — Aug 30 Nov 8 – Mar 14 60–90
Celosia Feb 6 Feb 20 Feb 20 — Apr 24 – Oct 30 60–90
Columbine Jan 9 Feb 20 Feb 20 — Apr 10 – May 1 70–100
Coreopsis Jan 9 Feb 20 Feb 20 — Apr 17 – Sep 18 60–80
Cosmos Feb 6 Feb 6 Feb 6 — Apr 17 – Oct 2 60–90
Daffodils — — — Oct 25 Oct 11 – Nov 1 20–40
Dahlias — Mar 6 Mar 6 — May 15 – Nov 13 70–120
Daylily Jan 9 — Feb 20 — May 1 – Oct 16 60–90
Dianthus Jan 9 Jan 9 Jan 9 — Feb 27 – May 1 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Jan 9 Feb 20 Feb 20 — May 1 – Sep 18 70–90
Foxglove Jan 9 Feb 20 Feb 20 — Apr 10 – May 1 80–120
Freesia — — — Oct 11 Oct 25 – Nov 22 84–112
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Jan 23 Feb 20 Feb 20 — May 1 – Oct 30 70–100
Geraniums Dec 26 — Feb 13 — Apr 24 – Oct 23 70–100
Gladiolus — Mar 6 Mar 6 — May 15 – Nov 13 70–100
Hostas Jan 9 — Feb 20 — May 1 – Aug 21 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Oct 25 Oct 25 – Nov 15 14–28
Hydrangeas Jan 9 — Feb 20 — May 1 – Aug 21 90–150
Impatiens Jan 9 — Feb 20 — May 1 – Oct 16 60–75
Irises — Division Feb 20 — Apr 10 – May 15 60–100
Larkspur — — — Sep 13 Nov 22 – Mar 14 60–90
Lavender Jan 9 — Feb 20 — May 1 – Aug 7 90–120
Lilies — Division Feb 20 — May 1 – Aug 7 70–120
Lobelia Jan 9 — Jan 9 — Mar 6 – Apr 3 70–80
Marigolds Jan 30 Feb 20 Feb 20 — Apr 17 – Sep 18 50–70
Nasturtium Feb 6 Feb 13 Feb 13 — Apr 10 – Oct 9 55–65
Pansy Dec 26 — Feb 6 Aug 30 Mar 27 – Jun 26 70–90
Petunia Jan 9 — Feb 20 — May 1 – Oct 2 70–90
Phlox Jan 9 Feb 20 Feb 20 — May 1 – Jun 26 80–110
Portulaca Feb 6 Feb 20 Feb 20 — Apr 10 – Oct 16 50–70
Ranunculus — — — Sep 27 Oct 11 – Nov 8 90–120
Roses Jan 9 — Feb 20 — May 1 – Oct 16 90–180
Salvia Jan 9 — Feb 13 — Apr 24 – Oct 9 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Jan 9 — Feb 20 — Jun 12 – Aug 21 60–90
Snapdragon — Jan 9 Feb 6 Aug 30 Apr 10 – Aug 7 70–100
Sunflower Feb 13 Feb 13 Feb 13 — May 8 – Oct 9 70–100
Sweet Alyssum — Jan 9 Feb 6 Sep 13 Mar 13 – Jun 26 45–60
Sweet Pea — — — Sep 13 Nov 22 – Jan 17 65–85
Vinca (Annual) Dec 26 — Feb 13 — Apr 24 – Oct 23 70–90
Yarrow Jan 9 Feb 20 Feb 20 — Apr 17 – Sep 4 60–90
Zinnia Feb 6 Feb 13 Feb 13 — Apr 24 – Oct 9 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for Hays County