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Hood County, TX — Planting Guide

Hood County, Texas Zone 8b June

Your June planting checklist for Hood County, Texas

June rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Hood County, Texas.

Avg. last frost March 21
Avg. first frost November 12
Soil temp (4") 77°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14.1 hrs
  1. Basket week: basil, carrots, and cucumber

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

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

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Hood County is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 21 and the first fall frost is November 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 236 days.

At an elevation of 1,554 ft, Hood County receives approximately 60.6 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 94°F with winter lows around 29°F. The predominant soil type is Clay.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 47 days year to year — ranging from February 26 in warm years to April 13 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 4.71 days per decade. Hood County scores 42/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

8b (15°F to 20°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

March 21

🍂 First Frost

November 12

📅 Growing Season

236 days

⛰️ Elevation

1,554 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

60.6 in

Hood County, TX Long season
236 days
❄
Last Spring Frost March 21
➔ 236 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost November 12

Monthly Watering Calendar for Hood County

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

Why it matters: In Hood County, the watering question isn't "how often" — it's "is the soil moist 4 inches down?" Stick a finger in. Dry? Water. Damp? Wait. The 61" annual rainfall is just the starting context.

1"/wk 0" 2.5" 5" 7.5" 10" Jan 1.7" Feb 1.9" Mar 3.9" Apr 6.4" May 9.1" Jun 10" Jul 7.5" Aug 7.2" Sep 5.3" Oct 4.1" Nov 2.1" Dec 1.4"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 1.7 in 3 days — None
Feb 1.9 in 5 days — None
Mar 3.9 in 6 days 0.4 in Low
Apr 6.4 in 7 days — Low
May 9.1 in 9 days — Low
Jun 10 in 9 days — Low
Jul 7.5 in 6 days — Low
Aug 7.2 in 7 days — Low
Sep 5.3 in 5 days — Low
Oct 4.1 in 5 days 0.2 in Low
Nov 2.1 in 3 days — None
Dec 1.4 in 3 days — None

Annual total: 60.6 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.

Hood County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay

Soil pH

7.3-7.6

Drainage

Well Drained

Frost Risk Probability

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

Too early frost risk Safe to Plant Mar 21 → Nov 12 236 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: Apr 13 Protect by: Nov 29

Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.

How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.

Planting Strategy Last Spring Frost First Fall Frost Frost-Free Days
Conservative (safest) Apr 13 Nov 29 230 days
Cautious Apr 1 Nov 21 234 days
Average year Mar 21 Nov 12 236 days
Optimistic Mar 10 Nov 6 241 days
Aggressive (risky) Feb 26 Oct 28 244 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

Not very — frost dates can vary by ±47 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 4.7 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.

Gardening Difficulty Score

42 Moderate
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
3.5/10
Soil Difficulty
4.0/10
Altitude Challenge
1.1/10
Climate Shift
10.0/10
Rainfall Challenge
6.2/10

Hood 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 21 First Frost: Nov 12

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

County Extension Office

Hood 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 Hood County

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

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Hood 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 Hood County TX" or "garden center Hood 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 Hood County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Hood 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 Melon (harvest ends Aug 1) 103 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Potatoes (harvest ends Aug 22) 82 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Hot Peppers (harvest ends Sep 19) 54 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Squash (Summer) (harvest ends Jul 25) 110 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Zucchini (harvest ends Jul 18) 117 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d Green Beans 50-65d
After Cauliflower (harvest ends Jul 18) 117 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
Show 6 more succession options
After Green Beans (harvest ends Jul 11) 124 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Cantaloupe (harvest ends Jul 25) 110 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Sweet Corn (harvest ends Jul 4) 131 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Squash (Winter) (harvest ends Aug 22) 82 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Onion (harvest ends Aug 8) 96 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Beets (harvest ends Jun 13) 152 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d

Sunlight & Day Length in Hood County

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

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

Longest Day

14.1 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

9.9 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

10.1 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 10.1 hr 5.8 hr Short day
February 10.8 hr 6 hr Short day
March 11.8 hr 6.9 hr Short day
April 12.8 hr 8.1 hr Neutral
May 13.7 hr 8.6 hr Neutral
June 14.1 hr 10.1 hr Long day
July 13.9 hr 10 hr Neutral
August 13.2 hr 9.2 hr Neutral
September 12.2 hr 8.4 hr Neutral
October 11.2 hr 7.2 hr Short day
November 10.3 hr 6 hr Short day
December 9.9 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 Hood County

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

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

Plant Warm Crops When

Soil reaches 60°F+

Soil warm enough from May through Oct.

Best Month to Compost

May

Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.

Active Composting

8 months

Nearly year-round composting.

60°F 70°F 20° 40° 60° 80° 100° Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
4" depth 8" depth - - - 60°F (corn, beans) - - - 70°F (tomatoes, peppers)
View detailed monthly data
MonthSoil 4" DeepSoil 8" DeepCompost ActivityTime to Finish
Jan 39°F 43°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Feb 37°F 44°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Mar 45°F 49°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Apr 56°F 55°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
May 67°F 64°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jun 77°F 73°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 84°F 78°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 86°F 83°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 79°F 78°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 69°F 72°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Nov 55°F 58°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Dec 41°F 50°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks

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

Pest & Disease Pressure in Hood County

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

Why it matters: Pollinators are the good bugs. Pest pressure is the bad bugs. Hood County's climate makes both more abundant in warm humid regions, and rarer in cold dry ones — plan habitat to encourage the good while managing the bad.

Insect Pest Pressure

7.4 / 10

High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.

Disease Risk

7 / 10

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

Seasonal Risk

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

Cover Crops for Hood County

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

What this means for you: In Hood 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 30 Sep 10 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Cowpeas (southern peas) Mar 26 Sep 17 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible
Sorghum-sudan grass Mar 27 Sep 10 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Feb 20 Sep 3 ✓ 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 14 Oct 15 — Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Austrian winter peas Sep 2 Feb 28 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Crimson clover Sep 17 Feb 28 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring
Daikon radish Sep 26 Mar 7 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Sep 4 Mar 7 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Oct 3 Mar 7 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Aug 8 Mar 7 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Aug 20 Mar 7 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Hood County

Quick context: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Hood County's 11.1 mph average is one piece of the watering math: rainfall + irrigation must exceed evaporation + transpiration, and wind boosts both losses.

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

Seasonal Wind Speed

Spring: 17 mph   Summer: 11 mph

Fall: 12 mph   Winter: 16 mph

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

Windbreak Benefit

9.1/10

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

Rainwater Harvesting in Hood County

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

For new gardeners: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Hood County's 61" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.

Annual Collection

30,203 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 60.6 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 30,203 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 Hood County

Soil Type

Clay

Soil pH 7.3–7.6 · 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. (60.6 in. annual rainfall)

Season Tips

236-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

📦
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.

🏗️
Raised Bed Soil Mix $20-45

Premium blend of topsoil, compost, and perlite formulated for raised beds.

Great for improving heavy clay soil drainage.

🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Hood County

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

Show all 114 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 27 – Aug 1 80–100
Amaranth Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Aug 22 90–120
Artichoke — — Apr 4 — Aug 8 – Oct 17 120–180
Arugula Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Apr 25 – Jun 27 30–50
Asparagus — — Apr 4 — — 730–1095
Beets — Mar 7 — Sep 3 May 2 – May 30 50–70
Belgian Endive Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Jul 11 – Sep 5 110–150
Bitter Melon Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 6 – Jul 18 60–90
Black Beans — Mar 28 — — Jun 27 – Aug 15 90–120
Bok Choy Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 2 – Jun 6 40–60
Broccoli Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 23 – Jul 4 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 2 – Jun 6 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Jun 20 – Aug 15 90–130
Butternut Squash Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Aug 8 85–110
Cabbage Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 23 – Jul 18 60–100
Calabash Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 27 – Aug 22 80–120
Cardoon — — Apr 4 — Aug 8 – Sep 19 120–150
Carrots — Mar 7 — Sep 3 May 9 – Jun 13 60–80
Cauliflower Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 16 – Jul 18 55–100
Celeriac Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Jul 4 – Aug 8 100–120
Celery Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Jun 13 – Aug 8 80–120
Celtuce Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 23 – Jul 4 60–90
Chard Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 16 – Jul 4 50–60
Chayote Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Aug 8 – Oct 17 120–180
Chickpeas Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Jun 13 – Jul 25 80–110
Chicory Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 23 – Jul 4 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 16 – Jun 13 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 27 – Aug 1 80–100
Collard Greens Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 16 – Jul 18 55–75
Corn — Mar 28 — — May 30 – Jul 25 60–100
Cowpeas — Mar 28 — — May 30 – Jul 11 60–90
Cress Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Apr 4 – Apr 25 14–21
Crookneck Squash Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 23 – Jun 20 45–60
Crosne — Mar 7 — Sep 3 Aug 8 – Oct 10 150–200
Cucumber Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Jul 25 50–70
Daikon — Mar 7 — Sep 3 May 2 – May 30 50–70
Delicata Squash Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 27 – Aug 1 80–100
Edamame — Mar 28 — — Jun 13 – Jul 25 75–100
Eggplant Jan 17 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 13 – Aug 15 65–85
Endive Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 9 – Jun 13 45–65
Escarole Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 16 – Jun 13 50–70
Fava Beans Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Jun 6 – Jul 18 75–100
Fennel Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 6 – Jul 18 60–90
Garlic — — — Oct 1 Dec 31 – Jun 17 90–240
Ginger Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Dec 5 – Dec 19 240–300
Green Beans — Mar 28 — — May 23 – Jul 18 50–65
Horseradish — — Apr 4 — Aug 8 – Oct 17 120–180
Hot Peppers Jan 17 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 13 – Sep 19 70–120
Hubbard Squash Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 18 – Aug 22 100–120
Jicama Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Aug 8 – Oct 17 120–180
Kabocha Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Aug 1 85–100
Kai Lan Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 9 – Jun 6 45–60
Kale Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 16 – Jul 11 50–70
Kidney Beans — Mar 28 — — Jun 27 – Aug 1 85–110
Kohlrabi Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 9 – Jun 13 45–65
Komatsuna Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Apr 25 – May 30 35–50
Leeks Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Jun 20 – Sep 5 90–150
Lentils Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Jun 13 – Jul 25 80–110
Lettuce Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Apr 25 – Jul 4 30–60
Lima Beans — Mar 28 — — May 30 – Jul 11 60–90
Loofah Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 18 – Sep 19 100–150
Luffa Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Sep 19 90–150
Mache Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 2 – Jun 6 40–60
Malabar Spinach Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Jun 27 55–70
Melon Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 13 – Aug 1 70–100
Microgreens Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Mar 28 – Apr 25 7–21
Mitsuba Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Sep 3 May 9 – Jul 4 50–70
Mizuna Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Apr 25 – May 23 30–45
Mustard Greens Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Apr 25 – Jun 27 30–50
Napa Cabbage Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 16 – Jun 20 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Jun 27 55–70
Okra Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Jul 25 50–65
Onion Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Jun 20 – Aug 8 90–120
Pac Choi Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 2 – May 30 40–55
Parsnip — Mar 7 — Sep 3 Jun 20 – Aug 1 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 23 – Jun 20 45–60
Peas Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 16 – Jul 11 55–70
Peppers Jan 17 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 6 – Aug 15 60–90
Pole Beans Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Jul 25 55–70
Potatoes Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 13 – Aug 22 70–120
Pumpkin Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Aug 22 85–120
Purslane Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 2 – Jun 6 40–60
Radicchio Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 23 – Jun 27 60–80
Radish — Mar 7 — Sep 3 Apr 4 – Apr 25 22–35
Rhubarb — — Apr 11 — — 365–730
Romanesco Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Jun 6 – Jul 18 75–100
Rutabaga — Mar 7 — Sep 3 May 30 – Jul 4 80–100
Salsify — Mar 7 — Sep 3 Jun 20 – Aug 1 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 30 – Jul 25 70–110
Scallions Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 16 – Jun 13 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 6 – Jul 11 60–80
Shallot Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Jun 20 – Aug 8 90–120
Shiso Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Jul 25 50–70
Snap Peas Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Jul 25 55–70
Snow Peas Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 16 – Jul 11 50–65
Soybeans — Mar 28 — — Jun 20 – Aug 15 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Aug 1 85–100
Spinach Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Apr 25 – Jun 27 35–50
Squash (Summer) Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 23 – Jul 25 45–65
Squash (Winter) Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 27 – Aug 22 80–120
Sunchoke — — Apr 4 — Jul 25 – Sep 19 110–150
Sweet Corn — Mar 28 — — May 30 – Jul 11 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Aug 22 90–120
Tatsoi Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 Apr 25 – May 30 35–50
Tomatillo Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 6 – Aug 15 60–85
Tomatoes Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 6 – Aug 15 60–85
Turmeric Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Dec 5 – Dec 19 240–300
Turnip — Mar 7 — Sep 3 Apr 18 – May 23 40–60
Watercress Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 21 Sep 3 May 2 – Jun 6 40–60
Watermelon Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 13 – Aug 1 70–100
Wax Beans — Mar 28 — — May 23 – Jul 18 50–65
Winter Melon Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Aug 22 90–120
Yard Long Beans Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Jul 11 55–80
Zucchini Feb 21 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 23 – Jul 18 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Hood County

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

Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — Apr 11 — Jul 11 – Oct 24 90–180
Aronia — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — Apr 11 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — Apr 11 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — Apr 11 — Jun 20 – Jul 25 70–90
Che Fruit — — Apr 11 — — 1095–1825
Elderberries — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Figs — — Apr 11 — — 730–1825
Goji Berries — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — Apr 11 — Jun 20 – Aug 15 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — Apr 11 — — 1095–1825
Honeydew — — Apr 11 — Jul 4 – Aug 15 80–110
Jostaberry — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Kiwi — — Apr 11 — — 1095–1825
Loquat — — Apr 11 — — 730–1825
Medlar — — Apr 11 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — Apr 11 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — Apr 11 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — Apr 11 — — 1095–2555
Pomegranate — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Quince — — Apr 11 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — Apr 11 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — Apr 11 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — Apr 11 — Jul 11 – Dec 26 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Hood County

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

Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Sep 3 — 365–730
Anise Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Sep 3 Jun 13 – Aug 29 90–120
Basil Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Aug 1 50–75
Bee Balm — — Mar 28 — Jun 27 – Sep 12 90–120
Borage Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Sep 3 May 9 – Jun 27 50–60
Caraway Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Sep 3 — 365–450
Catnip — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 1 60–80
Chamomile Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Sep 3 May 16 – Jul 25 60–90
Chervil Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Sep 3 Apr 25 – Jun 27 40–60
Chives — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–90
Cilantro Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Sep 3 Apr 25 – Jun 27 40–60
Comfrey — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–90
Cumin Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Sep 3 Jun 27 – Aug 29 100–120
Dill Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Sep 3 Apr 25 – Jun 27 40–60
Epazote Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 23 – Jul 18 45–60
Fennel (herb) Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Sep 3 May 16 – Jul 25 60–90
Feverfew — — Mar 28 — Jun 27 – Sep 12 90–120
Garlic Chives — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–90
Horehound — — Mar 28 — Jun 13 – Aug 8 75–90
Hyssop — — Mar 28 — Jun 6 – Aug 8 70–90
Lemon Balm — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Jul 18 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — Mar 28 — Jun 6 – Aug 8 70–90
Lemon Verbena Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 6 – Aug 15 60–90
Lemongrass Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 20 – Sep 19 75–120
Lovage — — Mar 28 — Jun 6 – Aug 8 70–90
Marjoram — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–90
Mint — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–90
Oregano — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–90
Parsley Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Sep 3 May 16 – Jul 18 60–80
Rosemary — — Mar 28 — Jun 20 – Nov 7 80–180
Rue — — Mar 28 — Jun 6 – Aug 8 70–90
Sage — — Mar 28 — Jun 13 – Aug 8 75–90
Savory — — Mar 28 — May 23 – Jul 18 50–70
Sorrel Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 14 Sep 3 Apr 25 – Jun 27 40–60
Stevia Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — Jun 6 – Aug 15 60–90
Tarragon — — Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–90
Thai Basil Jan 31 Mar 28 Apr 4 — May 30 – Aug 1 50–75
Thyme — — Mar 28 — Jun 6 – Aug 8 70–90
Valerian — — Mar 28 — Aug 1 – Nov 7 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Hood County

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

Show all 54 flowers with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Feb 7 Mar 7 Mar 7 — May 2 – Oct 3 60–75
Alliums — — — Oct 15 Nov 12 – Dec 3 28–42
Anemones — — — Sep 17 Sep 24 – Oct 22 90–120
Astilbe Jan 24 — Mar 21 — May 30 – Jul 18 70–100
Bachelor's Button — Jan 31 Feb 28 Sep 17 May 2 – Aug 29 60–90
Begonias Jan 10 — Mar 7 — May 16 – Oct 17 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Jan 24 Mar 7 Mar 21 — May 30 – Oct 24 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Jan 24 — Mar 21 — May 9 – Jun 6 60–90
Calendula — Jan 31 Feb 28 Sep 3 Apr 18 – Sep 12 50–70
California Poppy — — — Sep 3 Nov 12 – Mar 4 60–90
Celosia Feb 21 Mar 7 Mar 7 — May 9 – Oct 17 60–90
Columbine Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 21 — May 9 – Jun 6 70–100
Coreopsis Jan 24 Mar 7 Mar 21 — May 23 – Oct 17 60–80
Cosmos Feb 21 Feb 28 Feb 28 — May 9 – Oct 10 60–90
Crocus — — — Oct 15 Sep 17 – Oct 8 10–20
Daffodils — — — Oct 15 Sep 24 – Oct 22 20–40
Dahlias Feb 28 Mar 21 Mar 21 — May 30 – Nov 14 70–120
Daylily Jan 24 — Mar 21 — May 30 – Oct 31 60–90
Dianthus Jan 24 Jan 31 Feb 7 — Mar 28 – Jun 6 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 21 — May 30 – Oct 17 70–90
Foxglove Jan 24 Mar 14 Mar 14 — May 2 – May 30 80–120
Freesia — — — Oct 1 Oct 22 – Nov 26 84–112
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Feb 7 Mar 7 Mar 7 — May 16 – Oct 31 70–100
Geraniums Jan 10 — Mar 7 — May 16 – Oct 17 70–100
Gladiolus — Mar 21 Mar 21 — May 30 – Nov 14 70–100
Hostas Jan 17 — Mar 21 — May 30 – Oct 3 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Oct 15 Oct 8 – Oct 29 14–28
Hydrangeas Jan 17 — Mar 14 — May 23 – Sep 26 90–150
Impatiens Jan 24 — Mar 14 — May 23 – Oct 24 60–75
Irises — Division Mar 14 — May 2 – Jun 6 60–100
Larkspur — — — Sep 3 Nov 12 – Mar 4 60–90
Lavender Jan 24 — Mar 21 — May 30 – Sep 5 90–120
Lilies — Division Mar 14 — May 23 – Sep 12 70–120
Lobelia Jan 24 — Feb 7 — Apr 4 – May 16 70–80
Lupine Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 21 — May 9 – Jun 6 75–100
Marigolds Feb 14 Mar 7 Mar 7 — May 2 – Sep 19 50–70
Nasturtium Feb 21 Mar 7 Mar 7 — May 2 – Oct 17 55–65
Pansy Jan 10 — Feb 28 Sep 3 Apr 25 – Aug 15 70–90
Peonies — Division Mar 21 — May 16 – Jun 13 90–120
Petunia Jan 24 — Mar 14 — May 23 – Oct 10 70–90
Phlox Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 21 — May 30 – Aug 8 80–110
Portulaca Feb 21 Mar 7 Mar 7 — Apr 25 – Oct 3 50–70
Ranunculus — — — Sep 17 Oct 1 – Oct 29 90–120
Roses Jan 17 — Mar 14 — May 23 – Oct 24 90–180
Salvia Jan 24 — Mar 7 — May 16 – Oct 17 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Jan 24 — Mar 21 — Jul 11 – Oct 3 60–90
Snapdragon Jan 10 Feb 7 Feb 28 Sep 3 May 9 – Sep 12 70–100
Sunflower Feb 28 Mar 7 Mar 7 — May 30 – Oct 17 70–100
Sweet Alyssum Feb 7 Feb 7 Feb 28 Sep 17 Apr 11 – Aug 15 45–60
Sweet Pea — — — Sep 10 Nov 19 – Jan 28 65–85
Tulips — — — Oct 15 Oct 1 – Oct 29 15–30
Vinca (Annual) Jan 10 — Mar 7 — May 16 – Oct 17 70–90
Yarrow Jan 24 Mar 7 Mar 21 — May 23 – Oct 17 60–90
Zinnia Feb 21 Mar 7 Mar 7 — May 16 – Oct 17 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for Hood County