Kinney County, TX — Planting Guide
Top priorities for Kinney County, Texas gardeners in May
Each item below is timed to Kinney County, Texas's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
-
It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
Before June arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Kinney County is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 22 and the first fall frost is November 30, giving you a growing season of approximately 282 days.
At an elevation of 1,375 ft, Kinney County receives approximately 52.2 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 101°F with winter lows around 37°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 47 days year to year — ranging from January 30 in warm years to March 18 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 6.94 days per decade. Kinney County scores 46/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 22
🍂 First Frost
November 30
📅 Growing Season
282 days
⛰️ Elevation
1,375 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
52.2 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.4 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.3 in | 3 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 3 in | 2 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 1.7 in | 0 days | 2.6 in | High |
| May | 1.3 in | 1 days | 3 in | High |
| Jun | 2 in | 1 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Jul | 8.2 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 10.4 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 7.6 in | 5 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4 in | 3 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Nov | 3.4 in | 2 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Dec | 3.7 in | 2 days | — | None |
Annual total: 52 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.
Kinney County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7.4-8.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Mar 18 | Dec 16 | 273 days |
| Cautious | Mar 5 | Dec 11 | 281 days |
| Average year | Feb 22 | Nov 30 | 281 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 13 | Nov 25 | 285 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 30 | Nov 10 | 284 days |
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.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 6.9 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Kinney County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Kinney 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 Kinney County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Kinney County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Extension Office
Phone: 979-845-7800
Visit Extension Office Website →
Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.
Master Gardener Program
Free gardening help from trained volunteers
Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.
Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.
Soil Testing
Available through your extension office
Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.
Services Available in Kinney County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Kinney County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Kinney 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 Kinney County TX" or "garden center Kinney 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 Kinney County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Kinney County Gardeners" or "Texas Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
13.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.1 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.
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
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.3 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| February | 11 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.9 hr | 9.5 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.7 hr | 9.7 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 7.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.5 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.1 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 Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
10 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 44°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 47°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 53°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 61°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 73°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 84°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 88°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 90°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 86°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 72°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 63°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 50°F | 57°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 Kinney County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, 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 | 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 Kinney County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Feb 26 | Sep 21 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 3 | Sep 28 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Feb 24 | Sep 28 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 27 | Oct 5 | ✓ 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 15 | Nov 16 | — | 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 28 | Feb 1 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 27 | Feb 1 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 11 | Feb 8 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 22 | Feb 1 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 28 | Feb 1 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Sep 4 | Feb 1 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Sep 1 | Feb 1 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 16 mph Summer: 12 mph
Fall: 14 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 (264 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
25,916 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, May, Jun
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 52.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 25,916 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 Kinney County
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 7.4–8.6 · Well Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 5.5/10
Moderate drought pressure. Drip irrigation and mulching are highly recommended to maintain soil moisture through summer.
Season Tips
282-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 24-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
Recommended for Your Garden
Reduce heat stress and sun scorch in hot climates with UV-stabilized shade cloth.
Retain moisture and nutrients in sandy soils with expanded vermiculite.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Kinney County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Kinney County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 31 – Jul 19 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 8 | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 29 – May 31 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 – Apr 26 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 3 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 1 | — | May 31 – Jul 19 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 5 – May 10 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 26 – Jun 7 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 5 – May 10 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 8 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 – May 10 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 19 – Jun 21 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 26 – Jun 7 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 19 – Jun 7 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | May 17 – Jun 28 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 26 – Jun 7 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 19 – May 17 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 19 – Jun 21 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 1 | — | May 3 – Jun 28 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 1 | — | May 3 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 – Mar 29 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Apr 19 – May 17 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 1 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 – Apr 26 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 1 | — | May 17 – Jun 28 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 10 – Jul 12 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 12 – May 17 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 19 – May 17 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | May 10 – Jun 21 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 3 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Nov 1 – Dec 27 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 1 | — | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 8 | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 10 – Aug 16 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 12 – May 10 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 1 | — | May 31 – Jul 5 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 12 – May 17 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 29 – May 3 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | May 24 – Aug 9 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | May 17 – Jun 28 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 29 – Jun 7 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 1 | — | May 3 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 31 – Aug 16 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 5 – May 10 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Apr 26 – May 24 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 10 – Jun 28 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 – Mar 29 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 15 | Apr 12 – Jun 7 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 29 – Apr 26 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 29 – May 31 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Apr 26 – May 24 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | May 24 – Jul 12 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 5 – May 3 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 1 | — | May 17 – Jun 28 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Apr 19 – May 17 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 10 – Jul 19 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 31 – Jul 19 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 5 – May 10 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 1 | — | Mar 1 – Mar 22 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | May 10 – Jun 21 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 26 – May 31 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 1 | — | May 17 – Jun 28 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | May 3 – Jun 28 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 19 – May 17 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | May 24 – Jul 12 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 11 | Mar 1 | Mar 1 | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 1 | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 29 – May 31 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Apr 19 – Jun 21 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 8 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 10 – Jun 28 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 1 | — | May 3 – Jun 14 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 31 – Jul 19 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 29 – May 3 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Nov 1 – Dec 27 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 1 | — | Mar 15 – Apr 19 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Apr 5 – May 10 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 10 – Jun 28 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 1 | — | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | May 31 – Jul 19 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Aug 30 – Dec 27 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Apr 26 – Jun 7 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Kinney County
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Kinney County.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 8 | Jun 7 – Sep 20 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 8 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 8 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 8 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 8 | Jun 7 – Jan 3 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Kinney County
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Kinney County.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 15 | May 17 – Aug 2 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 11 | Mar 1 | Mar 1 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 1 | May 31 – Aug 16 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 15 | Apr 12 – May 31 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 15 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 1 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 15 | Apr 19 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 15 | Mar 29 – May 31 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 1 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 15 | Mar 29 – May 31 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 1 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 15 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 15 | Mar 29 – May 31 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 1 | Jul 5 – Oct 11 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 11 | Mar 1 | Mar 1 | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 15 | Apr 19 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 1 | May 31 – Aug 16 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 1 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 1 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 1 | May 10 – Jul 12 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 1 | May 31 – Nov 1 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 1 | May 3 – Jun 21 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 1 | May 10 – Jul 12 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 11 | Mar 1 | Mar 1 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 11 | Mar 1 | Mar 1 | May 17 – Aug 16 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 1 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 1 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 1 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 15 | Apr 19 – Jun 21 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 1 | May 24 – Oct 11 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 1 | May 10 – Jul 12 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 1 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 1 | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 25 | Feb 1 | Feb 15 | Mar 29 – May 31 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 11 | Mar 1 | Mar 1 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 1 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 11 | Mar 1 | Mar 1 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 1 | May 10 – Jul 12 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 1 | Jul 5 – Oct 11 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 1 | May 31 – Aug 16 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Kinney County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Kinney County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Kinney County, TX?
Kinney County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Kinney County, TX?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Kinney County falls around February 22. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 30 and March 18 — a 47-day window of variability. Use March 18 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Kinney County, TX?
The median first fall frost in Kinney County arrives around November 30. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 10; in mild years as late as December 16. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Kinney County?
Kinney County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 282 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 6.94 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Kinney County for gardening?
Kinney County has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 7.4–8.6 and Well Drained drainage. The native soil conditions make raised beds a particularly good investment here — they let you control drainage and fertility independent of the ground soil.
What is grown commercially in Kinney County?
Kinney County has commercial agriculture that includes Cotton, Cattle, Sorghum, Hay, Wheat. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Kinney County a good location for home gardening?
Kinney County scores 46/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Gardening here benefits from close attention to frost timing and season extension due to the challenging microclimate factors.
Your Kinney County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Kinney County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log