Madison County, TX — Planting Guide
Madison County is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 5 and the first fall frost is November 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 260 days.
At an elevation of 122 ft, Madison County receives approximately 57.5 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 91°F with winter lows around 41°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 59 days year to year — ranging from February 7 in warm years to April 6 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 1.29 days per decade. Madison County scores 52/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 5
🍂 First Frost
November 20
📅 Growing Season
260 days
⛰️ Elevation
122 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
57.5 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 | 1.4 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.1 in | 4 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Mar | 3.2 in | 5 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 6.6 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| May | 9.1 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 9.8 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 6.8 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 6.9 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.8 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.5 in | 4 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 1.9 in | 3 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Dec | 1.3 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 57.4 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.
Madison County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.5
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 6 | Dec 11 | 249 days |
| Cautious | Mar 11 | Nov 30 | 264 days |
| Average year | Mar 5 | Nov 20 | 260 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 20 | Nov 13 | 266 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 7 | Oct 31 | 266 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±59 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 1.3 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Madison County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Madison 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 Madison County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Madison 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 Madison County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Madison County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Madison 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 Madison County TX" or "garden center Madison 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 Madison County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Madison County Gardeners" or "Texas Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
14 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.3 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.2 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.8 hr | 10.3 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 9.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 10 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
9 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 46°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 48°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 52°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 65°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 74°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 84°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 90°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 92°F | 88°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 85°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 74°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 62°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 50°F | 58°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 Madison 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 | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | High | 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 Madison 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 | Mar 10 | Sep 18 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 12 | Sep 18 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 13 | Sep 18 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 4 | Sep 25 | ✓ 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 22 | Oct 23 | — | 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 10 | Feb 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 18 | Feb 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 11 | Feb 12 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 13 | Feb 19 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 16 | Feb 19 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 21 | Feb 19 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 26 | Feb 12 | — | 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: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
8.7/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (143 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
28,608 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, 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 57.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 28,608 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 Madison County
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 5.5–6.5 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
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
260-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.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
Recommended for Your Garden
Retain moisture and nutrients in sandy soils with expanded vermiculite.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Madison County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Madison County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 19 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 19 | — | Apr 16 – May 14 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 2 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 19 | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 19 | — | Apr 23 – May 28 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jul 9 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Mar 19 – Apr 9 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 19 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 5 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 19 | — | Apr 16 – May 14 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 12 | — | May 28 – Jul 9 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 1 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | May 21 – Jul 2 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 2 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Nov 19 – Dec 3 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 19 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 1 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 28 – Sep 3 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 5 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Aug 20 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Sep 3 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 5 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 16 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 – Apr 9 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – May 7 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 14 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 19 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 1 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 5 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 19 | — | Mar 19 – Apr 9 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | May 21 – Jul 2 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 19 | — | May 14 – Jun 18 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 19 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 12 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 5 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 5 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 19 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 16 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Nov 19 – Dec 3 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 19 | — | Apr 2 – May 7 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 5 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 16 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 5 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Madison County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Madison County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Oct 8 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 26 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 26 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 26 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Dec 10 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Madison County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Madison County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 11 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 12 | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 12 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Nov 12 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 2 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Jun 4 – Sep 3 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Oct 22 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 12 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 12 | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Madison County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Madison County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Madison County, TX?
Madison County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. 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 Madison County, TX?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Madison County falls around March 5. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 7 and April 6 — a 59-day window of variability. Use April 6 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Madison County, TX?
The median first fall frost in Madison County arrives around November 20. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 31; in mild years as late as December 11. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Madison County?
Madison County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 260 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 1.29 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Madison County for gardening?
Madison County has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 5.5–6.5 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Madison County?
Madison County has commercial agriculture that includes Cotton, Cattle, Sorghum, Wheat, Hay. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Madison County a good location for home gardening?
Madison County scores 52/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Madison County gardeners in Zone 8b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.
