McCulloch County, TX — Planting Guide
McCulloch County is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 17 and the first fall frost is November 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 244 days.
At an elevation of 1,250 ft, McCulloch County receives approximately 60.1 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 96°F with winter lows around 39°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 42 days year to year — ranging from February 25 in warm years to April 8 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 7.88 days per decade. McCulloch County scores 42/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 17
🍂 First Frost
November 16
📅 Growing Season
244 days
⛰️ Elevation
1,250 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
60.1 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 | 1.8 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.9 in | 4 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Mar | 3.5 in | 5 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 6.6 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| May | 9.8 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 8.6 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 8 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 7 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 5.1 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.9 in | 4 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Nov | 2.2 in | 3 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Dec | 1.7 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 60.1 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
McCulloch County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-7.7
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 8 | Dec 5 | 241 days |
| Cautious | Mar 28 | Nov 25 | 242 days |
| Average year | Mar 17 | Nov 16 | 244 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 8 | Nov 11 | 248 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 25 | Oct 28 | 245 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±42 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 7.9 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
McCulloch County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in McCulloch 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 McCulloch County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
McCulloch 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 McCulloch County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in McCulloch County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to McCulloch 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 McCulloch County TX" or "garden center McCulloch 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 McCulloch County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "McCulloch 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
9.9 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 | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 9.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.8 hr | 9.9 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 8.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 10 hr | 5.3 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 | 47°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 45°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 51°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 62°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 73°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 80°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 90°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 90°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 84°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 73°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 61°F | 65°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 51°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 McCulloch 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 | 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 McCulloch 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 27 | Sep 14 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 21 | Sep 21 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 25 | Sep 14 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 18 | Sep 21 | ✓ 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 13 | Oct 19 | — | 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 5 | Mar 3 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 7 | Mar 3 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 6 | Feb 24 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 28 | Mar 3 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 19 | Mar 3 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 21 | Mar 3 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 8 | Feb 24 | — | 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: 17 mph Summer: 12 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 14 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.6/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (175 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
29,953 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 60.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 29,953 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Your area gets ample rainfall — even small barrels make a big difference
- Consider a rain garden to handle overflow during heavy rainfall months
Soil & Growing Conditions in McCulloch County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.8–7.7 · Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
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
244-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.
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
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in McCulloch County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for McCulloch County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 17 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 31 | Aug 4 – Oct 13 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 21 – Jun 23 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 31 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 3 | — | Apr 28 – May 26 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 24 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 11 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 28 – Jun 2 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jun 30 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 28 – Jun 2 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 17 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jul 14 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 31 | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 3 | — | May 5 – Jun 9 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jun 30 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jun 30 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 4 – Oct 13 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jun 30 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jun 9 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 24 | — | May 26 – Jul 21 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 24 | — | May 26 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 – Apr 21 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 17 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 3 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 17 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 3 | — | Apr 28 – May 26 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 17 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 24 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 13 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jun 9 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Dec 1 – Dec 15 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 24 | — | May 19 – Jul 14 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 31 | Aug 4 – Oct 13 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 13 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 9 – Sep 15 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 17 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 4 – Oct 13 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 17 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 5 – Jun 2 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 24 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 21 – May 26 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Sep 1 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 21 – Jun 30 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 24 | — | May 26 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 30 – Sep 15 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 28 – Jun 2 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 17 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Mar 24 – Apr 21 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 21 – May 19 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 21 – Jun 23 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 3 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 17 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 13 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 17 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 28 – Jun 2 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 3 | — | Mar 31 – Apr 21 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 3 | — | May 26 – Jun 30 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 3 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jun 9 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 24 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 17 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 21 – Jun 23 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 17 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 17 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 31 | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 24 | — | May 26 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 21 – May 26 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Dec 1 – Dec 15 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 3 | — | Apr 14 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 28 – Jun 2 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 17 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 24 | — | May 19 – Jul 14 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jul 7 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 17 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 19 – Jul 14 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in McCulloch County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for McCulloch County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Oct 20 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Dec 22 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in McCulloch County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for McCulloch County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jun 9 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 23 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 5 – Jun 23 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 24 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Apr 21 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 24 | May 26 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Apr 21 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 24 | May 26 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Apr 21 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 24 | Jul 28 – Nov 3 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 19 – Jul 14 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 23 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 24 | May 26 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 23 – Nov 24 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 24 | May 26 – Jul 14 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 16 – Sep 15 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 24 | May 26 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 24 | May 26 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 24 | May 26 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 16 – Nov 3 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 24 | May 19 – Jul 14 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Apr 21 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 24 | May 26 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 24 | Jul 28 – Nov 3 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 24 | Jun 23 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for McCulloch County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in McCulloch County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is McCulloch County, TX?
McCulloch County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. 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 McCulloch County, TX?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in McCulloch County falls around March 17. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 25 and April 8 — a 42-day window of variability. Use April 8 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in McCulloch County, TX?
The median first fall frost in McCulloch County arrives around November 16. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 28; in mild years as late as December 5. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in McCulloch County?
McCulloch County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 244 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 7.88 days per decade.
What is the soil like in McCulloch County for gardening?
McCulloch County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.8–7.7 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in McCulloch County?
McCulloch County has commercial agriculture that includes Cotton, Sorghum, Cattle, Corn, Wheat. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is McCulloch County a good location for home gardening?
McCulloch County scores 42/100 (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.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help McCulloch County gardeners in Zone 8a 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.
