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McLennan County, TX — Planting Guide

McLennan County, Texas Zone 8b June

McLennan County, Texas gardeners: here's your June plan

Welcome to June in Zone 8b. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.

Avg. last frost March 14
Avg. first frost November 14
Soil temp (4") 79°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14 hrs
  1. Collect basil, carrots, and cucumber at their peak

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

July prep starts now
  • First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans

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McLennan County is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 14 and the first fall frost is November 14, giving you a growing season of approximately 245 days.

At an elevation of 1,643 ft, McLennan County receives approximately 66 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 91°F with winter lows around 38°F. The predominant soil type is Clay.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 42 days year to year — ranging from February 26 in warm years to April 8 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 7.52 days per decade. McLennan County scores 38/100 (Challenging) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

8b (15°F to 20°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

March 14

🍂 First Frost

November 14

📅 Growing Season

245 days

⛰️ Elevation

1,643 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

66 in

McLennan County, TX Long season
245 days
❄
Last Spring Frost March 14
➔ 245 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost November 14

Monthly Watering Calendar for McLennan County

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

What this means for you: Over-watering kills more plants than under-watering. McLennan County's 66" annual rainfall changes the gardening playbook — humid-region gardeners often water by the calendar when they should water by the soil moisture.

1"/wk 0" 2.7" 5.3" 8" 10.6" Jan 1.7" +2.3" Feb 2" Mar 4.4" Apr 6.8" May 10.6" Jun 9.7" Jul 8.9" Aug 7.2" Sep 6.7" Oct 4" +2" Nov 2.3" Dec 1.7"
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 2 in 4 days 2.3 in High
Mar 4.4 in 6 days — Low
Apr 6.8 in 7 days — Low
May 10.6 in 9 days — Low
Jun 9.7 in 10 days — Low
Jul 8.9 in 7 days — Low
Aug 7.2 in 6 days — Low
Sep 6.7 in 5 days — Low
Oct 4 in 4 days 0.3 in Low
Nov 2.3 in 3 days 2 in High
Dec 1.7 in 4 days — None

Annual total: 66 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.

McLennan County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay

Soil pH

6.9-7.9

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 14 → Nov 14 245 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: Apr 8 Protect by: Nov 30

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 Nov 30 236 days
Cautious Mar 24 Nov 22 243 days
Average year Mar 14 Nov 14 245 days
Optimistic Mar 6 Nov 9 248 days
Aggressive (risky) Feb 26 Oct 28 244 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

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.

🌱
Is the growing season changing?

Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 7.5 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.

Gardening Difficulty Score

38 Challenging
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
3.5/10
Soil Difficulty
4.0/10
Altitude Challenge
1.3/10
Climate Shift
10.0/10
Rainfall Challenge
8.4/10

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

Zone 8b Frost Countdown
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Loading...
Last Frost: Mar 14 First Frost: Nov 14

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

County Extension Office

McLennan 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 McLennan County

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

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to McLennan 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 McLennan County TX" or "garden center McLennan 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 McLennan County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "McLennan 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 Pole Beans (harvest ends Jul 18) 119 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Sweet Potatoes (harvest ends Aug 15) 91 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Okra (harvest ends Jul 18) 119 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Sweet Corn (harvest ends Jun 27) 140 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Cantaloupe (harvest ends Jul 18) 119 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Chard (harvest ends Jun 27) 140 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
Show 6 more succession options
After Watermelon (harvest ends Jul 25) 112 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Melon (harvest ends Jul 25) 112 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Beets (harvest ends Jun 6) 161 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Squash (Winter) (harvest ends Aug 15) 91 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Peas (harvest ends Jul 4) 133 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Carrots (harvest ends Jun 20) 147 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d

Sunlight & Day Length in McLennan County

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

Why it matters: Day length triggers flowering in many crops. Some need short days (sweet potatoes), some long (most flowers), and some are day-neutral (most modern tomatoes). McLennan County's latitude determines which varieties fit your beds.

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.

14hr 12hr 4h 7h 10h 12h 15h Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Daylight hours (sunrise to sunset) Peak sun hours (direct sunlight after cloud cover) ▪ Gold zone = long day (14+ hr) ▪ Blue zone = short day (<12 hr)

Onion tip: 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 10.2 hr 5.5 hr Short day
February 10.9 hr 6.2 hr Short day
March 11.8 hr 6.8 hr Short day
April 12.8 hr 7.8 hr Neutral
May 13.6 hr 8.4 hr Neutral
June 14 hr 9.9 hr Long day
July 13.9 hr 9.8 hr Neutral
August 13.2 hr 9 hr Neutral
September 12.2 hr 8.4 hr Neutral
October 11.2 hr 7.2 hr Short day
November 10.4 hr 5.8 hr Short day
December 10 hr 5.8 hr Short day

Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.

Soil Temperature & Composting in McLennan County

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

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

Plant Warm Crops When

Soil reaches 60°F+

Soil warm enough from May through Oct.

Best Month to Compost

May

Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.

Active Composting

9 months

Nearly year-round composting.

60°F 70°F 30° 48° 65° 83° 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 43°F 50°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Feb 43°F 49°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Mar 51°F 55°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Apr 60°F 60°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
May 71°F 68°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jun 79°F 78°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 88°F 82°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 88°F 85°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 84°F 82°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 71°F 75°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Nov 59°F 64°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Dec 48°F 56°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 McLennan County

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

Why it matters: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid McLennan County sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.

Insect Pest Pressure

7.3 / 10

High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.

Disease Risk

7.3 / 10

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

Seasonal Risk

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

Cover Crops for McLennan County

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

Quick context: Cover crops are the experienced gardener's secret weapon. McLennan County's climate determines which species thrive: clover and vetch in mild winters, cereal rye and Austrian peas in cold ones.

Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat Mar 18 Sep 19 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Cowpeas (southern peas) Mar 20 Sep 5 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible
Sorghum-sudan grass Mar 22 Sep 19 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Feb 13 Sep 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 Apr 3 Oct 31 — Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Austrian winter peas Sep 14 Feb 21 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Crimson clover Sep 18 Feb 21 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring
Daikon radish Sep 25 Feb 28 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Aug 29 Feb 21 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Oct 3 Feb 28 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Aug 22 Feb 21 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Aug 6 Feb 21 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in McLennan County

What this means for you: Wind affects three things gardeners forget: how fast soil dries (more wind = more watering), whether pollinators can work (calm beats gusty), and whether your trellised crops stay upright. McLennan County sees 11.6 mph on average — a forgiving baseline.

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

Seasonal Wind Speed

Spring: 15 mph   Summer: 12 mph

Fall: 12 mph   Winter: 15 mph

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

Windbreak Benefit

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

Low

Relatively flat terrain (382 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.

Rainwater Harvesting in McLennan County

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

For new gardeners: Even in arid regions, rainwater harvesting works — you just need bigger storage and patience. In wet regions like McLennan County (66" annually), you're mostly limited by how much water you can store between storms.

Annual Collection

32,894 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 66.0 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 32,894 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 McLennan County

Soil Type

Clay

Soil pH 6.9–7.9 · 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. (66 in. annual rainfall)

Season Tips

245-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 McLennan County

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

Show all 114 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Feb 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 20 – Jul 25 80–100
Amaranth Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 27 – Aug 15 90–120
Artichoke — — Mar 28 — Aug 1 – Oct 10 120–180
Arugula Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Apr 18 – Jun 20 30–50
Asparagus — — Mar 28 — — 730–1095
Beets — Feb 28 — Sep 5 Apr 25 – May 23 50–70
Belgian Endive Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Jul 4 – Aug 29 110–150
Bitter Melon Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 30 – Jul 11 60–90
Black Beans — Mar 21 — — Jun 20 – Aug 8 90–120
Bok Choy Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Apr 25 – May 30 40–60
Broccoli Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 16 – Jun 27 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Apr 25 – May 30 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Jun 13 – Aug 8 90–130
Butternut Squash Feb 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 27 – Aug 1 85–110
Cabbage Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 16 – Jul 11 60–100
Calabash Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 20 – Aug 15 80–120
Cardoon — — Mar 28 — Aug 1 – Sep 12 120–150
Carrots — Feb 28 — Sep 5 May 2 – Jun 6 60–80
Cauliflower Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 9 – Jul 11 55–100
Celeriac Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Jun 27 – Aug 1 100–120
Celery Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Jun 6 – Aug 1 80–120
Celtuce Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 16 – Jun 27 60–90
Chard Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 9 – Jun 27 50–60
Chayote Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Aug 1 – Oct 10 120–180
Chickpeas Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Jun 6 – Jul 18 80–110
Chicory Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 16 – Jun 27 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 9 – Jun 6 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 20 – Jul 25 80–100
Collard Greens Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 9 – Jul 11 55–75
Corn — Mar 21 — — May 23 – Jul 18 60–100
Cowpeas — Mar 21 — — May 23 – Jul 4 60–90
Cress Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Mar 28 – Apr 18 14–21
Crookneck Squash Feb 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 16 – Jun 13 45–60
Crosne — Feb 28 — Sep 5 Aug 1 – Oct 3 150–200
Cucumber Feb 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 23 – Jul 18 50–70
Daikon — Feb 28 — Sep 5 Apr 25 – May 23 50–70
Delicata Squash Feb 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 20 – Jul 25 80–100
Edamame — Mar 21 — — Jun 6 – Jul 18 75–100
Eggplant Jan 10 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 6 – Aug 8 65–85
Endive Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 2 – Jun 6 45–65
Escarole Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 9 – Jun 6 50–70
Fava Beans Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 30 – Jul 11 75–100
Fennel Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 30 – Jul 11 60–90
Garlic — — — Oct 3 Jan 2 – Jun 19 90–240
Ginger Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Nov 28 – Dec 12 240–300
Green Beans — Mar 21 — — May 16 – Jul 11 50–65
Horseradish — — Mar 28 — Aug 1 – Oct 10 120–180
Hot Peppers Jan 10 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 6 – Sep 12 70–120
Hubbard Squash Feb 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jul 11 – Aug 15 100–120
Jicama Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Aug 1 – Oct 10 120–180
Kabocha Feb 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 27 – Jul 25 85–100
Kai Lan Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 2 – May 30 45–60
Kale Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 9 – Jul 4 50–70
Kidney Beans — Mar 21 — — Jun 20 – Jul 25 85–110
Kohlrabi Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 2 – Jun 6 45–65
Komatsuna Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Apr 18 – May 23 35–50
Leeks Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Jun 13 – Aug 29 90–150
Lentils Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Jun 6 – Jul 18 80–110
Lettuce Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Apr 18 – Jun 27 30–60
Lima Beans — Mar 21 — — May 23 – Jul 4 60–90
Loofah Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jul 11 – Sep 12 100–150
Luffa Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 27 – Sep 12 90–150
Mache Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Apr 25 – May 30 40–60
Malabar Spinach Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 23 – Jun 20 55–70
Melon Feb 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 6 – Jul 25 70–100
Microgreens Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Mar 21 – Apr 18 7–21
Mitsuba Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 7 Sep 5 May 2 – Jun 27 50–70
Mizuna Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Apr 18 – May 16 30–45
Mustard Greens Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Apr 18 – Jun 20 30–50
Napa Cabbage Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 9 – Jun 13 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 23 – Jun 20 55–70
Okra Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 23 – Jul 18 50–65
Onion Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Jun 13 – Aug 1 90–120
Pac Choi Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Apr 25 – May 23 40–55
Parsnip — Feb 28 — Sep 5 Jun 13 – Jul 25 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Feb 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 16 – Jun 13 45–60
Peas Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 9 – Jul 4 55–70
Peppers Jan 10 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–90
Pole Beans Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 23 – Jul 18 55–70
Potatoes Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 6 – Aug 15 70–120
Pumpkin Feb 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 27 – Aug 15 85–120
Purslane Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Apr 25 – May 30 40–60
Radicchio Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 16 – Jun 20 60–80
Radish — Feb 28 — Sep 5 Mar 28 – Apr 18 22–35
Rhubarb — — Apr 4 — — 365–730
Romanesco Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 30 – Jul 11 75–100
Rutabaga — Feb 28 — Sep 5 May 23 – Jun 27 80–100
Salsify — Feb 28 — Sep 5 Jun 13 – Jul 25 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 23 – Jul 18 70–110
Scallions Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 9 – Jun 6 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 30 – Jul 4 60–80
Shallot Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Jun 13 – Aug 1 90–120
Shiso Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 23 – Jul 18 50–70
Snap Peas Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 23 – Jul 18 55–70
Snow Peas Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 May 9 – Jul 4 50–65
Soybeans — Mar 21 — — Jun 13 – Aug 8 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Feb 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 27 – Jul 25 85–100
Spinach Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Apr 18 – Jun 20 35–50
Squash (Summer) Feb 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 16 – Jul 18 45–65
Squash (Winter) Feb 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 20 – Aug 15 80–120
Sunchoke — — Mar 28 — Jul 18 – Sep 12 110–150
Sweet Corn — Mar 21 — — May 23 – Jul 4 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 27 – Aug 15 90–120
Tatsoi Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Apr 18 – May 23 35–50
Tomatillo Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–85
Tomatoes Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–85
Turmeric Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Nov 28 – Dec 12 240–300
Turnip — Feb 28 — Sep 5 Apr 11 – May 16 40–60
Watercress Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 14 Sep 5 Apr 25 – May 30 40–60
Watermelon Feb 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 6 – Jul 25 70–100
Wax Beans — Mar 21 — — May 16 – Jul 11 50–65
Winter Melon Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 27 – Aug 15 90–120
Yard Long Beans Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 23 – Jul 4 55–80
Zucchini Feb 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 16 – Jul 11 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in McLennan County

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

Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Oct 17 90–180
Aronia — — Apr 4 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — Apr 4 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — Apr 4 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — Apr 4 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — Apr 4 — Jun 13 – Jul 18 70–90
Che Fruit — — Apr 4 — — 1095–1825
Elderberries — — Apr 4 — — 730–1095
Figs — — Apr 4 — — 730–1825
Goji Berries — — Apr 4 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — Apr 4 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — Apr 4 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — Apr 4 — Jun 13 – Aug 8 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — Apr 4 — — 1095–1825
Honeydew — — Apr 4 — Jun 27 – Aug 8 80–110
Jostaberry — — Apr 4 — — 730–1095
Kiwi — — Apr 4 — — 1095–1825
Loquat — — Apr 4 — — 730–1825
Medlar — — Apr 4 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — Apr 4 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — Apr 4 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — Apr 4 — — 1095–2555
Pomegranate — — Apr 4 — — 730–1095
Quince — — Apr 4 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — Apr 4 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — Apr 4 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — Apr 4 — Jul 4 – Dec 19 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in McLennan County

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

Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 7 Sep 5 — 365–730
Anise Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 7 Sep 5 Jun 6 – Aug 22 90–120
Basil Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 23 – Jul 25 50–75
Bee Balm — — Mar 21 — Jun 20 – Sep 5 90–120
Borage Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 7 Sep 5 May 2 – Jun 20 50–60
Caraway Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 7 Sep 5 — 365–450
Catnip — — Mar 21 — May 23 – Jul 25 60–80
Chamomile Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 7 Sep 5 May 9 – Jul 18 60–90
Chervil Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 7 Sep 5 Apr 18 – Jun 20 40–60
Chives — — Mar 21 — May 23 – Aug 1 60–90
Cilantro Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 7 Sep 5 Apr 18 – Jun 20 40–60
Comfrey — — Mar 21 — May 23 – Aug 1 60–90
Cumin Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 7 Sep 5 Jun 20 – Aug 22 100–120
Dill Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 7 Sep 5 Apr 18 – Jun 20 40–60
Epazote Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 16 – Jul 11 45–60
Fennel (herb) Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 7 Sep 5 May 9 – Jul 18 60–90
Feverfew — — Mar 21 — Jun 20 – Sep 5 90–120
Garlic Chives — — Mar 21 — May 23 – Aug 1 60–90
Horehound — — Mar 21 — Jun 6 – Aug 1 75–90
Hyssop — — Mar 21 — May 30 – Aug 1 70–90
Lemon Balm — — Mar 21 — May 23 – Jul 11 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — Mar 21 — May 30 – Aug 1 70–90
Lemon Verbena Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–90
Lemongrass Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — Jun 13 – Sep 12 75–120
Lovage — — Mar 21 — May 30 – Aug 1 70–90
Marjoram — — Mar 21 — May 23 – Aug 1 60–90
Mint — — Mar 21 — May 23 – Aug 1 60–90
Oregano — — Mar 21 — May 23 – Aug 1 60–90
Parsley Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 7 Sep 5 May 9 – Jul 11 60–80
Rosemary — — Mar 21 — Jun 13 – Oct 31 80–180
Rue — — Mar 21 — May 30 – Aug 1 70–90
Sage — — Mar 21 — Jun 6 – Aug 1 75–90
Savory — — Mar 21 — May 16 – Jul 11 50–70
Sorrel Feb 7 Feb 28 Mar 7 Sep 5 Apr 18 – Jun 20 40–60
Stevia Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 30 – Aug 8 60–90
Tarragon — — Mar 21 — May 23 – Aug 1 60–90
Thai Basil Jan 24 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 23 – Jul 25 50–75
Thyme — — Mar 21 — May 30 – Aug 1 70–90
Valerian — — Mar 21 — Jul 25 – Oct 31 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in McLennan County

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

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

Monthly Planting Guide for McLennan County