Montgomery County, TX — Planting Guide
Montgomery County is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is February 18 and the first fall frost is December 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 287 days.
At an elevation of 180 ft, Montgomery County receives approximately 62.1 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 96°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 46 days year to year — ranging from January 22 in warm years to March 9 in cold years. Montgomery County scores 61/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 18
🍂 First Frost
December 1
📅 Growing Season
287 days
⛰️ Elevation
180 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
62.1 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 | 1.6 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.1 in | 4 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Mar | 4.5 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 6.5 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| May | 8.2 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 11 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 8 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 7.1 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 5.3 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.2 in | 4 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Nov | 2 in | 3 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Dec | 1.6 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 62.1 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.
Montgomery County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.7
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) | Mar 9 | Dec 17 | 283 days |
| Cautious | Mar 3 | Dec 8 | 280 days |
| Average year | Feb 18 | Dec 1 | 286 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 10 | Nov 24 | 287 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 22 | Nov 13 | 295 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±46 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Montgomery County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Montgomery 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 Montgomery County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Montgomery 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 Montgomery County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Montgomery County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Montgomery 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 Montgomery County TX" or "garden center Montgomery 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 Montgomery County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Montgomery 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
9.9 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: 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 | 10.2 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.9 hr | 9.5 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.8 hr | 9.9 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 9.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.1 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
10 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 46°F | 54°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 47°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 55°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 63°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 71°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 84°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 91°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 91°F | 88°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 85°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 75°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 61°F | 66°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 Montgomery 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 | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | Moderate | 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 Montgomery 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 25 | Oct 6 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Feb 24 | Oct 6 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 22 | Sep 22 | ✓ 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 18 | Nov 3 | — | 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 | Oct 2 | Feb 4 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 29 | Feb 4 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 9 | Feb 4 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 5 | Feb 4 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 25 | Feb 4 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Sep 2 | Feb 4 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 25 | Feb 4 | — | 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: 13 mph
Fall: 13 mph Winter: 14 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.5/10
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 (254 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
30,950 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 62.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 30,950 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 Montgomery County
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 5.5–6.7 · Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (62.1 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
287-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 Montgomery County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Montgomery County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 21 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 4 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – Apr 29 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Feb 25 | — | May 27 – Jul 15 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 1 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 22 – Jun 3 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 1 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 21 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 4 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – May 13 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 22 – Jun 3 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – Jun 3 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | May 13 – Jun 24 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 22 – Jun 3 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – May 13 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Feb 25 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Feb 25 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 10 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 – Mar 25 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 21 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 22 – May 20 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 4 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 21 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – Apr 29 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 21 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Feb 25 | — | May 13 – Jun 24 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 17 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 8 – May 13 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – May 13 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | May 6 – Jun 17 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Nov 4 – Nov 18 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 25 | — | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 4 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 17 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 13 – Aug 19 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 21 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 21 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 8 – May 6 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – Jun 10 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 25 | — | May 27 – Jul 1 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 8 – May 13 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Mar 25 – Apr 29 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | May 20 – Aug 5 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | May 13 – Jun 24 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Mar 25 – Jun 3 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Feb 25 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 10 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Aug 19 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 1 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – May 27 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 21 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 13 – Jul 1 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 – Mar 25 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 11 | Apr 8 – Jun 3 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Mar 25 – Apr 22 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – May 20 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – May 27 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | May 20 – Jul 8 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 1 – Apr 29 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 4 | — | May 20 – Jul 1 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 21 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 22 – May 20 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – Jun 10 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 17 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 13 – Jul 22 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 21 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 1 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 22 – May 27 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 4 | — | Mar 4 – Mar 25 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | May 6 – Jun 17 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 4 | — | May 20 – Jul 1 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – May 13 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | May 20 – Jul 8 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – Jun 10 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Feb 25 | — | May 20 – Jul 15 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 21 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 21 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 22 – Jun 24 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 21 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 4 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 13 – Jul 1 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Feb 25 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 10 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Mar 25 – Apr 29 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Nov 4 – Nov 18 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 4 | — | Mar 18 – Apr 22 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 1 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 21 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 13 – Jul 1 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Feb 25 | — | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 10 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 21 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Montgomery County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Montgomery County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 11 | Jun 10 – Sep 23 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 11 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 11 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 11 | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 11 | Jun 10 – Nov 25 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Montgomery County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Montgomery County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 11 | May 13 – Jul 29 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Feb 25 | May 27 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 11 | Apr 8 – May 27 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 11 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 11 | Apr 15 – Jun 24 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 11 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 11 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 11 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 11 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Feb 25 | Jul 1 – Oct 7 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 11 | Apr 15 – Jun 24 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Feb 25 | May 27 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 25 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Feb 25 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Feb 25 | May 27 – Oct 28 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jun 17 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Feb 25 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 20 – Aug 19 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Feb 25 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 11 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 25 | May 20 – Oct 7 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Feb 25 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 25 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 14 | Feb 4 | Feb 11 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Dec 31 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Feb 25 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Feb 25 | Jul 1 – Oct 7 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Feb 25 | May 27 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Montgomery County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Montgomery County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Montgomery County, TX?
Montgomery 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 Montgomery County, TX?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Montgomery County falls around February 18. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 22 and March 9 — a 46-day window of variability. Use March 9 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Montgomery County, TX?
The median first fall frost in Montgomery County arrives around December 1. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 13; in mild years as late as December 17. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Montgomery County?
Montgomery County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 287 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons.
What is the soil like in Montgomery County for gardening?
Montgomery County has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 5.5–6.7 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Montgomery County?
Montgomery County has commercial agriculture that includes Cattle, Cotton, Sorghum, 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 Montgomery County a good location for home gardening?
Montgomery County scores 61/100 (Good) 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 Montgomery 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.
