Cuero, TX — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Top priorities for DeWitt County, Texas gardeners in July
We've pulled the most time-sensitive tasks for DeWitt County, Texas this July and put them front and centre. Tackle them in order.
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Basket week: basil, peppers, and thai basil
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
Looking ahead to August
- First harvests: ageratum, alpine strawberries, and anise
Cuero gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (36" annual rainfall, most of it October to April). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive almost year-round. The challenge is summer heat: long-season warm-weather crops (full-size tomatoes, peppers, melons) need every bit of summer sun, so prioritize short-season varieties, use dark mulches to warm the soil, and reserve your warmest microclimates (south-facing walls, near pavement) for the tender stuff.
Soils trend Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Cuero averages 29.7 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
9a (20°F to 25°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 2
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 26
📅 Growing Season
269 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 35.5" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 9.1 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
29.7 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Cuero
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Cuero gets 36" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.8 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.1 in | 4 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Mar | 4 in | 6 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Apr | 5.9 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| May | 9.1 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 11.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 6.9 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 7.9 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 5.6 in | 5 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.7 in | 5 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.3 in | 3 days | 2 in | High |
| Dec | 1.5 in | 4 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.
Cuero Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-7.8
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 25 | Dec 13 | 263 days |
| Cautious | Mar 9 | Dec 5 | 271 days |
| Average year | Mar 2 | Nov 26 | 269 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 18 | Nov 15 | 270 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 29 | Nov 2 | 277 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±56 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 5.3 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
DeWitt County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in DeWitt 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 DeWitt County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
DeWitt 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 DeWitt County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in DeWitt County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to DeWitt 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 DeWitt County TX" or "garden center DeWitt 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 DeWitt County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "DeWitt 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 in Cuero
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: The longest day at Cuero's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.
Longest Day
13.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.7 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your shorter days favor short-day onion varieties like Vidalia, Texas 1015, and Red Creole. Plant in fall for best results.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.3 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 11 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.8 hr | 9.7 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.7 hr | 9.5 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 7.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.5 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.2 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Cuero
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Soil heats slower than air in spring and cools slower in fall. That's why "warm" April air doesn't mean "plant tomatoes" — soil still trails by weeks. Cuero's monthly soil curve makes the lag visible.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May 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 | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 45°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 52°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 60°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 71°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 83°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 87°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 91°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 84°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 72°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 61°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 48°F | 57°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 Cuero
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: In Cuero's climate, pest pressure shapes which crops are easy and which are heartbreak. Tomatoes are easy in dry mountain air, hard in humid coast — same plant, completely different gardening experience.
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 | 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 Cuero
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: Cover crops do four things at once: fix nitrogen (legumes), suppress weeds (any), prevent erosion, and add organic matter when chopped down. Cuero's seasonal pattern determines which species fit which gap.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 10 | Sep 24 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 8 | Oct 1 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 15 | Sep 24 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 5 | Oct 1 | ✓ 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 19 | Nov 12 | — | 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 20 | Feb 16 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 25 | Feb 9 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 29 | Feb 9 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 15 | Feb 16 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 29 | Feb 16 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 24 | Feb 16 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 27 | Feb 9 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Cuero
The practical takeaway: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Cuero's 9.1 mph average is one piece of the watering math: rainfall + irrigation must exceed evaporation + transpiration, and wind boosts both losses.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 17 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
9/10
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 (364 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Cuero
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: Captured rainwater is better for plants than tap water (no chlorine), works during water restrictions, and reduces stormwater runoff. Cuero's 36" annual rainfall is a meaningful pool — most homes could capture 10,000+ gallons a year with a decent system.
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 1,250 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 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
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Cuero
114 vegetables matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Cuero.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 16 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 9 | — | Oct 1 | Apr 6 – May 4 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jun 22 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 9 | — | — | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | May 4 – Jun 15 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | May 4 – Jun 29 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 16 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 9 | — | Oct 1 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | May 4 – Jun 15 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 27 – Jun 15 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | May 4 – Jun 15 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 9 | — | — | May 11 – Jul 6 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 9 | — | — | May 11 – Jun 22 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Mar 16 – Apr 6 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Apr 27 – May 25 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 9 | — | Oct 1 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 4 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 9 | — | Oct 1 | Apr 6 – May 4 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 9 | — | — | May 25 – Jul 6 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Jul 20 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jun 22 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 15 | Jan 14 – Jul 1 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Nov 9 – Jan 4 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 9 | — | — | May 4 – Jun 29 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 16 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Aug 24 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 9 | — | — | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 6 – May 11 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Jun 1 – Aug 17 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 6 – Jun 15 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 9 | — | — | May 11 – Jun 22 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 24 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 4 – Jun 1 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Jul 6 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Mar 9 – Apr 6 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Feb 23 | Oct 1 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 6 – May 4 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 4 – Jun 1 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 4 – Jun 29 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 13 – May 11 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 9 | — | Oct 1 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Apr 27 – May 25 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 4 – Jun 29 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Jul 27 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 9 | — | Oct 1 | Mar 9 – Mar 30 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 9 | — | Oct 1 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 9 | — | Oct 1 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jun 15 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 19 | Mar 9 | Mar 9 | — | May 4 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 4 – Jun 29 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 9 | — | — | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 16 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 9 | — | — | May 11 – Jun 22 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 6 – May 11 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Nov 9 – Jan 4 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 9 | — | Oct 1 | Mar 23 – Apr 27 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Oct 1 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Jul 6 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 9 | — | — | May 4 – Jun 29 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Sep 7 – Jan 4 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | May 4 – Jun 15 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Cuero
24 fruits matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Cuero.
Show all 24 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 16 | — | Jun 15 – Sep 28 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Jun 29 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 16 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 16 | — | Jun 15 – Jan 11 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Cuero
37 herbs matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Cuero.
Show all 37 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Feb 23 | Oct 1 | May 25 – Aug 10 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 19 | Mar 9 | Mar 9 | — | May 4 – Jul 6 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 9 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Feb 23 | Oct 1 | Apr 20 – Jun 8 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Feb 23 | Oct 1 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jul 13 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Feb 23 | Oct 1 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Feb 23 | Oct 1 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Feb 23 | Oct 1 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Feb 23 | Oct 1 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Feb 23 | Oct 1 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 19 | Mar 9 | Mar 9 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Feb 23 | Oct 1 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 9 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 9 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Jul 20 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jun 29 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Jul 20 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 19 | Mar 9 | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 19 | Mar 9 | Mar 9 | — | May 25 – Aug 24 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Feb 23 | Oct 1 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 9 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 19 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Jul 20 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 9 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 9 | — | May 4 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Feb 23 | Oct 1 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 19 | Mar 9 | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 19 | Mar 9 | Mar 9 | — | May 4 – Jul 6 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Jul 20 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 9 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Cuero
49 flowers matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Cuero.
Show all 49 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Jan 19 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | — | Apr 13 – Sep 28 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 29 | Nov 26 – Dec 17 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Oct 1 | Oct 8 – Nov 5 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Jan 5 | Feb 2 | Sep 17 | Mar 30 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Dec 22 | — | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 – Sep 14 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 5 | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 6 – Apr 27 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Jan 5 | Feb 2 | Sep 3 | Mar 16 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Nov 12 – Mar 18 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | — | Apr 20 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | — | Apr 6 – Apr 27 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | — | Apr 13 – Sep 14 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 2 | Feb 2 | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 29 | Oct 15 – Nov 5 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | — | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | — | May 11 – Nov 9 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 5 | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 5 | Jan 5 | Jan 5 | — | Feb 23 – Apr 27 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | — | Apr 6 – Apr 27 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 15 | Oct 29 – Nov 26 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Jan 19 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Dec 22 | — | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | — | May 11 – Nov 9 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 5 | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 29 | Oct 29 – Nov 19 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 5 | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 – Aug 17 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 5 | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 – Oct 12 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Feb 16 | — | Apr 6 – May 11 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Sep 17 | Nov 26 – Mar 18 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 5 | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 – Aug 3 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 – Aug 3 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 5 | — | Jan 5 | — | Mar 2 – Mar 30 | 70–80 |
| Marigolds | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | — | Apr 13 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 – Oct 5 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Dec 22 | — | Feb 2 | Sep 3 | Mar 23 – Jun 22 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Jan 5 | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | — | Apr 6 – Oct 12 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Oct 1 | Oct 15 – Nov 12 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 5 | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 – Oct 12 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 5 | — | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 5 | — | Feb 16 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Jan 5 | Feb 2 | Sep 3 | Apr 6 – Aug 3 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Feb 9 | Feb 9 | Feb 9 | — | May 4 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Jan 5 | Feb 2 | Sep 17 | Mar 9 – Jun 22 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 17 | Nov 26 – Jan 21 | 65–85 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Dec 22 | — | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | — | Apr 13 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 – Oct 5 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Cuero
ZIP Codes in Cuero
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in DeWitt County.
Your DeWitt County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for DeWitt County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log