Ector, TX — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Ector, TX gardeners: here's your June plan
Here's what deserves your attention in Ector, TX this month. Everything below is tailored to Zone 8a and timed around your local frost dates.
-
Start harvesting basil, carrots, and cucumber
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
Coming up in July — start thinking about
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Ector gardens in a long-season climate (Zone 8a, 244 frost-free days). Spring arrives early and fall lingers, so most of the work is matching the right crop to the right window — heat-lovers go in the ground as soon as the soil warms, and cool-season crops shift to fall and even winter rather than spring. Succession planting is your friend; you can plant the same crop three or four times in a season.
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.
Ector averages 27.1 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
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 16
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 15
📅 Growing Season
244 days
🌧️ Climate
Unknown 0.0" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
27.1 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Ector
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: The 1-inch-per-week rule applies to most vegetable crops. Ector averages 0" a year — divide by 52 and compare to that 1" target. Some months are above, some below; that's where the calendar earns its keep.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.4 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.9 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.3 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 6.3 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| May | 8.7 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 11.1 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 7.7 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 7.9 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 6.2 in | 5 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.3 in | 4 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.1 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.8 in | 4 days | — | None |
Annual total: 63.7 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.
Ector Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.8
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) | Apr 9 | Dec 1 | 236 days |
| Cautious | Mar 25 | Nov 23 | 243 days |
| Average year | Mar 16 | Nov 15 | 244 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 7 | Nov 9 | 247 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 26 | Oct 28 | 244 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±43 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 3.2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Fannin County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Fannin 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 Fannin County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Fannin 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 Fannin County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Fannin County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Fannin 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 Fannin County TX" or "garden center Fannin 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 Fannin County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Fannin 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 Ector
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Onions are a great example of why day length matters. They "bulb up" only when daylight hits a specific number of hours — plant the wrong variety (short-day in the north, long-day in the south) and you'll get tiny bulbs no matter how well you grow them. Ector's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.
Longest Day
14.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.8 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.1 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 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.7 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.2 hr | 10.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.2 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.2 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.8 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 in Ector
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Air temperature lies. Your air can be 70°F in April but the soil 4 inches down is still 50°F — too cold for tomatoes or peppers to root properly. Ector's soil temperature curve tells you the real planting window. A $5 soil thermometer pays for itself in one season.
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
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 37°F | 47°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 38°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 48°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 58°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 68°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 80°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 86°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 89°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 83°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 71°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 57°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 47°F | 53°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 Ector
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Pest and disease pressure is the X-factor most beginners under-plan for. Ector's climate determines whether you can mostly "plant and see" or whether you need a pest-management routine from the first seedling.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
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 | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
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 Ector
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: Cover crops do four things at once: fix nitrogen (legumes), suppress weeds (any), prevent erosion, and add organic matter when chopped down. Ector'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 21 | Sep 20 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 22 | Sep 6 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 23 | Sep 6 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 17 | Sep 6 | ✓ 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 27 | Oct 18 | — | 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 8 | Feb 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 4 | Mar 2 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 26 | Mar 2 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 30 | Feb 23 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 14 | Mar 2 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 14 | Mar 2 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 6 | Feb 23 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Ector
Why it matters: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Ector's 0.0 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 15 mph Summer: 13 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
7.4/10
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 (375 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Ector
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Ector's 0" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.
Annual Collection
31,748 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 63.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 31,748 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 Ector
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Ector.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 2 | — | Sep 6 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 23 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 2 | — | Sep 6 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 11 – Jun 29 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 23 | — | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 23 | — | — | May 25 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Mar 30 – Apr 20 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 18 – Jun 15 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 2 | — | Sep 6 | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 2 | — | Sep 6 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 23 | — | — | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 12 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 4 | Jan 3 – Jun 20 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Nov 30 – Dec 14 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 23 | — | — | May 18 – Jul 13 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 12 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Sep 14 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 4 – Jun 1 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 23 | — | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 31 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 23 | — | — | May 25 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Mar 23 – Apr 20 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Sep 6 | May 4 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 2 | — | Sep 6 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 18 – Jun 15 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 12 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 2 | — | Sep 6 | Mar 30 – Apr 20 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 2 | — | Sep 6 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 2 | — | Sep 6 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 23 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 18 – Jul 20 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 23 | — | — | May 25 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Nov 30 – Dec 14 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 2 | — | Sep 6 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Sep 6 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 23 | — | — | May 18 – Jul 13 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 6 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 18 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Ector
27 fruits matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Ector.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 19 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | Jul 6 – Dec 21 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Ector
39 herbs matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Ector.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Sep 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Sep 6 | Jun 8 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 27 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Sep 6 | May 4 – Jun 22 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Sep 6 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Jul 27 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Sep 6 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Sep 6 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Sep 6 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Sep 6 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Sep 6 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 18 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Sep 6 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Jul 13 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 15 – Sep 14 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Sep 6 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 18 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Sep 6 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 27 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Ector
54 flowers matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Ector.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 2 | Mar 9 | Mar 9 | — | May 4 – Sep 21 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 11 | Nov 8 – Nov 29 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 20 | Oct 4 – Nov 1 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 19 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Jul 13 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Sep 20 | May 4 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 5 | — | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 19 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Oct 12 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 19 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 4 – Jun 1 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Sep 6 | Apr 20 – Aug 31 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 20 | Nov 29 – Mar 7 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 4 – Jun 1 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 19 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | — | May 18 – Oct 12 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | — | May 11 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 18 | Sep 20 – Oct 11 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 11 | Sep 20 – Oct 18 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Oct 26 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 19 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 19 | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | — | Mar 30 – Jun 15 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 4 – Jun 1 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 4 | Nov 1 – Nov 29 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Jan 26 | Mar 9 | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Nov 2 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 5 | — | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 12 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 18 | Oct 11 – Nov 1 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 12 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Sep 28 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 19 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Oct 12 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Mar 16 | — | May 4 – Jun 8 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Feb 16 | — | Sep 6 | Apr 27 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 12 | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Sep 14 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 19 | — | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 – Jun 1 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 4 – Jun 1 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 2 | Mar 9 | Mar 9 | — | May 4 – Sep 7 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 9 | — | May 4 – Oct 5 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 5 | — | Mar 2 | Sep 6 | Apr 27 – Aug 3 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Mar 16 | — | May 11 – Jun 8 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Jan 19 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Aug 3 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 9 | — | Apr 27 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 20 | Oct 4 – Nov 8 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 12 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Oct 12 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 19 | — | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 19 | — | Mar 16 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 5 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Sep 6 | May 11 – Aug 31 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Mar 9 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 2 | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Sep 20 | Apr 13 – Aug 3 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Nov 22 – Feb 14 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 18 | Oct 4 – Nov 1 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 5 | — | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 19 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | — | May 18 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Oct 5 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Ector
ZIP Codes in Ector
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 Fannin County.
Your Fannin County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Fannin County (Zone 8a). 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