Gary, TX — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Top priorities for Panola County, Texas gardeners in June
Welcome to June in Zone 8b. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
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Collect basil, carrots, and cucumber at their peak
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Gary gardens in a wet, humid climate (51" annually). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive in spring and fall. The biggest challenges are fungal disease and humidity-loving pests in summer — leaf spot, blight, squash bugs, vine borers. Drip irrigation (not overhead), wide plant spacing for air circulation, and disease-resistant varieties make the difference.
Native soil is Sandy Loam — warms fast and drains free, but nutrients and water wash through. Plan on heavy organic-matter additions and either drip irrigation or frequent shallow waterings to keep crops happy.
Gary averages 22.2 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
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 13
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 14
📅 Growing Season
246 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 51.5" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
22.2 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Gary
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. Gary gets 51" 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 | 1.7 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.1 in | 5 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Mar | 4.7 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 8.1 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| May | 10.7 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 11.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 8.7 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 7.1 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 5.5 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.1 in | 4 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Nov | 2.7 in | 3 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Dec | 1.8 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 68.6 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.
Gary Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.4
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 5 | Nov 30 | 239 days |
| Cautious | Mar 21 | Nov 21 | 245 days |
| Average year | Mar 13 | Nov 14 | 246 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 5 | Nov 4 | 244 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 18 | Oct 27 | 251 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.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 1.7 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Panola County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Panola 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 Panola County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Panola 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 Panola County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Panola County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Panola 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 Panola County TX" or "garden center Panola 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 Panola County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Panola 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 Gary
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Photoperiod-sensitive crops will fail spectacularly if planted at the wrong latitude. Sweet onions in Michigan? Tiny. Spanish onions in Florida? Tiny. Match variety to Gary's daylight pattern and you'll see the difference.
Longest Day
14.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.4 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 | 10.1 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.1 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.9 hr | 10.4 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.2 hr | 9.7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.3 hr | 6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.9 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Gary
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Soil temperature is a leading indicator. A black plastic mulch can warm soil 5-10°F faster than bare ground — meaningful in Gary's spring if you're trying to plant tomatoes earlier.
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 | 45°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 45°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 54°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 64°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 73°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 83°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 90°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 90°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 84°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 73°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 64°F | 65°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 51°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Gary
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: The most successful gardeners in high-pressure regions don't spray more — they design around the problem. Crop rotation, companion planting, and resistant varieties beat reactive spraying.
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 | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | High | 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 Gary
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: Bare soil is wasted soil — it loses nutrients to rain, dries out, compacts, and gets taken over by weeds. Cover crops (clovers, ryegrass, vetch, peas) are the "between seasons" trick that makes soil better every year. In Gary, you can fit a cover crop into the gaps.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 23 | Sep 19 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 19 | Sep 12 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 20 | Sep 12 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 11 | Sep 19 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Apr 13 | Oct 24 | — | 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 20 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 11 | Feb 20 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 26 | Feb 27 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 23 | Feb 27 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 3 | Feb 27 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 23 | Feb 20 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 9 | Feb 27 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Gary
What this means for you: Wind dries soil, knocks over young transplants, and disrupts pollination for bees and butterflies. Gary averages 0.0 mph — above 10 mph means windbreaks (shrubs, fences, taller crops to windward), staked tomatoes from day one, and an extra round of watering during dry windy spells. Lower wind = lower water bills and fewer broken stems.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 16 mph Summer: 12 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.3/10
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 (389 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Gary
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: Captured rainwater is better for plants than tap water (no chlorine), works during water restrictions, and reduces stormwater runoff. Gary's 51" annual rainfall is a meaningful pool — most homes could capture 10,000+ gallons a year with a decent system.
Annual Collection
34,190 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
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
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 68.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 34,190 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 Gary
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Gary.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 13 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 27 | — | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Apr 17 – Jun 19 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 27 | — | Sep 5 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 20 | — | — | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 13 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 27 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 27 | — | Sep 5 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 8 – Jun 26 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 20 | — | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 20 | — | — | May 22 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Mar 27 – Apr 17 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 13 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 15 – Jun 12 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 27 | — | Sep 5 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 13 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 27 | — | Sep 5 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 13 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 20 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 9 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 3 | Jan 2 – Jun 19 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Nov 27 – Dec 11 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 20 | — | — | May 15 – Jul 10 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 27 | — | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 9 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 11 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 13 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 13 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 1 – May 29 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 20 | — | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Jun 12 – Aug 28 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Apr 17 – Jun 26 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 20 | — | — | May 22 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 11 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Jun 19 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 13 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Mar 20 – Apr 17 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Sep 5 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Apr 17 – Jun 19 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Jun 19 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 27 | — | Sep 5 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 13 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 15 – Jun 12 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 9 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 13 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 27 | — | Sep 5 | Mar 27 – Apr 17 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 27 | — | Sep 5 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 27 | — | Sep 5 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 20 | — | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 13 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Apr 17 – Jun 19 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 13 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 15 – Jul 17 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 13 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 27 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 20 | — | — | May 22 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Nov 27 – Dec 11 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 27 | — | Sep 5 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Sep 5 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 13 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 20 | — | — | May 15 – Jul 10 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Jul 3 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 13 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 15 – Jul 10 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Gary
27 fruits matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Gary.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 16 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jul 3 – Dec 18 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Gary
39 herbs matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Gary.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Sep 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Sep 5 | Jun 5 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Jul 24 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 20 | — | Jun 19 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Sep 5 | May 1 – Jun 19 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Sep 5 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 20 | — | May 22 – Jul 24 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Sep 5 | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Sep 5 | Apr 17 – Jun 19 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 20 | — | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Sep 5 | Apr 17 – Jun 19 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 20 | — | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Sep 5 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Sep 5 | Apr 17 – Jun 19 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 15 – Jul 10 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Sep 5 | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 20 | — | Jun 19 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 20 | — | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 20 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Jul 31 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 20 | — | May 22 – Jul 10 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Jul 31 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 12 – Sep 11 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Jul 31 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 20 | — | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 20 | — | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 20 | — | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Sep 5 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 20 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 30 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Jul 31 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 20 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 20 | — | May 15 – Jul 10 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Sep 5 | Apr 17 – Jun 19 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 20 | — | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Jul 24 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Jul 31 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 20 | — | Jul 24 – Oct 30 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Gary
54 flowers matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Gary.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | — | Apr 24 – Sep 25 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Nov 14 – Dec 5 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Sep 26 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 16 | — | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Jul 10 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Jan 23 | Feb 20 | Sep 19 | Apr 24 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 2 | — | Feb 27 | — | May 8 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Oct 16 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 16 | — | Mar 13 | — | May 1 – May 29 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Jan 23 | Feb 20 | Sep 5 | Apr 10 – Sep 4 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Nov 14 – Mar 6 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | — | May 1 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | — | May 1 – May 29 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Oct 9 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Feb 20 | — | May 1 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Sep 19 – Oct 10 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Sep 26 – Oct 24 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Nov 6 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 16 | — | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | — | Mar 20 – May 29 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 16 | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | Apr 24 – May 22 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 3 | Oct 24 – Nov 28 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | — | May 8 – Oct 23 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 2 | — | Feb 27 | — | May 8 – Oct 9 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Nov 6 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 9 | — | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Oct 10 – Oct 31 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 9 | — | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Sep 18 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 16 | — | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Oct 16 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Mar 6 | — | Apr 24 – May 29 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Nov 14 – Mar 6 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 16 | — | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Sep 4 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 16 | — | Jan 30 | — | Mar 27 – May 8 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | — | May 1 – May 29 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | — | Apr 24 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | — | Apr 24 – Oct 9 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 2 | — | Feb 20 | Sep 5 | Apr 17 – Aug 7 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jun 5 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Jan 16 | — | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 16 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Jul 31 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | — | Apr 17 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Oct 3 – Oct 31 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 9 | — | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Oct 16 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 16 | — | Feb 27 | — | May 8 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 16 | — | Mar 13 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 2 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Sep 5 | May 1 – Sep 4 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | — | May 22 – Oct 9 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Jan 30 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Sep 19 | Apr 3 – Aug 7 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Nov 21 – Jan 30 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Oct 3 – Oct 31 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 2 | — | Feb 27 | — | May 8 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | — | May 8 – Oct 9 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Gary
ZIP Codes in Gary
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 Panola County.
Your Panola County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Panola County (Zone 8b). 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