Itasca, TX — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June in Itasca, TX — your action list
Your garden in Itasca, TX is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this June.
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Start harvesting basil, carrots, and cucumber
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Itasca gardens in a long-season climate (Zone 8b, 252 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.
The dominant soil here is Clay — holds water well but slow to warm in spring and prone to compaction. Raised beds and generous compost transform what's available into productive growing space.
Itasca averages 26.7 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
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 12
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 19
📅 Growing Season
252 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 20.9" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
26.7 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Itasca
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Watering math is simple: 1 inch of rainfall delivers ~600 gallons to a 1,000 sq ft garden. Itasca's 21" annual rainfall covers some months entirely; others need a few hours of drip irrigation per week. The calendar tells you which is which.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.5 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.5 in | 4 days | 2.8 in | High |
| Mar | 3.6 in | 5 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 5.9 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| May | 6.7 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 9.7 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 7.3 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 7 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.8 in | 5 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.5 in | 4 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2 in | 4 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Dec | 1.4 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 54.9 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.
Itasca Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay
Soil pH
7.3-7.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 7 | Dec 2 | 239 days |
| Cautious | Mar 22 | Nov 25 | 248 days |
| Average year | Mar 12 | Nov 19 | 252 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 5 | Nov 11 | 251 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 19 | Oct 30 | 253 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±48 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 6.5 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Hill County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Hill 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 Hill County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Hill 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 Hill County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Hill County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Hill 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 Hill County TX" or "garden center Hill 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 Hill County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Hill 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 Itasca
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: 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. Itasca's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.
Longest Day
14.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.2 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 | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.1 hr | 9.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.9 hr | 10.2 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.2 hr | 9.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.3 hr | 6.3 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 Itasca
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 Itasca's spring if you're trying to plant tomatoes earlier.
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 | 42°F | 46°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 39°F | 46°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 49°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 58°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 65°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 79°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 86°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 88°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 80°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 69°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 57°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 46°F | 52°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 Itasca
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: Pollinators are the good bugs. Pest pressure is the bad bugs. Itasca's climate makes both more abundant in warm humid regions, and rarer in cold dry ones — plan habitat to encourage the good while managing the bad.
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 | Moderate | 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 Itasca
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: You don't need a farm to use cover crops. A 4x8 raised bed accepts cover crops just as well as a half-acre. Itasca's climate determines the calendar; the principle is universal.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 22 | Sep 10 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 19 | Sep 24 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 21 | Sep 24 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 14 | Sep 17 | ✓ 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 9 | Nov 5 | — | 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 25 | Feb 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 21 | Feb 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 23 | Feb 26 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 13 | Feb 19 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 9 | Feb 19 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 17 | Feb 19 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 11 | Feb 26 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Itasca
The practical takeaway: A 10 mph wind doesn't feel like much, but it triples leaf transpiration vs. still air. Itasca's 0.0 mph average means most days are gentle on plants, but consider how a 20+ mph spring gust would affect a flat of seedlings hardened off too quickly.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 17 mph Summer: 11 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 (191 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Itasca
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: Even in arid regions, rainwater harvesting works — you just need bigger storage and patience. In wet regions like Itasca (21" annually), you're mostly limited by how much water you can store between storms.
Annual Collection
27,362 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 1,750 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 54.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 27,362 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 Itasca
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Itasca.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 26 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 26 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 26 | — | Sep 10 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 28 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 19 | — | — | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 26 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 26 | — | Sep 10 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 7 – Jun 25 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 19 | — | — | May 21 – Jul 16 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 19 | — | — | May 21 – Jul 2 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Mar 26 – Apr 16 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 14 – Jun 11 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 26 | — | Sep 10 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 21 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 26 | — | Sep 10 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 19 | — | — | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 8 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 28 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 8 | Jan 7 – Jun 24 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Nov 26 – Dec 10 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 19 | — | — | May 14 – Jul 9 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 26 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 8 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Sep 10 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 19 | — | — | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Apr 16 – Jun 25 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 19 | — | — | May 21 – Jul 2 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 10 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 21 – Jun 18 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Mar 19 – Apr 16 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Sep 10 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Apr 16 – May 14 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 21 – Jun 18 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 21 – Jul 16 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 26 | — | Sep 10 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 14 – Jun 11 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 8 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 21 – Jul 16 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 26 | — | Sep 10 | Mar 26 – Apr 16 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 26 | — | Sep 10 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 26 | — | Sep 10 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 28 – Jul 2 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 21 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 21 – Jul 16 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 19 | — | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 14 – Jul 16 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 26 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 19 | — | — | May 21 – Jul 2 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Nov 26 – Dec 10 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 26 | — | Sep 10 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 19 | — | — | May 14 – Jul 9 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 21 – Jul 2 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 14 – Jul 9 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Itasca
27 fruits matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Itasca.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 15 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jul 2 – Dec 17 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Itasca
39 herbs matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Itasca.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Sep 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Sep 10 | Jun 4 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 21 – Jul 23 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 19 | — | Jun 18 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Sep 10 | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Sep 10 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jul 23 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Sep 10 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Sep 10 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Sep 10 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Sep 10 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Sep 10 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 14 – Jul 9 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Sep 10 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 19 | — | Jun 18 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 19 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 19 | — | May 28 – Jul 30 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jul 9 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 19 | — | May 28 – Jul 30 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 11 – Sep 10 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 19 | — | May 28 – Jul 30 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Sep 10 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 19 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 29 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 19 | — | May 28 – Jul 30 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 19 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 19 | — | May 14 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Sep 10 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 21 – Jul 23 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 19 | — | May 28 – Jul 30 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 19 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Itasca
54 flowers matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Itasca.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Feb 26 | — | Apr 23 – Sep 24 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 22 | Nov 19 – Dec 10 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 24 | Oct 1 – Oct 29 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 15 | — | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Jul 9 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Jan 22 | Feb 19 | Sep 24 | Apr 23 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 1 | — | Feb 26 | — | May 7 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Oct 15 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 15 | — | Mar 12 | — | Apr 30 – May 28 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Jan 22 | Feb 19 | Sep 10 | Apr 9 – Sep 3 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 10 | Nov 19 – Mar 11 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Feb 26 | — | Apr 30 – Oct 8 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | — | Apr 30 – May 28 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Oct 8 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 12 | Feb 19 | Feb 19 | — | Apr 30 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 22 | Sep 24 – Oct 15 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 22 | Oct 1 – Oct 29 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Nov 5 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 15 | — | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Oct 22 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 15 | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | — | Mar 19 – May 28 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 15 | Mar 5 | Mar 5 | — | Apr 23 – May 21 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 8 | Oct 29 – Dec 3 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Feb 26 | — | May 7 – Oct 22 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 1 | — | Feb 26 | — | May 7 – Oct 8 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Nov 5 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 8 | — | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 22 | Oct 15 – Nov 5 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 8 | — | Mar 5 | — | May 14 – Sep 17 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 15 | — | Mar 5 | — | May 14 – Oct 15 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Mar 5 | — | Apr 23 – May 28 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Sep 10 | Nov 19 – Mar 11 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 15 | — | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Mar 5 | — | May 14 – Sep 3 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 15 | — | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 – May 7 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | — | Apr 30 – May 28 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Feb 26 | — | Apr 23 – Sep 10 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Feb 26 | — | Apr 23 – Oct 8 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 1 | — | Feb 19 | Sep 10 | Apr 16 – Aug 6 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jun 4 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Jan 15 | — | Mar 5 | — | May 14 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 15 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Jul 30 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Feb 26 | — | Apr 16 – Sep 24 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 24 | Oct 8 – Nov 5 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 8 | — | Mar 5 | — | May 14 – Oct 15 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 15 | — | Feb 26 | — | May 7 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 15 | — | Mar 12 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Sep 10 | Apr 30 – Sep 3 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Feb 26 | — | May 21 – Oct 8 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Jan 29 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Sep 24 | Apr 2 – Aug 6 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 17 | Nov 26 – Feb 4 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 22 | Oct 8 – Nov 5 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 1 | — | Feb 26 | — | May 7 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Oct 8 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Feb 26 | — | May 7 – Oct 8 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Itasca
ZIP Codes in Itasca
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 Hill County.
Your Hill County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Hill 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