Loop, TX — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Gaines County, Texas gardeners: here's your July plan
July rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Gaines County, Texas.
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Start harvesting basil, cucumber, and green beans
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
To set up a strong August, finish these tasks
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Loop gardens in a dry climate (only 13" annual precipitation). Watering strategy matters more here than in most of the country — drip irrigation, deep mulching, and morning watering aren't optional, they're table stakes. The flip side: pest and disease pressure are far lower than in humid regions, and your soil temperatures climb fast in spring so you can plant heat-lovers earlier than the zone map suggests.
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.
Loop averages 32.6 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
April 6
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 6
📅 Growing Season
214 days
🌧️ Climate
Semi Arid 13.0" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
32.6 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Loop
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: Watering by the calendar wastes water. Watering by the soil moisture (or by a free rain gauge) cuts your water use 30%+ and produces healthier roots. Loop's 13" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.9 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.5 in | 2 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.2 in | 2 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Apr | 1.5 in | 0 days | 2.8 in | High |
| May | 0.8 in | 1 days | 3.5 in | Critical |
| Jun | 1.5 in | 1 days | 2.8 in | High |
| Jul | 7.4 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 10 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 6.2 in | 5 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.3 in | 3 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.7 in | 1 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.7 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 43.7 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.
Loop Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7.5-8.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 28 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 20 | Nov 19 | 213 days |
| Cautious | Apr 11 | Nov 11 | 214 days |
| Average year | Apr 6 | Nov 6 | 214 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 26 | Nov 1 | 220 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 14 | Oct 22 | 222 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±37 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Gaines County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Gaines 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 Gaines County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Gaines 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 Gaines County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Gaines County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Gaines 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 Gaines County TX" or "garden center Gaines 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 Gaines County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Gaines 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 Loop
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: 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. Loop'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 | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.7 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.1 hr | 9.7 hr | Long day |
| July | 14 hr | 10.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.2 hr | 8.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.3 hr | 6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.9 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Loop
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. Loop's typical curve helps you plan — but a $5 soil thermometer in the bed beats any average.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 30°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 32°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 37°F | 41°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 50°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 59°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 71°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 78°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 81°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 74°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 60°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 49°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 35°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Loop
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Pest and disease pressure is the X-factor most beginners under-plan for. Loop'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 | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | 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 Loop
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: Cover crops do four things at once: fix nitrogen (legumes), suppress weeds (any), prevent erosion, and add organic matter when chopped down. Loop'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 | Apr 12 | Aug 28 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 16 | Sep 11 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 12 | Sep 11 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 11 | Sep 11 | ✓ 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 | May 7 | Oct 16 | — | 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 13 | Mar 16 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 11 | Mar 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 12 | Mar 23 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 22 | Mar 16 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 26 | Mar 16 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 2 | Mar 23 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 1 | Mar 23 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Loop
What this means for you: Pollinators avoid windy days. Loop's 0.0 mph average wind isn't enough to stop bees and butterflies — but plant fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) in protected microclimates and you'll see noticeably better fruit set.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 18 mph Summer: 13 mph
Fall: 14 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
8.8/10
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 (288 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Loop
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: Even in arid regions, rainwater harvesting works — you just need bigger storage and patience. In wet regions like Loop (13" annually), you're mostly limited by how much water you can store between storms.
Annual Collection
21,780 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 1,000 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
May
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 43.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 21,780 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Loop
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Loop.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 28 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 5 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 28 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Apr 20 – May 11 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 28 | Aug 24 – Oct 26 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 28 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 25 | Dec 25 – Jun 11 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Dec 21 – Jan 4 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 5 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Apr 13 – May 11 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 28 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 28 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 28 | Apr 20 – May 11 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 28 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 28 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Dec 21 – Jan 4 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 28 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 28 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Loop
27 fruits matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Loop.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 9 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Jan 11 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Loop
39 herbs matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Loop.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 28 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 28 | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 28 | May 25 – Jul 13 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 28 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 28 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 28 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 28 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 28 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 28 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 28 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 5 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 28 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 6 – Nov 23 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 28 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 23 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Loop
54 flowers matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Loop.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Oct 12 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 2 | Oct 30 – Nov 20 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 11 | Sep 25 – Oct 23 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Sep 11 | May 25 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 26 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Aug 28 | May 11 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 11 | Nov 20 – Feb 26 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 9 | Sep 11 – Oct 2 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 2 | Sep 11 – Oct 9 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 16 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 9 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | — | Apr 20 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 25 | Oct 23 – Nov 20 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 16 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Nov 23 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 26 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 16 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 2 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 9 | Oct 2 – Oct 23 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 2 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 19 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jun 29 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 9 | — | Aug 28 | May 18 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 5 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 9 | — | Mar 2 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Oct 26 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 26 | — | Mar 23 | Aug 28 | May 18 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | May 18 – Oct 12 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 11 | Sep 25 – Oct 30 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 2 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 9 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 26 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Aug 28 | Jun 1 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Sep 11 | May 4 – Aug 24 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 4 | Nov 13 – Feb 5 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 9 | Sep 25 – Oct 23 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 26 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 26 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Loop
ZIP Codes in Loop
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 Gaines County.
Your Gaines County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Gaines 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