Maxwell, TX — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June game plan for Caldwell County, Texas
Your garden in Caldwell County, Texas is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this June.
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It's harvest week for basil, cucumber, and green beans
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
Looking ahead to July
- First harvests: basil, peppers, and thai basil
Maxwell gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (36" annual rainfall, most of it October to April). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive almost year-round. The challenge is summer heat: long-season warm-weather crops (full-size tomatoes, peppers, melons) need every bit of summer sun, so prioritize short-season varieties, use dark mulches to warm the soil, and reserve your warmest microclimates (south-facing walls, near pavement) for the tender stuff.
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.
Maxwell averages 31.6 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend worsening). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
9a (20°F to 25°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
February 27
🍂 Avg. First Frost
December 1
📅 Growing Season
278 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 35.6" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.4 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
31.6 wk/yr trend worsening
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Maxwell
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: 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. Maxwell's 36" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.4 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.1 in | 5 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Mar | 4.1 in | 5 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Apr | 6 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| May | 9.9 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 9.2 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 7.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 7.9 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 5.6 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.8 in | 5 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Nov | 1.8 in | 4 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Dec | 1.5 in | 4 days | — | None |
Annual total: 60.8 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.
Maxwell Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay
Soil pH
6.8-8.1
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Mar 22 | Dec 13 | 266 days |
| Cautious | Mar 7 | Dec 7 | 275 days |
| Average year | Feb 27 | Dec 1 | 277 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 13 | Nov 19 | 279 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 26 | Nov 11 | 289 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±55 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 4.2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Caldwell County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Caldwell 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 Caldwell County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Caldwell 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 Caldwell County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Caldwell County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Caldwell 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 Caldwell County TX" or "garden center Caldwell 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 Caldwell County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Caldwell 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 Maxwell
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Day length is the trigger that tells lettuce, spinach, and cilantro to bolt. In Maxwell, knowing when that day-length threshold arrives helps you plant a final round in time to harvest before it bolts.
Longest Day
13.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.7 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your shorter days favor short-day onion varieties like Vidalia, Texas 1015, and Red Creole. Plant in fall for best results.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.3 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 11 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.9 hr | 9.4 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.7 hr | 9.7 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 9.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 7.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.5 hr | 6 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.1 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 Maxwell
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. Maxwell'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 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 | 36°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 38°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 46°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 54°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 66°F | 62°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 74°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 82°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 85°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 77°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 66°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 51°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 42°F | 51°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 Maxwell
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
For new gardeners: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Maxwell sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.
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 | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | Moderate | 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 Maxwell
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: Why not just leave bare soil? Weed seeds, erosion, nutrient leaching, and crust formation. A cover crop solves all of these for the cost of seeds and one mowing.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 11 | Sep 29 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 3 | Oct 6 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 8 | Sep 29 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 1 | Sep 22 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Mar 23 | Nov 10 | — | 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 | Oct 2 | Feb 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 20 | Feb 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 11 | Feb 13 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 10 | Feb 6 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Nov 3 | Feb 13 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Sep 2 | Feb 13 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Sep 2 | Feb 6 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Maxwell
Quick context: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Maxwell's 7.4 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 17 mph Summer: 13 mph
Fall: 14 mph Winter: 18 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
9.2/10
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 (248 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Maxwell
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: Rainwater scales linearly with roof area. A 2,000 sq ft roof in Maxwell captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 36" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.
Annual Collection
30,302 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Nov, 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 60.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 30,302 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 Maxwell
114 vegetables matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Maxwell.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 13 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 3 – Jun 5 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 6 | — | Oct 6 | Apr 3 – May 1 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jun 19 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 6 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | May 1 – Jun 12 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 13 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 6 | — | Oct 6 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | May 1 – Jun 12 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 24 – Jun 12 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | May 1 – Jun 12 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 6 | — | — | May 8 – Jul 3 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 6 | — | — | May 8 – Jun 19 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Mar 13 – Apr 3 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Apr 24 – May 22 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 6 | — | Oct 6 | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – Jun 26 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 6 | — | Oct 6 | Apr 3 – May 1 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 6 | — | — | May 22 – Jul 3 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Jul 17 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | May 15 – Jun 26 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jun 19 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 20 | Jan 19 – Jul 6 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Nov 6 – Jan 1 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 6 | — | — | May 1 – Jun 26 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 13 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Aug 21 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 6 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 3 – May 8 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | May 29 – Aug 14 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 3 – Jun 12 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 6 | — | — | May 8 – Jun 19 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 21 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – May 29 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Jul 3 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Mar 6 – Apr 3 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 20 | Oct 6 | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 3 – May 1 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 3 – Jun 5 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – May 29 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – Jun 26 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 6 | — | Oct 6 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Apr 24 – May 22 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – Jun 26 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Jul 24 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 6 | — | Oct 6 | Mar 6 – Mar 27 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | May 15 – Jun 26 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 6 | — | Oct 6 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 6 | — | Oct 6 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jun 12 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 16 | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – Jun 26 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – Jun 26 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 6 | — | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 3 – Jun 5 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 13 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 6 | — | — | May 8 – Jun 19 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 3 – May 8 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Nov 6 – Jan 1 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 6 | — | Oct 6 | Mar 20 – Apr 24 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Oct 6 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Jul 3 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 6 | — | — | May 1 – Jun 26 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Sep 4 – Jan 1 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – Jun 12 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Maxwell
24 fruits matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Maxwell.
Show all 24 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 13 | — | Jun 12 – Sep 25 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Jun 26 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 13 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 13 | — | Jun 12 – Jan 8 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Maxwell
37 herbs matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Maxwell.
Show all 37 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 20 | Oct 6 | May 22 – Aug 7 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 16 | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – Jul 3 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 6 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 20 | Oct 6 | Apr 17 – Jun 5 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 20 | Oct 6 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jul 10 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 20 | Oct 6 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 20 | Oct 6 | Apr 3 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 20 | Oct 6 | Apr 3 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 20 | Oct 6 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 20 | Oct 6 | Apr 3 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 16 | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 20 | Oct 6 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 6 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 6 | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Jul 17 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jun 26 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Jul 17 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 16 | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 16 | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | May 22 – Aug 21 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 20 | Oct 6 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 6 | — | May 29 – Oct 16 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Jul 17 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 6 | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – Jun 26 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 20 | Oct 6 | Apr 3 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 16 | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 16 | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – Jul 3 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Jul 17 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 6 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 16 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Maxwell
49 flowers matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Maxwell.
Show all 49 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 10 – Sep 25 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Nov 3 | Dec 1 – Dec 22 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Oct 13 – Nov 10 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Jan 2 | Jan 30 | Sep 22 | Mar 27 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Dec 19 | — | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Sep 11 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 2 | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 3 – Apr 24 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Jan 2 | Jan 30 | Sep 8 | Mar 13 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Nov 17 – Mar 23 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Jan 30 | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 17 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 3 – Apr 24 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 10 – Sep 11 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Jan 30 | Jan 30 | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Nov 3 | Oct 20 – Nov 10 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | — | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | — | May 8 – Nov 6 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 2 | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 2 | Jan 2 | Jan 2 | — | Feb 20 – Apr 24 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Sep 11 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 3 – Apr 24 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 20 | Nov 3 – Dec 1 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Oct 23 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Dec 19 | — | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 – Oct 16 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | — | May 8 – Nov 6 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 2 | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Nov 3 | Nov 3 – Nov 24 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 2 | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Aug 14 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 2 | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Oct 9 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Feb 13 | — | Apr 3 – May 8 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Dec 1 – Mar 23 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 2 | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Jul 31 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 2 | — | Jan 2 | — | Feb 27 – Mar 27 | 70–80 |
| Marigolds | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 10 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 6 | — | Apr 3 – Oct 2 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Dec 19 | — | Jan 30 | Sep 8 | Mar 20 – Jun 19 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Jan 2 | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Sep 25 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Jan 30 | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 3 – Oct 9 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Oct 20 – Nov 17 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 2 | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Oct 9 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 2 | — | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 2 | — | Feb 13 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Jan 2 | Jan 30 | Sep 8 | Apr 3 – Jul 31 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Feb 6 | Feb 6 | Feb 6 | — | May 1 – Oct 2 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Jan 2 | Jan 30 | Sep 22 | Mar 6 – Jun 19 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Dec 1 – Jan 26 | 65–85 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Dec 19 | — | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 10 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 – Oct 2 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Maxwell
ZIP Codes in Maxwell
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 Caldwell County.
Your Caldwell County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Caldwell County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log