Plainview, TX — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
July to-do list for Hale County, Texas
Your Hale County, Texas garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for July and why each task matters now.
-
Bring in the basil, cucumber, and green beans
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
A few tasks this July that'll pay off in August
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Plainview gardens in a dry climate (only 17" 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.
Plainview averages 28.0 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
7b (5°F to 10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 7
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 2
📅 Growing Season
209 days
🌧️ Climate
Semi Arid 17.1" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 5.9 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
28.0 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
2 ZIPs conditions vary — enter your ZIP for exact data
Monthly Watering Calendar for Plainview
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Over-watering kills more plants than under-watering. Plainview's 17" annual rainfall changes the gardening playbook — humid-region gardeners often water by the calendar when they should water by the soil moisture.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.4 in | 2 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.7 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.6 in | 1 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Apr | 1.7 in | 1 days | 2.6 in | High |
| May | 0.9 in | 0 days | 3.4 in | Critical |
| Jun | 1.3 in | 1 days | 3 in | High |
| Jul | 6.8 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 9.2 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 6.5 in | 4 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.7 in | 3 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.2 in | 1 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.3 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 44.3 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.
Plainview Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7.8-8.3
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 15 | Nov 20 | 219 days |
| Cautious | Apr 11 | Nov 10 | 213 days |
| Average year | Apr 7 | Nov 2 | 209 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 27 | Oct 27 | 214 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 19 | Oct 14 | 209 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±27 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 shorter here (about 1.6 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Hale County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Hale 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 Hale County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Hale 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 Hale County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Hale County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Hale 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 Hale County TX" or "garden center Hale 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 Hale County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Hale 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 Plainview
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: A 14-hour day in June produces dramatically more photosynthesis than a 10-hour day in November. Plainview's seasonal swing determines which crops can pack growth into spring vs. limp through fall.
Longest Day
14.3 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.7 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.6 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.8 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.3 hr | 9.7 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.1 hr | 10.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 9.7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.2 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.7 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Plainview
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Plainview's soil temperature curve also tells you when your compost is working and when it's napping.
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 | 39°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 39°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 46°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 59°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 66°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 76°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 84°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 87°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 81°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 68°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 54°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 45°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 Plainview
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: High pest pressure means weekly inspection. Low pest pressure means monthly. The score tells you which routine to set up before you have a problem.
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 | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | 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 Plainview
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: 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 | Apr 12 | Aug 24 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 13 | Aug 31 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 11 | Sep 7 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 10 | Aug 24 | ✓ 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 28 | Oct 12 | — | 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 10 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 10 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 18 | Mar 24 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 25 | Mar 17 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 3 | Mar 17 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 24 | Mar 17 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 28 | Mar 24 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Plainview
Why this matters: Why care about wind? Above about 10 mph, evaporation jumps and pollinators struggle to land on flowers. Plainview's 5.9 mph average means you can plant tall crops without much support, but it doesn't mean ignore wind — a 20+ mph storm still snaps unstaked tomatoes.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 17 mph Summer: 12 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
9.1/10
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 (231 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Plainview
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: The first inch of rain washes the roof clean — a first-flush diverter sends it to waste before the barrel fills. Worth the extra $20 for cleaner garden water. Plainview gets 17" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
22,079 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 44.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 22,079 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 Plainview
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Plainview.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 24 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 6 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 24 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Apr 21 – May 12 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 24 | Aug 25 – Oct 27 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 24 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 3 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 21 | Dec 21 – May 3 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 3 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jul 7 – Sep 22 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Apr 14 – May 12 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 24 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | May 12 – Jun 9 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 24 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 3 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 24 | Apr 21 – May 12 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 24 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 24 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 24 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 24 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Plainview
31 fruits matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Plainview.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Nov 10 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Dec 8 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Plainview
36 herbs matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Plainview.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 24 | Jun 30 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 24 | May 26 – Jul 14 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 24 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 24 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 24 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 24 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 24 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 24 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 24 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 24 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 7 – Nov 24 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 24 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Aug 18 – Nov 24 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Plainview
53 flowers matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Plainview.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 24 | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Oct 6 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 28 | Oct 26 – Nov 16 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 7 | Sep 21 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 3 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Feb 24 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Sep 7 | Jun 9 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 27 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Nov 3 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 3 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Feb 24 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Sep 7 | May 26 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 10 | — | Sep 7 | May 19 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 9 – Oct 20 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Nov 3 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Mar 31 | — | Jun 9 – Oct 13 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 28 | Aug 24 – Sep 14 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 28 | Aug 31 – Sep 21 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Nov 10 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 3 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Nov 3 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Apr 28 – Jul 21 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 3 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 30 – Nov 3 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Nov 17 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 27 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Nov 3 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 27 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 28 | Sep 21 – Oct 12 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 27 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 13 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 10 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 20 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 14 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 10 | — | Aug 24 | May 19 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 3 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 6 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 3 | — | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jul 14 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 24 | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Oct 20 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 27 | — | Mar 31 | Aug 24 | May 26 – Aug 18 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 14 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 10 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 13 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 3 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 15 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | May 26 – Oct 6 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 7 | Sep 28 – Oct 26 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 27 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 27 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 10 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 3 | — | Apr 14 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 27 | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Sep 7 | Jun 9 – Sep 15 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 24 | Mar 10 | Apr 7 | Sep 21 | May 19 – Aug 25 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 7 | Nov 16 – Feb 8 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 28 | Sep 14 – Oct 5 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 27 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Nov 3 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 20 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Plainview
ZIP Codes in Plainview
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 Hale County.
Your Hale County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Hale County (Zone 7b). 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