Utopia, TX — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your July planting checklist for Uvalde County, Texas
July rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Uvalde County, Texas.
-
Basket week: 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: ageratum, alpine strawberries, and amaranth
- Fall sowing: calendula, california poppy, and pansy
Utopia gardens in a long-season climate (Zone 9a, 251 frost-free days). Spring arrives early and fall lingers, so most of the work is matching the right crop to the right window — heat-lovers go in the ground as soon as the soil warms, and cool-season crops shift to fall and even winter rather than spring. Succession planting is your friend; you can plant the same crop three or four times in a season.
Soils trend Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Utopia averages 35.6 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
March 8
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 14
📅 Growing Season
251 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 28.4" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 8.6 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
35.6 wk/yr trend worsening
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Utopia
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Utopia gets 28" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.7 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.9 in | 5 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Mar | 3.7 in | 6 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 6.3 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| May | 9.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 8.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 8.2 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 6.9 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 5.8 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.1 in | 5 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Nov | 1.8 in | 4 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Dec | 1.3 in | 4 days | — | None |
Annual total: 59.4 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.
Utopia Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-7.6
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 13 | Dec 5 | 236 days |
| Cautious | Mar 29 | Nov 24 | 240 days |
| Average year | Mar 8 | Nov 14 | 251 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 1 | Nov 5 | 249 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 10 | Oct 25 | 257 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±62 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 1.4 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Uvalde County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Uvalde 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 Uvalde County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Uvalde 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 Uvalde County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Uvalde County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Uvalde 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 Uvalde County TX" or "garden center Uvalde 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 Uvalde County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Uvalde 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 Utopia
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: The longest day at Utopia's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.
Longest Day
13.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.9 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 | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 11 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.9 hr | 9.9 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.7 hr | 9.9 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.5 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.1 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Utopia
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Most root crops germinate well at 50-60°F. Most fruit-bearing crops want 65-75°F. Utopia's monthly soil curve maps these windows to actual months.
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 | 41°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 40°F | 47°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 47°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 57°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 68°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 75°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 86°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 86°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 81°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 70°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 54°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 43°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 Utopia
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: In Utopia's climate, pest pressure shapes which crops are easy and which are heartbreak. Tomatoes are easy in dry mountain air, hard in humid coast — same plant, completely different gardening experience.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Squash vine borers | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | High | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Low | 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 Utopia
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
What this means for you: Cover crops are the experienced gardener's secret weapon. Utopia's climate determines which species thrive: clover and vetch in mild winters, cereal rye and Austrian peas in cold ones.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 15 | Sep 5 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 10 | Sep 5 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 20 | Sep 5 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 11 | Sep 12 | ✓ 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 25 | Oct 31 | — | 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 19 | Feb 15 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 7 | Feb 22 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 4 | Feb 15 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 22 | Feb 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 12 | Feb 15 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 7 | Feb 15 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 6 | Feb 15 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Utopia
Why this matters: Wind dries soil, knocks over young transplants, and disrupts pollination for bees and butterflies. Utopia averages 8.6 mph — above 10 mph means windbreaks (shrubs, fences, taller crops to windward), staked tomatoes from day one, and an extra round of watering during dry windy spells. Lower wind = lower water bills and fewer broken stems.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 17 mph Summer: 12 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
9/10
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 (388 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Utopia
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: 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. Utopia gets 28" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
29,604 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 59.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 29,604 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 Utopia
114 vegetables matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Utopia.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 19 | Apr 12 – May 10 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 10 – Jun 21 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 10 – Jul 5 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 19 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 10 – Jun 21 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 3 – Jun 21 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 10 – Jun 21 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 3 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 17 – Jul 12 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 17 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Mar 22 – Apr 12 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 3 – May 31 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 19 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 19 | Apr 12 – May 10 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 31 – Jul 12 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 3 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 3 | Jan 2 – Jun 19 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Nov 15 – Jan 10 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Aug 30 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Apr 26 – May 24 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 3 – Jun 28 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Apr 12 – May 17 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Jun 7 – Aug 23 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Apr 12 – Jun 21 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 17 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 30 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 12 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Mar 15 – Apr 12 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 19 | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Apr 12 – May 10 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Jun 7 – Jul 26 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Apr 19 – May 17 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 19 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 3 – May 31 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 3 – Jun 28 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Aug 2 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 19 | Mar 15 – Apr 5 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 19 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 19 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 3 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jun 21 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Jun 7 – Jul 26 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | May 3 – Jun 28 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 3 – Jul 5 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 17 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Apr 12 – May 17 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Nov 15 – Jan 10 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 19 | Mar 29 – May 3 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 19 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 12 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Sep 13 – Jan 10 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jun 21 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 3 – Jun 28 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Utopia
24 fruits matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Utopia.
Show all 24 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 4 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Jul 5 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jun 21 – Jan 17 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Utopia
37 herbs matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Utopia.
Show all 37 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 19 | May 31 – Aug 16 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jul 12 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 19 | Apr 26 – Jun 14 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 19 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 19 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 19 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 19 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 19 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 19 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 19 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 3 – Jun 28 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 19 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 5 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 31 – Aug 30 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 19 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 15 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 25 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 19 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jul 12 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 15 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 25 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Utopia
49 flowers matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Utopia.
Show all 49 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | Apr 19 – Oct 4 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Nov 14 – Dec 5 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Sep 26 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Jan 11 | Feb 8 | Sep 5 | Apr 5 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Dec 28 | — | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 – Oct 25 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Sep 20 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 11 | — | Feb 22 | — | Apr 12 – May 3 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Jan 11 | Feb 8 | Aug 22 | Mar 22 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Oct 31 – Mar 6 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 8 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | Apr 26 – Nov 1 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | Apr 12 – May 3 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | Apr 19 – Sep 20 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 8 | Feb 8 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Oct 3 – Oct 24 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | — | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Nov 15 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 11 | — | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Oct 18 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 11 | Jan 11 | Jan 11 | — | Mar 1 – May 3 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Sep 20 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | Apr 12 – May 3 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 3 | Oct 17 – Nov 14 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Dec 28 | — | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 – Oct 25 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Nov 15 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 11 | — | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Oct 17 – Nov 7 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 11 | — | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Aug 23 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 11 | — | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Oct 18 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Feb 22 | — | Apr 12 – May 17 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Nov 14 – Mar 6 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 11 | — | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Aug 9 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Aug 9 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 11 | — | Jan 11 | — | Mar 8 – Apr 5 | 70–80 |
| Marigolds | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | Apr 19 – Sep 20 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Feb 15 | — | Apr 12 – Oct 11 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Dec 28 | — | Feb 8 | Aug 22 | Mar 29 – Jun 28 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Jan 11 | — | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Jun 28 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 8 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | Apr 12 – Oct 18 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Oct 3 – Oct 31 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 11 | — | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Oct 18 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 11 | — | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 11 | — | Feb 22 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Jan 11 | Feb 8 | Aug 22 | Apr 12 – Aug 9 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Feb 15 | Feb 15 | Feb 15 | — | May 10 – Oct 11 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Jan 11 | Feb 8 | Sep 5 | Mar 15 – Jun 28 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Nov 14 – Jan 9 | 65–85 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Dec 28 | — | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 – Oct 25 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | Apr 19 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 – Oct 11 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Utopia
ZIP Codes in Utopia
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 Uvalde County.
Your Uvalde County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Uvalde 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