Polk County, TX — Planting Guide
Polk County is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 4 and the first fall frost is November 23, giving you a growing season of approximately 264 days.
At an elevation of 292 ft, Polk County receives approximately 63 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 96°F with winter lows around 35°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 50 days year to year — ranging from February 7 in warm years to March 28 in cold years. Polk County scores 62/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 4
🍂 First Frost
November 23
📅 Growing Season
264 days
⛰️ Elevation
292 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
63 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.4 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.4 in | 5 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Mar | 4 in | 6 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Apr | 5.8 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| May | 8.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 11.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 7 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 7.9 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 6.5 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.4 in | 4 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.1 in | 4 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Dec | 1.6 in | 4 days | — | None |
Annual total: 63 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.
Polk County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.6
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) | Mar 28 | Dec 12 | 259 days |
| Cautious | Mar 11 | Nov 30 | 264 days |
| Average year | Mar 4 | Nov 23 | 264 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 19 | Nov 13 | 267 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 7 | Nov 1 | 267 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±50 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Polk County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Polk 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 Polk County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Polk 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 Polk County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Polk County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Polk 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 Polk County TX" or "garden center Polk 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 Polk County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Polk 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
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
14 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.8 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 | 10.2 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 9.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.8 hr | 9.5 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 10 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
10 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 44°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 49°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 53°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 61°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 72°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 84°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 89°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 93°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 87°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 76°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 62°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 51°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Polk County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
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 | Moderate | 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 Polk County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 12 | Sep 28 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 14 | Sep 28 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 16 | Sep 14 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 4 | Sep 14 | ✓ 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 | Nov 9 | — | 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 18 | Feb 18 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 11 | Feb 11 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 8 | Feb 18 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 3 | Feb 18 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 14 | Feb 18 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 23 | Feb 11 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 31 | Feb 18 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 15 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
9/10
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 (323 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
31,399 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 63.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 31,399 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
Soil & Growing Conditions in Polk County
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 5.2–6.6 · Excessively Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (63 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
264-day frost-free season
Your long season supports multiple successions and heat-demanding crops like melons, sweet potatoes, and peppers. Plant warm-season crops as soon as soil warms.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
Recommended for Your Garden
Retain moisture and nutrients in sandy soils with expanded vermiculite.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Polk County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Polk County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 4 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 18 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 8 – Jun 10 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 18 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 18 | — | Apr 15 – May 13 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 1 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 11 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 29 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 15 – May 20 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 15 – May 20 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 4 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 1 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 18 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 18 | — | Apr 22 – May 27 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 17 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | May 27 – Jul 8 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jun 17 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – May 27 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 11 | — | May 13 – Jul 8 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 11 | — | May 13 – Jun 24 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Mar 18 – Apr 8 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 4 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 6 – Jun 3 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 18 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 4 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 18 | — | Apr 15 – May 13 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 4 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 11 | — | May 27 – Jul 8 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 31 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 22 – May 27 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – May 27 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | May 20 – Jul 1 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 1 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Nov 18 – Dec 2 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 11 | — | May 6 – Jul 1 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 18 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 31 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 27 – Sep 2 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 4 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 4 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 22 – May 20 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 11 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 22 – May 27 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 8 – May 13 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Aug 19 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | May 27 – Jul 8 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 8 – Jun 17 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 11 | — | May 13 – Jun 24 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jun 17 – Sep 2 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 15 – May 20 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 13 – Jun 10 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 4 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 27 – Jul 15 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Mar 11 – Apr 8 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 8 – May 6 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 8 – Jun 10 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 13 – Jun 10 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 15 – May 13 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 18 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 4 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 6 – Jun 3 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 31 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 27 – Aug 5 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 4 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 15 – May 20 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 18 | — | Mar 18 – Apr 8 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | May 20 – Jul 1 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 18 | — | May 13 – Jun 17 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 18 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – May 27 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 11 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 4 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 8 – Jun 10 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 4 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 4 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 18 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 27 – Jul 15 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 11 | — | May 13 – Jun 24 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 8 – May 13 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Nov 18 – Dec 2 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 18 | — | Apr 1 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 | Apr 15 – May 20 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 4 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 27 – Jul 15 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 11 | — | May 6 – Jul 1 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 13 – Jun 24 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 4 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 6 – Jul 1 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Polk County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Polk County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 25 | Jun 24 – Oct 7 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 25 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 25 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 25 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 25 | Jun 24 – Dec 9 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Polk County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Polk County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 27 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 11 | Jun 10 – Aug 26 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 10 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 11 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 8 – Jun 10 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 11 | May 13 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 8 – Jun 10 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 11 | May 13 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 8 – Jun 10 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 11 | Jul 15 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 6 – Jul 1 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 11 | Jun 10 – Aug 26 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 11 | May 13 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 11 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 11 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 11 | Jun 10 – Nov 11 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 11 | May 13 – Jul 1 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 11 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Jun 3 – Sep 2 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 11 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 11 | May 13 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 11 | May 13 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 11 | May 13 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 11 | Jun 3 – Oct 21 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 11 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 11 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 11 | May 6 – Jul 1 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 8 – Jun 10 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 11 | May 13 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 14 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 11 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 11 | Jul 15 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 11 | Jun 10 – Aug 26 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Polk County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Polk County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Polk County, TX?
Polk County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Polk County, TX?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Polk County falls around March 4. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 7 and March 28 — a 50-day window of variability. Use March 28 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Polk County, TX?
The median first fall frost in Polk County arrives around November 23. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 1; in mild years as late as December 12. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Polk County?
Polk County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 264 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons.
What is the soil like in Polk County for gardening?
Polk County has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 5.2–6.6 and Excessively Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Polk County?
Polk County has commercial agriculture that includes Cotton, Cattle, Sorghum. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Polk County a good location for home gardening?
Polk County scores 62/100 (Good) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Polk County gardeners in Zone 8b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.
