Real County, TX — Planting Guide
Real County is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 31 and the first fall frost is November 8, giving you a growing season of approximately 222 days.
At an elevation of 4,368 ft, Real County receives approximately 60.8 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 96°F with winter lows around 41°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 52 days year to year — ranging from February 27 in warm years to April 19 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 3.17 days per decade. Real County scores 37/100 (Challenging) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 31
🍂 First Frost
November 8
📅 Growing Season
222 days
⛰️ Elevation
4,368 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
60.8 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 | 1.5 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2 in | 5 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Mar | 3.4 in | 6 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 6.8 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| May | 9.8 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 8.8 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 8.5 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 7.7 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.9 in | 5 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.7 in | 5 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.1 in | 4 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Dec | 1.7 in | 4 days | — | None |
Annual total: 60.9 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.
Real County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.6-7.7
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 19 | Nov 28 | 223 days |
| Cautious | Apr 7 | Nov 16 | 223 days |
| Average year | Mar 31 | Nov 8 | 222 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 18 | Oct 28 | 224 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 27 | Oct 22 | 237 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±52 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 3.2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Real County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Real 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 Real County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Real 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 Real County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Real County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Real 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 Real County TX" or "garden center Real 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 Real County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Real 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
13.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.2 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: 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 | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 11 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.9 hr | 9.9 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.7 hr | 10.2 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 8.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 7.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.5 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.1 hr | 5.4 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 May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
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 | 34°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 35°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 40°F | 46°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 53°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 63°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 70°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 81°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 82°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 73°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 63°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 51°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 41°F | 47°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 Real 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 | 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 Real 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 | Apr 9 | Sep 6 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 7 | Aug 30 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 7 | Sep 6 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 1 | Sep 13 | ✓ 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 29 | Oct 18 | — | 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 9 | Mar 10 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 31 | Mar 10 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 17 | Mar 10 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 21 | Mar 10 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 29 | Mar 10 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 4 | Mar 10 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 5 | Mar 17 | — | 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: 18 mph Summer: 14 mph
Fall: 14 mph Winter: 17 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
8.7/10
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 (394 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
30,352 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, Feb, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 60.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 30,352 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 Real County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.6–7.7 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (60.8 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
222-day frost-free season
Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.
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
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Real County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Real County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 14 | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 5 – Jul 7 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 17 | — | May 12 – Jun 9 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 7 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 14 | Aug 18 – Sep 29 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 17 | — | May 19 – Jun 23 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jul 14 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 – May 5 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 17 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 20 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 17 | — | May 12 – Jun 9 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 27 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Dec 15 – Dec 29 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 14 | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 27 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 23 – Sep 29 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Aug 11 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 7 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Jun 30 – Sep 15 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 5 – Jul 14 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jul 28 – Sep 29 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Sep 29 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 23 – Aug 11 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 – May 5 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 24 | May 19 – Jul 14 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 5 – Jun 2 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 5 – Jul 7 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 12 – Jun 9 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 17 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 27 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 17 | — | Apr 14 – May 5 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 17 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 17 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Aug 11 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 5 – Jul 7 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 14 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 23 – Aug 11 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Dec 15 – Dec 29 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 17 | — | Apr 28 – Jun 2 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 23 – Aug 11 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Real County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Real County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 21 | Jul 21 – Nov 3 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 21 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 21 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 21 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 21 | Jul 21 – Jan 5 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Real County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Real County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 24 | Jun 23 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 24 | May 19 – Jul 7 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 24 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 24 | May 26 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 24 | May 5 – Jul 7 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 24 | May 5 – Jul 7 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 24 | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 24 | May 5 – Jul 7 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 7 | Aug 11 – Nov 17 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 24 | May 26 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Dec 8 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 30 – Sep 29 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 24 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 30 – Nov 17 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 24 | May 5 – Jul 7 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 7 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 7 | Aug 11 – Nov 17 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Real County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Real County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Real County, TX?
Real County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. 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 Real County, TX?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Real County falls around March 31. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 27 and April 19 — a 52-day window of variability. Use April 19 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Real County, TX?
The median first fall frost in Real County arrives around November 8. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 22; in mild years as late as November 28. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Real County?
Real County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 222 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 3.17 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Real County for gardening?
Real County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.6–7.7 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Real County?
Real County has commercial agriculture that includes Cattle, Cotton, Wheat, Sorghum, Hay. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Real County a good location for home gardening?
Real County scores 37/100 (Challenging) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Gardening here benefits from close attention to frost timing and season extension due to the challenging microclimate factors.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Real County gardeners in Zone 8a 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.
