Refugio County, TX — Planting Guide
Refugio County is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 16 and the first fall frost is December 6, giving you a growing season of approximately 294 days.
At an elevation of 1,000 ft, Refugio County receives approximately 68.4 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 103°F with winter lows around 43°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 29 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 62 days year to year — ranging from January 9 in warm years to March 12 in cold years. Refugio County scores 58/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9a (20°F to 25°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 16
🍂 First Frost
December 6
📅 Growing Season
294 days
⛰️ Elevation
1,000 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
68.4 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 | 2 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.1 in | 4 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Mar | 3.9 in | 6 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Apr | 8.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| May | 9.2 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 11.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 9.3 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 8 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 5.7 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.5 in | 5 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.4 in | 4 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Dec | 1.8 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 68.5 in. Gardens typically need ~1 inch of water per week during the growing season. Months marked "None" for extra water are outside the active growing season for your zone — most gardens are dormant and don't need irrigation during those months.
Refugio County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 29 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 12 | Dec 22 | 285 days |
| Cautious | Mar 1 | Dec 12 | 286 days |
| Average year | Feb 16 | Dec 6 | 293 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 2 | Nov 29 | 300 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 9 | Nov 12 | 307 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.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit longer (0.4 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Refugio County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Refugio 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 Refugio County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Refugio 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 Refugio County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Refugio County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Refugio 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 Refugio County TX" or "garden center Refugio 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 Refugio County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Refugio 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
13.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.2 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 | 10.4 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 11 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.4 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.8 hr | 9.7 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.6 hr | 10.2 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13 hr | 9.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 7.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.6 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.2 hr | 5.8 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
Apr
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
12 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 54°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 52°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 58°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 70°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 76°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 87°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 96°F | 91°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 96°F | 92°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 89°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 80°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 68°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 58°F | 63°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 Refugio 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 | Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Whiteflies | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Spider mites | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Fire ants | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Thrips | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Leaf miners | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun |
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 Refugio 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 | Feb 20 | Oct 4 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Feb 21 | Oct 11 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 1 | Sep 27 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 17 | Oct 4 | ✓ 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 13 | Nov 8 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (4 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Oct 14 | Feb 2 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 14 | Jan 26 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 12 | Feb 2 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 11 | Feb 2 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 17 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 14 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.6/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (350 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
34,140 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 1,250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
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 68.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 34,140 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 Refugio County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.7–7.2 · 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. (68.4 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
294-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
Reduce heat stress and sun scorch in hot climates with UV-stabilized shade cloth.
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 Refugio County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Refugio County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 19 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 25 – Jul 13 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 2 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 23 – May 25 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 26 | — | Mar 23 – Apr 20 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 8 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Feb 23 | — | May 25 – Jul 13 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 30 – May 4 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 1 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 30 – May 4 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 19 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 2 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Jan 26 | — | Mar 30 – May 4 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 15 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 1 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 1 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | May 11 – Jun 22 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 1 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – May 11 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 15 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Feb 23 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Feb 23 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 8 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 – Mar 23 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 19 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 13 – May 11 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Jan 26 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 19 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 26 | — | Mar 23 – Apr 20 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 19 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Feb 23 | — | May 11 – Jun 22 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 6 – May 11 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – May 11 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | May 4 – Jun 15 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 8 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Oct 26 – Dec 21 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 23 | — | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 2 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 4 – Aug 10 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 19 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 19 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 6 – May 4 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 8 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 23 | — | May 25 – Jun 29 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 6 – May 11 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 23 – Apr 27 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | May 18 – Aug 3 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | May 11 – Jun 22 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 23 – Jun 1 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Feb 23 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 8 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 25 – Aug 10 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 30 – May 4 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 19 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 4 – Jun 22 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 – Mar 23 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 9 | Apr 6 – Jun 1 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 23 – Apr 20 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 23 – May 25 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | May 18 – Jul 6 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 30 – Apr 27 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Jan 26 | — | May 11 – Jun 22 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 19 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 13 – May 11 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 8 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 19 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 25 – Jul 13 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 30 – May 4 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 26 | — | Feb 23 – Mar 16 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | May 4 – Jun 15 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Jan 26 | — | Apr 20 – May 25 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Jan 26 | — | May 11 – Jun 22 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – May 11 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | May 18 – Jul 6 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 5 | Feb 23 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 8 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Feb 23 | — | May 18 – Jul 13 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 19 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 23 – May 25 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 19 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 13 – Jun 15 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 19 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 2 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 4 – Jun 22 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Feb 23 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 8 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 25 – Jul 13 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 23 – Apr 27 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Oct 26 – Dec 21 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 26 | — | Mar 9 – Apr 13 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 30 – May 4 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 19 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 4 – Jun 22 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Feb 23 | — | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 25 – Jul 13 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Aug 24 – Dec 21 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 5 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 1 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 19 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 13 – Jun 8 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Refugio County
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Refugio County.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Sep 14 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 2 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Dec 28 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Refugio County
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Refugio County.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 9 | May 11 – Jul 27 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 5 | Feb 23 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Feb 23 | May 25 – Aug 10 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 9 | Apr 6 – May 25 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 9 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 9 | Apr 13 – Jun 22 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 9 | Mar 23 – May 25 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 9 | Mar 23 – May 25 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 9 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 9 | Mar 23 – May 25 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Feb 23 | Jun 29 – Oct 5 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 5 | Feb 23 | Feb 23 | Apr 13 – Jun 8 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 9 | Apr 13 – Jun 22 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Feb 23 | May 25 – Aug 10 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 23 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Feb 23 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Feb 23 | May 25 – Oct 26 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 15 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Feb 23 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 5 | Feb 23 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 5 | Feb 23 | Feb 23 | May 11 – Aug 10 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 9 | Apr 13 – Jun 15 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 23 | May 18 – Oct 5 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Feb 23 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 23 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 9 | Mar 23 – May 25 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 5 | Feb 23 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 5 | Feb 23 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Feb 23 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Feb 23 | Jun 29 – Oct 5 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Feb 23 | May 25 – Aug 10 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Refugio County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Refugio County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Refugio County, TX?
Refugio County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. 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 Refugio County, TX?
Based on 29 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Refugio County falls around February 16. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 9 and March 12 — a 62-day window of variability. Use March 12 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Refugio County, TX?
The median first fall frost in Refugio County arrives around December 6. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 12; in mild years as late as December 22. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Refugio County?
Refugio County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 294 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 Refugio County for gardening?
Refugio County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.7–7.2 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Refugio County?
Refugio 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 Refugio County a good location for home gardening?
Refugio County scores 58/100 (Moderate) 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 Refugio County gardeners in Zone 9a 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.
