Rusk County, TX — Planting Guide
Rusk County is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 9 and the first fall frost is November 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 253 days.
At an elevation of 252 ft, Rusk County receives approximately 66.3 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 90°F with winter lows around 41°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 42 days year to year — ranging from February 16 in warm years to March 29 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 0.99 days per decade. Rusk County scores 48/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 9
🍂 First Frost
November 17
📅 Growing Season
253 days
⛰️ Elevation
252 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
66.3 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 | 4 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Mar | 4.3 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 6.5 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| May | 11.2 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 11.5 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 7.4 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 7.5 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 5.5 in | 5 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.4 in | 4 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.5 in | 3 days | 1.8 in | High |
| Dec | 1.9 in | 4 days | — | None |
Annual total: 66.2 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.
Rusk County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.7
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) | Mar 29 | Dec 1 | 247 days |
| Cautious | Mar 20 | Nov 24 | 249 days |
| Average year | Mar 9 | Nov 17 | 253 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 28 | Nov 13 | 258 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 16 | Oct 31 | 257 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±42 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 (1 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Rusk County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Rusk 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 Rusk County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Rusk 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 Rusk County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Rusk County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Rusk 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 Rusk County TX" or "garden center Rusk 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 Rusk County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Rusk 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
14.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10 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 | 10.1 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.1 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.9 hr | 9.7 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.2 hr | 9.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.3 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.9 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting 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 | 45°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 53°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 62°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 74°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 84°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 89°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 91°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 84°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 75°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 63°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 52°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 Rusk 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 | Moderate | 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 | Moderate | 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 Rusk 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 14 | Sep 15 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 18 | Sep 22 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 19 | Sep 22 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 8 | Sep 22 | ✓ 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 1 | Oct 27 | — | 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 12 | Feb 16 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 5 | Feb 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 3 | Feb 23 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 26 | Feb 23 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 11 | Feb 16 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 18 | Feb 16 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 16 | Feb 16 | — | 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: 13 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.1/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (383 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
32,994 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 66.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 32,994 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 Rusk County
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 5.3–6.7 · Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 5.5/10
Moderate drought pressure. Drip irrigation and mulching are highly recommended to maintain soil moisture through summer.
Season Tips
253-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 Rusk County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Rusk County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 9 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 23 | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Apr 13 – Jun 15 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 23 | — | Apr 20 – May 18 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 16 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 11 – Jun 22 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 9 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 23 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 23 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 11 – Jun 22 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 4 – Jun 22 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 11 – Jun 22 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 4 – Jun 1 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 16 | — | May 18 – Jul 13 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 16 | — | May 18 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 – Apr 13 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 9 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 23 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 9 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 23 | — | Apr 20 – May 18 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 9 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 16 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 5 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 4 – Jun 1 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Nov 23 – Dec 7 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 16 | — | May 11 – Jul 6 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 23 | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 5 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 1 – Sep 7 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 9 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 9 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 4 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 16 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Jun 8 – Aug 24 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Apr 13 – Jun 22 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 16 | — | May 18 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Sep 7 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 9 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 – Apr 13 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Apr 13 – May 11 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Apr 13 – Jun 15 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 23 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 9 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 4 – Jun 29 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 5 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 9 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 23 | — | Mar 23 – Apr 13 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 23 | — | May 18 – Jun 22 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 23 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 4 – Jun 1 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | May 4 – Jun 29 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 16 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 9 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Apr 13 – Jun 15 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 9 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 9 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 23 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 16 | — | May 18 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Nov 23 – Dec 7 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 23 | — | Apr 6 – May 11 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 9 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 16 | — | May 11 – Jul 6 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 9 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Rusk County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Rusk County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Oct 12 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Dec 14 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Rusk County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Rusk County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 16 | Jun 15 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 15 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 13 – Jun 15 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 13 – Jun 15 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 13 – Jun 15 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 16 | Jul 20 – Oct 26 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 16 | Jun 15 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 16 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 16 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 16 | Jun 15 – Nov 16 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 6 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 16 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Jun 8 – Sep 7 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 16 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 16 | Jun 8 – Oct 26 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 16 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 16 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 13 – Jun 15 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 16 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 16 | Jul 20 – Oct 26 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 16 | Jun 15 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Rusk County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Rusk County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Rusk County, TX?
Rusk 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 Rusk County, TX?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Rusk County falls around March 9. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 16 and March 29 — a 42-day window of variability. Use March 29 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Rusk County, TX?
The median first fall frost in Rusk County arrives around November 17. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 31; in mild years as late as December 1. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Rusk County?
Rusk County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 253 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 0.99 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Rusk County for gardening?
Rusk County has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 5.3–6.7 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Rusk County?
Rusk 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 Rusk County a good location for home gardening?
Rusk County scores 48/100 (Moderate) 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 Rusk 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.
