San Jacinto County, TX — Planting Guide
May to-do list for San Jacinto County, Texas
May rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in San Jacinto County, Texas.
-
Pick basil, carrots, and cucumber
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
To set up a strong June, finish these tasks
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
San Jacinto County is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 18 and the first fall frost is December 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 287 days.
At an elevation of 6 ft, San Jacinto County receives approximately 71.3 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 94°F with winter lows around 36°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 46 days year to year — ranging from January 22 in warm years to March 9 in cold years. San Jacinto County scores 56/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 18
🍂 First Frost
December 1
📅 Growing Season
287 days
⛰️ Elevation
6 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
71.3 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 | 1.7 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.5 in | 5 days | 1.8 in | High |
| Mar | 4.2 in | 5 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Apr | 8.5 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| May | 9.5 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 11.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 9.2 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 8 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 6.7 in | 5 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 5.2 in | 5 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.6 in | 3 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Dec | 1.9 in | 4 days | — | None |
Annual total: 71.4 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
San Jacinto 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 9 | Dec 17 | 283 days |
| Cautious | Mar 3 | Dec 8 | 280 days |
| Average year | Feb 18 | Dec 1 | 286 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 10 | Nov 24 | 287 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 22 | Nov 13 | 295 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±46 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
San Jacinto County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in San Jacinto 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 San Jacinto County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
San Jacinto 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 San Jacinto County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in San Jacinto County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to San Jacinto 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 San Jacinto County TX" or "garden center San Jacinto 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 San Jacinto County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "San Jacinto 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
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: 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 | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 9.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.8 hr | 10.2 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 9.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 6 hr | Short day |
| December | 10 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting 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 | 47°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 52°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 64°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 71°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 82°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 90°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 91°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 86°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 76°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 63°F | 66°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 San Jacinto 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 | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | High | 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 San Jacinto 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 21 | Oct 6 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 1 | Oct 6 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Feb 27 | Sep 22 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 23 | Sep 29 | ✓ 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 19 | Nov 3 | — | 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 25 | Jan 28 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 4 | Feb 4 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 20 | Feb 4 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 12 | Feb 4 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Nov 1 | Jan 28 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Sep 1 | Feb 4 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Sep 5 | Jan 28 | — | 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: 13 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
8.6/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (214 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
35,585 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 71.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 35,585 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 San Jacinto County
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 5.3–6.7 · Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
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
287-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.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 24-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
Recommended for Your Garden
Reduce heat stress and sun scorch in hot climates with UV-stabilized shade cloth.
Retain moisture and nutrients in sandy soils with expanded vermiculite.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in San Jacinto County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for San Jacinto County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 21 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 27 – Jul 15 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 4 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 28 | — | Mar 25 – Apr 22 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jun 10 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Feb 25 | — | May 27 – Jul 15 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 1 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 22 – Jun 3 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 1 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 21 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 4 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Jan 28 | — | Apr 1 – May 6 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 22 – Jun 3 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – Jun 3 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | May 13 – Jun 24 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 22 – Jun 3 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – May 13 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Feb 25 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Feb 25 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 10 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 4 – Mar 25 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 21 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 15 – May 13 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Jan 28 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 21 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 28 | — | Mar 25 – Apr 22 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 21 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Feb 25 | — | May 13 – Jun 24 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 8 – May 13 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – May 13 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | May 6 – Jun 17 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jun 10 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Oct 28 – Dec 23 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 25 | — | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 4 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 6 – Aug 12 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 21 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 21 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 8 – May 6 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – Jun 10 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 25 | — | May 27 – Jul 1 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 8 – May 13 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 25 – Apr 29 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | May 20 – Aug 5 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | May 13 – Jun 24 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 25 – Jun 3 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Feb 25 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 10 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 27 – Aug 12 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 1 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – May 20 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 21 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 6 – Jun 24 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 – Mar 25 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 11 | Apr 8 – Jun 3 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 25 – Apr 22 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – May 20 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – May 20 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | May 20 – Jul 8 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 1 – Apr 29 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Jan 28 | — | May 13 – Jun 24 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 21 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 15 – May 13 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – Jun 10 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 21 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 27 – Jul 15 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 1 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 22 – May 27 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 28 | — | Feb 25 – Mar 18 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | May 6 – Jun 17 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Jan 28 | — | Apr 22 – May 27 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Jan 28 | — | May 13 – Jun 24 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – May 13 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | May 20 – Jul 8 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 7 | Feb 25 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – Jun 10 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Feb 25 | — | May 20 – Jul 15 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 21 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 21 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 21 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 4 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 6 – Jun 24 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Feb 25 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 10 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 27 – Jul 15 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Mar 25 – Apr 29 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Oct 28 – Dec 23 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 28 | — | Mar 11 – Apr 15 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 18 | Apr 1 – May 6 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 21 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 6 – Jun 24 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Feb 25 | — | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | May 27 – Jul 15 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Aug 26 – Dec 23 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 7 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 3 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 21 | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Apr 15 – Jun 10 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in San Jacinto County
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for San Jacinto County.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Sep 16 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 4 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 4 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 4 | May 27 – Jul 8 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 4 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Dec 30 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in San Jacinto County
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for San Jacinto County.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 11 | May 13 – Jul 29 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 7 | Feb 25 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 24 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Feb 25 | May 27 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 11 | Apr 8 – May 27 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 11 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 11 | Apr 15 – Jun 24 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 11 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 11 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 11 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 11 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Feb 25 | Jul 1 – Oct 7 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 7 | Feb 25 | Feb 25 | Apr 15 – Jun 10 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 11 | Apr 15 – Jun 24 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Feb 25 | May 27 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 25 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Feb 25 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Feb 25 | May 27 – Oct 28 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jun 17 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Feb 25 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 7 | Feb 25 | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 7 | Feb 25 | Feb 25 | May 13 – Aug 12 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 11 | Apr 15 – Jun 17 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 25 | May 20 – Oct 7 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Feb 25 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 25 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 21 | Jan 28 | Feb 11 | Mar 25 – May 27 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 7 | Feb 25 | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 7 | Feb 25 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 24 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Feb 25 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Feb 25 | Jul 1 – Oct 7 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Feb 25 | May 27 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for San Jacinto County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in San Jacinto County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is San Jacinto County, TX?
San Jacinto 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 San Jacinto County, TX?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in San Jacinto County falls around February 18. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 22 and March 9 — a 46-day window of variability. Use March 9 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in San Jacinto County, TX?
The median first fall frost in San Jacinto County arrives around December 1. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 13; in mild years as late as December 17. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in San Jacinto County?
San Jacinto County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 287 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 San Jacinto County for gardening?
San Jacinto 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 San Jacinto County?
San Jacinto County has commercial agriculture that includes Cotton, Cattle, Corn, Sorghum. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is San Jacinto County a good location for home gardening?
San Jacinto County scores 56/100 (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.
Your San Jacinto County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for San Jacinto County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log