Sterling County, TX — Planting Guide
Sterling County is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 24 and the first fall frost is November 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 233 days.
At an elevation of 2,929 ft, Sterling County receives approximately 50.9 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 99°F with winter lows around 29°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 February 27 in warm years to April 14 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 1.61 days per decade. Sterling County scores 45/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
7b (5°F to 10°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 24
🍂 First Frost
November 12
📅 Growing Season
233 days
⛰️ Elevation
2,929 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
50.9 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 | 3.5 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.7 in | 2 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.8 in | 2 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 1.9 in | 0 days | 2.4 in | High |
| May | 1.3 in | 0 days | 3 in | High |
| Jun | 1.9 in | 2 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Jul | 8.9 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 9.4 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 7.9 in | 4 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.2 in | 3 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Nov | 3 in | 2 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.3 in | 2 days | — | None |
Annual total: 50.8 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.
Sterling County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7.4-8.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 14 | Nov 28 | 228 days |
| Cautious | Apr 2 | Nov 19 | 231 days |
| Average year | Mar 24 | Nov 12 | 233 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 9 | Nov 5 | 241 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 27 | Oct 27 | 242 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.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 1.6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Sterling County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Sterling 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 Sterling County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Sterling 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 Sterling County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Sterling County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Sterling 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 Sterling County TX" or "garden center Sterling 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 Sterling County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Sterling 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
10.2 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 | 10.1 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.1 hr | 10.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.9 hr | 10.2 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.2 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.3 hr | 6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.9 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
7 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 32°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 31°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 39°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 52°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 63°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 72°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 79°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 79°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 76°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 61°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 50°F | 56°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 37°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Sterling County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
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 | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
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 Sterling 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 30 | Sep 3 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 28 | Sep 17 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 31 | Sep 17 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 25 | Sep 3 | ✓ 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 12 | Oct 22 | — | 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 3 | Mar 3 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 2 | Mar 10 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 30 | Mar 3 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 2 | Mar 3 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 12 | Mar 10 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 20 | Mar 3 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 12 | Mar 3 | — | 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: 16 mph Summer: 12 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
6.8/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (396 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
25,318 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
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, May, Jun
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 50.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 25,318 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 Sterling County
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 7.4–8.6 · Well Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 7.5/10
High drought stress. Consistent irrigation is essential — consider drip systems, heavy mulch, and drought-tolerant varieties.
Season Tips
233-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
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 Sterling County
113 vegetables that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Sterling County.
Show all 113 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 7 | Aug 11 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 2 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 26 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 7 | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Jun 16 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 26 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 19 – Jul 7 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 11 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 26 – Jul 7 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 – Apr 28 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 10 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 13 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jun 2 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 20 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 31 | — | May 26 – Jul 21 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 7 | Aug 11 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 20 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 16 – Sep 22 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 11 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Aug 4 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 12 – Jun 9 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 19 – Jul 14 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Apr 28 – Jun 2 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Jun 23 – Sep 8 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Apr 28 – Jul 7 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Sep 22 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 – Apr 28 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Jun 23 – Aug 11 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 5 – Jun 2 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 10 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 19 – Jul 14 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 20 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 10 | — | Apr 7 – Apr 28 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 10 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 10 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Jun 23 – Aug 11 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 19 – Jul 14 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Aug 4 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 7 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Apr 28 – Jun 2 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 10 | — | Apr 21 – May 26 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 31 | — | May 26 – Jul 21 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Sterling County
31 fruits that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Sterling County.
Show all 31 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Oct 27 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 14 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 14 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Nov 24 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Sterling County
39 herbs that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Sterling County.
Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 16 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 30 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 12 – Jun 30 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 31 | Aug 4 – Nov 10 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 30 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 30 – Nov 10 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 23 – Nov 10 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 31 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 31 | Aug 4 – Nov 10 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 31 | Jun 30 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Sterling County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Sterling County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Sterling County, TX?
Sterling County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. 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 Sterling County, TX?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Sterling County falls around March 24. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 27 and April 14 — a 46-day window of variability. Use April 14 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Sterling County, TX?
The median first fall frost in Sterling County arrives around November 12. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 27; 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 Sterling County?
Sterling County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 233 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 1.61 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Sterling County for gardening?
Sterling County has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 7.4–8.6 and Well Drained drainage. The native soil conditions make raised beds a particularly good investment here — they let you control drainage and fertility independent of the ground soil.
What is grown commercially in Sterling County?
Sterling County has commercial agriculture that includes Cotton, Cattle, Sorghum, Wheat, Corn. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Sterling County a good location for home gardening?
Sterling County scores 45/100 (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 Sterling County gardeners in Zone 7b 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.
