Walker County, TX — Planting Guide
May to-do list for Walker County, Texas
Your Walker County, Texas garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for May and why each task matters now.
-
Collect basil, carrots, and cucumber at their peak
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
June prep starts now
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Walker County is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 26 and the first fall frost is November 27, giving you a growing season of approximately 275 days.
At an elevation of 38 ft, Walker County receives approximately 72.6 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 37 days year to year — ranging from February 4 in warm years to March 13 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 2.55 days per decade. Walker County scores 39/100 (Challenging) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 26
🍂 First Frost
November 27
📅 Growing Season
275 days
⛰️ Elevation
38 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
72.6 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 | 2.1 in | 4 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Mar | 5.1 in | 5 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 7.6 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| May | 12.1 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 9.9 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 10.2 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 9.6 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 5.9 in | 5 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.2 in | 5 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Nov | 2.3 in | 3 days | 2 in | High |
| Dec | 1.7 in | 4 days | — | None |
Annual total: 72.4 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.
Walker County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.6
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) | Mar 13 | Dec 15 | 277 days |
| Cautious | Mar 5 | Dec 5 | 275 days |
| Average year | Feb 26 | Nov 27 | 274 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 12 | Nov 16 | 277 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 4 | Nov 11 | 280 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±37 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 2.6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Walker County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Walker 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 Walker County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Walker 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 Walker County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Walker County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Walker 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 Walker County TX" or "garden center Walker 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 Walker County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Walker 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
9.9 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 | 5.5 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 | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 9.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.8 hr | 9.9 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 5.7 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 | 45°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 45°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 55°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 63°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 75°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 81°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 92°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 93°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 84°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 74°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 61°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 50°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 Walker 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 | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | High | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Low | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Walker 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 2 | Sep 25 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 2 | Sep 18 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 3 | Sep 18 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 31 | Oct 2 | ✓ 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 20 | Nov 6 | — | 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 22 | Feb 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 1 | Feb 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 7 | Feb 12 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 2 | Feb 5 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 19 | Feb 5 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Sep 1 | Feb 5 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 20 | Feb 5 | — | 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: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.4/10
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 (182 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
36,084 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 72.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 36,084 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 Walker County
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 5.4–6.6 · Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (72.6 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
275-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 Walker County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Walker County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 12 | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – Apr 30 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 5 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 12 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – May 14 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 25 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 11 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 21 – Jul 2 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jun 11 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 25 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 5 | — | May 7 – Jul 2 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 5 | — | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 – Apr 2 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 5 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – Apr 30 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 5 | — | May 21 – Jul 2 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Nov 5 – Dec 31 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 5 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 12 | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 14 – Aug 20 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 16 – May 14 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 5 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 – May 7 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Aug 13 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 21 – Jul 2 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 – Jun 11 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 5 | — | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Aug 20 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 2 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 – Apr 2 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 16 – Jun 11 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 – Apr 30 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Jul 16 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – May 7 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 5 | — | May 21 – Jul 2 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 5 | — | Mar 5 – Mar 26 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 5 | — | May 21 – Jul 2 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Jul 16 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 15 | Mar 5 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 5 | — | May 28 – Jul 23 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – Jun 25 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 12 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 2 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 5 | — | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 – May 7 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Nov 5 – Dec 31 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 5 | — | Mar 19 – Apr 23 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 2 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 5 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Sep 3 – Dec 31 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 11 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Walker County
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Walker County.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Sep 24 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jan 7 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Walker County
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Walker County.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | May 21 – Aug 6 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 15 | Mar 5 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 16 – Jun 4 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 23 – Jul 2 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 5 | Jul 9 – Oct 15 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 15 | Mar 5 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 23 – Jul 2 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 5 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Nov 5 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 25 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 15 | Mar 5 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 15 | Mar 5 | Mar 5 | May 21 – Aug 20 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 23 – Jun 25 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 5 | May 28 – Oct 15 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 5 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 15 | Mar 5 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 15 | Mar 5 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 5 | Jul 9 – Oct 15 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Walker County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Walker County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Walker County, TX?
Walker 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 Walker County, TX?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Walker County falls around February 26. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 4 and March 13 — a 37-day window of variability. Use March 13 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Walker County, TX?
The median first fall frost in Walker County arrives around November 27. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 11; in mild years as late as December 15. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Walker County?
Walker County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 275 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 2.55 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Walker County for gardening?
Walker County has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 5.4–6.6 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Walker County?
Walker County has commercial agriculture that includes Cattle, Cotton, Sorghum, Corn, Hay. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Walker County a good location for home gardening?
Walker County scores 39/100 (Challenging) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Gardening here benefits from close attention to frost timing and season extension due to the challenging microclimate factors.
Your Walker County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Walker 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