Washington County, TX — Planting Guide
Washington County is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 2 and the first fall frost is November 27, giving you a growing season of approximately 270 days.
At an elevation of 386 ft, Washington County receives approximately 58.9 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 90°F with winter lows around 41°F. The predominant soil type is Clay.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 51 days year to year — ranging from January 31 in warm years to March 22 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 5.4 days per decade. Washington County scores 45/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 2
🍂 First Frost
November 27
📅 Growing Season
270 days
⛰️ Elevation
386 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
58.9 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 | 1.6 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.9 in | 4 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Mar | 4.3 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 5.8 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| May | 8.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 9.9 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 7 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 7.4 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 5.2 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.2 in | 4 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Nov | 2 in | 3 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Dec | 1.4 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 59 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.
Washington County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay
Soil pH
6.9-8.4
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 22 | Dec 18 | 271 days |
| Cautious | Mar 8 | Dec 5 | 272 days |
| Average year | Mar 2 | Nov 27 | 270 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 15 | Nov 15 | 273 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 31 | Nov 2 | 275 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±51 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 5.4 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Washington County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Washington 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 Washington County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Washington 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 Washington County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Washington County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Washington 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 Washington County TX" or "garden center Washington 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 Washington County TX" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Washington County Gardeners" or "Texas Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
13.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.7 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your shorter days favor short-day onion varieties like Vidalia, Texas 1015, and Red Creole. Plant in fall for best results.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.3 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.9 hr | 9.7 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.8 hr | 9.5 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 9.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 6 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.1 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 Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
9 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 45°F | 54°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 45°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 54°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 61°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 71°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 83°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 89°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 92°F | 88°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 85°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 75°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 61°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 49°F | 57°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Washington 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 Washington 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 9 | Oct 2 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 10 | Oct 2 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 13 | Sep 25 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 4 | Sep 25 | ✓ 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 14 | Oct 30 | — | 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 16 | Feb 9 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 2 | Feb 16 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 2 | Feb 16 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 21 | Feb 16 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 13 | Feb 9 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Sep 5 | Feb 16 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 22 | 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: 16 mph Summer: 13 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
7.2/10
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 (328 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
29,405 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 59.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 29,405 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 Washington County
Soil Type
Clay
Soil pH 6.9–8.4 · Well Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (58.9 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
270-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
Cedar raised bed kit — ideal for poor soil, clay, or small-space gardening.
Improve drainage and aeration in heavy clay soils with horticultural perlite.
Premium blend of topsoil, compost, and perlite formulated for raised beds.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Washington County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Washington County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 2 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 16 | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 13 – May 11 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 9 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jun 15 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 2 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jun 29 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 16 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 20 – May 25 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jun 15 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 15 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jun 15 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jul 6 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jun 22 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 – Apr 6 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 2 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 4 – Jun 1 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 16 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 2 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 13 – May 11 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 2 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 9 | — | May 25 – Jul 6 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 29 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Nov 16 – Nov 30 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 9 | — | May 4 – Jun 29 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 16 | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 29 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 25 – Aug 31 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 2 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 2 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 9 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 6 – May 11 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Aug 17 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 6 – Jun 15 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jun 22 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jun 15 – Aug 31 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 2 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 25 – Jul 13 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 – Apr 6 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 6 – May 4 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 13 – May 11 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 16 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 2 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 4 – Jun 1 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 29 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 2 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 16 | — | Mar 16 – Apr 6 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 16 | — | May 11 – Jun 15 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 16 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 9 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 2 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 2 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 2 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 16 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 25 – Jul 13 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 9 | — | May 11 – Jun 22 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 6 – May 11 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Nov 16 – Nov 30 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 16 | — | Mar 30 – May 4 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 2 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 25 – Jul 13 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 9 | — | May 4 – Jun 29 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jun 22 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 2 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 4 – Jun 29 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Washington County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Washington County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Oct 5 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 23 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 23 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 23 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Dec 7 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Washington County
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Washington County.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | May 25 – Aug 10 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 9 | Jun 8 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 8 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 9 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 9 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 9 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 9 | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 4 – Jun 29 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 9 | Jun 8 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 9 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 9 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 9 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 9 | Jun 8 – Nov 9 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 9 | May 11 – Jun 29 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 9 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Jun 1 – Aug 31 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 9 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 9 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 9 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 9 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 9 | Jun 1 – Oct 19 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 9 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 9 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 9 | May 4 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 26 | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Apr 6 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 9 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 12 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 9 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 9 | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 9 | Jun 8 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Washington County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Washington County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Washington County, TX?
Washington County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. 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 Washington County, TX?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Washington County falls around March 2. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 31 and March 22 — a 51-day window of variability. Use March 22 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Washington County, TX?
The median first fall frost in Washington County arrives around November 27. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 2; in mild years as late as December 18. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Washington County?
Washington County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 270 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 5.4 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Washington County for gardening?
Washington County has predominantly Clay soil with a pH range of 6.9–8.4 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 Washington County?
Washington County has commercial agriculture that includes Cotton, Cattle, Corn, Sorghum, Wheat. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Washington County a good location for home gardening?
Washington 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 Washington County gardeners in Zone 8b 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.
