When to Plant Valerian in Tarrant County, TX
Valerian is a tall perennial herb with fragrant white or pink flower clusters, valued for its root which is used as a natural sleep aid. It attracts pollinators and earthworms.
Tarrant County, Texas is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 18 and the first fall frost is November 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 239 days.
At an elevation of 3,487 feet, Tarrant County receives approximately 63.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Valerian during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Valerian, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Valerian root diseases.
Tarrant County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay
Soil pH
7.3-8.1
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Valerian Planting Timeline — Tarrant County, TX
Valerian Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | March 25 | Mar 25 – Apr 8 |
| Harvest | July 29 | Jul 29 – Nov 4 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | Harvest |
| November | Harvest |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
120–180 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
239 days
Growing Tips for Tarrant County
Start seeds indoors and transplant after last frost. Harvest roots in fall of the second year. Deadhead flowers unless you want self-seeding. Cats are attracted to valerian root.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Valerian in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Valerian in Tarrant County, TX?
Tarrant County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 18. Plan your Valerian planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Tarrant County, TX?
Tarrant County, Texas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 18 and first fall frost is November 12.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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