Planting Dates for Texas
Texas covers an enormous range of growing conditions, from the subtropical Rio Grande Valley to the cool Panhandle. The state's size means planting dates vary by months between regions.
USDA Zones 6b-10a • 180-330 frost-free days depending on location
Frost Dates in Texas
Average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for Texas cities. Use these to calculate your planting windows.
| City | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days | USDA Zone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Houston | Feb 12 | Dec 4 | 295 | 9a |
| Dallas | Mar 12 | Nov 14 | 247 | 8a |
| Austin | Mar 1 | Nov 20 | 264 | 8b |
| San Antonio | Feb 24 | Nov 24 | 273 | 8b |
Gardening Tips for Texas
- ✓South Texas can garden nearly year-round with proper variety selection.
- ✓The Panhandle has short seasons similar to the southern Great Plains.
- ✓Central Texas gardeners face challenging summer heat — plan for a mid-summer rest.
- ✓Fall is the best planting season in much of Texas, with harvests through December.
What to Plant in Texas
Cold-Hardy Crops (plant early)
These crops tolerate frost and can be planted 2-6 weeks before your last frost date.
30-60 days from sowing
55-70 days from sowing
60-80 days from sowing
50-70 days from sowing
55-80 days from transplant
35-50 days from sowing
20-35 days from sowing
July-August the following year
90-120 days from transplant
70-120 days from planting
50-70 days from sowing
50-60 days from sowing
Warm-Season Crops (plant after last frost)
Start these indoors and transplant after all frost danger has passed.
60-85 days from transplant
60-90 days from transplant
50-65 days from sowing
50-65 days from sowing
45-60 days from sowing
60-100 days from sowing
30-60 days from sowing
Get Exact Planting Dates for Texas
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the last frost date in Texas?
Last frost dates in Texas vary by city: Houston (Feb 12), Dallas (Mar 12), Austin (Mar 1), San Antonio (Feb 24).
What USDA hardiness zones are in Texas?
Texas spans USDA hardiness zones 6b-10a. Your specific zone determines which perennials survive winter and when to start planting annuals.
What vegetables grow best in Texas?
Hardy crops like peas, kale, spinach, and garlic thrive across Texas. In warmer zones, tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers do well with proper timing. Use our free calculator for exact planting dates.
How long is the growing season in Texas?
180-330 frost-free days depending on location. Extend your season with cold frames, row covers, and indoor seed starting.
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Free Calculator
Calculate exact planting dates based on your location and frost dates.