Quick planting window
| Start indoors | February to March |
|---|---|
| Transplant | March to April |
| Sow seeds | Usually not recommended for this crop in a short-season garden |
| Estimated harvest | June to July |
| Risk | Medium risk |
Month calendar
Scan the year by month to see seed starting, sowing, transplanting, and harvest timing.
Tomato is frost sensitive. Wait until the conservative transplant or sowing window for Texas.
Next: ZIP code personalization
This is a state-level planning window based on typical frost timing and crop rules. Use local Extension guidance or a ZIP code frost-date tool before planting.
Planning notes
Covered crops
15
Covered states
Texas
Frost window
February to April / October to December
North Texas, Central Texas, and Gulf Coast calendars can be very different.
Tomato growing notes
The calendar window is only the first step. These growing details affect survival, plant vigor, and harvest quality.
Sun
Full sun, ideally 6-8+ hours.
Soil
Rich, well-drained soil with compost.
Spacing
18-24 inches for compact types; 24-36 inches for vigorous vines.
Container
Use a 5+ gallon container for patio types; larger is better.
Watering
Water deeply and consistently; avoid wetting leaves late in the day.
Common mistake
Transplanting before nights are warm enough.
Beginner tip
Harden seedlings off for 7-10 days before planting outside.
Month window table
| Crop | Spring transplant / sow | Spring harvest | Fall transplant / sow | Fall harvest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tomato | March to April | June to July | July to August | October to November |
| Cucumber | March to April | May to June | August to September | October to November |
| Pepper | April to May | June to July | July to August | October to November |
| Lettuce | February to March | April to May | September to October | October to November |
| Carrot | February to March | May to June | August to September | November to December |
| Spinach | February to March | March to April | September to October | October to November |
| Green Bean | March to April | May to June | August to September | October to November |
| Zucchini | March to April | May to June | August to September | October to November |
| Potato | March | June to July | July to August | November to December |
| Broccoli | March | May to June | August to September | October to November |
| Kale | February to March | April to May | August to September | October to November |
| Onion | February to March | June to July | July to August | November to December |
| Garlic | October to November | June to July | September to October | May to June |
| Corn | March to April | June to July | August to September | October to November |
| Radish | February to March | March to April | September to October | October to November |
Sources and limits
This page uses Texas state-level frost windows, USDA zone ranges, and crop rules for planning. It does not replace local Extension or county-level guidance.
FAQ
When should I start spring planting in Texas?
Use the last frost window, usually February to April, as the planning anchor. Hardy crops can start earlier; frost-sensitive crops should wait for warmer soil and nights.
When should I plan fall planting in Texas?
Count backward from the first frost window, usually October to December. Long-season and frost-sensitive crops need more lead time.
Which vegetables are easiest in Texas?
Start with easier crops such as cucumber, lettuce, spinach, green bean, zucchini. The best choice still depends on season and local conditions.
How should I handle summer heat in Texas?
Summer heat is a major planning factor. Cool-season crops such as lettuce, spinach, and broccoli usually do better in early spring or fall.
Can I grow a fall garden in Texas?
Yes. Use October to December as the cutoff anchor and leave buffer time for germination, transplant shock, and maturity.
Do local differences matter?
North Texas, Central Texas, and Gulf Coast calendars can be very different.
Does this replace local Extension guidance?
No. Use this as a first-pass planning calendar, then confirm with local Extension, county guidance, or a ZIP-code frost-date tool before planting.