Seasonal Planting Guide for East Texas (Zone 8B)
🌸 Spring (Feb–May)
Last frost: ~April 11–20 in Tyler
- Cool-Season Crops: Lettuce, spinach, kale, carrots, radishes, broccoli, cabbage
- Warm-Season Crops: Tomatoes, peppers, corn, beans, basil, marigolds, petunias
☀️ Summer (Jun–Aug)
- Succession planting: Beans, corn, greens
- Heat-tolerant crops: Okra, sweet potatoes, Southern peas
- Herbs: Basil, oregano, thyme
- Flowers: Sunflowers, cosmos, lantana
🍂 Fall (Sep–Nov)
- Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, Swiss chard
- Root veggies: Turnips, carrots, radishes
- Brassicas: Broccoli, cauliflower
- Garlic & onions for spring harvest
- Strawberries (bare root or plugs)
❄️ Winter (Dec–Jan)
- Cover crops: Rye, clover
- Plant dormant fruit trees & shrubs
- Garlic continues growing
- Plan spring layout, order seeds
🧭 Bonus Tips for Zone 8B
| Task |
Timing |
Notes |
| Soil testing |
Jan–Feb |
Acidic soils great for blueberries & azaleas |
| Mulching |
Year-round |
Retains moisture, regulates temp |
| Raised beds |
Fall–Winter |
Prep for spring planting |
| Composting |
Always |
Boosts soil health |