When to Plant in Austin, TX

Austin sits in the Hill Country transition zone — Zone 8b with a typical last frost around February 28. The city gets hot quickly in summer (regularly 100°F+ in July and August), making timing critical to get warm-season crops in early and take advantage of the excellent fall season.

Central Texas gardening is all about the two-season strategy: a productive spring garden (February–May) and an even better fall garden (August–November). The summer heat effectively shuts down most vegetable production, though okra, sweet potatoes, and heat-tolerant crops soldier on.

FAQ

When is the last frost date in Austin, TX?

Austin's average last frost date is around February 28. Most years, warm-season crops can go outdoors by mid-February.

What grows best in Austin?

Spring: tomatoes, peppers, squash, and beans (Feb–May). Summer: okra and sweet potatoes. Fall (often the best season): broccoli, kale, lettuce, carrots, and spinach.

Is fall or spring better for gardening in Austin?

Many Austin gardeners prefer fall — temperatures moderate after summer, pests decrease, and cool-season crops like broccoli and kale produce abundantly from September through November.

How do I handle Austin's summer heat?

Mulch 3–4 inches deep, water at the base of plants in the morning, and embrace heat-tolerant crops like okra and sweet potatoes in summer. Don't fight the heat with cool-weather vegetables.

How does Plan My Garden help Austin gardeners?

Enter your Austin zip code and we'll generate a personalized planting schedule — accounting for Central Texas's two-season growing calendar.

Frost dates for Austin ZIP codes

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