When to Plant in Dallas, TX

Dallas sits in North Texas — Zone 8a with a typical last frost around March 18. Hot, dry summers routinely top 100°F, and while winters are mostly mild, periodic Arctic blasts can bring hard freezes. The gardening window is aggressive but rewarding.

Dallas gardeners use a two-season strategy: a productive spring garden from March through May, and an even better fall garden from August through November. Summer heat largely shuts down vegetable production, though okra and heat-tolerant crops thrive.

FAQ

When is the last frost date in Dallas, TX?

Dallas's average last frost date is around March 18. Start warm-season seeds indoors in late January and plant outdoors after mid-March.

What grows best in Dallas?

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

When should I plant fall tomatoes in Dallas?

Plant fall tomatoes in August — this is critical timing. Get transplants in the ground by mid-August for a November harvest before first frost.

How do I handle Dallas summer heat?

Mulch 3–4 inches deep, water deeply at the base of plants, and switch to heat-tolerant crops. Okra, sweet potatoes, and southern peas actually thrive in Dallas heat.

How does Plan My Garden help Dallas gardeners?

Enter your Dallas zip code for a personalized week-by-week planting schedule built around North Texas's two-season growing calendar.

Frost dates for Dallas ZIP codes

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