When to Plant in Arlington, TX

Arlington, Texas, experiences its last spring frost on March 15 and its first fall frost on November 17, providing a total of 247 frost-free days for gardening enthusiasts. This extended growing season allows for a vibrant array of crops, enhancing productivity and variety in local gardens. Gardeners can optimize their planting schedules around these critical dates to ensure a successful harvest.

The humid subtropical inland microclimate of Arlington is characterized by hot summers and mild winters, which impacts crop selection significantly. Vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and okra thrive in this environment due to the warmth and humidity, making them perfect for the growing season. However, cooler-loving crops like broccoli and peas may struggle here because the intense heat can hinder their growth and lead to bolting.

What to plant now in Arlington

Spring is ideal for planting tomatoes and peppers, which love the warmth. Start seeds indoors in late February, and transplant them outdoors after the last frost date, around late March to early April.
As summer rolls in, it's the perfect time for heat-tolerant crops like eggplant and southern peas. Direct sow these seeds from late April through early June to take full advantage of the long growing season.
In the fall, planting crops such as kale and turnips can be very beneficial. Start sowing seeds in early September to ensure they will mature before the first frost on November 17.
Winter gardening is an option for cold-hardy vegetables like garlic and shallots. Plant these in late October for a spring harvest, using the warmth of the winter sun to support their growth.

In Arlington (247 frost-free days, a very long season), 30 of 56 planner crops fit outright, 25 get two plantings, 1 crop is perennial.

Month by month in Arlington

Month	What to do
January	This month, focus on planning your garden layout and selecting seeds for spring planting. Start inventorying your gardening tools and supplies to ensure everything is ready for the coming season.
February	Begin starting seeds indoors for warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers. Prepare your garden beds by amending the soil, ensuring nutrients for when you transplant in March.
March	As we approach March 15, monitor weather forecasts closely for the last frost date. It's a critical time to transplant your seedlings outdoors and sow direct seeds for quick-maturing crops.
April	April brings warm weather, perfect for growing annual herbs. Continue sowing summer crops like squash and cucumbers directly into the soil after the last frost date has passed.
May	Now is the time to embrace summer gardening! Plant heat-loving crops such as eggplant and sweet potatoes. Regular watering is essential as temperatures rise.
June	In June, maintain your plants with regular weeding and watering as the heat intensifies. Consider planting a second round of quick-maturing crops for late summer harvests.
July	July is hot; ensure your plants are adequately hydrated. This is the time to plant fall crops like beans and late zucchini to have a diverse harvest.
August	Prepare for the impending fall by starting seeds for cool-weather crops like broccoli and cauliflower indoors. Maintain your summer garden as you transition.
September	In early September, begin sowing cool-season crops directly into the garden. This is important as the temperatures start to cool down, ensuring growth before the first frost on November 17.
October	Finalize your fall plantings early in October. This is still a great time to sow crops like radishes and lettuce, which can thrive in the remaining warm days.
November	As temperatures drop and we approach November 17, ensure your tender plants are sheltered to avoid damage from the first frost. Prepare your garden for winter, using mulch to protect perennials.
December	While gardening slows down, December is a good time for planning next year's garden. Reflect on successes and challenges from this year to improve your approach for the next growing season.

Frost dates for Arlington ZIP codes

ZIP	Last spring frost (50%)	First fall frost (50%)	Zone
76010	March 15	November 17	8b
76002	March 14	November 18	8b

FAQ

When is the last frost in Arlington?

The last frost in Arlington typically occurs on March 15, so it's essential to plan your planting schedule around this date.

What vegetables grow best in Arlington?

Best vegetables include tomatoes, peppers, and okra, which thrive in the humid subtropical inland climate, while beans can struggle with the excessive heat.

When should I plant tomatoes in Arlington?

Tomatoes should be started indoors in late February and transplanted outside after the last frost date of March 15.

Can I garden year-round in Arlington?

Yes, you can garden year-round, focusing on season-appropriate crops to optimize growth and harvest throughout the year.

How does Plan My Garden help Arlington gardeners?

Plan My Garden provides tailored advice, planting calendars, and resources specifically for Arlington's unique climate, ensuring that local gardeners succeed.