When it comes to gardening in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area, timing is everything. The region's hot summers and mild winters offer a unique growing season. Here's a guide to help you get started:
Edibles
Spring:
- Vegetables: Start seeds indoors for tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants in January. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost in late February to early March.
- Herbs: Plant basil, parsley, and cilantro seeds indoors in February, and transplant them outdoors in March.
- Root Vegetables: Direct sow carrots, beets, and radishes in early March.
Summer:
- Vegetables: Plant beans, cucumbers, and squash in late April to early May.
- Fruits: Plant watermelon and cantaloupe seeds in late April.
- Vegetables: Start seeds indoors for broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage in late summer. Transplant seedlings outdoors in late August to early September.
- Root Vegetables: Direct sow carrots, beets, and turnips in late August.
- Annuals: Plant pansies, snapdragons, and dianthus in early February.
- Perennials: Divide irises, daylilies, and Shasta daisies in late January to early February.
- Annuals: Plant lantana, pentas, and begonias in late April to early May.
- Perennials: Plant roses and lavender in late April.
Ornamental Plants
Spring:
Summer:

- Vegetables: Choose drought-tolerant varieties like okra, sweet potatoes, and Swiss chard.
- Herbs: Opt for herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano that require less water.
- Perennials: Select plants like lavender, salvia, and Russian sage that thrive with minimal watering.
- Ground Covers: Use drought-tolerant ground covers like sedum and creeping thyme.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around plants to retain moisture and reduce evaporation.
- Drip Irrigation: Use drip irrigation systems to deliver water directly to plant roots, minimizing waste.
- Rainwater Harvesting: Collect rainwater in barrels to use for watering your garden.
Go Water Smart
Conserving water is crucial in the DFW area. Here are some water-efficient plants for both edibles and ornamentals:
Edibles:
Ornamentals:
Tips for Water Conservation:


