Zone 8: Long Season, Heat Challenges
Zone 8 has 220–250 frost-free days. The challenge is summer heat, not cold. Grow cool-season crops in spring and fall, warm-season in summer.
Zone 8 gardening is about timing. Summer is too hot for many crops.
The Season
| Factor | Value |
|---|---|
| Last frost | March |
| First frost | November |
| Frost-free days | 220-250 |
Growing Calendar
| Season | Plant |
|---|---|
| Spring (Feb-Apr) | Cool-season crops |
| Summer (May-Aug) | Heat-tolerant crops |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | Cool-season again |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Cold-hardy crops |
Heat-Tolerant Crops
- Tomatoes (heat-tolerant varieties)
- Peppers
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Southern peas
Cool-Season Crops
- Lettuce (spring/fall only)
- Spinach (spring/fall)
- Kale (fall/winter)
- Broccoli (fall)
- Carrots (fall)
Common Questions
Can I grow lettuce in summer? Only with shade. Or wait for fall.
What about tomatoes? Yes, but choose heat-tolerant varieties.
When to plant tomatoes? After last frost (March-April).
What about fall? Best season for many crops.
Can I grow year-round? Yes. Four seasons.
What about frost? Rare, but possible. Protect tender plants.