This guide will let you know what you can plant in January, complete with specific recommendations tailored for different regions of Texas, temperature tolerances, and ideal planting dates.
Vegetables To Plant In January
When considering vegetables to plant in January, take advantage of the mild winter weather in much of Texas. Whether you’re starting seeds indoors for later transplantation or sowing directly into the ground, there are several options to get you started.
Garlic
Temperature Tolerance: Garlic can thrive in temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C).
Planting Dates: Mid-January is ideal for southern Texas, while northern gardeners may plant garlic until the end of January.
Garlic is a versatile crop that is easy to grow and produces a flavorful addition to many dishes. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Plant garlic cloves with the pointed end facing upward, about 2 inches deep.
Onions
Temperature Tolerance: Onions can withstand temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C) and prefer cool weather.
Planting Dates: Southern Texas can start planting onion sets in early January; northern regions should wait until mid-January.
Onions are a staple in many kitchens, and they grow well in various soil types. Space onion sets or seedlings 4-6 inches apart in rows. Water frequently to encourage strong growth.
Leafy Greens (Spinach)
Temperature Tolerance: Spinach grows well in temperatures ranging from 30°F (-1°C) to about 70°F (21°C).
Planting Dates: Sow spinach seeds as soon as mid-January in southern Texas and in northern areas by the end of the month.
Spinach is a fast-growing vegetable that thrives in cooler temperatures. Plant seeds about an inch apart and cover lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist to ensure germination.
Peas
Temperature Tolerance: Peas can handle light frost, with optimal growing temperatures between 50°F (10°C) and 70°F (21°C).
Planting Dates: Southern Texas gardeners can plant peas by the end of January, while northern growers should wait until mid-February.
Peas are nutritious and great for spring harvest. Sow seeds about 1-2 inches deep and provide a trellis for climbing varieties. They thrive in well-drained soil and should be watered regularly.
Radishes
Temperature Tolerance: Radishes can tolerate frost and prefer temperatures around 50°F (10°C).
Planting Dates: Begin sowing radishes in southern Texas by mid-January, and in northern parts, plant them towards the end of the month.
Radishes are one of the quickest vegetables to mature, making them perfect for impatient gardeners. Plant seeds directly into the ground, spacing them 1 inch apart in rows. Thin seedlings to allow room for growth.
Carrots
Temperature Tolerance: Carrots can survive frost and prefer cooler temperatures around 60°F (15°C) to 70°F (21°C).
Planting Dates: In southern Texas, sow carrot seeds in mid-January. Northern gardeners should wait until late January.
Plant carrot seeds about ¼ inch deep in loose, well-drained soil. They require consistent moisture to germinate and will typically take about 70-80 days to mature.
Broccoli
Temperature Tolerance: Broccoli grows best in temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 70°F (21°C), but can tolerate light frost.
Planting Dates: Southern Texas can plant broccoli seedlings in January, while early February is better for northern areas.
Select healthy seedlings or start seeds indoors. When transplanting, ensure they are spaced about 18-24 inches apart to allow room for growth. Broccoli thrives in fertile soil with adequate drainage.
Cilantro
Temperature Tolerance: Cilantro prefers cooler weather, thriving in temperatures from 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (21°C).
Planting Dates: Sow cilantro seeds in southern Texas in mid-January, and in northern regions by the end of the month.
Cilantro is a quick-growing herb that can be harvested regularly. Sow seeds directly into the ground, and keep the soil moist until germination.
Turnips
Temperature Tolerance: Turnips can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C).
Planting Dates: Sow turnip seeds in southern Texas in January; northern growers should wait until late January.
Turnips are a nutritious root vegetable that grows well in cooler weather. Plant seeds about ½ inch deep and thin them as needed to give ample space for roots to develop.
Mustard Greens
Temperature Tolerance: Mustard greens prefer temperatures between 45°F (7°C) and 75°F (24°C) but can survive frost.
Planting Dates: Start planting mustard greens in southern Texas by mid-January and in northern regions by late January.
These greens add a peppery flavor to dishes and can be sown directly into the soil. Space plants about 6 inches apart for optimal growth. Regular watering will keep them thriving.
Flowers To Plant In January
Adding colorful flowers in January not only brightens your garden but also provides critical habitat for pollinators as they emerge in early spring. Choosing the right plants for Texas’s varying climate is essential for their health and success.
Pansies
Temperature Tolerance: Pansies can survive temperatures down to 15°F (-9°C).
Planting Dates: Southern Texas can plant pansies in early January, while northern regions should start by mid-January.
These hardy annuals provide a burst of color, available in many shades. Plant them in well-draining soil and ensure they receive full sun or partial shade.
Snapdragons
Temperature Tolerance: Snapdragons can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C).
Planting Dates: In southern Texas, sow snapdragon seeds in early January; northern gardeners can wait until mid-January.
Snapdragons bloom in a diverse range of colors and add height to garden beds. Space them adequately (about 6-12 inches apart) to ensure good air circulation.
Cyclamen
Temperature Tolerance: Cyclamen can withstand temperatures as low as 10°F (-12°C).
Planting Dates: Plant cyclamen tubers in southern Texas in January, with northern areas waiting until late January.
These enchanting flowers are perfect for shaded areas and provide vibrant blooms during cooler months. They prefer well-draining soil and can thrive with minimal direct sunlight.
Sweet Peas
Temperature Tolerance: Sweet peas can withstand light frosts down to 25°F (-4°C).
Planting Dates: Begin planting sweet peas in southern Texas by mid-January, and wait until late January in northern regions.
Renowned for their fragrant blooms, sweet peas require support for climbing. Sow seeds in rich, well-drained soil and water them regularly for healthy growth.
Stock
Temperature Tolerance: Stock can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C).
Planting Dates: Plant stock seeds in southern Texas by mid-January and in northern areas towards the end of the month.
Stock flowers provide beautiful color and a pleasant fragrance. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them great for garden borders and containers.
Ornamental Cabbage and Kale
Temperature Tolerance: These plants can survive frosts as low as 10°F (-12°C).
Planting Dates: January is ideal for planting ornamental cabbage and kale across Texas.
These colorful vegetables add texture and an artistic flair to gardens. They thrive in cool temperatures and can brighten winter landscapes when most plants are dormant.
Foxglove
Temperature Tolerance: Foxglove can survive down to 20°F (-6°C).
Planting Dates: January is a good time for planting foxglove seeds in southern Texas, while northern regions should wait until late January.
These tall, biennial plants produce spectacular blooms, attracting bees and other pollinators. They prefer partially shaded areas and well-drained soil for optimal growth.
Calendula
Temperature Tolerance: Calendula can tolerate light frost and prefers temperatures from 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (21°C).
Planting Dates: Plant calendula seeds in southern Texas by mid-January and in northern areas towards the end of the month.
Also known as pot marigold, calendula adds cheerful yellow and orange blooms. They thrive in well-drained soil with full sun exposure.
Dianthus
Temperature Tolerance: Dianthus can survive temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C).
Planting Dates: Early January is suitable for planting dianthus in southern Texas, while northern areas may plant them by mid-January.
These fragrant flowers, often known as “pinks,” come in a variety of colors. They prefer well-draining soil and a sunny location but can also tolerate partial shade.
Winter Jasmine
Temperature Tolerance: Winter jasmine can endure frost and thrives in temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C).
Planting Dates: January is an excellent time to plant winter jasmine across Texas.
This hardy shrub produces yellow flowers that brighten up the winter landscape. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun but can adapt to different conditions.
Herbs To Plant In January
Herbs are not just for culinary use; they also bring delightful fragrances, attract pollinators, and can thrive in various environments. January is a great month to establish an herb garden in Texas.
Parsley
Temperature Tolerance: Parsley can tolerate frost and grows well in temperatures from 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (21°C).
Planting Dates: Sow parsley seeds in southern Texas by mid-January, while northern gardeners should wait until later in the month.
Parsley thrives in rich, well-draining soil and requires regular watering. It can be harvested throughout its growing season, making it a valuable addition to your garden.
Chives
Temperature Tolerance: Chives can withstand temperatures down to 10°F (-12°C).
Planting Dates: January is a good time for planting chives both in southern and northern Texas.
Chives are a perennial herb with a mild onion flavor, perfect for various dishes. They prefer sunny locations and well-draining soil and can be harvested as needed.
Cilantro
Temperature Tolerance: Cilantro grows best in cooler conditions, thriving in temperatures from 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (21°C).
Planting Dates: You can sow cilantro seeds in southern Texas starting in mid-January, while northern areas can do so by the end of the month.
Cilantro prefers well-drained soil and can be harvested regularly for continued growth. It adds a unique flavor to salsas and various Latin dishes.
Thyme
Temperature Tolerance: Thyme is hardy and can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C).
Planting Dates: Plant thyme in southern Texas during January, while northern gardeners should wait until the end of the month.
This aromatic herb is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. Thyme enjoys well-drained soil and can thrive in sunny locations with minimal care.
Oregano
Temperature Tolerance: Oregano can tolerate light frost and prefers temperatures around 60°F (15°C) to 80°F (27°C).
Planting Dates: Late January is suitable for planting oregano in northern Texas, with southern regions able to plant earlier in the month.
Oregano is a resilient herb that enhances many dishes. Plant it in full sun, allowing it to spread and establish itself without excessive interference.
Mint
Temperature Tolerance: Mint can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C).
Planting Dates: In southern Texas, plant mint in January; northern gardeners should wait until the end of the month.
Mint is highly versatile and can thrive in various conditions. Plant it in well-drained soil, but be aware that it spreads quickly, so consider confinement in pots.
Sage
Temperature Tolerance: Sage can tolerate moderate frost and prefers 60°F (15°C) to 75°F (24°C) for optimal growth.
Planting Dates: Plant sage in southern Texas in January and consider late January for northern areas.
This perennial herb adds flavor to many dishes and enjoys sunny conditions with well-drained soil. Regular harvesting can promote bushier growth.
Basil (Start Indoors)
Temperature Tolerance: Basil should be grown in warmer conditions, ideally above 60°F (15°C).
Planting Dates: Start basil seeds indoors in southern Texas by mid-January, and transplant outdoors after the last frost.
Basil will thrive with adequate sunlight and warmth. It prefers rich, well-drained soil and should be watered regularly to promote healthy growth.
Dill
Temperature Tolerance: Dill can withstand light frost and thrives in cooler temperatures, preferring 60°F (15°C) to 70°F (21°C).
Planting Dates: Sow dill seeds in southern Texas in January; northern regions may want to wait until the end of the month.
Dill is a hardy herb suitable for various dishes. It needs well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. Harvest leaves and flowers to encourage bushier growth.
Fennel
Temperature Tolerance: Fennel can tolerate light frost and prefers temperatures around 60°F (15°C).
Planting Dates: Sow fennel seeds in southern Texas by mid-January, and by the end of January in northern areas.
Fennel adds a unique flavor to many recipes and enjoys sunny conditions. Plant it in fertile, well-drained soil to promote strong growth.
Landscape Plants To Plant In January
In addition to vegetables, flowers, and herbs, January is also a fantastic time to consider planting landscape plants in Texas. Select plants that thrive in the state’s varying climate and bring beauty to your garden or yard.
Live Oak (Quercus virginiana)
Temperature Tolerance: Live oaks can survive in a variety of temperatures, thriving in zones down to 15°F (-9°C).
Planting Dates: January is ideal for planting live oaks across most of Texas.
Live oaks are iconic trees in Texas, providing shade and habitat for wildlife. They prefer well-draining soil and can adapt to a range of landscape conditions. Space them generously to accommodate their large size.
Texas Sage (Leucophyllum frutescens)
Temperature Tolerance: Texas sage can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C).
Planting Dates: January is an excellent time to plant Texas sage throughout Texas.
This native shrub is tough and drought-resistant, making it perfect for low-maintenance landscapes. It produces beautiful purple flowers that attract pollinators. Plant in well-drained soil in full sun.
Red Yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora)
Temperature Tolerance: Red yucca can tolerate temperatures down to 0°F (-18°C).
Planting Dates: January is suitable for planting red yucca across most Texas climates.
This drought-tolerant plant adds a unique architectural element to gardens, with long flower spikes that attract hummingbirds. Plant in sandy, well-drained soil, allowing plenty of sunlight.
Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
Temperature Tolerance: Coneflower can survive in areas that experience frost, down to 20°F (-6°C).
Planting Dates: Plant coneflower seeds in southern Texas in January, while northern gardeners can wait until February.
This hardy perennial thrives in diverse conditions and blooms throughout summer, attracting pollinators. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun.
Lantana
Temperature Tolerance: Lantana can withstand temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C).
Planting Dates: January is a good time for planting lantana in southern Texas, while gardeners further north should consider late February.
Lantana is a drought-tolerant perennial that attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. It flourishes in well-drained soils and full sun, blooming from spring to frost.
Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
Temperature Tolerance: Black-eyed Susan can tolerate frost down to 30°F (-1°C).
Planting Dates: Plant black-eyed Susan seeds in southern Texas by mid-January and northern regions towards the end of the month.
These cheerful flowers bloom in summer and attract pollinators. They thrive in well-drained soil, growing best in areas with full sun.
Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)
Temperature Tolerance: Crepe myrtle can withstand temperatures down to 0°F (-18°C).
Planting Dates: January is a great month to plant crepe myrtle in southern Texas; northern gardeners should wait until April for planting.
This deciduous shrub or small tree provides stunning summer blooms and vibrant fall foliage. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, requiring little maintenance once established.
Plumbago (Plumbago auriculata)
Temperature Tolerance: Plumbago can tolerate down to 25°F (-4°C).
Planting Dates: January is an excellent time to plant plumbago in southern Texas.
This flowering shrub produces vibrant blue flowers and thrives in warm climates. It prefers full sunlight and well-drained soil, making it an ideal addition to gardens.
Ornamental Grasses (Muhlenbergia capillaris)
Temperature Tolerance: Muhly grass can survive down to 20°F (-6°C).
Planting Dates: Plant ornamental grasses in January across Texas.
This graceful grass is tolerant of drought and adds texture to gardens. It thrives in sunny locations and can be used in wildflower meadows or mixed borders.
Autumn Sage (Salvia greggii)
Temperature Tolerance: Autumn sage can survive in temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C).
Planting Dates: Plant autumn sage in January in southern Texas; in northern areas, consider planting in late February.
This drought-resistant perennial offers vibrant red, pink, or purple flowers that attract hummingbirds year-round. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun.
FAQ
What USDA zones are found in Texas?
Texas encompasses a broad range of USDA zones, from 6b in the northern regions to 9b in the southern parts, allowing for a diverse array of plants that can adapt to varying climates.
Can I start seeds indoors in January?
Yes, several vegetables and herbs can be started indoors in January, particularly those that need a longer growing season, such as tomatoes and peppers, which can be transplanted once the risk of frost has passed.
Should I cover my plants during cold spells in January?
If a frost is expected, you can cover sensitive plants with frost cloths or burlap sheets to protect them. Ensure to remove covers during the day to allow sunlight in when the frost has lifted.
What is the best way to prepare my garden soil for planting?
In January, amend your soil with organic matter such as compost, and test its pH if you’re preparing for a diverse garden of flowers, vegetables, and herbs. Tilling the soil can improve drainage and aeration.
What if I miss planting in January?
If you miss the January window, many seeds can still be planted in February. Each plant has specific timelines, but staying mindful of local frost dates and average temperatures can guide your planting schedule.
Conclusion
January in Texas can serve as a vibrant starting point for your garden ambitions. From a variety of vegetables that thrive in cooler temperatures to colorful flowers, aromatic herbs, and landscape plants, there’s an abundance of options available to you.
Understanding your particular region’s climate and soil conditions will ensure that your garden flourishes as the season progresses. Start planning, planting, and preparing for a bountiful year in your Texas garden!
