NEWS & PRESS

Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just dipping your toes (and tools) into the soil, Montgomery County’s subtropical climate has a lot to offer. With warm, sunny days and a little extra humidity, our local weather is perfect for growing a wide variety of fruits, veggies and herbs year-round. So, grab your gloves and your trowel and let’s get planting.

Where to plant what: finding the right spot

Not all plants need the same amount of sun or shade, so matching your plants to the perfect spot in your backyard is essential.

In Bright Light
Some plants just love the limelight. These ones can soak up the sun for most of the day, thriving under the Texas sun:

• Beans, cantaloupe, cauliflower, cucumbers, onions, peas, peppers, pumpkins, squash, and watermelon.

In Partial Shade
If your garden has some shaded nooks, don’t worry: these areas are perfect for cool-weather crops that appreciate a little shelter from the scorching sun.

• Beets, brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, collards, kale, parsley, radishes, spinach, and turnips.

Planning for success: what to plant and when

Now, let’s talk timing. Here’s a seasonal breakdown to keep your garden growing strong all year long:

Spring stunners

• Start with cole crops (like broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage) around mid-January. If the ground is workable, you can plant directly, otherwise, start them indoors in December.
• Peas, onions and potatoes can go into the ground in late December or as soon as the ground is thawed.
• Dreaming of juicy tomatoes, spicy peppers or eggplants? Start them indoors in late December, then transplant outside around late February.

Summer stars 

• When it’s time for the heat-loving veggies like beans, corn, cucumbers, squash, and melons, plant those directly in the garden around the end of February.

Fall favorites 

• The fall season is ideal for crops like garlic (planted in October), as well as cool-weather veggies like kale, collards, and Brussels sprouts. Start them indoors in July, and transplant them in September when the temps are a bit more forgiving.

Winter wonders 

• Believe it or not, winter is a mini-spring here! You can keep your garden going with hardy veggies like spinach, lettuce, and kale, which all love the cool, crisp air.

Tips for a Thriving Garden

1. Check Your Soil
   Great soil means happy plants. Try a blend of topsoil, sand and compost for a just-right balance. Adding mulch is helpful in cooler months to keep your plants snug and toasty.
2. Water Wisely
   While Texas can be hot, overwatering is the most common mistake. Stick to a drip system or water in the morning to keep plants hydrated without drowning them.
3. Cover Up on Cold Nights
   Keep a few blankets or garden covers handy for the occasional cold snap. A little extra protection can go a long way in saving your growing plants.

A garden keeps on giving 

Backyard gardening in Montgomery County, TX, isn’t just about the fresh fruits and veggies (although, yum). It’s a chance to connect with nature, enjoy some fresh air and even grow your own sustainable produce. Get the whole family involved in learning skills that will last a lifetime.

No green thumb? Not a problem at Two Step Farm

At Two Step Farm, we’re making gardening accessible for everyone through our community’s Showcase Garden (planned to open in fall 2025). This garden, with approximately 18 raised beds, will be open year-round and managed by a dedicated farm team. Here’s what makes it special:

• Seasonal variety: The Showcase Garden will feature a rotating selection of vegetables, herbs and flowers with new plantings each month.
• Volunteer days: Want to get your hands dirty? Look forward to joining us for volunteer days to help with planting, harvesting or even lending a hand with the Two Step Farm goats.
• Workshops and educational events: Whether you’re a kid, a beginning gardener or a seasoned pro, there will be events dedicated to asking questions, sharing gardening tips — even sampling some of the garden’s harvest.

 

Ready to dig deeper? 

Two Step Farm will be a nature-minded, musically inclined, one-of-a-kind community with a diverse mix of homes and a fresh approach on amenities. Learn more about how the community is growing and how, soon, you and your family can grow right along with it. New homes in Montgomery County, TX, coming spring 2025.