Thursday, October 29, 2026
The Daily Dirt

Texas grows its own. Here is today's job.

What do I do today?
← May 28 Saturday, May 29, 2027 · Houston · avg. last frost Feb 15, first frost Dec 9 May 30 →
Plant now

Basil: 124 Days Left to Plant

Do this: Sow seed or set transplants 0.25" deep, 12" apart, rows 36" apart. Why: Plant today, first harvest around Jul 28.

Garden chores

Preserving the Glut Safely

Freeze the bean flood

Do this: Blanch snap beans for 3 minutes, cool, drain, and freeze with 1/2-inch headspace.

Preserving the Glut Safely

Squash goes in the freezer

Do this: Slice squash 1/2 inch thick, blanch 3 minutes, cool and freeze; do not can it.

Building Big-Harvest Soil in Texas

Mulch 4 inches deep

Do this: Spread compost, leaves or straw around plants until it settles to about 4 inches.