Halifax, NS — Planting Guide
Halifax is in Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 10 and the first fall frost is October 27, giving you a growing season of approximately 200 days.
At an elevation of 50 m, Halifax receives approximately 1087 mm of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 29°C with winter lows around -1°C. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
🌡️ Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 10
🍂 First Frost
October 27
📅 Growing Season
200 days
⛰️ Elevation
50 m
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
1087 mm
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~25 mm/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 48 mm | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 46 mm | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 66 mm | 7 days | 43 mm | High |
| Apr | 107 mm | 10 days | 3 mm | Low |
| May | 124 mm | 12 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 140 mm | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 127 mm | 9 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 109 mm | 7 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 104 mm | 9 days | 5 mm | Low |
| Oct | 84 mm | 8 days | 25 mm | Moderate |
| Nov | 74 mm | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 58 mm | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 1087 mm. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Halifax Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Gardening Difficulty Score
Halifax is a very forgiving place to garden. Most plants thrive here with minimal effort.
Local Gardening Help in Halifax
Free expert help is closer than you think. Your county's cooperative extension office connects you with trained gardeners, soil testing labs, and local programs — all specific to Halifax's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Halifax Extension Office
Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.
Master Gardener Program
Free gardening help from trained volunteers
Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.
Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.
Soil Testing
Available through your extension office
Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.
Services Available in Halifax
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Halifax
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Halifax's soil and climate that big-box stores can't. Plants from local growers are typically hardier because they're already acclimated to your zone.
How to Find Them
Search for "nurseries near Halifax NS" or "garden center Halifax" on Google Maps. Also check with your extension office — they often maintain lists of reputable local nurseries and plant sales.
Community gardens & gardening groups
Community gardens are a great way to learn from experienced gardeners in your area, especially if you're limited on space. Search "community garden Halifax NS" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Halifax Gardeners" or "Nova Scotia Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
15.4 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.6 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.2 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.6 hr | 8.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.4 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.1 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.9 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.3 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.6 hr | 3.3 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 16°C+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 10cm Deep | Soil 20cm Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3°C | 7°C | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 3°C | 7°C | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 7°C | 8°C | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 14°C | 13°C | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 19°C | 18°C | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 26°C | 23°C | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 30°C | 26°C | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 30°C | 27°C | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 27°C | 27°C | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 20°C | 21°C | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 12°C | 16°C | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 6°C | 11°C | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 16°C+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Halifax
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Halifax
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 14 | Sep 1 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 19 | Aug 25 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 16 | Sep 1 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 16 | Sep 1 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | May 11 | Oct 6 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 4 | Mar 20 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 21 | Mar 20 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 11 | Mar 27 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 14 | Mar 27 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 18 | Mar 20 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 27 | Mar 20 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 4 | Mar 20 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 21 km/h Summer: 14 km/h
Fall: 16 km/h Winter: 21 km/h
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
6.7/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (26 m range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
80,738 L
Per 93 m² of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (208 L each)
For a typical 46 m² garden. Serious collectors: consider a 5,678 L tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 42.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 21,331 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Halifax
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Warms quickly and drains well. Add organic matter regularly to retain nutrients.
Watering Needs
Moderate rainfall (42.8 in.) — plan to water 1–2 times per week during the growing season.
Season Tips
200-day frost-free season
Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 24-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
Recommended for Your Garden
Retain moisture and nutrients in sandy soils with expanded vermiculite.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Halifax
113 vegetables that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Halifax.
Show all 113 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 24 | Aug 28 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 24 | Aug 28 – Oct 9 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Aug 28 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 – May 15 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 30 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 24 | Aug 28 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 3 – Oct 9 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Aug 28 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jul 10 – Sep 25 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 24 – Oct 9 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 27 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 27 | — | Apr 24 – May 15 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 1 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 27 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 24 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 27 | — | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Halifax
31 fruits that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Halifax.
Show all 31 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 1 | Jul 31 – Nov 13 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 1 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 1 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 1 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 1 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 1 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 1 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 1 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 1 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 1 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 1 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 1 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 1 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 1 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 1 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 1 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 1 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 1 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 1 | Jul 31 – Dec 11 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Halifax
39 herbs that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Halifax.
Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jul 3 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 17 | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 17 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 17 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 17 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 17 | Aug 21 – Nov 27 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 17 | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 17 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 17 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 17 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 17 | Jul 17 – Nov 27 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 17 | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 17 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 17 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 17 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 17 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 17 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 17 | Jul 10 – Nov 27 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 17 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 17 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 17 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 17 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 17 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 17 | Aug 21 – Nov 27 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 17 | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Halifax
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Halifax.
Your Halifax Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Halifax (Zone 7a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log