Vandervoort, AR — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Vandervoort, AR gardeners: here's your June plan
Your Vandervoort, AR garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for June and why each task matters now.
-
Sow peppers, begonias, and eggplant in trays indoors
A seed-starting mix and a sunny window (or a grow light) are all you need. Keep soil warm — around 70°F — for fast germination.
-
It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
July will be here before you know it — start on
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Vandervoort gardens in a wet, humid climate (63" annually). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive in spring and fall. The biggest challenges are fungal disease and humidity-loving pests in summer — leaf spot, blight, squash bugs, vine borers. Drip irrigation (not overhead), wide plant spacing for air circulation, and disease-resistant varieties make the difference.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Vandervoort averages 20.3 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 2
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 3
📅 Growing Season
215 days
🌧️ Climate
Very Humid 63.1" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 4.1 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
20.3 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Vandervoort
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: The 1-inch-per-week rule applies to most vegetable crops. Vandervoort averages 63" a year — divide by 52 and compare to that 1" target. Some months are above, some below; that's where the calendar earns its keep.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 5 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.8 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4 in | 7 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| May | 4.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.8 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.6 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.7 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.6 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.1 in | 8 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 4.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 54.3 in. 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.
Vandervoort Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 15 | Nov 25 | 224 days |
| Cautious | Apr 8 | Nov 13 | 219 days |
| Average year | Apr 2 | Nov 3 | 215 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 21 | Oct 28 | 221 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 10 | Oct 18 | 222 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±36 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 1.9 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Polk County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Polk County
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 Polk County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Polk County University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Extension Extension Office
Phone: 501-671-2000
Visit Extension Office Website →
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 Polk County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Polk County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Polk County'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 Polk County AR" or "garden center Polk County" 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 Polk County AR" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Polk County Gardeners" or "Arkansas 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 in Vandervoort
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Plants use day length as their seasonal clock. Some crops flower when days lengthen (most flowers), some when days shorten (chrysanthemums, soybeans). Vandervoort's curve is the timing layer beneath everything you grow.
Longest Day
14.3 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.7 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.2 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: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.9 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 7.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.8 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.3 hr | 8 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.1 hr | 7.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.2 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.7 hr | 4.6 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Vandervoort
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Vandervoort's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
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 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 37°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 40°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 44°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 56°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 67°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 76°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 84°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 84°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 81°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 67°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 55°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 43°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Vandervoort
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: The most successful gardeners in high-pressure regions don't spray more — they design around the problem. Crop rotation, companion planting, and resistant varieties beat reactive spraying.
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 | High | 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 | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
- Watch for powdery mildew, downy mildew, blight — common in your climate
Cover Crops for Vandervoort
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: Bare soil is wasted soil — it loses nutrients to rain, dries out, compacts, and gets taken over by weeds. Cover crops (clovers, ryegrass, vetch, peas) are the "between seasons" trick that makes soil better every year. In Vandervoort, you can fit a cover crop into the gaps.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 8 | Aug 25 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 8 | Aug 25 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 8 | Sep 1 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 2 | Sep 8 | ✓ 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 | Apr 14 | Oct 13 | — | 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 | Aug 29 | Mar 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 31 | Mar 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 14 | Mar 19 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 22 | Mar 19 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 28 | Mar 19 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 30 | Mar 12 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 6 | Mar 12 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Vandervoort
What this means for you: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Vandervoort's 4.1 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 9 mph Summer: 6 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 9 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
2.6/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (209 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Vandervoort
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: Rainwater scales linearly with roof area. A 2,000 sq ft roof in Vandervoort captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 63" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.
Annual Collection
27,063 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Feb, Mar, Jun, Jul
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, Oct, 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 54.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 27,063 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Your area gets ample rainfall — even small barrels make a big difference
- Consider a rain garden to handle overflow during heavy rainfall months
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Vandervoort
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Vandervoort.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 1 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 25 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Jul 16 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Apr 16 – May 7 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 25 | Aug 20 – Oct 22 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 29 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Dec 22 – Jun 8 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Dec 17 – Dec 31 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 29 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 1 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 13 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jul 2 – Sep 17 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 1 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Apr 9 – May 7 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 25 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 25 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 29 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 25 | Apr 16 – May 7 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 25 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 25 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 13 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Dec 17 – Dec 31 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 25 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Vandervoort
27 fruits matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Vandervoort.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Nov 5 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Jan 7 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Vandervoort
39 herbs matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Vandervoort.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 25 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 25 | Jun 25 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 25 | May 21 – Jul 9 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 25 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 25 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 25 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 25 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 25 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 1 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jul 2 – Nov 19 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 25 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 13 – Nov 19 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Vandervoort
54 flowers matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Vandervoort.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 19 | Mar 26 | Mar 26 | — | May 21 – Oct 8 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Oct 27 – Nov 17 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 19 | Mar 19 | Sep 8 | May 21 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 22 | — | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 22 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 29 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 | — | May 21 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 19 | Mar 19 | Aug 25 | May 7 – Sep 17 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Nov 17 – Feb 23 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Mar 26 | — | May 28 – Oct 22 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | May 21 – Jun 18 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 29 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 5 | Mar 19 | Mar 19 | — | May 28 – Oct 15 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Sep 8 – Sep 29 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Sep 8 – Oct 6 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Nov 12 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | — | Apr 16 – Jul 2 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 29 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | May 21 – Jun 18 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Oct 20 – Nov 17 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 12 | Mar 26 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Nov 19 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 22 | — | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 22 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Nov 12 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 15 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Sep 29 – Oct 20 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 15 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 29 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 2 | — | May 21 – Jun 25 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 5 | — | Aug 25 | May 14 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 1 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 5 | — | Feb 26 | — | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | May 21 – Jun 18 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 19 | Mar 26 | Mar 26 | — | May 21 – Sep 24 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Mar 26 | — | May 21 – Oct 22 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 22 | — | Mar 19 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Jun 25 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 15 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Mar 26 | — | May 14 – Oct 8 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Sep 22 – Oct 27 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 29 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 5 | — | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 22 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 15 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 22 | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Sep 17 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 22 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Sep 8 | Apr 30 – Aug 20 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 1 | Nov 10 – Feb 2 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 22 | — | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 22 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 22 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Vandervoort
ZIP Codes in Vandervoort
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Polk County.
Your Polk County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Polk County (Zone 8a). 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