Kit Carson, CA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June in Kit Carson, CA — your action list
Your Kit Carson, CA garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for June and why each task matters now.
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Collect basil, cucumber, and green beans at their peak
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
Before July arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Kit Carson gardens in a wet, humid climate (47" 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 Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Kit Carson averages 28.5 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
9b (25°F to 30°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 8
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 25
📅 Growing Season
262 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 47.1" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 5.3 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
28.5 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Kit Carson
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: Watering math is simple: 1 inch of rainfall delivers ~600 gallons to a 1,000 sq ft garden. Kit Carson's 47" annual rainfall covers some months entirely; others need a few hours of drip irrigation per week. The calendar tells you which is which.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 9.4 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 8 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 6 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.5 in | 4 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| May | 1 in | 1 days | 3.3 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.2 in | 1 days | 4.1 in | Critical |
| Jul | 0 in | 0 days | 4.3 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0 in | 0 days | 4.3 in | Critical |
| Sep | 0.5 in | 1 days | 3.8 in | Critical |
| Oct | 1.9 in | 2 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Nov | 4.3 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Dec | 7.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 42.6 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.
Kit Carson Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-7.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 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 19 | Dec 19 | 244 days |
| Cautious | Apr 8 | Dec 7 | 243 days |
| Average year | Mar 8 | Nov 25 | 262 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 5 | Nov 9 | 277 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 6 | Oct 28 | 295 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±104 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 shorter here (about 17.2 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Amador County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Amador 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 Amador County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Amador County University of California Cooperative Extension Extension Office
Phone: 530-750-1200
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 Amador County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Amador County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Amador 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 Amador County CA" or "garden center Amador 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 Amador County CA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Amador County Gardeners" or "California 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 Kit Carson
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: Day length is the trigger that tells lettuce, spinach, and cilantro to bolt. In Kit Carson, knowing when that day-length threshold arrives helps you plant a final round in time to harvest before it bolts.
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
13.4 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 | 9.6 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 9.2 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 10.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 12.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.4 hr | 13.4 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 11.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 9.9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 8 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.9 hr | 6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Kit Carson
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Air temperature lies. Your air can be 70°F in April but the soil 4 inches down is still 50°F — too cold for tomatoes or peppers to root properly. Kit Carson's soil temperature curve tells you the real planting window. A $5 soil thermometer pays for itself in one season.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.
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 | 44°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 43°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 49°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 61°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 69°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 80°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 89°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 89°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 84°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 73°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 60°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 49°F | 55°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 Kit Carson
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
For new gardeners: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Kit Carson's pest score is your early-warning system: high score means commit to disease-resistant varieties and accept some crop loss to bugs.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
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, Nov |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | High | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Low | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
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 Kit Carson
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
What this means for you: The "chop and drop" approach to cover crops: cut them down right before flowering, let them lay on the surface as mulch, plant your vegetables through the mulch. Less work, healthier soil.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 15 | Sep 16 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 19 | Sep 30 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 19 | Sep 16 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 10 | Sep 23 | ✓ 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 | Mar 21 | Oct 28 | — | 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 22 | Feb 15 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 2 | Feb 15 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 17 | Feb 22 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 2 | Feb 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 14 | Feb 22 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Sep 3 | Feb 15 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Sep 1 | Feb 15 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Kit Carson
What this means for you: Wind affects three things gardeners forget: how fast soil dries (more wind = more watering), whether pollinators can work (calm beats gusty), and whether your trellised crops stay upright. Kit Carson sees 5.3 mph on average — a forgiving baseline.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 7 mph Winter: 8 mph
Prevailing wind: W. 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
Moderate
Some terrain variation (519 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Kit Carson
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: Even in arid regions, rainwater harvesting works — you just need bigger storage and patience. In wet regions like Kit Carson (47" annually), you're mostly limited by how much water you can store between storms.
Annual Collection
21,231 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 2,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, Feb, Mar, Dec
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
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 42.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 21,231 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jun, Jul, Aug)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Kit Carson
114 vegetables matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Kit Carson.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 30 | Apr 12 – May 10 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 10 – Jun 21 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 10 – Jul 5 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 30 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 10 – Jun 21 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 3 – Jun 21 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 10 – Jun 21 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 3 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 17 – Jul 12 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 17 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Mar 22 – Apr 12 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 3 – May 31 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 30 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 30 | Apr 12 – May 10 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 31 – Jul 12 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 3 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 14 | Jan 13 – Jun 30 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Nov 15 – Jan 10 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Aug 30 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Apr 26 – May 24 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 3 – Jun 28 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Apr 12 – May 17 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Jun 7 – Aug 23 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Apr 12 – Jun 21 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 17 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 30 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 12 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Mar 15 – Apr 12 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 30 | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Apr 12 – May 10 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Jun 7 – Jul 26 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Apr 19 – May 17 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 30 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 3 – May 31 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 3 – Jun 28 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Aug 2 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 30 | Mar 15 – Apr 5 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 30 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 30 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 3 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jun 21 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Jun 7 – Jul 26 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | May 3 – Jun 28 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 3 – Jul 5 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 17 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Apr 12 – May 17 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Nov 15 – Jan 10 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 15 | — | Sep 30 | Mar 29 – May 3 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 30 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 12 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | Sep 13 – Jan 10 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 25 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jun 21 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | — | May 3 – Jun 28 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Kit Carson
24 fruits matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Kit Carson.
Show all 24 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 4 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Jul 5 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jun 21 – Jan 17 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Kit Carson
37 herbs matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Kit Carson.
Show all 37 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 30 | May 31 – Aug 16 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jul 12 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 30 | Apr 26 – Jun 14 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 30 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 19 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 30 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 30 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 30 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 30 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 30 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 3 – Jun 28 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 30 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 5 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 31 – Aug 30 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 30 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 15 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 25 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Sep 30 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jul 12 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 15 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 25 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Kit Carson
42 flowers matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Kit Carson.
Show all 42 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Jan 25 | Feb 15 | Feb 15 | — | Apr 12 – Oct 11 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Nov 4 | Dec 2 – Dec 23 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Oct 14 | Oct 14 – Nov 11 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Sep 16 | Mar 29 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Dec 28 | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 – Nov 1 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 11 | Feb 15 | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Sep 20 | 60–80 |
| Calendula | — | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Sep 2 | Mar 15 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Oct 28 – Mar 3 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Feb 15 | — | Apr 19 – Nov 8 | 60–90 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 11 | Feb 15 | Feb 22 | — | Apr 19 – Sep 20 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 8 | Feb 1 | Feb 1 | — | Apr 12 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 28 | Oct 14 – Nov 4 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | — | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Nov 29 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 11 | — | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Nov 1 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 11 | Jan 4 | Jan 4 | — | Feb 22 – Apr 19 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Sep 20 | 70–90 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 14 | Oct 21 – Nov 25 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Jan 25 | Feb 15 | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 – Oct 25 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Dec 28 | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Nov 29 | 70–100 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Nov 4 | Nov 4 – Nov 25 | 14–28 |
| Impatiens | Jan 11 | — | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 – Oct 25 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Feb 15 | — | Apr 5 – May 10 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Sep 23 | Dec 2 – Mar 10 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 11 | — | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 – Jul 19 | 90–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 11 | — | Jan 4 | — | Mar 1 – Mar 29 | 70–80 |
| Marigolds | Feb 1 | Feb 15 | Feb 15 | — | Apr 12 – Oct 4 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 8 | Feb 8 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 – Oct 18 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Dec 28 | — | Feb 1 | Sep 2 | Mar 22 – Jun 7 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Jan 11 | — | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Portulaca | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Feb 15 | — | Apr 5 – Oct 25 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Oct 14 | Oct 21 – Nov 18 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 11 | — | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 – Oct 25 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 11 | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 – Oct 18 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 11 | — | Feb 15 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Sep 2 | Apr 5 – Aug 16 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Feb 15 | Feb 8 | Feb 8 | — | May 3 – Oct 18 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Jan 4 | Feb 1 | Sep 16 | Mar 8 – Jun 7 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 16 | Nov 25 – Jan 6 | 65–85 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Dec 28 | — | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 – Nov 1 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 11 | Feb 15 | Feb 22 | — | Apr 19 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 8 | Feb 8 | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 – Oct 18 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Kit Carson
ZIP Codes in Kit Carson
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 Amador County.
Your Amador County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Amador County (Zone 9b). 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