Pacifica, CA — Planting Guide for June
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June in the garden — Pacifica, CA
A quick June briefing for Pacifica, CA gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
-
It's harvest week for peppers, tomatoes, and ageratum
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
To set up a strong July, finish these tasks
- First harvests: ageratum, alpine strawberries, and artichoke
Pacifica gardens in a long-season climate (Zone 10a, 329 frost-free days). Spring arrives early and fall lingers, so most of the work is matching the right crop to the right window — heat-lovers go in the ground as soon as the soil warms, and cool-season crops shift to fall and even winter rather than spring. Succession planting is your friend; you can plant the same crop three or four times in a season.
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.
Pacifica averages 24.5 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
10a (30°F to 35°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
January 18
🍂 Avg. First Frost
December 12
📅 Growing Season
329 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 21.0" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 9.3 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 16% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
24.5 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Pacifica
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Pacifica gets 21" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Feb | 3.4 in | 9 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 2.7 in | 8 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Apr | 1.2 in | 5 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| May | 0.4 in | 1 days | 3.9 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.1 in | 1 days | 4.2 in | Critical |
| Jul | 0 in | 0 days | 4.3 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0 in | 0 days | 4.3 in | Critical |
| Sep | 0.2 in | 1 days | 4.1 in | Critical |
| Oct | 0.7 in | 3 days | 3.6 in | Critical |
| Nov | 1.4 in | 6 days | 2.9 in | High |
| Dec | 2.9 in | 9 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
Annual total: 16.9 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.
Pacifica Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 13 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) | Mar 24 | Dec 24 | 275 days |
| Cautious | Feb 17 | Dec 19 | 305 days |
| Average year | Jan 18 | Dec 12 | 328 days |
| Optimistic | Jan 14 | Dec 5 | 325 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 5 | Nov 22 | 321 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±79 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 25.7 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
San Mateo County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in San Mateo 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 San Mateo County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
San Mateo 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 San Mateo County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in San Mateo County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to San Mateo 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 San Mateo County CA" or "garden center San Mateo 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 San Mateo County CA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "San Mateo 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 Pacifica
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: You can't change the sun. Picking the right day-length-matched varieties for Pacifica matters more than any other "fix" you make — and the seed packet tells you (look for "long-day," "short-day," "day-neutral").
Longest Day
14.6 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
12.9 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 | 9.7 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 11.3 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.6 hr | 12.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.3 hr | 12.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 12.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 10.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 8.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.9 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.4 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Pacifica
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Pacifica's soil temperature curve also tells you when your compost is working and when it's napping.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Mar through Dec.
Best Month to Compost
Apr
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
12 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 59°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 58°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 64°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 69°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 78°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 85°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 92°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 95°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 91°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 82°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 69°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 61°F | 68°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Pacifica
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Pest and disease pressure is the X-factor most beginners under-plan for. Pacifica's climate determines whether you can mostly "plant and see" or whether you need a pest-management routine from the first seedling.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec |
| Whiteflies | High | Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec |
| Spider mites | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Thrips | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Scale insects | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Nematodes | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
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
Cover Crops for Pacifica
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: In Pacifica, cover crops also crowd out weeds. The denser the cover, the less weed pressure next season. Pays for itself in saved weeding time.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Jan 23 | Oct 3 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Jan 24 | Oct 17 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Jan 29 | Oct 10 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Dec 22 | Oct 17 | ✓ 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 | Feb 10 | Nov 28 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (1 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crimson clover | Oct 16 | Dec 28 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
Wind & Microclimate in Pacifica
Why this matters: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Pacifica averages 9.3 mph — fine for most days. But every region has its windy days, and the first time a row of unstaked peppers leans over after a storm is a lesson you only need once.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 13 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 7 mph Winter: 9 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.1/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (642 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Pacifica
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: Most gardens use 0.5-1 gallon per square foot per week in summer. Pacifica's 21" annual rainfall is enough to cover most needs if you can capture it. Rain barrels under downspouts are the simplest entry point.
Annual Collection
8,422 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
8 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
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
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 16.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 8,422 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- In your dry climate, every drop counts — consider a larger cistern system
- Position collection tanks in shade to reduce evaporation and algae growth
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Pacifica
105 vegetables matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Pacifica.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Dec 21 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 19 – May 24 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 26 – Jun 14 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Feb 1 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Feb 22 – Apr 26 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Feb 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Dec 28 | — | Oct 17 | Feb 22 – Mar 22 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | May 10 – Jul 5 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 29 – May 10 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Jan 25 | — | — | Apr 26 – Jun 14 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 1 – Apr 5 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 22 – May 3 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 1 – Apr 5 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Dec 21 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 26 – May 31 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 22 – May 17 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Feb 1 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Dec 28 | — | Oct 17 | Mar 1 – Apr 5 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 15 – May 17 | 55–100 |
| Celery | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Apr 12 – Jun 7 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 22 – May 3 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 15 – May 3 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Apr 12 – May 24 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 22 – May 3 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 15 – Apr 12 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 19 – May 24 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 15 – May 17 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jan 25 | — | — | Mar 29 – May 24 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Jan 25 | — | — | Mar 29 – May 10 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Feb 1 – Feb 22 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Dec 21 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 15 – Apr 12 | 45–60 |
| Cucumber | Dec 21 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 – May 17 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Dec 28 | — | Oct 17 | Feb 22 – Mar 22 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Dec 21 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 19 – May 24 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jan 25 | — | — | Apr 12 – May 24 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 5 – Jun 7 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 8 – Apr 12 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 15 – Apr 12 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Apr 5 – May 17 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 29 – May 10 | 60–90 |
| Ginger | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Sep 27 – Dec 6 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Jan 25 | — | — | Mar 22 – May 17 | 50–65 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 5 – Jul 12 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Dec 21 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | May 10 – Jun 14 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Dec 21 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 26 – May 24 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 8 – Apr 5 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 15 – May 10 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jan 25 | — | — | Apr 26 – May 31 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 8 – Apr 12 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Feb 22 – Mar 29 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Apr 19 – Jul 5 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Apr 12 – May 24 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Feb 22 – May 3 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jan 25 | — | — | Mar 29 – May 10 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | May 10 – Jul 12 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 26 – Jul 12 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 1 – Apr 5 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 – Apr 19 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Dec 21 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 5 – May 24 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Jan 25 – Feb 22 | 7–21 |
| Mizuna | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Feb 22 – Mar 22 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Feb 22 – Apr 26 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 15 – Apr 19 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 – Apr 19 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 – May 17 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Apr 19 – Jun 7 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 1 – Mar 29 | 40–55 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Dec 21 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 15 – Apr 12 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 15 – May 10 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 29 – Jun 7 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 – May 17 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 5 – Jun 14 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Dec 21 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 26 – Jun 14 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 1 – Apr 5 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 22 – Apr 26 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Dec 28 | — | Oct 17 | Jan 25 – Feb 15 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Apr 5 – May 17 | 75–100 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 29 – May 24 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 15 – Apr 12 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 29 – May 3 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Apr 19 – Jun 7 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Dec 7 | Jan 25 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 – May 17 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 – May 17 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 15 – May 10 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jan 25 | — | — | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Dec 21 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 26 – May 24 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Feb 22 – Apr 26 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Dec 21 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 15 – May 17 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Dec 21 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 19 – Jun 14 | 80–120 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jan 25 | — | — | Mar 29 – May 10 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 26 – Jun 14 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Feb 22 – Mar 29 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 29 – Jun 7 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 29 – Jun 7 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Sep 27 – Dec 6 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Dec 28 | — | Oct 17 | Feb 8 – Mar 15 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 18 | Oct 17 | Mar 1 – Apr 5 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Dec 21 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 5 – May 24 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jan 25 | — | — | Mar 22 – May 17 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 26 – Jun 14 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Jul 26 – Jan 10 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Dec 7 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 – May 3 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Dec 21 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 15 – May 10 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Pacifica
16 fruits matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Pacifica.
Show all 16 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Feb 1 | — | May 3 – Aug 16 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Feb 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Feb 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 12 – May 17 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Feb 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Feb 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Figs | — | — | Feb 1 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Feb 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Feb 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 7 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Feb 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Feb 1 | — | Apr 26 – Jun 7 | 80–110 |
| Loquat | — | — | Feb 1 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Feb 1 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Feb 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Feb 1 | — | May 3 – Jan 31 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Pacifica
23 herbs matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Pacifica.
Show all 23 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 11 | Oct 17 | Apr 12 – Jun 28 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Dec 7 | Jan 25 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 – May 24 | 50–75 |
| Borage | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 11 | Oct 17 | Mar 8 – Apr 26 | 50–60 |
| Chervil | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 11 | Oct 17 | Feb 22 – Apr 26 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Jan 25 | — | Mar 29 – Jun 7 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 11 | Oct 17 | Feb 22 – Apr 26 | 40–60 |
| Cumin | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 11 | Oct 17 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 11 | Oct 17 | Feb 22 – Apr 26 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Dec 7 | Jan 25 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 15 – May 10 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 11 | Oct 17 | Mar 15 – May 24 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Jan 25 | — | Mar 29 – Jun 7 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Jan 25 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 7 | 75–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Dec 7 | Jan 25 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 29 – Jun 7 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Dec 7 | Jan 25 | Jan 25 | — | Apr 12 – Jul 12 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Jan 25 | — | Mar 29 – Jun 7 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Jan 25 | — | Mar 29 – Jun 7 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Jan 25 | — | Mar 29 – Jun 7 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Dec 21 | Dec 28 | Jan 11 | Oct 17 | Mar 15 – May 17 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Jan 25 | — | Apr 19 – Sep 6 | 80–180 |
| Sage | — | — | Jan 25 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 7 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 – May 17 | 50–70 |
| Stevia | Dec 7 | Jan 25 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 29 – Jun 7 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Dec 7 | Jan 25 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 – May 24 | 50–75 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Pacifica
31 flowers matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Pacifica.
Show all 31 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Dec 7 | Dec 14 | Dec 14 | — | Feb 8 – Aug 23 | 60–75 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Oct 31 | Oct 31 – Nov 28 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Nov 9 | Dec 7 | Sep 19 | Feb 1 – May 10 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Nov 9 | — | Dec 7 | — | Feb 15 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Calendula | — | Nov 9 | Dec 7 | Sep 5 | Jan 18 – Apr 26 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Nov 14 – Mar 6 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Dec 21 | Dec 14 | Dec 14 | — | Feb 15 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Cosmos | Dec 21 | Dec 7 | Dec 7 | — | Feb 15 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Dahlias | — | Jan 18 | Jan 18 | — | Mar 29 – Oct 25 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Dec 7 | — | Dec 21 | — | Mar 1 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Nov 23 | Nov 9 | Nov 9 | — | Dec 28 – Feb 15 | 60–80 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 31 | Oct 31 – Dec 5 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Dec 14 | Dec 21 | Dec 21 | — | Mar 1 – Aug 30 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Nov 9 | — | Dec 7 | — | Feb 15 – Sep 13 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Jan 18 | Jan 18 | — | Mar 29 – Oct 25 | 70–100 |
| Impatiens | Nov 23 | — | Dec 14 | — | Feb 22 – Sep 6 | 60–75 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Dec 26 – Mar 6 | 60–90 |
| Marigolds | Dec 14 | Dec 14 | Dec 14 | — | Feb 8 – Aug 16 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Dec 21 | Dec 7 | Dec 7 | — | Feb 1 – Aug 30 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | — | Division | Dec 7 | Sep 5 | Jan 18 – Mar 29 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Nov 23 | — | Dec 21 | — | Mar 1 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Portulaca | Dec 21 | Dec 14 | Dec 14 | — | Feb 1 – Sep 6 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Oct 31 | Oct 31 – Nov 28 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Nov 23 | — | Dec 21 | — | Mar 1 – Sep 13 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Nov 23 | — | Dec 7 | — | Feb 15 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Dec 7 | — | Dec 21 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 7 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Nov 9 | Dec 7 | Sep 5 | Feb 8 – Jul 5 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Dec 28 | Dec 7 | Dec 7 | — | Mar 1 – Aug 30 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Nov 9 | Dec 7 | Sep 19 | Jan 4 – Mar 29 | 45–60 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Nov 9 | — | Dec 7 | — | Feb 15 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Zinnia | Dec 21 | Dec 7 | Dec 7 | — | Feb 15 – Aug 30 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Pacifica
ZIP Codes in Pacifica
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 San Mateo County.
Your San Mateo County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for San Mateo County (Zone 10a). 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