Viola, DE — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Top priorities for Viola, DE gardeners in June
Each item below is timed to Viola, DE's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
-
Fire up the seed-starting tray: peppers, astilbe, and begonias
Bottom-water once the first true leaves appear — it keeps stems dry and knocks back damping-off.
-
Basket week: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
July will be here before you know it — start on
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Viola gardens in a wet, humid climate (45" 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.
Drought pressure is moderate (12.2 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7b (5°F to 10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 2
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 4
📅 Growing Season
216 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 45.1" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 6.8 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
12.2 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Viola
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: In Viola, the watering question isn't "how often" — it's "is the soil moist 4 inches down?" Stick a finger in. Dry? Water. Damp? Wait. The 45" annual rainfall is just the starting context.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.9 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.5 in | 10 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 4 in | 11 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| May | 4.6 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 3.9 in | 10 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jul | 5.6 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.9 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.7 in | 9 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 4 in | 8 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Nov | 3.5 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.3 in | 10 days | — | None |
Annual total: 47.9 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.
Viola Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.8-6.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 2 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 18 | Nov 15 | 211 days |
| Cautious | Apr 10 | Nov 7 | 211 days |
| Average year | Apr 2 | Nov 4 | 216 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 28 | Oct 30 | 216 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 23 | Oct 19 | 210 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±26 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 3.5 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Kent County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Kent 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 Kent County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Kent County University of Delaware Cooperative Extension Extension Office
Phone: 302-831-2667
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 Kent County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Kent County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Kent 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 Kent County DE" or "garden center Kent 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 Kent County DE" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Kent County Gardeners" or "Delaware 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 Viola
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: The longest day at Viola's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.3 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 | 9.5 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 6.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 7 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.5 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 hr | 3.2 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Viola
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Soil temperature is a leading indicator. A black plastic mulch can warm soil 5-10°F faster than bare ground — meaningful in Viola's spring if you're trying to plant tomatoes earlier.
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 | 40°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 37°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 44°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 57°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 68°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 76°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 87°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 88°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 79°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 69°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 55°F | 60°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 Viola
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: Pest score isn't pass/fail. It's a planning input. Higher scores mean: more compost (resilient plants), wider spacing (air circulation), resistant varieties (built-in defense), and inspection (catch issues at egg stage).
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 | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Viola
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: 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 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 6 | Sep 2 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 6 | Sep 2 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 6 | Aug 26 | ✓ 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 21 | Oct 14 | — | 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 8 | Mar 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 29 | Mar 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 23 | Mar 19 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 21 | Mar 12 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 10 | Mar 12 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 27 | Mar 19 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 30 | Mar 12 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Viola
For new gardeners: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Viola's 6.8 mph average is one piece of the watering math: rainfall + irrigation must exceed evaporation + transpiration, and wind boosts both losses.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 16 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 17 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (242 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Viola
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: The first inch of rain washes the roof clean — a first-flush diverter sends it to waste before the barrel fills. Worth the extra $20 for cleaner garden water. Viola gets 45" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
23,873 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 500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, May, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Nov, 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 47.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 23,873 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Nov, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Viola
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Viola.
Show all 112 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 26 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 26 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | 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 26 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | 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 26 | 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 26 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | 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 26 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | 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 26 | 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 26 | Apr 16 – May 7 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 26 | Aug 20 – Oct 22 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 26 | 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 26 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 23 | Dec 23 – May 5 | 90–240 |
| 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 26 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | Jul 2 – Sep 17 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | 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 26 | 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 26 | Apr 9 – May 7 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | 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 26 | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 26 | 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 26 | 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 26 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 26 | Apr 16 – May 7 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 26 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 26 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | 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 26 | 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 26 | 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 26 | 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 26 | 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 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 26 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 26 | 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 Viola
31 fruits matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Viola.
Show all 31 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 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| 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 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| 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 – Dec 3 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Viola
36 herbs matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Viola.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 26 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 26 | 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 26 | May 21 – Jul 9 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 26 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 26 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 26 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 26 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 26 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 26 | 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 26 | 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 |
| 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 26 | 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 26 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| 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 Viola
53 flowers matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Viola.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 19 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Oct 1 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 30 | Oct 28 – Nov 18 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Sep 23 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Sep 9 | Jun 4 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 22 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 15 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 29 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 29 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jul 2 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Sep 9 | May 21 – Sep 17 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 5 | — | Sep 9 | May 14 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 15 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jul 2 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 29 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 29 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 8 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 30 | Aug 26 – Sep 16 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 30 | Sep 2 – Sep 23 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Nov 5 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | — | Apr 23 – Jul 16 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 29 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 29 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jul 2 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Nov 12 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 22 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 15 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 29 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 22 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 22 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 30 | Sep 23 – Oct 14 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 22 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 8 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 15 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jul 2 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 5 | — | Aug 26 | May 14 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 1 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 29 | — | Mar 5 | — | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jul 2 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 19 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Sep 17 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Oct 15 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 22 | — | Mar 26 | Aug 26 | May 21 – Aug 13 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 29 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Sep 10 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | May 21 – Oct 1 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Sep 30 – Oct 28 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 22 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 22 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 15 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 22 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Sep 9 | Jun 4 – Sep 10 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 15 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 2 | Sep 23 | May 14 – Aug 20 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Nov 18 – Feb 10 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 30 | Sep 16 – Oct 7 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 22 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 15 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 29 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 15 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Viola
ZIP Codes in Viola
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 Kent County.
Your Kent County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Kent County (Zone 7b). 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