Dover, IL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June planting checklist for Dover, IL
Each item below is timed to Dover, IL's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
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Indoor seed-starting week for basil, pole beans, and thai basil
These need a head start before your last frost (April 22). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Pick carrots, green beans, and kale
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
July prep starts now
- Starting indoors: peppers, begonias, and eggplant
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Dover gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (36" annual rainfall, most of it October to April). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive almost year-round. The challenge is summer heat: long-season warm-weather crops (full-size tomatoes, peppers, melons) need every bit of summer sun, so prioritize short-season varieties, use dark mulches to warm the soil, and reserve your warmest microclimates (south-facing walls, near pavement) for the tender stuff.
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 (13.4 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
5b (-15°F to -10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 22
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 14
📅 Growing Season
175 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 35.7" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
13.4 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Dover
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 humid climates, watering is usually about timing (morning, not evening, to prevent disease) more than volume. In dry climates, it's about depth (water deep, less often) more than frequency. Dover's 36" annual tells you which side you're on.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.6 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.6 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.2 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.2 in | 10 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.4 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.7 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4 in | 10 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.3 in | 10 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2.8 in | 7 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.7 in | 7 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Nov | 2.6 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.7 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 34.8 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.
Dover Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.3-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 5 | Oct 28 | 176 days |
| Cautious | Apr 26 | Oct 21 | 178 days |
| Average year | Apr 22 | Oct 14 | 175 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 17 | Oct 10 | 176 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 6 | Oct 1 | 178 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±29 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Bureau County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Bureau 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 Bureau County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Bureau County University of Illinois Extension Extension Office
Phone: 217-333-7672
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 Bureau County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Bureau County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Bureau 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 Bureau County IL" or "garden center Bureau 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 Bureau County IL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Bureau County Gardeners" or "Illinois 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 Dover
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: Onions are a great example of why day length matters. They "bulb up" only when daylight hits a specific number of hours — plant the wrong variety (short-day in the north, long-day in the south) and you'll get tiny bulbs no matter how well you grow them. Dover's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.
Longest Day
15 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.7 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 | 9.3 hr | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 4.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 6.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.3 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 15 hr | 9.7 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.7 hr | 9.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.6 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Dover
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Lettuce germinates at 35°F. Beans want 60°F. Tomatoes 65°F+. Soil temp, not air temp, is what plants feel. Dover's monthly curve tells you when each crop actually has the conditions to take off.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 25°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 25°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 31°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 45°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 60°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 71°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 78°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 77°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 70°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 58°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 45°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 29°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Dover
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Dover sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
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 | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Slugs | Low | Apr, May, Jun |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Dover
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: 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 (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 3 | Aug 19 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 28 | Aug 12 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 26 | Aug 12 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | May 18 | Sep 23 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 14 | Apr 8 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Sep 1 | Apr 8 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 20 | Apr 1 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 15 | Apr 1 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 24 | Apr 1 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 14 | Apr 8 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Dover
The practical takeaway: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Dover averages 0.0 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: 8 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.8/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (293 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Dover
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Dover's 36" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
17,344 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 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 34.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 17,344 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Dover
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Dover.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 5 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 5 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | May 6 – May 27 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 5 | Sep 9 – Sep 23 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 5 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 11 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 2 | Dec 2 – Feb 17 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 6 | — | Sep 9 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 11 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 21 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 2 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jul 22 – Oct 7 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | May 27 – Aug 5 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Apr 29 – May 27 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 5 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 5 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 11 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 5 | May 6 – May 27 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 5 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 5 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 2 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 6 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 5 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Dover
27 fruits matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Dover.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 13 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 28 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 13 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 13 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 28 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Dover
34 herbs matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Dover.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 5 | Jul 15 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 5 | Jun 10 – Jul 29 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 5 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 5 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 5 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 5 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 5 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 5 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 5 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 19 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 5 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 5 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 14 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Dover
51 flowers matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Dover.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 23 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 2 | Oct 7 – Oct 28 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 25 | — | Apr 22 | — | May 27 – Jun 24 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 18 | — | May 6 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 11 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 30 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | May 6 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 28 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 18 | — | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 10 – Sep 9 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 18 | May 6 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 28 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 2 | Jul 15 – Aug 5 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 2 | Jul 22 – Aug 12 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 21 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 18 | — | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 18 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | — | May 27 – Aug 19 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 18 | May 6 | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 28 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 18 | May 6 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 28 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 11 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 30 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 21 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 11 | — | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 2 | Aug 12 – Sep 9 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 11 | — | May 6 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 14 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 25 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 7 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 25 | — | — | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 11 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 14 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 11 | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 26 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 18 | May 6 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 11 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 23 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Oct 7 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 11 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 25 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 18 | May 6 | May 6 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 14 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Sep 23 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 11 | — | May 6 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 28 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 18 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 18 | — | May 6 | — | Sep 2 – Nov 11 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 1 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 7 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 4 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 2 | Aug 5 – Aug 26 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 4 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 30 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 7 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Dover
ZIP Codes in Dover
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 Bureau County.
Your Bureau County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Bureau County (Zone 5b). 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