Lima, IL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Lima, IL gardeners: here's your June plan
Your garden in Lima, IL is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this June.
-
Fire up the seed-starting tray: basil, peppers, and pole beans
You're about 18 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
Collect basil, carrots, and cucumber at their peak
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Lima has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 6a). The last spring frost typically lands around April 14 and the first fall frost arrives around October 20 — a 189-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
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.
Lima averages 20.4 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
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 14
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 20
📅 Growing Season
189 days
🌧️ Climate
Unknown 0.0" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 9.1 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
20.4 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Lima
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. Lima's 0" annual tells you which side you're on.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.5 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3 in | 8 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| May | 4 in | 9 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.7 in | 9 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.5 in | 7 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3.1 in | 8 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.5 in | 8 days | 1.8 in | High |
| Nov | 2.3 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.6 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 33.1 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.
Lima Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 28 | Nov 1 | 187 days |
| Cautious | Apr 20 | Oct 27 | 190 days |
| Average year | Apr 14 | Oct 20 | 189 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 9 | Oct 12 | 186 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 4 | Oct 5 | 184 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±24 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 2.2 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Adams County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Adams 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 Adams County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Adams 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 Adams County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Adams County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Adams 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 Adams County IL" or "garden center Adams 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 Adams County IL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Adams 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 Lima
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: Plants use day length as their seasonal clock. Some crops flower when days lengthen (most flowers), some when days shorten (chrysanthemums, soybeans). Lima's curve is the timing layer beneath everything you grow.
Longest Day
14.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.2 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: 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 | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 8 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.8 hr | 9 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.6 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.7 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.2 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Lima
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Most root crops germinate well at 50-60°F. Most fruit-bearing crops want 65-75°F. Lima's monthly soil curve maps these windows to actual months.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun 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 | 23°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 21°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 30°F | 33°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 43°F | 42°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 58°F | 53°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 69°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 76°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 77°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 70°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 56°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 42°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 27°F | 38°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 Lima
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: The most successful gardeners in high-pressure regions don't spray more — they design around the problem. Crop rotation, companion planting, and resistant varieties beat reactive spraying.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 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 | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Lima
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
What this means for you: The "chop and drop" approach to cover crops: cut them down right before flowering, let them lay on the surface as mulch, plant your vegetables through the mulch. Less work, healthier soil.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 18 | Aug 11 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 18 | Aug 25 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 14 | Aug 18 | ✓ 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 7 | Sep 22 | — | 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 16 | Mar 31 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 24 | Mar 24 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 5 | Mar 31 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 20 | Mar 24 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 23 | Mar 31 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 23 | Mar 24 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Lima
Why this matters: Pollinators avoid windy days. Lima's 9.1 mph average wind isn't enough to stop bees and butterflies — but plant fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) in protected microclimates and you'll see noticeably better fruit set.
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: 9 mph Winter: 13 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
6.7/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (133 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Lima
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. Lima's 0" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
16,497 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 1,750 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 33.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 16,497 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 Lima
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Lima.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 11 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Apr 28 – May 19 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 11 | Sep 1 – Oct 13 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 11 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 3 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Dec 8 – Mar 23 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Sep 1 – Nov 10 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 3 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 13 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 15 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Aug 25 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jul 14 – Sep 29 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 13 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 13 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Apr 21 – May 19 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 11 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 3 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 11 | Apr 28 – May 19 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Aug 25 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 11 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 11 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Lima
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Lima.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Nov 17 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Nov 17 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Lima
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Lima.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 11 | Jul 7 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 11 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 11 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 11 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 11 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 11 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 11 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 11 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 11 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 11 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 11 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 11 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Lima
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Lima.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 9 – Sep 15 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Oct 6 – Nov 3 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 17 | — | Apr 14 | — | May 19 – Jun 16 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 14 | Sep 8 | Jun 16 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 3 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 29 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 20 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 2 – Sep 1 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 17 | — | — | May 26 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 10 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Jul 28 – Aug 18 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Aug 4 – Aug 25 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 20 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 20 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 17 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | — | May 19 – Aug 18 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 10 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Nov 3 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 3 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 29 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 13 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 3 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 20 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Aug 25 – Sep 15 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 3 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 17 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 17 | — | — | May 26 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 3 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 10 | — | Mar 31 | — | May 26 – Aug 18 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 3 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Sep 15 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 6 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 3 | — | Apr 14 | Aug 25 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 17 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 22 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 3 | — | Apr 14 | — | May 26 – Jun 23 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 3 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 6 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 24 | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | — | May 26 – Aug 4 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Aug 18 – Sep 15 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 3 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Lima
ZIP Codes in Lima
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 Adams County.
Your Adams County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Adams County (Zone 6a). 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