Orient, IL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June to-do list for Franklin County, Illinois
Here's what deserves your attention in Franklin County, Illinois this month. Everything below is tailored to Zone 7a and timed around your local frost dates.
-
Indoor seed-starting week for peppers, astilbe, and begonias
Your window is short. These crops want several weeks of indoor growth before they go outside.
-
Collect basil, carrots, and cucumber at their peak
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
To set up a strong July, finish these tasks
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Orient gardens in a wet, humid climate (47" annually). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive in spring and fall. The biggest challenges are fungal disease and humidity-loving pests in summer — leaf spot, blight, squash bugs, vine borers. Drip irrigation (not overhead), wide plant spacing for air circulation, and disease-resistant varieties make the difference.
Soils trend 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 (12.0 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 10
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 20
📅 Growing Season
193 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 47.4" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.1 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
12.0 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Orient
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 Orient, 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 47" annual rainfall is just the starting context.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.7 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.7 in | 9 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Apr | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| May | 4.4 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.7 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.6 in | 10 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 4.1 in | 8 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Sep | 2.9 in | 8 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.1 in | 7 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 37.4 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.
Orient Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.9-7.1
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 23 | Nov 2 | 193 days |
| Cautious | Apr 15 | Oct 28 | 196 days |
| Average year | Apr 10 | Oct 20 | 193 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 6 | Oct 13 | 190 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 29 | Oct 4 | 189 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±25 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit shorter (0.8 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Franklin County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Franklin 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 Franklin County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Franklin 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 Franklin County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Franklin County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Franklin 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 Franklin County IL" or "garden center Franklin 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 Franklin County IL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Franklin 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 Orient
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: A 14-hour day in June produces dramatically more photosynthesis than a 10-hour day in November. Orient's seasonal swing determines which crops can pack growth into spring vs. limp through fall.
Longest Day
14.6 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.6 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.6 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 6.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.6 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.4 hr | 9.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.9 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.4 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 Orient
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Soil temperature is a leading indicator. A black plastic mulch can warm soil 5-10°F faster than bare ground — meaningful in Orient'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
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
7 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 | 31°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 33°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 40°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 53°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 64°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 74°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 80°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 83°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 74°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 64°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 49°F | 55°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 39°F | 45°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 Orient
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: Pest pressure is a function of climate, not effort. Orient's baseline tells you how much vigilance is normal. A bad pest year in low-pressure region = a normal year in high-pressure region.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Orient
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: Cover crops are the experienced gardener's secret weapon. Orient's climate determines which species thrive: clover and vetch in mild winters, cereal rye and Austrian peas in cold ones.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 19 | Aug 11 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 23 | Aug 25 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 13 | Aug 11 | ✓ 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 6 | Sep 22 | — | 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 | Aug 22 | Mar 27 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 10 | Mar 20 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 7 | Mar 27 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 13 | Mar 27 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 5 | Mar 27 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 11 | Mar 27 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 15 | Mar 27 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Orient
Why it matters: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Orient averages 7.1 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: 11 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.1/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (211 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Orient
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Orient gets 47" of rain a year — a couple of well-placed rain barrels can cover most summer watering. In dry climates the math's even better: every captured gallon is one you don't buy.
Annual Collection
18,640 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
Apr, May, Jun, 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 37.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 18,640 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 Orient
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Orient.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Aug 28 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 9 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Aug 28 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Apr 24 – May 15 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | Aug 28 – Oct 30 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Dec 8 – Apr 20 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Aug 28 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 9 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Aug 28 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Sep 25 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Oct 9 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | Apr 24 – May 15 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Orient
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Orient.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Nov 13 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Dec 11 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Orient
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Orient.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | Jul 3 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 10 – Nov 27 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 21 – Nov 27 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Orient
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Orient.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 27 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 25 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Oct 13 – Nov 3 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Sep 8 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Aug 25 | Jun 12 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 30 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Aug 25 | May 29 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 25 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 30 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Aug 11 – Sep 1 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Aug 18 – Sep 8 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 30 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | — | May 8 – Aug 7 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 30 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Nov 13 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 23 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Sep 8 – Sep 29 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 16 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 13 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 16 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 6 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 16 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 6 | — | Mar 20 | — | May 15 – Aug 7 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 27 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 9 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 13 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 18 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 30 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 13 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 30 | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Aug 25 | Jun 19 – Sep 11 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 9 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Sep 8 | May 22 – Aug 14 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Mar 6 | — | Aug 25 | May 15 – Aug 7 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Sep 1 – Sep 22 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Orient
ZIP Codes in Orient
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 Franklin County.
Your Franklin County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Franklin County (Zone 7a). 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