Saint Peter, 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 gardening checklist
June is a pivotal month for Fayette County, Illinois gardens. Focus on these tasks first and you'll set up the rest of the season for success.
-
Fire up the seed-starting tray: peppers, pole beans, and tomatoes
You're about 17 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
Bring in the basil, carrots, and cucumber
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
To set up a strong July, finish these tasks
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Saint Peter 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 (11.6 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6b (-5°F to 0°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 12
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 18
📅 Growing Season
189 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 46.6" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
11.6 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Saint Peter
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Saint Peter gets 47" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.9 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.5 in | 8 days | 1.8 in | High |
| Apr | 4.2 in | 10 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| May | 4.8 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 5.3 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.9 in | 10 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Aug | 4.4 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.9 in | 7 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Oct | 2.9 in | 8 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.7 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.2 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 40.5 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.
Saint Peter Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-7.2
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 1 | 192 days |
| Cautious | Apr 16 | Oct 28 | 195 days |
| Average year | Apr 12 | Oct 18 | 189 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 6 | Oct 13 | 190 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 26 | Oct 5 | 193 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±27 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 2.3 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Fayette County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Fayette 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 Fayette County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Fayette 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 Fayette County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Fayette County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Fayette 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 Fayette County IL" or "garden center Fayette 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 Fayette County IL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Fayette 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 Saint Peter
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: 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. Saint Peter's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 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 | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 6.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 7.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 8.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 9.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 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 Saint Peter
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Lettuce germinates at 35°F. Beans want 60°F. Tomatoes 65°F+. Soil temp, not air temp, is what plants feel. Saint Peter'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 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 | 32°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 33°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 38°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 52°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 63°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 74°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 79°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 83°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 77°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 62°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 48°F | 56°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 37°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 Saint Peter
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
For new gardeners: Pest pressure is a function of climate, not effort. Saint Peter'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 | Moderate | 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 Saint Peter
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 | Apr 15 | Aug 23 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 21 | Aug 16 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 17 | Aug 23 | ✓ 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 5 | Sep 20 | — | 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 24 | Mar 29 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 10 | Mar 22 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 25 | Mar 29 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 6 | Mar 22 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 18 | Mar 29 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 18 | Mar 29 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 14 | Mar 22 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Saint Peter
The practical takeaway: A 10 mph wind doesn't feel like much, but it triples leaf transpiration vs. still air. Saint Peter's 0.0 mph average means most days are gentle on plants, but consider how a 20+ mph spring gust would affect a flat of seedlings hardened off too quickly.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (127 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Saint Peter
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: Even in arid regions, rainwater harvesting works — you just need bigger storage and patience. In wet regions like Saint Peter (47" annually), you're mostly limited by how much water you can store between storms.
Annual Collection
20,185 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 40.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 20,185 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 Saint Peter
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Saint Peter.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 9 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 9 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 7 – Jul 26 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Apr 26 – May 17 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 9 | Aug 30 – Oct 11 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 9 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 1 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Dec 6 – Mar 21 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 30 – Nov 8 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 1 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 11 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 23 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jul 12 – Sep 27 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | May 17 – Jul 26 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 11 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Apr 19 – May 17 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 9 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 9 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 1 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 9 | Apr 26 – May 17 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 9 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 23 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 9 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 9 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Saint Peter
27 fruits matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Saint Peter.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 15 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 15 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Saint Peter
35 herbs matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Saint Peter.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 9 | Jul 5 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 9 | May 31 – Jul 19 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 9 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 9 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 9 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 9 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 9 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 9 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 9 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 9 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 9 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Aug 23 – Nov 1 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Saint Peter
53 flowers matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Saint Peter.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 7 – Sep 20 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Oct 4 – Nov 1 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 15 | — | Apr 12 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 12 | Sep 6 | Jun 14 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 12 | — | May 31 – Sep 6 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 25 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Jul 26 – Aug 16 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Aug 2 – Aug 23 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 15 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 10 – Aug 9 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 4 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 18 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Aug 23 – Sep 13 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 11 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 15 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 11 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 1 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 4 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 8 | — | Mar 29 | — | May 24 – Aug 16 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 1 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 7 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 4 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 1 | — | Apr 12 | Aug 23 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 15 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 20 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 7 – Sep 27 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 1 | — | Apr 12 | — | May 17 – Jun 14 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 25 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 1 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 4 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | — | May 24 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 1 | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Aug 23 – Sep 20 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Sep 27 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Saint Peter
ZIP Codes in Saint Peter
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 Fayette County.
Your Fayette County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Fayette County (Zone 6b). 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