Sumner, 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 game plan for Sumner, IL
Welcome to June in Zone 6b. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
-
Fire up the seed-starting tray: basil, peppers, and pole beans
Give them 6–8 weeks indoors before the last frost and you'll transplant into warm soil with seedlings that are already leaping.
-
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.
Coming up in July — start thinking about
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Sumner gardens in a wet, humid climate (46" 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 (11.9 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 13
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 27
📅 Growing Season
197 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 45.7" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 8.4 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
11.9 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Sumner
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: In Sumner, 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 46" 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 | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.7 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.7 in | 8 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Apr | 3.3 in | 10 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| May | 4 in | 11 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.9 in | 9 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.2 in | 8 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.6 in | 8 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Nov | 2.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 35.5 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.
Sumner Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.8-7.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 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 27 | Nov 10 | 197 days |
| Cautious | Apr 18 | Oct 30 | 195 days |
| Average year | Apr 13 | Oct 27 | 197 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 7 | Oct 17 | 193 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 26 | Oct 8 | 196 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±32 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 4 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Lawrence County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Lawrence 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 Lawrence County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Lawrence 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 Lawrence County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Lawrence County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Lawrence 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 Lawrence County IL" or "garden center Lawrence 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 Lawrence County IL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Lawrence 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 Sumner
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: You can't change the sun. Picking the right day-length-matched varieties for Sumner matters more than any other "fix" you make — and the seed packet tells you (look for "long-day," "short-day," "day-neutral").
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.3 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.6 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 6.5 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 9 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 9.3 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 3.9 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 Sumner
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Soil heats slower than air in spring and cools slower in fall. That's why "warm" April air doesn't mean "plant tomatoes" — soil still trails by weeks. Sumner's monthly soil curve makes the lag visible.
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 | 30°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 34°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 41°F | 42°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 51°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 63°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 74°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 81°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 83°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 76°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 63°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 49°F | 56°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 36°F | 46°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 Sumner
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: In Sumner's climate, pest pressure shapes which crops are easy and which are heartbreak. Tomatoes are easy in dry mountain air, hard in humid coast — same plant, completely different gardening experience.
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 | Low | 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 Sumner
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: You don't need a farm to use cover crops. A 4x8 raised bed accepts cover crops just as well as a half-acre. Sumner's climate determines the calendar; the principle is universal.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 21 | Sep 1 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 19 | Aug 18 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 17 | Aug 25 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Apr 29 | Oct 13 | — | 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 19 | Mar 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 23 | Mar 30 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 7 | Mar 30 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 10 | Mar 23 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 18 | Mar 30 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 18 | Mar 23 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 28 | Mar 30 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Sumner
Quick context: Light wind is good (strengthens stems, aids pollination); strong wind is bad (snaps stems, dries leaves, scatters seeds). Sumner averages 8.4 mph. If you garden near coast, ridge, or open plains, you're likely above that — plan for it.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.3/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (149 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Sumner
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: Rainwater scales linearly with roof area. A 2,000 sq ft roof in Sumner captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 46" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.
Annual Collection
17,693 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 35.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 17,693 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 Sumner
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Sumner.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 18 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 18 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Apr 27 – May 18 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 18 | Aug 31 – Oct 12 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 18 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 2 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Dec 15 – Mar 30 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 2 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 12 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 24 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 12 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 18 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 18 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 2 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 18 | Apr 27 – May 18 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 18 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 18 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 24 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 18 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 18 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Sumner
27 fruits matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Sumner.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Sumner
35 herbs matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Sumner.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 18 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 18 | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 18 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 18 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 18 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 18 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 18 | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 18 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 18 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Sumner
53 flowers matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Sumner.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Sep 21 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Oct 13 – Nov 10 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 16 | — | Apr 13 | — | May 11 – Jun 8 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Sep 15 | Jun 15 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 1 – Sep 7 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 16 | — | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 26 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Aug 4 – Aug 25 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Aug 11 – Sep 1 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 16 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | — | May 11 – Aug 10 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Nov 2 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Sep 1 – Sep 22 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 12 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 16 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 12 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 16 | — | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 2 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 5 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 9 | — | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Aug 17 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 5 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | Sep 1 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 16 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 21 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | May 18 – Jun 15 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 26 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 9 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 7 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | — | May 25 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Sep 1 – Sep 29 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 28 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Sumner
ZIP Codes in Sumner
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 Lawrence County.
Your Lawrence County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lawrence 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