Compton, MD — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
What to do in June
Each item below is timed to Compton, MD's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
-
Time to start peppers, begonias, and eggplant inside
These need a head start before your last frost (April 5). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Basket week: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Compton 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.
🌡️ USDA Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 5
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 4
📅 Growing Season
213 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 45.6" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 8.4 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
0.0 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Compton
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: Watering by the calendar wastes water. Watering by the soil moisture (or by a free rain gauge) cuts your water use 30%+ and produces healthier roots. Compton's 46" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.1 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.6 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.3 in | 12 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 3.3 in | 11 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.9 in | 11 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4 in | 8 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Aug | 4.3 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.6 in | 8 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.7 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.9 in | 11 days | — | None |
Annual total: 41.4 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.
Compton Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.9
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 26 | Dec 8 | 226 days |
| Cautious | Apr 15 | Nov 16 | 215 days |
| Average year | Apr 5 | Nov 4 | 213 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 28 | Oct 30 | 216 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 22 | Oct 19 | 211 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±35 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 longer here (about 2.1 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
St. Mary's County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in St. Mary's 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 St. Mary's County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
St. Mary's County University of Maryland Extension Extension Office
Phone: 301-405-2072
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 St. Mary's County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in St. Mary's County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to St. Mary's 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 St. Mary's County MD" or "garden center St. Mary's 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 St. Mary's County MD" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "St. Mary's County Gardeners" or "Maryland 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 Compton
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: 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. Compton's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.
Longest Day
14.6 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.4 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 | 10.6 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 6.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 7.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.6 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.4 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.9 hr | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.4 hr | 3.2 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Compton
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Lettuce germinates at 35°F. Beans want 60°F. Tomatoes 65°F+. Soil temp, not air temp, is what plants feel. Compton'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
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 38°F | 46°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 38°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 45°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 56°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 68°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 79°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 85°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 89°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 81°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 69°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 54°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 43°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Compton
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Pest and disease pressure is the X-factor most beginners under-plan for. Compton's climate determines whether you can mostly "plant and see" or whether you need a pest-management routine from the first seedling.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Compton
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: Cover crops protect microbial life through winter and summer. Bare soil bakes; covered soil stays cooler, moister, and biologically active. The difference shows up in next year's crops.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 9 | Aug 26 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 15 | Sep 2 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 14 | Sep 9 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 6 | Sep 2 | ✓ 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 22 | Oct 14 | — | 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 | Sep 10 | Mar 15 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 27 | Mar 15 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 25 | Mar 22 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 22 | Mar 22 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 29 | Mar 22 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 31 | Mar 15 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 29 | Mar 22 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Compton
Why this matters: A 10 mph wind doesn't feel like much, but it triples leaf transpiration vs. still air. Compton's 8.4 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: 15 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.9/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (394 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Compton
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: Most gardens use 0.5-1 gallon per square foot per week in summer. Compton's 46" annual rainfall is enough to cover most needs if you can capture it. Rain barrels under downspouts are the simplest entry point.
Annual Collection
20,633 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 1,000 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
Feb, Nov, 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 41.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 20,633 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Nov, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Compton
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Compton.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Aug 23 – Nov 1 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 10 – Jul 12 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 22 | — | Aug 26 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 12 | — | — | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 4 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 22 | — | Aug 26 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 31 – Jul 19 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Aug 23 – Nov 1 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 12 | — | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 12 | — | — | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Apr 19 – May 10 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 22 | — | Aug 26 | Aug 23 – Oct 25 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 22 | — | Aug 26 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 12 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 1 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 23 | Dec 23 – Jun 9 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Dec 20 – Jan 3 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 12 | — | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Aug 23 – Nov 1 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 1 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 4 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Aug 23 – Nov 1 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 16 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 12 | — | — | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Jul 5 – Sep 20 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 10 – Jul 19 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 12 | — | — | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 4 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Apr 12 – May 10 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Aug 26 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 10 – Jun 7 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 10 – Jul 12 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 22 | — | Aug 26 | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 1 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 22 | — | Aug 26 | Apr 19 – May 10 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 22 | — | Aug 26 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 22 | — | Aug 26 | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 12 | — | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 16 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 10 – Jul 12 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 12 | — | — | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Dec 20 – Jan 3 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 22 | — | Aug 26 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | Aug 26 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 12 | — | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Compton
27 fruits matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Compton.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 8 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Jan 10 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Compton
39 herbs matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Compton.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Aug 26 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Aug 26 | Jun 28 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Aug 26 | May 24 – Jul 12 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Aug 26 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Aug 26 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Aug 26 | May 10 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Aug 26 | May 10 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Aug 26 | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Aug 26 | May 10 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Aug 26 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 4 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Aug 26 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jul 5 – Nov 22 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Aug 26 | May 10 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 22 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Compton
54 flowers matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Compton.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Mar 29 | — | May 24 – Oct 11 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 30 | Oct 28 – Nov 18 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Sep 23 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 22 | Mar 22 | Sep 9 | May 24 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 25 | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 25 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Nov 1 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jun 21 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 22 | Mar 22 | Aug 26 | May 10 – Sep 20 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Nov 18 – Feb 24 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jun 21 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Nov 1 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Oct 18 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 7 | Sep 9 – Sep 30 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 30 | Sep 9 – Oct 7 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Nov 15 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Nov 1 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 8 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | — | Apr 19 – Jul 5 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Nov 1 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jun 21 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 23 | Oct 21 – Nov 18 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 15 | Mar 29 | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Nov 22 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 25 | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 25 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 5 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Nov 15 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Oct 18 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 7 | Sep 30 – Oct 21 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Oct 18 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Nov 1 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jun 28 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 8 | — | Aug 26 | May 17 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 1 | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Oct 4 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 8 | — | Mar 1 | — | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jun 21 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Mar 29 | — | May 24 – Sep 27 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Mar 29 | — | May 24 – Oct 25 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 | Aug 26 | May 17 – Aug 23 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jun 28 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Oct 18 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Mar 29 | — | May 17 – Oct 11 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Sep 23 – Oct 28 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 1 | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Nov 1 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 8 | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 25 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 8 | — | Apr 5 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 25 | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Aug 26 | May 31 – Sep 20 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Mar 29 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 25 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Sep 9 | May 3 – Aug 23 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 2 | Nov 11 – Feb 3 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 7 | Sep 23 – Oct 21 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 25 | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 25 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Nov 1 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 25 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Compton
ZIP Codes in Compton
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 St. Mary's County.
Your St. Mary's County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for St. Mary's County (Zone 8a). 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