Fairdealing, MO — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June to-do list for Ripley County, Missouri
A quick June briefing for Ripley County, Missouri gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
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Start begonias, geraniums, and hostas under lights
Bottom-water once the first true leaves appear — it keeps stems dry and knocks back damping-off.
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Harvest basil, carrots, and cucumber as they ripen
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
Looking ahead to July
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Fairdealing gardens in a dry climate (only 12" annual precipitation). Watering strategy matters more here than in most of the country — drip irrigation, deep mulching, and morning watering aren't optional, they're table stakes. The flip side: pest and disease pressure are far lower than in humid regions, and your soil temperatures climb fast in spring so you can plant heat-lovers earlier than the zone map suggests.
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 (16.3 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 27
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 2
📅 Growing Season
220 days
🌧️ Climate
Semi Arid 11.6" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 6.3 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
16.3 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Fairdealing
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: In humid climates, watering is usually about timing (morning, not evening, to prevent disease) more than volume. In dry climates, it's about depth (water deep, less often) more than frequency. Fairdealing's 12" annual tells you which side you're on.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.6 in | 9 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Apr | 3.5 in | 8 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.6 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 5.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.7 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 3.8 in | 9 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.1 in | 8 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.8 in | 9 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 38.3 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.
Fairdealing Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.8
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 17 | Nov 23 | 220 days |
| Cautious | Apr 6 | Nov 10 | 218 days |
| Average year | Mar 27 | Nov 2 | 220 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 19 | Oct 28 | 223 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 10 | Oct 23 | 227 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±38 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 1.2 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Ripley County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Ripley 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 Ripley County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Ripley County University of Missouri Extension Extension Office
Phone: 573-882-7554
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 Ripley County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Ripley County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Ripley 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 Ripley County MO" or "garden center Ripley 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 Ripley County MO" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Ripley County Gardeners" or "Missouri 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 Fairdealing
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: Day length is the trigger that tells lettuce, spinach, and cilantro to bolt. In Fairdealing, knowing when that day-length threshold arrives helps you plant a final round in time to harvest before it bolts.
Longest Day
14.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.5 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.2 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.8 hr | 4.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.7 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 6.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.5 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.3 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 10 hr | 4.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.5 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Fairdealing
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Fairdealing's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.
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 | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 30°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 39°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 50°F | 49°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 63°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 75°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 82°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 81°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 74°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 62°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 48°F | 53°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 Fairdealing
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: The most successful gardeners in high-pressure regions don't spray more — they design around the problem. Crop rotation, companion planting, and resistant varieties beat reactive spraying.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | High | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Fairdealing
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: Cover crops fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 3 | Aug 31 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 27 | Sep 7 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 26 | Sep 7 | ✓ 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 25 | Oct 5 | — | 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 2 | Mar 13 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 22 | Mar 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 14 | Mar 13 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 26 | Mar 6 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 25 | Mar 13 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 25 | Mar 6 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 11 | Mar 6 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Fairdealing
The practical takeaway: Pollinators avoid windy days. Fairdealing's 6.3 mph average wind isn't enough to stop bees and butterflies — but plant fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) in protected microclimates and you'll see noticeably better fruit set.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 13 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.9/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (250 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Fairdealing
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: Rainwater scales linearly with roof area. A 2,000 sq ft roof in Fairdealing captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 12" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.
Annual Collection
19,088 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 38.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 19,088 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 Fairdealing
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Fairdealing.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 24 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 24 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 22 – Jul 10 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | Apr 10 – May 1 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jun 26 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 24 | Aug 14 – Oct 16 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 24 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 23 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 21 | Dec 21 – May 3 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 3 | — | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 23 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Sep 25 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | Jun 26 – Sep 11 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 25 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | Apr 3 – May 1 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 24 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 1 – May 29 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 24 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jun 26 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 23 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 24 | Apr 10 – May 1 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 24 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 24 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jul 31 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 24 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 3 | — | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Fairdealing
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Fairdealing.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 30 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Nov 27 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Fairdealing
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Fairdealing.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 24 | Jun 19 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 24 | May 15 – Jul 3 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 24 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 24 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 24 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 24 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 24 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 24 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 24 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 24 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 26 – Nov 13 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 24 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 7 – Nov 13 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Fairdealing
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Fairdealing.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 13 | Mar 27 | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Sep 11 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 28 | Oct 26 – Nov 16 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 7 | Sep 21 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 23 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Sep 7 | May 29 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 16 | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 25 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 23 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 16 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 23 | — | Apr 3 | — | May 22 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Sep 7 | May 15 – Aug 28 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Feb 27 | — | Sep 7 | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 27 | Mar 27 | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 30 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | May 22 – Jun 26 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 23 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 16 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 27 | Mar 27 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 28 | Aug 24 – Sep 14 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 28 | Aug 31 – Sep 21 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 16 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 23 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | — | Apr 24 – Jul 24 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 23 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 30 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | May 22 – Jun 26 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 30 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 16 | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 25 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 27 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 9 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 16 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 28 | Sep 21 – Oct 12 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 16 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 2 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 30 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 2 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 3 | — | May 22 – Jun 26 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Feb 27 | — | Aug 24 | May 8 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 23 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 2 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 23 | — | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – Jul 24 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Jan 30 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | May 22 – Jun 26 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 13 | Mar 27 | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Aug 28 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 27 | Mar 27 | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Sep 25 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 16 | — | Mar 27 | Aug 24 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Jan 30 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 23 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Sep 4 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 27 | Mar 27 | Mar 27 | — | May 15 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 7 | Oct 5 – Nov 2 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 16 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 16 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 30 | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 25 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 23 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jul 24 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 16 | Feb 27 | Mar 27 | Sep 7 | Jun 5 – Aug 28 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 19 – Sep 25 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Mar 27 | Sep 21 | May 8 – Jul 31 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Feb 20 | — | Sep 7 | May 1 – Jul 24 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 28 | Sep 14 – Oct 5 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 16 | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 25 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 23 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 27 | Mar 27 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 25 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Fairdealing
ZIP Codes in Fairdealing
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 Ripley County.
Your Ripley County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Ripley County (Zone 7a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log