Jerusalem, OH — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
This month in Jerusalem, OH
Each item below is timed to Jerusalem, OH's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
-
Start basil, cucumber, and kale under lights
Give them 6–8 weeks indoors before the last frost and you'll transplant into warm soil with seedlings that are already leaping.
-
Start harvesting carrots, green beans, and kale
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
Looking ahead to July
- Starting indoors: peppers, begonias, and eggplant
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Jerusalem has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 6b). The last spring frost typically lands around April 27 and the first fall frost arrives around October 20 — a 176-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
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 (8.9 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 27
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 20
📅 Growing Season
176 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 42.0" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
8.9 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Jerusalem
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
What this means for you: In Jerusalem, 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 42" annual rainfall is just the starting context.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.1 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.5 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.1 in | 7 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Apr | 3.3 in | 9 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.4 in | 10 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 3.9 in | 9 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jul | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.5 in | 8 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3.1 in | 8 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.7 in | 7 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Nov | 1.9 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 31.9 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.
Jerusalem Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.8-6.9
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) | May 16 | Nov 1 | 169 days |
| Cautious | May 5 | Oct 26 | 174 days |
| Average year | Apr 27 | Oct 20 | 176 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 22 | Oct 15 | 176 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 10 | Oct 7 | 180 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±36 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit longer (0.9 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Monroe County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Monroe 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 Monroe County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Monroe County Ohio State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 614-292-6181
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 Monroe County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Monroe County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Monroe 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 Monroe County OH" or "garden center Monroe 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 Monroe County OH" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Monroe County Gardeners" or "Ohio 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 Jerusalem
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: Photoperiod-sensitive crops will fail spectacularly if planted at the wrong latitude. Sweet onions in Michigan? Tiny. Spanish onions in Florida? Tiny. Match variety to Jerusalem's daylight pattern and you'll see the difference.
Longest Day
14.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.8 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 | 9.5 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 6.5 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 8.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.8 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 9.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.2 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Jerusalem
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: 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. Jerusalem'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 | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 33°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 39°F | 41°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 53°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 62°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 74°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 83°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 83°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 77°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 65°F | 65°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 47°F | 56°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 36°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 Jerusalem
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: Pest pressure is a function of climate, not effort. Jerusalem's baseline tells you how much vigilance is normal. A bad pest year in low-pressure region = a normal year in high-pressure region.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Jerusalem
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: Cover crops do four things at once: fix nitrogen (legumes), suppress weeds (any), prevent erosion, and add organic matter when chopped down. Jerusalem's seasonal pattern determines which species fit which gap.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 9 | Aug 18 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 8 | Aug 25 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 1 | Aug 18 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | May 26 | Oct 6 | — | 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 18 | Apr 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 15 | Apr 13 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 8 | Apr 6 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 3 | Apr 13 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 22 | Apr 13 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 24 | Apr 13 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 25 | Apr 6 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Jerusalem
Quick context: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Jerusalem's 0.0 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 11 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 (85 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Jerusalem
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Jerusalem, that's your 42" times your roof.
Annual Collection
15,898 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 1,750 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 31.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 15,898 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 Jerusalem
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Jerusalem.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 4 | — | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | May 11 – Jun 1 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 11 | Sep 14 – Oct 26 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 16 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Dec 8 – Mar 23 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 4 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 11 | — | Sep 14 – Nov 23 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 16 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 26 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 7 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 4 | — | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 26 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 26 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | May 4 – Jun 1 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 11 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 16 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 11 | May 11 – Jun 1 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 9 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 7 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 11 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 26 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 11 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 4 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Jerusalem
27 fruits matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Jerusalem.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 30 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 30 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Jerusalem
35 herbs matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Jerusalem.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 11 | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 9 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 11 | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 11 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 11 | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 11 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 11 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 11 | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 11 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 9 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 11 | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 11 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 11 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 9 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 4 | — | Sep 7 – Nov 16 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Jerusalem
53 flowers matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Jerusalem.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 9 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 5 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Oct 6 – Nov 3 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 30 | — | Apr 27 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 23 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Apr 27 | Sep 8 | Jun 29 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 16 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 20 – Nov 9 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 23 | — | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 30 | — | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 23 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Nov 9 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 30 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Jul 28 – Aug 18 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Aug 4 – Aug 25 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 20 – Nov 9 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 23 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 20 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Aug 24 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 23 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 20 – Nov 9 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 23 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 9 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Nov 16 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 16 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 – Nov 2 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 16 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 20 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Aug 25 – Sep 15 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 16 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 26 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 2 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 26 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 30 | — | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 16 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 23 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 31 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 23 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 16 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 30 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 19 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 | Aug 25 | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 2 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 23 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 5 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 12 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 16 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 16 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Nov 9 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 23 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 23 | — | May 4 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 16 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 24 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Aug 25 – Sep 22 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 16 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 30 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 12 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Jerusalem
ZIP Codes in Jerusalem
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 Monroe County.
Your Monroe County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Monroe 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