Helper, UT — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June planting checklist for Carbon County, Utah
Your garden in Carbon County, Utah is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this June.
-
Harden off and plant alpine strawberries, aronia, and blackberries
Water the tray well an hour before you transplant. Roots slide out cleanly and settle in faster.
-
Start cucumber, kale, and lettuce indoors
You're about 14 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
Start harvesting lettuce, radish, and anemones
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
July will be here before you know it — start on
- Starting indoors: basil, peppers, and pole beans
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Helper gardens in a dry climate (only 9" 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 Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Helper averages 35.8 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend worsening). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 17
🍂 Avg. First Frost
September 27
📅 Growing Season
133 days
🌧️ Climate
Arid 8.6" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 6.9 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
35.8 wk/yr trend worsening
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Helper
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: Mulch reduces watering needs 30-50% by cutting evaporation. Helper's 9" annual rainfall might be enough for vegetables in some months and not in others — a 2-3" mulch layer evens the swing.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.9 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.2 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Apr | 1.5 in | 6 days | 2.8 in | High |
| May | 1.8 in | 6 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Jun | 1.1 in | 4 days | 3.2 in | Critical |
| Jul | 1.3 in | 5 days | 3 in | High |
| Aug | 1.3 in | 7 days | 3 in | High |
| Sep | 1.1 in | 6 days | 3.2 in | Critical |
| Oct | 1.3 in | 6 days | 3 in | High |
| Nov | 0.9 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 14.2 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.
Helper Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.4-8.3
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) | Jun 8 | Oct 12 | 126 days |
| Cautious | May 26 | Oct 5 | 132 days |
| Average year | May 17 | Sep 27 | 133 days |
| Optimistic | May 7 | Sep 21 | 137 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 29 | Sep 13 | 137 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±40 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 shorter (0.6 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Carbon County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Carbon 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 Carbon County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Carbon County Utah State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 435-797-2200
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 Carbon County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Carbon County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Carbon 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 Carbon County UT" or "garden center Carbon 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 Carbon County UT" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Carbon County Gardeners" or "Utah 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 Helper
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: 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. Helper's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.
Longest Day
14.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.2 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 | 9.5 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 8.7 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.8 hr | 10.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 10.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.2 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Helper
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Most root crops germinate well at 50-60°F. Most fruit-bearing crops want 65-75°F. Helper's monthly soil curve maps these windows to actual months.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jul through Aug.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
4 months
Short season — insulate pile or use indoor vermicomposting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 6°F | 16°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 8°F | 15°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 15°F | 17°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 29°F | 27°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 43°F | 37°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jun | 54°F | 47°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 61°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 60°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 54°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 41°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Nov | 25°F | 33°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 13°F | 22°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 Helper
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: High pest pressure means weekly inspection. Low pest pressure means monthly. The score tells you which routine to set up before you have a problem.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
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 Helper
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: The "chop and drop" approach to cover crops: cut them down right before flowering, let them lay on the surface as mulch, plant your vegetables through the mulch. Less work, healthier soil.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 18 | Jul 19 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 24 | Jul 19 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 19 | Jul 26 | ✓ 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 | Jun 6 | Aug 30 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 3 | Apr 26 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 6 | May 3 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 7 | Apr 26 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 14 | Apr 26 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 20 | May 3 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 6 | May 3 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Helper
What this means for you: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Helper's 6.9 mph average is one piece of the watering math: rainfall + irrigation must exceed evaporation + transpiration, and wind boosts both losses.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 15 mph Summer: 12 mph
Fall: 13 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.8/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (954 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Helper
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: The first inch of rain washes the roof clean — a first-flush diverter sends it to waste before the barrel fills. Worth the extra $20 for cleaner garden water. Helper gets 9" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
7,077 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
8 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,000 gal tank.
Legal Status
Limited
Your state has quantity limits on rainwater collection — check local regulations before installing large systems.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, 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 14.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 7,077 gallons annually
- Check UT state regulations — rainwater harvesting has quantity limits
- In your dry climate, every drop counts — consider a larger cistern system
- Position collection tanks in shade to reduce evaporation and algae growth
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Helper
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Helper.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 30 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 3 | — | Jul 19 | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Sep 6 – Nov 1 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 24 | — | — | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 30 – Oct 4 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 18 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | May 3 | — | Jul 19 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Aug 30 – Oct 4 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 24 | — | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 24 | — | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | May 31 – Jun 21 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 16 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 3 | — | Jul 19 | Oct 4 – Nov 15 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 3 | — | Jul 19 | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 24 | — | — | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 16 | Nov 15 – Feb 28 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 24 | — | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 31 | — | Oct 4 – Dec 13 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 15 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Sep 13 – Oct 18 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 30 – Sep 27 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 24 | — | — | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Aug 16 – Nov 1 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 24 | — | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Sep 13 – Nov 15 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 30 – Nov 15 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 19 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 23 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Aug 16 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 3 | — | Jul 19 | Aug 16 – Sep 27 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 16 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 18 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 30 – Oct 18 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 3 | — | Jul 19 | May 31 – Jun 21 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 3 | — | Jul 19 | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 3 | — | Jul 19 | Aug 16 – Sep 27 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Aug 16 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 29 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 24 | — | — | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 30 – Sep 27 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 18 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 31 | — | Sep 20 – Nov 15 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 24 | — | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 30 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 3 | — | Jul 19 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 24 | — | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Aug 30 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Helper
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Helper.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | Sep 6 – Dec 20 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 7 | — | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 7 | — | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 7 | — | Aug 30 – Oct 11 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | Sep 6 – Dec 20 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Helper
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Helper.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 19 | Aug 9 – Oct 25 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 29 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Nov 8 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 19 | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 19 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 19 | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 19 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 19 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 19 | Aug 23 – Oct 25 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 19 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 29 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 19 | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Nov 8 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 19 | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 19 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 29 | May 24 | May 31 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 24 | — | Sep 27 – Dec 6 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Helper
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Helper.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 29 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 18 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 16 | Sep 13 – Oct 11 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 19 | — | May 17 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 15 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | May 17 | Aug 16 | Jul 19 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 8 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 1 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 22 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 15 | — | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | May 17 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 4 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 8 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 15 | May 31 | May 31 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 15 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 22 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 19 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 16 | Jul 5 – Jul 26 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 16 | Jul 12 – Aug 2 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 19 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 22 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 15 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 22 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 22 | Apr 19 | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Sep 20 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 15 | May 31 | May 31 | — | Aug 23 – Nov 29 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 15 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 29 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Dec 6 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 8 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 17 | May 17 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 15 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 8 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 22 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 16 | Aug 2 – Aug 23 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 8 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 22 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 16 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Mar 8 | — | May 31 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 15 | — | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 20 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 15 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Apr 5 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 18 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 19 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Nov 8 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 8 | — | May 17 | Aug 2 | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 22 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 15 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 25 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 25 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Apr 5 | — | May 17 | — | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Mar 8 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 22 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 15 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 15 | — | May 24 | — | Sep 13 – Nov 29 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 8 | Apr 26 | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 26 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 8 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 29 | Apr 26 | May 17 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | May 17 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 16 | Jul 26 – Aug 23 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Mar 8 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 22 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 19 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Helper
ZIP Codes in Helper
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 Carbon County.
Your Carbon County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Carbon County (Zone 6a). 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