Carson, WA — 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 Carson, WA
We've pulled the most time-sensitive tasks for Carson, WA this June and put them front and centre. Tackle them in order.
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Time to start basil, peppers, and pole beans inside
You're about 18 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
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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.
Get ahead of July
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Carson gardens in a wet, humid climate (77" annually). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive in spring and fall. The biggest challenges are fungal disease and humidity-loving pests in summer — leaf spot, blight, squash bugs, vine borers. Drip irrigation (not overhead), wide plant spacing for air circulation, and disease-resistant varieties make the difference.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Carson averages 20.3 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
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 18
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 19
📅 Growing Season
184 days
🌧️ Climate
Very Humid 77.0" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 6.8 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
20.3 wk/yr trend worsening
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Carson
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Carson gets 77" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 6.5 in | 15 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.3 in | 14 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.8 in | 17 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Apr | 3.6 in | 12 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| May | 2.1 in | 10 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Jun | 1.7 in | 6 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Jul | 0.7 in | 3 days | 3.6 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0.7 in | 3 days | 3.6 in | Critical |
| Sep | 1.8 in | 5 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Oct | 3.3 in | 12 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 7.4 in | 14 days | — | None |
| Dec | 7.1 in | 19 days | — | None |
Annual total: 43 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.
Carson Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.6-6.2
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 10 | Nov 18 | 192 days |
| Cautious | Apr 24 | Oct 27 | 186 days |
| Average year | Apr 18 | Oct 19 | 184 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 12 | Oct 11 | 182 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 30 | Sep 29 | 183 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±41 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Skamania County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Skamania 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 Skamania County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Skamania County Washington State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 509-335-2811
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 Skamania County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Skamania County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Skamania 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 Skamania County WA" or "garden center Skamania 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 Skamania County WA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Skamania County Gardeners" or "Washington 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 Carson
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: Onion varieties are sold by "short-day," "intermediate-day," and "long-day." Carson's latitude determines which to buy — and getting it wrong is the difference between baseball-sized bulbs and marbles.
Longest Day
15.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.5 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
11.1 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 | 8.8 hr | 2.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.1 hr | 2.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 5.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.8 hr | 7.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.5 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.2 hr | 11.1 hr | Long day |
| August | 14 hr | 9.4 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 4.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.2 hr | 2.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.5 hr | 1.8 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Carson
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Carson's soil temperature curve also tells you when your compost is working and when it's napping.
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
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 37°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 36°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 43°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 58°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 65°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 76°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 85°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 84°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 80°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 67°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 56°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 43°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Carson
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Carson sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
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
- Watch for powdery mildew, downy mildew, blight — common in your climate
Cover Crops for Carson
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: 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 (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 21 | Aug 17 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 23 | Aug 10 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 23 | Aug 24 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 20 | Aug 17 | ✓ 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 14 | Sep 28 | — | 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 9 | Mar 28 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 18 | Apr 4 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 7 | Mar 28 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 7 | Apr 4 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 8 | Apr 4 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 29 | Mar 28 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 19 | Apr 4 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Carson
Why it matters: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Carson averages 6.8 mph — fine for most days. But every region has its windy days, and the first time a row of unstaked peppers leans over after a storm is a lesson you only need once.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 10 mph Summer: 7 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.6/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (871 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Carson
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Carson gets 77" of rain a year — a couple of well-placed rain barrels can cover most summer watering. In dry climates the math's even better: every captured gallon is one you don't buy.
Annual Collection
21,431 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 2,250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, Feb, Nov, Dec
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jul, Aug
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 43.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 21,431 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Carson
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Carson.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 14 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 10 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 17 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 10 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 14 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 2 – May 23 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 10 | Sep 5 – Nov 7 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 10 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 7 | Dec 7 – May 24 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jan 2 – Jan 16 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 14 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 17 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 14 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Aug 29 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 23 – Aug 1 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 17 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 10 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 23 – Jun 20 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 10 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 10 | May 2 – May 23 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 10 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 10 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Aug 29 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jan 2 – Jan 16 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 10 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Carson
27 fruits matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Carson.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 21 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Jan 23 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Carson
39 herbs matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Carson.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 10 | Jul 11 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 10 | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 10 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 10 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 10 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 10 | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 10 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 15 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 17 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Dec 5 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 10 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Aug 29 – Dec 5 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Carson
54 flowers matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Carson.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 6 – Oct 24 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Oct 12 – Nov 2 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Sep 7 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 15 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Mar 7 | Apr 4 | Aug 24 | Jun 6 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 7 | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Nov 7 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Nov 14 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Mar 7 | Apr 4 | Aug 10 | May 23 – Oct 3 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Nov 2 – Feb 8 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 13 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Nov 14 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 21 | Aug 24 – Sep 14 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Aug 24 – Sep 21 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Nov 28 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Nov 14 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 21 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | — | May 2 – Jul 18 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Nov 14 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 7 | Oct 5 – Nov 2 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 28 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Dec 5 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 7 | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Nov 7 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Nov 28 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 14 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 21 | Sep 14 – Oct 5 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 14 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 31 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Nov 14 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 21 | — | Aug 10 | May 30 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 17 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 21 | — | Mar 14 | — | May 9 – Jul 4 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 6 – Oct 10 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 6 – Nov 7 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 7 | — | Apr 4 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | May 30 – Oct 24 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Sep 7 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 14 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Nov 14 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 21 | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Nov 7 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 7 | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 7 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Aug 24 | May 16 – Sep 5 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Aug 17 | Oct 26 – Jan 18 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 21 | Sep 7 – Oct 5 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 7 | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Nov 7 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Nov 14 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Nov 7 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Carson
ZIP Codes in Carson
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 Skamania County.
Your Skamania County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Skamania County (Zone 8a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log