Capital (Victoria), BC — Planting Guide
Capital (Victoria) is in Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 26 and the first fall frost is November 10, giving you a growing season of approximately 257 days.
At an elevation of 20 m, Capital (Victoria) receives approximately 1595 mm of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 36°C with winter lows around 12°C. The predominant soil type is Podzolic Loam.
🌡️ Zone
9b (25°F to 30°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 26
🍂 First Frost
November 10
📅 Growing Season
257 days
⛰️ Elevation
20 m
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
1595 mm
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~25 mm/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 64 mm | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 79 mm | 7 days | 30 mm | Moderate |
| Mar | 102 mm | 9 days | 8 mm | Low |
| Apr | 180 mm | 8 days | — | Low |
| May | 198 mm | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 206 mm | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 157 mm | 9 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 152 mm | 9 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 152 mm | 7 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 119 mm | 7 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 97 mm | 8 days | 13 mm | Low |
| Dec | 84 mm | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 1590 mm. 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.
Capital (Victoria) Soil Profile
Soil Type
Podzolic Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Gardening Difficulty Score
Capital (Victoria) is a very forgiving place to garden. Most plants thrive here with minimal effort.
Local Gardening Help in Capital (Victoria)
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 Capital (Victoria)'s climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Capital (Victoria) Extension Office
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 Capital (Victoria)
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Capital (Victoria)
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Capital (Victoria)'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 Capital (Victoria) BC" or "garden center Capital (Victoria)" 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 Capital (Victoria) BC" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Capital (Victoria) Gardeners" or "British Columbia 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
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
15.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.6 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 | 8.5 hr | 3.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 9.9 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.4 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 15 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.9 hr | 9.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.5 hr | 10.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 14.1 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.5 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 8.9 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.1 hr | 3.1 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 16°C+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
Apr
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
11 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 10cm Deep | Soil 20cm Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 9°C | 13°C | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 11°C | 13°C | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 13°C | 16°C | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 19°C | 18°C | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 24°C | 22°C | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 29°C | 27°C | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 32°C | 31°C | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 33°C | 32°C | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 31°C | 30°C | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 24°C | 26°C | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 17°C | 22°C | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 12°C | 16°C | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 16°C+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Capital (Victoria)
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
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 | High | Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Whiteflies | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Spider mites | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Fire ants | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Thrips | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Leaf miners | Low | Mar, Apr, May, Jun |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Capital (Victoria)
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 9 | Sep 1 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Feb 27 | Sep 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 5 | Sep 1 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 31 | Sep 1 | ✓ 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 | Mar 27 | Oct 20 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (4 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 6 | Feb 5 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 31 | Feb 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 27 | Feb 5 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 4 | Feb 5 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 19 km/h Summer: 15 km/h
Fall: 18 km/h Winter: 20 km/h
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
6.6/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (60 m range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
118,088 L
Per 93 m² of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (208 L each)
For a typical 46 m² garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,839 L tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
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 62.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 31,199 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Your area gets ample rainfall — even small barrels make a big difference
- Consider a rain garden to handle overflow during heavy rainfall months
Soil & Growing Conditions in Capital (Victoria)
Soil Type
Podzolic Loam
Ideal for most crops — holds moisture and nutrients while draining well.
Watering Needs
With 62.8 inches of annual rainfall, supplemental watering is typically only needed during summer dry spells.
Season Tips
257-day frost-free season
Your long season supports multiple successions and heat-demanding crops like melons, sweet potatoes, and peppers. Plant warm-season crops as soon as soil warms.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 24-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
Recommended for Your Garden
Reduce heat stress and sun scorch in hot climates with UV-stabilized shade cloth.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Capital (Victoria)
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Capital (Victoria).
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 12 | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – Apr 30 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 5 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 12 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 – May 14 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 25 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 11 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 21 – Jul 2 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jun 11 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 25 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 5 | — | May 7 – Jul 2 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 5 | — | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 – Apr 2 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 5 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – Apr 30 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 5 | — | May 21 – Jul 2 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Nov 5 – Dec 31 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 5 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 12 | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 14 – Aug 20 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 16 – May 14 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 5 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 – May 7 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Aug 13 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 21 – Jul 2 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 – Jun 11 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 5 | — | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Aug 20 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 2 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 – Apr 2 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 16 – Jun 11 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 – Apr 30 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Jul 16 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – May 7 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 5 | — | May 21 – Jul 2 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 5 | — | Mar 5 – Mar 26 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 5 | — | May 21 – Jul 2 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Jul 16 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 15 | Mar 5 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 5 | — | May 28 – Jul 23 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – Jun 25 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 12 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 2 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 5 | — | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 – May 7 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Nov 5 – Dec 31 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 5 | — | Mar 19 – Apr 23 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 2 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 5 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Sep 3 – Dec 31 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 15 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 11 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 29 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Capital (Victoria)
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Capital (Victoria).
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Sep 24 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jan 7 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Capital (Victoria)
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Capital (Victoria).
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | May 21 – Aug 6 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 15 | Mar 5 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 16 – Jun 4 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 23 – Jul 2 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 5 | Jul 9 – Oct 15 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 15 | Mar 5 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 23 – Jul 2 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 5 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Nov 5 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 25 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 15 | Mar 5 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 15 | Mar 5 | Mar 5 | May 21 – Aug 20 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 23 – Jun 25 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 5 | May 28 – Oct 15 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 5 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 29 | Feb 5 | Feb 19 | Apr 2 – Jun 4 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 15 | Mar 5 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 15 | Mar 5 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 5 | Jul 9 – Oct 15 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Capital (Victoria)
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Capital (Victoria).
Your Capital (Victoria) Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Capital (Victoria) (Zone 9b). 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