Excel, AL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June in the garden — Monroe County, Alabama
A quick June briefing for Monroe County, Alabama gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
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It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
July will be here before you know it — start on
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Excel gardens in a wet, humid climate (64" 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.
The dominant soil here is Clay Loam — holds water well but slow to warm in spring and prone to compaction. Raised beds and generous compost transform what's available into productive growing space.
Excel averages 23.5 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 14
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 14
📅 Growing Season
245 days
🌧️ Climate
Very Humid 63.6" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 4.3 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
23.5 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Excel
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: Over-watering kills more plants than under-watering. Excel's 64" annual rainfall changes the gardening playbook — humid-region gardeners often water by the calendar when they should water by the soil moisture.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.7 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.6 in | 10 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 5.1 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| May | 3.7 in | 9 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 4 in | 9 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jul | 4.7 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.3 in | 7 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4 in | 7 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Dec | 4.7 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 51.7 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.
Excel Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.6-6.3
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) | Mar 31 | Dec 1 | 245 days |
| Cautious | Mar 22 | Nov 21 | 244 days |
| Average year | Mar 14 | Nov 14 | 245 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 6 | Nov 5 | 244 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 19 | Oct 28 | 251 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.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit longer (0.6 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 Alabama Cooperative Extension (Auburn / Alabama A&M) Extension Office
Phone: 334-844-4444
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 AL" 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 AL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Monroe County Gardeners" or "Alabama 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 Excel
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: The longest day at Excel's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.
Longest Day
14 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.5 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: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.2 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 8 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.9 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.2 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 10 hr | 4.6 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Excel
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Excel's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
10 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 47°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 45°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 54°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 64°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 71°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 81°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 89°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 93°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 87°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 75°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 62°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 53°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Excel
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Excel 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
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 | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Squash vine borers | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | High | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
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 Excel
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: Cover crops protect microbial life through winter and summer. Bare soil bakes; covered soil stays cooler, moister, and biologically active. The difference shows up in next year's crops.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 17 | Sep 19 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 18 | Sep 12 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 21 | Sep 12 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 15 | Sep 5 | ✓ 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 25 | Oct 17 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 2 | Feb 28 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 22 | Feb 21 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 16 | Feb 21 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 29 | Feb 28 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 5 | Feb 28 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 19 | Feb 21 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 6 | Feb 21 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Excel
What this means for you: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Excel's 4.3 mph background level is a baseline you should know before placing the tallest crops (sunflowers, pole beans, sweet corn).
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: 7 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
3.1/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (312 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Excel
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Excel gets 64" 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
25,767 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 250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, Mar, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, May, Oct
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 51.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 25,767 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
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Excel
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Excel.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 14 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 15 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Apr 18 – Jun 20 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 28 | — | Sep 5 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Jul 11 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 21 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 8 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Apr 25 – May 30 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 16 – Jun 27 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Apr 25 – May 30 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 14 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 16 – Jul 11 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 28 | — | Sep 5 | May 2 – Jun 6 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 9 – Jul 11 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 16 – Jun 27 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 9 – Jun 27 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Jun 6 – Jul 18 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 16 – Jun 27 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 9 – Jun 6 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 9 – Jul 11 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 21 | — | — | May 23 – Jul 18 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 21 | — | — | May 23 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Mar 28 – Apr 18 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 14 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 16 – Jun 13 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 28 | — | Sep 5 | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 14 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 28 | — | Sep 5 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 14 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 21 | — | — | Jun 6 – Jul 18 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 10 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 2 – Jun 6 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 9 – Jun 6 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 30 – Jul 11 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Jul 11 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 3 | Jan 2 – Jun 19 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Nov 28 – Dec 12 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 21 | — | — | May 16 – Jul 11 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 10 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Sep 12 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 14 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 14 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 2 – May 30 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 21 | — | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 2 – Jun 6 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Jun 13 – Aug 29 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Jun 6 – Jul 18 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Apr 18 – Jun 27 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 21 | — | — | May 23 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 12 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Apr 25 – May 30 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Jun 20 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 14 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Mar 21 – Apr 18 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Sep 5 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Apr 18 – May 16 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Apr 18 – Jun 20 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 9 – Jun 13 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Jun 20 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Jul 18 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 28 | — | Sep 5 | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 14 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 16 – Jun 13 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 10 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Jul 18 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 15 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 14 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 15 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Apr 25 – May 30 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 28 | — | Sep 5 | Mar 28 – Apr 18 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 30 – Jul 11 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 28 | — | Sep 5 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 28 | — | Sep 5 | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 23 – Jul 18 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 9 – Jun 6 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Jul 4 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Jul 18 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 21 | — | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 14 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Apr 18 – Jun 20 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 14 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 16 – Jul 18 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 14 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 28 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 21 | — | — | May 23 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 15 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Aug 8 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Aug 8 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Nov 28 – Dec 12 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 28 | — | Sep 5 | Apr 11 – May 16 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Sep 5 | Apr 25 – May 30 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 14 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 21 | — | — | May 16 – Jul 11 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 15 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Jul 4 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 14 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 16 – Jul 11 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Excel
27 fruits matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Excel.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 4 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 17 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 4 | — | Jul 4 – Dec 19 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Excel
39 herbs matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Excel.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Sep 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Sep 5 | Jun 6 – Aug 22 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Jul 25 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 21 | — | Jun 20 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Sep 5 | May 2 – Jun 20 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Sep 5 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 21 | — | May 23 – Jul 25 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Sep 5 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Sep 5 | Apr 18 – Jun 20 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 21 | — | May 23 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Sep 5 | Apr 18 – Jun 20 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 21 | — | May 23 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Sep 5 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Sep 5 | Apr 18 – Jun 20 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 16 – Jul 11 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Sep 5 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 21 | — | Jun 20 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 21 | — | May 23 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 21 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Aug 1 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 21 | — | May 23 – Jul 11 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Aug 1 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 13 – Sep 12 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Aug 1 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 21 | — | May 23 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 21 | — | May 23 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 21 | — | May 23 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Sep 5 | May 9 – Jul 11 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 21 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 31 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Aug 1 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 21 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 21 | — | May 16 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Sep 5 | Apr 18 – Jun 20 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 21 | — | May 23 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Jul 25 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Aug 1 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 21 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 31 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Excel
54 flowers matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Excel.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Feb 28 | — | Apr 25 – Sep 26 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Nov 14 – Dec 5 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Sep 26 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 17 | — | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Jul 11 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Jan 24 | Feb 21 | Sep 19 | Apr 25 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 3 | — | Feb 28 | — | May 9 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Oct 17 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 17 | — | Mar 14 | — | May 2 – May 30 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Jan 24 | Feb 21 | Sep 5 | Apr 11 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Nov 14 – Mar 6 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Feb 28 | — | May 2 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 17 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | — | May 2 – May 30 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Oct 10 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 14 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | May 2 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Sep 19 – Oct 10 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Sep 26 – Oct 24 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Feb 21 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Nov 7 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 17 | — | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 17 | Jan 24 | Jan 31 | — | Mar 21 – May 30 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 17 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 17 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | — | Apr 25 – May 23 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 3 | Oct 24 – Nov 28 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Feb 28 | — | May 9 – Oct 24 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 3 | — | Feb 28 | — | May 9 – Oct 10 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Nov 7 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 10 | — | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Oct 10 – Oct 31 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 10 | — | Mar 7 | — | May 16 – Sep 19 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 17 | — | Mar 7 | — | May 16 – Oct 17 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Mar 7 | — | Apr 25 – May 30 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Nov 14 – Mar 6 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 17 | — | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Mar 7 | — | May 16 – Sep 5 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 17 | — | Jan 31 | — | Mar 28 – May 9 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Jan 17 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | — | May 2 – May 30 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Feb 28 | — | Apr 25 – Sep 12 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Feb 28 | — | Apr 25 – Oct 10 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 3 | — | Feb 21 | Sep 5 | Apr 18 – Aug 8 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Mar 14 | — | May 9 – Jun 6 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Jan 17 | — | Mar 7 | — | May 16 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 17 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Aug 1 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Feb 28 | — | Apr 18 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Oct 3 – Oct 31 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 10 | — | Mar 7 | — | May 16 – Oct 17 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 17 | — | Feb 28 | — | May 9 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 17 | — | Mar 14 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 3 | Jan 31 | Feb 21 | Sep 5 | May 2 – Sep 5 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Feb 21 | Feb 28 | Feb 28 | — | May 23 – Oct 10 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Jan 31 | Jan 31 | Feb 21 | Sep 19 | Apr 4 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Nov 21 – Jan 30 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Oct 3 – Oct 31 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 3 | — | Feb 28 | — | May 9 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Feb 28 | — | May 9 – Oct 10 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Excel
ZIP Codes in Excel
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 8b). 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