Needham, AL — Planting Guide for June
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June to-do list for Choctaw County, Alabama
Welcome to June in Zone 8b. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
-
It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
To set up a strong July, finish these tasks
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Needham gardens in a long-season climate (Zone 8b, 237 frost-free days). Spring arrives early and fall lingers, so most of the work is matching the right crop to the right window — heat-lovers go in the ground as soon as the soil warms, and cool-season crops shift to fall and even winter rather than spring. Succession planting is your friend; you can plant the same crop three or four times in a season.
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.
Drought pressure is moderate (18.5 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 16
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 8
📅 Growing Season
237 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 29.4" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
18.5 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Needham
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: In humid climates, watering is usually about timing (morning, not evening, to prevent disease) more than volume. In dry climates, it's about depth (water deep, less often) more than frequency. Needham's 29" annual tells you which side you're on.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.7 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.1 in | 9 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Mar | 5.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4 in | 8 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| May | 4.2 in | 8 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Jun | 5.4 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.2 in | 7 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.7 in | 6 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4 in | 7 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Dec | 4.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 54.3 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.
Needham Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.4
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) | Apr 10 | Nov 26 | 230 days |
| Cautious | Mar 26 | Nov 19 | 238 days |
| Average year | Mar 16 | Nov 8 | 237 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 7 | Nov 2 | 240 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 27 | Oct 20 | 235 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±42 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 7.2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Choctaw County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Choctaw 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 Choctaw County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Choctaw 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 Choctaw County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Choctaw County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Choctaw 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 Choctaw County AL" or "garden center Choctaw 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 Choctaw County AL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Choctaw 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 Needham
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: The longest day at Needham'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
14.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.9 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 | 10.1 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.1 hr | 7.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.9 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.2 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.3 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.9 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Needham
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Needham, an aggressive mulch program shifts your effective soil temperature curve toward optimal for most crops.
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
9 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 46°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 46°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 54°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 62°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 72°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 84°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 89°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 92°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 86°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 75°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 61°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 50°F | 57°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 Needham
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: Pollinators are the good bugs. Pest pressure is the bad bugs. Needham's climate makes both more abundant in warm humid regions, and rarer in cold dry ones — plan habitat to encourage the good while managing the bad.
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 | Moderate | 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 Needham
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: Bare soil is wasted soil — it loses nutrients to rain, dries out, compacts, and gets taken over by weeds. Cover crops (clovers, ryegrass, vetch, peas) are the "between seasons" trick that makes soil better every year. In Needham, you can fit a cover crop into the gaps.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 21 | Sep 13 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 22 | Sep 6 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 26 | Sep 6 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 17 | Sep 6 | ✓ 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 | Apr 4 | Oct 11 | — | 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 13 | Feb 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 14 | Feb 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 26 | Mar 2 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 24 | Mar 2 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 1 | Feb 23 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 9 | Mar 2 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 9 | Mar 2 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Needham
Why it matters: Wind affects three things gardeners forget: how fast soil dries (more wind = more watering), whether pollinators can work (calm beats gusty), and whether your trellised crops stay upright. Needham sees 0.0 mph on average — a forgiving baseline.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 9 mph Summer: 7 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 9 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
Low
Relatively flat terrain (236 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Needham
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Needham gets 29" 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
27,063 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
Mar, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, Oct, Nov
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 54.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 27,063 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 Needham
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Needham.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 2 | — | Aug 30 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 23 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 2 | — | Aug 30 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 11 – Jun 29 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 23 | — | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 23 | — | — | May 25 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Mar 30 – Apr 20 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 18 – Jun 15 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 2 | — | Aug 30 | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 2 | — | Aug 30 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 23 | — | — | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 12 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 27 | Dec 27 – Jun 13 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Nov 30 – Dec 14 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 23 | — | — | May 18 – Jul 13 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 12 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Sep 14 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 4 – Jun 1 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 23 | — | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Jun 15 – Aug 31 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 23 | — | — | May 25 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Mar 23 – Apr 20 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Aug 30 | May 4 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 2 | — | Aug 30 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 18 – Jun 15 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 12 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 2 | — | Aug 30 | Mar 30 – Apr 20 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 2 | — | Aug 30 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 2 | — | Aug 30 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 23 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 18 – Jul 20 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 30 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 23 | — | — | May 25 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Nov 30 – Dec 14 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 2 | — | Aug 30 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Aug 30 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 23 | — | — | May 18 – Jul 13 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 6 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 18 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Needham
27 fruits matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Needham.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 19 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | Jul 6 – Dec 21 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Needham
39 herbs matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Needham.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Aug 30 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Aug 30 | Jun 8 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 27 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Aug 30 | May 4 – Jun 22 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Aug 30 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Jul 27 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Aug 30 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Aug 30 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Aug 30 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Aug 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Aug 30 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 18 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Aug 30 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Jul 13 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 15 – Sep 14 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Aug 30 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 18 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Aug 30 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jul 27 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 23 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Needham
54 flowers matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Needham.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | — | Apr 27 – Sep 28 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 11 | Nov 8 – Nov 29 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Sep 20 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 19 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Jul 13 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Sep 13 | Apr 27 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 5 | — | Mar 2 | — | May 11 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Oct 19 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 19 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 4 – Jun 1 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Aug 30 | Apr 13 – Sep 7 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Nov 8 – Feb 28 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | — | May 4 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 4 – Jun 1 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | — | May 18 – Oct 12 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 16 | Feb 23 | Feb 23 | — | May 4 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 11 | Sep 13 – Oct 4 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 11 | Sep 20 – Oct 18 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Nov 9 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 19 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 19 | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | — | Mar 23 – Jun 1 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 19 | Mar 9 | Mar 9 | — | Apr 27 – May 25 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 27 | Oct 18 – Nov 22 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 2 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | — | May 11 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 5 | — | Mar 2 | — | May 11 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Nov 9 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 12 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 11 | Oct 4 – Oct 25 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 12 | — | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Sep 21 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 19 | — | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Oct 19 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Mar 9 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Nov 8 – Feb 28 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 19 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Sep 7 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 19 | — | Feb 2 | — | Mar 30 – May 11 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 4 – Jun 1 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | — | Apr 27 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | — | Apr 27 – Oct 12 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 5 | — | Feb 23 | Aug 30 | Apr 20 – Aug 10 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Mar 16 | — | May 11 – Jun 8 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Jan 19 | — | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 19 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Aug 3 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | — | Apr 20 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Sep 27 – Oct 25 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 12 | — | Mar 9 | — | May 18 – Oct 19 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 19 | — | Mar 2 | — | May 11 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 19 | — | Mar 16 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 5 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Aug 30 | May 4 – Sep 7 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | — | May 25 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 2 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Sep 13 | Apr 6 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Nov 15 – Jan 24 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 11 | Sep 27 – Oct 25 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 5 | — | Mar 2 | — | May 11 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 19 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | — | May 18 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 16 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | — | May 11 – Oct 12 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Needham
ZIP Codes in Needham
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 Choctaw County.
Your Choctaw County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Choctaw 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