Normal, AL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Madison County, Alabama gardeners: here's your June plan
Here's what deserves your attention in Madison County, Alabama this month. Everything below is tailored to Zone 8a and timed around your local frost dates.
-
Begin indoor sowing: peppers, astilbe, and begonias
You're about 18 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
Pick basil, carrots, and cucumber
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
July will be here before you know it — start on
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Normal gardens in a wet, humid climate (55" 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.
Drought pressure is moderate (18.5 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 6
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 31
📅 Growing Season
208 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 55.2" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 6.5 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
18.5 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Normal
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
What this means for you: 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. Normal's 55" annual tells you which side you're on.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.9 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.3 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 5.6 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4 in | 7 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| May | 4 in | 10 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.2 in | 10 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Jul | 6.6 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.8 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.8 in | 9 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.5 in | 7 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 4.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 55.3 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.
Normal Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.6-6.7
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 19 | Nov 13 | 208 days |
| Cautious | Apr 15 | Nov 2 | 201 days |
| Average year | Apr 6 | Oct 31 | 208 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 27 | Oct 23 | 210 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 19 | Oct 17 | 212 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±31 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 2.6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Madison County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Madison 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 Madison County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Madison 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 Madison County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Madison County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Madison 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 Madison County AL" or "garden center Madison 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 Madison County AL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Madison 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 Normal
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: Lettuce and cilantro "bolt" (go to seed) when days lengthen. Knowing your day-length curve helps you time spring plantings to harvest before the bolting trigger hits. Normal's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
Longest Day
14.3 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.7 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.8 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 | 9.9 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.7 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.8 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.3 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.1 hr | 7.7 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.1 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.7 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 Normal
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Air temperature lies. Your air can be 70°F in April but the soil 4 inches down is still 50°F — too cold for tomatoes or peppers to root properly. Normal's soil temperature curve tells you the real planting window. A $5 soil thermometer pays for itself in one season.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
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 | 39°F | 47°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 39°F | 46°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 47°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 57°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 67°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 76°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 88°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 86°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 80°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 69°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 58°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 46°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 Normal
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
For new gardeners: In Normal's climate, pest pressure shapes which crops are easy and which are heartbreak. Tomatoes are easy in dry mountain air, hard in humid coast — same plant, completely different gardening experience.
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 | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
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 Normal
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
What this means for you: Cover crops fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 14 | Aug 29 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 9 | Aug 29 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 14 | Aug 29 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 11 | Aug 29 | ✓ 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 7 | 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 | Aug 26 | Mar 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 31 | Mar 16 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 20 | Mar 23 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 19 | Mar 23 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 1 | Mar 23 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 26 | Mar 16 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 25 | Mar 23 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Normal
Quick context: Light wind is good (strengthens stems, aids pollination); strong wind is bad (snaps stems, dries leaves, scatters seeds). Normal averages 6.5 mph. If you garden near coast, ridge, or open plains, you're likely above that — plan for it.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 10 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
3.2/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (376 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Normal
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: Rainwater scales linearly with roof area. A 2,000 sq ft roof in Normal captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 55" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.
Annual Collection
27,561 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
May, Sep, 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 55.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 27,561 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 Normal
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Normal.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 22 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 5 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 22 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Apr 20 – May 11 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 22 | Aug 24 – Oct 26 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 22 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Dec 19 – Jun 5 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Dec 21 – Jan 4 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 5 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Apr 13 – May 11 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 22 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 22 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 22 | Apr 20 – May 11 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 22 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 22 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Dec 21 – Jan 4 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 22 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 22 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Normal
27 fruits matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Normal.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 9 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Jan 11 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Normal
39 herbs matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Normal.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 22 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 22 | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 22 | May 25 – Jul 13 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 22 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 22 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 22 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 22 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 22 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 22 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 22 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 5 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 22 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 6 – Nov 23 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 22 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 23 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Normal
54 flowers matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Normal.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Oct 12 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 26 | Oct 24 – Nov 14 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Sep 19 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Sep 5 | May 25 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 26 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Aug 22 | May 11 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Nov 14 – Feb 20 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 3 | Sep 5 – Sep 26 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 26 | Sep 5 – Oct 3 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 16 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 9 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | — | Apr 20 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Oct 17 – Nov 14 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 16 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Nov 23 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 26 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 16 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 2 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 3 | Sep 26 – Oct 17 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 2 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 19 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jun 29 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 9 | — | Aug 22 | May 18 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 5 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 9 | — | Mar 2 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Oct 26 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 26 | — | Mar 23 | Aug 22 | May 18 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | May 18 – Oct 12 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Sep 19 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 2 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 9 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 26 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Aug 22 | Jun 1 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Sep 5 | May 4 – Aug 24 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Nov 7 – Jan 30 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 3 | Sep 19 – Oct 17 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 26 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 26 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Normal
ZIP Codes in Normal
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 Madison County.
Your Madison County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Madison 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