Section, AL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Section, AL gardeners: here's your June plan
Your Section, AL garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for June and why each task matters now.
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Get peppers, astilbe, and begonias seeds going inside
Starting these indoors now means sturdy transplants ready the moment your soil warms up.
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Collect basil, carrots, and cucumber at their peak
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
Looking ahead to July
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Section gardens in a wet, humid climate (59" 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 (19.5 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7b (5°F to 10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 7
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 29
📅 Growing Season
205 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 58.7" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
19.5 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Section
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 Section, the watering question isn't "how often" — it's "is the soil moist 4 inches down?" Stick a finger in. Dry? Water. Damp? Wait. The 59" annual rainfall is just the starting context.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.9 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.4 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.9 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4.9 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| May | 4.6 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.7 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 6.7 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.9 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.5 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.1 in | 7 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Nov | 4.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 5.2 in | 10 days | — | None |
Annual total: 59.3 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.
Section Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.5
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 11 | 206 days |
| Cautious | Apr 13 | Nov 1 | 202 days |
| Average year | Apr 7 | Oct 29 | 205 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 29 | Oct 22 | 207 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 19 | Oct 16 | 211 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 2.5 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Jackson County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Jackson 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 Jackson County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Jackson 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 Jackson County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Jackson County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Jackson 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 Jackson County AL" or "garden center Jackson 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 Jackson County AL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Jackson 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 Section
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: The longest day at Section'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
14.3 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.7 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.3 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 | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 7.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.8 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.3 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.1 hr | 8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.1 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.7 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Section
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Section, 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 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 | 46°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 39°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 45°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 59°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 68°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 77°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 87°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 88°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 81°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 71°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 56°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 46°F | 53°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 Section
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Pest score isn't pass/fail. It's a planning input. Higher scores mean: more compost (resilient plants), wider spacing (air circulation), resistant varieties (built-in defense), and inspection (catch issues at egg stage).
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | 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 Section
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 16 | Aug 27 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 18 | Aug 20 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 13 | Aug 27 | ✓ 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 28 | Oct 1 | — | 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 21 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 21 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 18 | Mar 17 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 10 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 15 | Mar 24 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 22 | Mar 24 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 9 | Mar 17 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Section
Quick context: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Section's 0.0 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: 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
2.6/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (364 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Section
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: Most gardens use 0.5-1 gallon per square foot per week in summer. Section's 59" annual rainfall is enough to cover most needs if you can capture it. Rain barrels under downspouts are the simplest entry point.
Annual Collection
29,555 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, Jul, Aug, Dec
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, 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 59.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 29,555 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 Section
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Section.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 6 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 20 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Apr 21 – May 12 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 20 | Aug 25 – Oct 27 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 3 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 17 | Dec 17 – Apr 29 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 3 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jul 7 – Sep 22 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 12 – Jul 21 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Apr 14 – May 12 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 20 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 12 – Jun 9 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 20 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 3 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 20 | Apr 21 – May 12 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 20 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 20 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 20 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Section
31 fruits matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Section.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Nov 10 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Dec 8 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Section
36 herbs matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Section.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 20 | Jun 30 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 20 | May 26 – Jul 14 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 20 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 20 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 20 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 20 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 20 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 7 – Nov 24 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Aug 20 | May 12 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Aug 18 – Nov 24 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Section
53 flowers matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Section.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 24 | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Oct 6 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 24 | Oct 22 – Nov 12 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Sep 17 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 3 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Feb 24 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Sep 3 | Jun 9 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 27 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Nov 3 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 3 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Feb 24 | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Sep 3 | May 26 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 10 | — | Sep 3 | May 19 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 9 – Oct 20 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Nov 3 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Mar 31 | — | Jun 9 – Oct 13 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 24 | Aug 20 – Sep 10 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 24 | Aug 27 – Sep 17 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Nov 10 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 3 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Nov 3 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | — | Apr 28 – Jul 21 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 3 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 30 – Nov 3 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Nov 17 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 27 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Nov 3 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 27 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 24 | Sep 17 – Oct 8 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 27 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 13 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 10 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 20 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 14 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 10 | — | Aug 20 | May 19 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 3 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 6 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 3 | — | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Jul 14 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 24 | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Oct 20 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 27 | — | Mar 31 | Aug 20 | May 26 – Aug 18 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 14 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 10 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 13 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 3 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 15 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | May 26 – Oct 6 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Sep 24 – Oct 22 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 27 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 27 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 10 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 3 | — | Apr 14 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 27 | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Sep 3 | Jun 9 – Sep 15 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 24 | Mar 10 | Apr 7 | Sep 17 | May 19 – Aug 25 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Nov 12 – Feb 4 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 24 | Sep 10 – Oct 1 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 27 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Nov 3 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 20 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Section
ZIP Codes in Section
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 Jackson County.
Your Jackson County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Jackson County (Zone 7b). 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