Juneau City and Borough, AK — Planting Guide
Juneau City and Borough is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is May 3 and the first fall frost is October 2, giving you a growing season of approximately 152 days.
At an elevation of 930 ft, Juneau City and Borough receives approximately 35.8 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 57°F with winter lows around -5°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 27 days year to year — ranging from April 20 in warm years to May 17 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 2.78 days per decade. Juneau City and Borough scores 64/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 3
🍂 First Frost
October 2
📅 Growing Season
152 days
⛰️ Elevation
930 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
35.8 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.5 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.3 in | 5 days | 3 in | High |
| Apr | 1 in | 5 days | 3.3 in | Critical |
| May | 1.6 in | 5 days | 2.7 in | High |
| Jun | 3.1 in | 9 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 4.4 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.3 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 6.5 in | 15 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.1 in | 11 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Nov | 2.7 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.3 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 35.8 in. Gardens typically need ~1 inch of water per week during the growing season. Months marked "None" for extra water are outside the active growing season for your zone — most gardens are dormant and don't need irrigation during those months.
Juneau City and Borough Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.1-6.5
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) | May 17 | Oct 23 | 159 days |
| Cautious | May 9 | Oct 14 | 158 days |
| Average year | May 3 | Oct 2 | 152 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 27 | Oct 1 | 157 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 20 | Sep 21 | 154 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±27 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 2.8 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Juneau City and Borough offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Juneau City and Borough
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 Juneau City and Borough's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Juneau City and Borough University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Extension Office
Phone: 907-474-5211
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 Juneau City and Borough
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Juneau City and Borough
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Juneau City and Borough'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 Juneau City and Borough AK" or "garden center Juneau City and Borough" 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 Juneau City and Borough AK" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Juneau City and Borough Gardeners" or "Alaska Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
17.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
6.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.9 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 6.8 hr | 2.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 9 hr | 3.2 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.4 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 14.1 hr | 6.6 hr | Long day |
| May | 16.5 hr | 7.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 17.9 hr | 8.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 17.3 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| August | 15.1 hr | 7.1 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.5 hr | 5 hr | Neutral |
| October | 9.9 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 7.4 hr | 2.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 6.1 hr | 1.6 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
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 | 36°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 35°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 42°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 52°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 65°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 76°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 82°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 83°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 78°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 65°F | 68°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 52°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 41°F | 47°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 Juneau City and Borough
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
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 | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
- Watch for powdery mildew, downy mildew, blight — common in your climate
Cover Crops for Juneau City and Borough
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
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 3 | Apr 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Jul 27 | Apr 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 5 | Apr 12 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 23 | Apr 12 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 19 | Apr 19 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 25 | Apr 19 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 6 | Apr 19 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 16 | Aug 7 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | May 10 | Jul 24 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 9 | Jul 24 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 4 | Jul 24 | ✓ 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 20 | Sep 11 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 13 mph
Prevailing wind: N. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.7/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
High
Hilly terrain with 1,109 ft of elevation range — cold air pools in low spots. Avoid planting frost-sensitive crops in valleys.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
17,842 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 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Mar, Apr
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 35.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 17,842 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Mar, Apr)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Juneau City and Borough
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 5.1–6.5 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 1.5/10
Juneau City and Borough has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.
Season Tips
152-day frost-free season
Start warm-season crops indoors and focus on short-season varieties. Cold frames extend your season by 3–4 weeks in fall.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
Recommended for Your Garden
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Juneau City and Borough
113 vegetables that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Juneau City and Borough.
Show all 113 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 5 | May 10 | May 17 | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Aug 16 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | May 17 | Sep 20 – Nov 29 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Aug 23 – Oct 18 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 5 | May 10 | May 17 | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | May 17 | Sep 20 – Nov 1 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Sep 20 – Nov 29 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | May 17 – Jun 7 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 5 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 19 | — | Sep 20 – Nov 22 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 5 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 5 | May 10 | May 17 | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 10 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 1 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 17 | Sep 20 – Nov 29 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 1 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 5 | May 10 | May 17 | Aug 30 – Oct 4 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Sep 20 – Nov 29 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Apr 5 | May 10 | May 17 | Aug 16 – Sep 13 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Aug 2 – Oct 18 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Aug 30 – Nov 1 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Aug 16 – Nov 1 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Apr 5 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | May 10 – Jun 7 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 19 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 5 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 1 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 5 | May 10 | May 17 | Aug 16 – Oct 4 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 19 | — | May 17 – Jun 7 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 19 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 5 | May 10 | May 17 | Aug 16 – Sep 13 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 5 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 5 | May 10 | May 17 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 17 | Sep 6 – Nov 1 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Aug 16 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 19 | — | May 31 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 3 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 5 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Aug 16 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 5 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Juneau City and Borough
31 fruits that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Juneau City and Borough.
Show all 31 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 24 | Aug 23 – Dec 6 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 24 | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 24 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 24 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 24 | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 24 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 24 | Aug 16 – Sep 27 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 24 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 24 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 24 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 24 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 24 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 24 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 24 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 24 | Aug 23 – Jan 3 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Juneau City and Borough
39 herbs that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Juneau City and Borough.
Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | Jul 26 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 10 | Aug 9 – Oct 25 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 10 | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 10 | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 10 | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 10 | Sep 13 – Dec 20 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 10 | Aug 9 – Oct 25 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 10 | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 10 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 10 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | May 10 | Aug 9 – Dec 20 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 10 | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 10 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 10 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 10 | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 10 | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 10 | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | May 10 | Aug 2 – Dec 20 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | May 10 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 10 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 10 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 10 | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 15 | May 10 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 10 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 10 | Sep 13 – Dec 20 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 10 | Aug 9 – Oct 25 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Juneau City and Borough
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Juneau City and Borough.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Juneau City and Borough, AK?
Juneau City and Borough is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Juneau City and Borough, AK?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Juneau City and Borough falls around May 3. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 20 and May 17 — a 27-day window of variability. Use May 17 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Juneau City and Borough, AK?
The median first fall frost in Juneau City and Borough arrives around October 2. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 21; in mild years as late as October 23. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Juneau City and Borough?
Juneau City and Borough has a frost-free growing season of approximately 152 days. This is enough time for most warm-season crops including tomatoes, peppers, and squash with proper timing. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 2.78 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Juneau City and Borough for gardening?
Juneau City and Borough has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 5.1–6.5 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. The native soil conditions make raised beds a particularly good investment here — they let you control drainage and fertility independent of the ground soil.
What is grown commercially in Juneau City and Borough?
Juneau City and Borough has commercial agriculture that includes Hay, Cattle, Potatoes. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Juneau City and Borough a good location for home gardening?
Juneau City and Borough scores 64/100 (Good) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Juneau City and Borough gardeners in Zone 7a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.
