Ashdown, AR — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
What to do in June
Welcome to June in Zone 8b. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
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It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
Coming up in July — start thinking about
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Ashdown gardens in a wet, humid climate (54" 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.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Ashdown averages 22.1 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 20
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 12
📅 Growing Season
237 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 53.6" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 5.4 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
22.1 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Ashdown
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. Ashdown's 54" annual tells you which side you're on.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 5.5 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4 in | 7 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| May | 4.5 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.9 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.6 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.4 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.5 in | 6 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.1 in | 7 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 4.4 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 53.8 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.
Ashdown Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.6
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 9 | Nov 29 | 234 days |
| Cautious | Mar 27 | Nov 17 | 235 days |
| Average year | Mar 20 | Nov 12 | 237 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 11 | Nov 2 | 236 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 26 | Oct 27 | 243 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±43 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 3.4 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Little River County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Little River 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 Little River County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Little River County University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Extension Extension Office
Phone: 501-671-2000
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 Little River County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Little River County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Little River 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 Little River County AR" or "garden center Little River 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 Little River County AR" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Little River County Gardeners" or "Arkansas 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 Ashdown
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: The longest day at Ashdown'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
14.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.8 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 | 10 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.7 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.2 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14 hr | 7.7 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.2 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.8 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 Ashdown
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 Ashdown, 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 | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 37°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 46°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 56°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 68°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 78°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 85°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 87°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 78°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 67°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 56°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 44°F | 49°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 Ashdown
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Pollinators are the good bugs. Pest pressure is the bad bugs. Ashdown's climate makes both more abundant in warm humid regions, and rarer in cold dry ones — plan habitat to encourage the good while managing the bad.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | 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 | 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 Ashdown
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: In Ashdown, cover crops also crowd out weeds. The denser the cover, the less weed pressure next season. Pays for itself in saved weeding time.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 28 | Sep 17 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 27 | Sep 3 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 23 | Sep 17 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 19 | Sep 10 | ✓ 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 8 | Oct 29 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 13 | Mar 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 6 | Mar 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 14 | Mar 6 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 18 | Feb 27 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 13 | Feb 27 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 20 | Mar 6 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 14 | Feb 27 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Ashdown
What this means for you: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Ashdown's 5.4 mph average is one piece of the watering math: rainfall + irrigation must exceed evaporation + transpiration, and wind boosts both losses.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 10 mph Summer: 6 mph
Fall: 7 mph Winter: 8 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Low wind — no windbreak needed for most crops.
Windbreak Benefit
3.3/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (387 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Ashdown
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: Rainwater scales linearly with roof area. A 2,000 sq ft roof in Ashdown captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 54" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.
Annual Collection
26,813 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Mar, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, 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 53.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 26,813 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 Ashdown
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Ashdown.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 6 | — | Sep 3 | May 1 – May 29 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 27 | — | — | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 6 | — | Sep 3 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 15 – Jul 3 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 27 | — | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 27 | — | — | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Apr 3 – Apr 24 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | May 22 – Jun 19 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 6 | — | Sep 3 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 6 | — | Sep 3 | May 1 – May 29 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 27 | — | — | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 16 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 1 | Dec 31 – Jun 17 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Dec 4 – Dec 18 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 27 | — | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 16 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Sep 18 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 27 | — | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Jun 19 – Sep 4 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 27 | — | — | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 18 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Jun 26 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Mar 27 – Apr 24 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Sep 3 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Jun 26 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 1 – May 29 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 6 | — | Sep 3 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | May 22 – Jun 19 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 16 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 6 | — | Sep 3 | Apr 3 – Apr 24 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 6 | — | Sep 3 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 6 | — | Sep 3 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 27 | — | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | May 22 – Jul 24 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 27 | — | — | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Dec 4 – Dec 18 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 6 | — | Sep 3 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Sep 3 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 27 | — | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Jul 10 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 20 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Ashdown
27 fruits matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Ashdown.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 23 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Dec 25 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Ashdown
39 herbs matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Ashdown.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Sep 3 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Sep 3 | Jun 12 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Jul 31 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Sep 3 | May 8 – Jun 26 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Sep 3 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Jul 31 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Sep 3 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Sep 3 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Sep 3 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Sep 3 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Sep 3 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Sep 3 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Jul 17 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 19 – Sep 18 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Sep 3 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 19 – Nov 6 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Sep 3 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Jul 31 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 27 | — | Jul 31 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Ashdown
54 flowers matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Ashdown.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – Oct 2 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 15 | Nov 12 – Dec 3 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 17 | Sep 24 – Oct 22 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 23 | — | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Jul 17 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Sep 17 | May 1 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 9 | — | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Oct 23 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 23 | — | Mar 20 | — | May 8 – Jun 5 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Jan 30 | Feb 27 | Sep 3 | Apr 17 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Nov 12 – Mar 4 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | May 8 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 20 | — | May 8 – Jun 5 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | — | May 22 – Oct 16 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | — | May 8 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 15 | Sep 17 – Oct 8 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 15 | Sep 24 – Oct 22 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Nov 13 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 23 | — | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 6 | — | Mar 27 – Jun 5 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 23 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | — | May 1 – May 29 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 1 | Oct 22 – Nov 26 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Oct 30 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 9 | — | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Oct 16 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 20 | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Nov 13 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 16 | — | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 15 | Oct 8 – Oct 29 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 16 | — | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Sep 25 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 23 | — | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Oct 23 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Mar 13 | — | May 1 – Jun 5 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Nov 12 – Mar 4 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 23 | — | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Sep 11 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 23 | — | Feb 6 | — | Apr 3 – May 15 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 20 | — | May 8 – Jun 5 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – Sep 18 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – Oct 16 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 9 | — | Feb 27 | Sep 3 | Apr 24 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Mar 20 | — | May 15 – Jun 12 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Jan 23 | — | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 23 | Mar 20 | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Aug 7 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | Apr 24 – Oct 2 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 17 | Oct 1 – Oct 29 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 16 | — | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Oct 23 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 23 | — | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 23 | — | Mar 20 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 9 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Sep 3 | May 8 – Sep 11 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | May 29 – Oct 16 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 6 | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Sep 17 | Apr 10 – Aug 14 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 10 | Nov 19 – Jan 28 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 15 | Oct 1 – Oct 29 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 9 | — | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | — | May 22 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Oct 16 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Ashdown
ZIP Codes in Ashdown
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 Little River County.
Your Little River County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Little River County (Zone 8b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log