Big Flat, AR — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June gardening checklist
Each item below is timed to Baxter County, Arkansas's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
-
Get peppers, astilbe, and begonias seeds going inside
These need a head start before your last frost (April 2). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Collect basil, carrots, and cucumber at their peak
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
Get ahead of July
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Big Flat gardens in a wet, humid climate (49" 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.
Drought pressure is moderate (18.9 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 2
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 27
📅 Growing Season
208 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 49.0" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 4.9 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
18.9 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Big Flat
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: Plants need different amounts of water at different growth stages — heavy at flowering and fruit-set, lighter at establishment. Big Flat's 49" annual rainfall is your starting math; the timing tells you when natural rain will cover you and when you need to step in.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.4 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Apr | 3.2 in | 8 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.3 in | 7 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 3.9 in | 12 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jul | 5 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.3 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3 in | 8 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.2 in | 6 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 45.6 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.
Big Flat Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.8-7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 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 21 | Nov 13 | 206 days |
| Cautious | Apr 15 | Oct 31 | 199 days |
| Average year | Apr 2 | Oct 27 | 208 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 27 | Oct 20 | 207 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 13 | Oct 13 | 214 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±39 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit shorter (0.6 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Baxter County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Baxter 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 Baxter County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Baxter 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 Baxter County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Baxter County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Baxter 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 Baxter County AR" or "garden center Baxter 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 Baxter County AR" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Baxter 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 Big Flat
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: Lettuce and cilantro "bolt" (go to seed) when days lengthen. Knowing your day-length curve helps you time spring plantings to harvest before the bolting trigger hits. Big Flat's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
Longest Day
14.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.5 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 | 9.8 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.7 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.9 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.5 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.2 hr | 7.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 10 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.5 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Big Flat
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Cold soil = stunted starts. A bean seed planted in 55°F soil rots before it germinates. Same seed in 65°F soil sprouts in 5 days. Big Flat's soil temperature pattern shows you the difference month to month.
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 | 34°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 33°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 39°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 51°F | 52°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 62°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 74°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 82°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 83°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 74°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 65°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 51°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 39°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Big Flat
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: Pest and disease pressure is the X-factor most beginners under-plan for. Big Flat's climate determines whether you can mostly "plant and see" or whether you need a pest-management routine from the first seedling.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
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
Cover Crops for Big Flat
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: The "chop and drop" approach to cover crops: cut them down right before flowering, let them lay on the surface as mulch, plant your vegetables through the mulch. Less work, healthier soil.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 15 | Aug 18 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 8 | Aug 18 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 8 | Aug 18 | ✓ 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 18 | Oct 6 | — | 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 18 | Mar 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 20 | Mar 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 8 | Mar 12 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 9 | Mar 19 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 12 | Mar 12 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 1 | Mar 19 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 2 | Mar 12 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Big Flat
For new gardeners: Pollinators avoid windy days. Big Flat's 4.9 mph average wind isn't enough to stop bees and butterflies — but plant fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) in protected microclimates and you'll see noticeably better fruit set.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 10 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 9 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
2.7/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (187 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Big Flat
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: Most gardens use 0.5-1 gallon per square foot per week in summer. Big Flat's 49" annual rainfall is enough to cover most needs if you can capture it. Rain barrels under downspouts are the simplest entry point.
Annual Collection
22,727 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 750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, Mar, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, 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 45.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 22,727 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Apr, Sep, Oct)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Big Flat
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Big Flat.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 18 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 1 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 18 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 28 – Jul 16 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Apr 16 – May 7 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 18 | Aug 20 – Oct 22 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 18 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 29 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Dec 15 – Apr 27 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 29 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 1 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 13 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Jul 2 – Sep 17 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 1 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Apr 9 – May 7 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 18 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 18 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 29 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 18 | Apr 16 – May 7 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 18 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 18 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 13 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 18 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 9 | — | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Big Flat
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Big Flat.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Nov 5 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Dec 3 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Big Flat
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Big Flat.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 18 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 18 | Jun 25 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 18 | May 21 – Jul 9 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 18 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 18 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 18 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 18 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 18 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 18 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 18 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 18 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jul 2 – Nov 19 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Aug 18 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 13 – Nov 19 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Big Flat
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Big Flat.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 19 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Sep 17 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Oct 20 – Nov 10 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 1 | Sep 15 – Oct 13 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Sep 1 | Jun 4 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 22 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 29 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 22 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jul 2 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Sep 1 | May 21 – Sep 3 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 5 | — | Sep 1 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jul 2 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 29 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 22 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Aug 18 – Sep 8 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Aug 25 – Sep 15 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 22 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 22 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | — | Apr 30 – Jul 30 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 29 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 22 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jul 2 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Nov 5 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 22 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 1 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 15 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 22 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 22 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Sep 15 – Oct 6 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 22 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 8 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 8 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jul 2 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 5 | — | Aug 18 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 29 | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 8 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 29 | — | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jul 30 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jul 2 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 19 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Sep 3 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Oct 1 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 22 | — | Apr 2 | Aug 18 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 29 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Sep 10 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | May 21 – Sep 17 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 1 | Sep 29 – Oct 27 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 22 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 22 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 22 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Apr 2 | Sep 1 | Jun 11 – Sep 3 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 1 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 19 | Mar 5 | Apr 2 | Sep 15 | May 14 – Aug 6 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Feb 26 | — | Sep 1 | May 7 – Jul 30 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Sep 8 – Sep 29 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 22 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 29 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 22 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 1 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Big Flat
ZIP Codes in Big Flat
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 Baxter County.
Your Baxter County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Baxter County (Zone 7a). 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