Driver, AR — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Top priorities for Mississippi County, Arkansas gardeners in June
Welcome to June in Zone 8a. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
-
Time to start begonias, geraniums, and pansy inside
A seed-starting mix and a sunny window (or a grow light) are all you need. Keep soil warm — around 70°F — for fast germination.
-
It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Driver 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.
Drought pressure is moderate (17.2 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 27
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 3
📅 Growing Season
221 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 54.0" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 8.2 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
17.2 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Driver
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Watering math is simple: 1 inch of rainfall delivers ~600 gallons to a 1,000 sq ft garden. Driver's 54" annual rainfall covers some months entirely; others need a few hours of drip irrigation per week. The calendar tells you which is which.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 5.1 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.8 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.8 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.7 in | 7 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.8 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.9 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.9 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.2 in | 7 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.6 in | 7 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.9 in | 10 days | — | None |
Annual total: 53.7 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.
Driver Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.9
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 15 | Nov 23 | 222 days |
| Cautious | Apr 6 | Nov 12 | 220 days |
| Average year | Mar 27 | Nov 3 | 221 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 19 | Oct 29 | 224 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 9 | Oct 24 | 229 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±36 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 longer (0.5 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Mississippi County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Mississippi 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 Mississippi County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Mississippi 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 Mississippi County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Mississippi County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Mississippi 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 Mississippi County AR" or "garden center Mississippi 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 Mississippi County AR" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Mississippi 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 Driver
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: The longest day at Driver'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
14.4 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.6 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.5 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 | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.9 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.4 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.2 hr | 7.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.1 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.6 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Driver
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Driver, 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 | 40°F | 46°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 40°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 45°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 56°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 69°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 78°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 84°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 86°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 81°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 70°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 55°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 43°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Driver
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
For new gardeners: Pest and disease pressure is the X-factor most beginners under-plan for. Driver'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
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 | High | 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
- 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 Driver
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: Cover crops do four things at once: fix nitrogen (legumes), suppress weeds (any), prevent erosion, and add organic matter when chopped down. Driver's seasonal pattern determines which species fit which gap.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 7 | Sep 1 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 30 | Sep 8 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 24 | Sep 1 | ✓ 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 17 | Oct 20 | — | 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 7 | Mar 13 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 28 | Mar 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 21 | Mar 6 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 13 | Mar 13 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 25 | Mar 6 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 6 | Mar 13 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 26 | Mar 13 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Driver
The practical takeaway: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Driver's 8.2 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 10 mph Summer: 7 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 10 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
Moderate
Some terrain variation (432 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Driver
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: A single rain barrel under a downspout catches 50 gallons in a 0.5" storm. Driver's 54" annual rainfall means even modest harvesting systems quickly amortize their cost in water savings.
Annual Collection
26,764 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, Oct, Dec
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 53.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 26,764 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 Driver
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Driver.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 25 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 25 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 22 – Jul 10 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | Apr 10 – May 1 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jun 26 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 25 | Aug 14 – Oct 16 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 25 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 23 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Dec 22 – Jun 8 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Dec 11 – Dec 25 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 3 | — | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 23 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Sep 25 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | Jun 26 – Sep 11 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 25 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | Apr 3 – May 1 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 25 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 1 – May 29 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 25 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jun 26 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 23 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 25 | Apr 10 – May 1 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 25 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 25 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jul 31 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Dec 11 – Dec 25 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 25 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Aug 25 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 3 | — | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Driver
27 fruits matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Driver.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 30 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Jan 1 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Driver
39 herbs matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Driver.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 25 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 25 | Jun 19 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 25 | May 15 – Jul 3 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 25 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 25 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 25 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 25 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 25 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 25 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 25 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 25 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 25 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 26 – Nov 13 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Aug 25 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 7 – Nov 13 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Driver
54 flowers matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Driver.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 13 | Mar 20 | Mar 20 | — | May 15 – Oct 2 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Oct 27 – Nov 17 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 30 | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 13 | Mar 13 | Sep 8 | May 15 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 16 | — | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 30 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 23 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 30 | — | Mar 27 | — | May 15 – Jun 12 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 13 | Mar 13 | Aug 25 | May 1 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Nov 17 – Feb 23 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 20 | — | May 22 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Mar 27 | — | May 15 – Jun 12 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 30 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Oct 23 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Sep 8 – Sep 29 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Sep 8 – Oct 6 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Nov 6 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 30 | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 30 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 10 – Jun 26 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 23 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Mar 27 | — | May 15 – Jun 12 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Oct 20 – Nov 17 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 6 | Mar 20 | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Nov 13 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 16 | — | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Oct 16 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 27 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Nov 6 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 23 | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Sep 29 – Oct 20 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 23 | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 9 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 30 | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 23 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Mar 27 | — | May 15 – Jun 19 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Feb 27 | — | Aug 25 | May 8 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 23 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 25 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 30 | — | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Mar 27 | — | May 15 – Jun 12 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 13 | Mar 20 | Mar 20 | — | May 15 – Sep 18 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 20 | — | May 15 – Oct 16 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 16 | — | Mar 13 | Aug 25 | May 8 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Jun 19 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Jan 30 | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 20 | — | May 8 – Oct 2 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Sep 22 – Oct 27 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 23 | — | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 23 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 30 | — | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 30 | — | Mar 27 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 16 | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Aug 25 | May 22 – Sep 11 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Mar 20 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 16 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Mar 13 | Sep 8 | Apr 24 – Aug 14 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 1 | Nov 10 – Feb 2 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 16 | — | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 30 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | — | May 29 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Oct 16 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Driver
ZIP Codes in Driver
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 Mississippi County.
Your Mississippi County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Mississippi County (Zone 8a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log