Perry, AR — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your July planting checklist for Perry County, Arkansas
Here's what deserves your attention in Perry County, Arkansas this month. Everything below is tailored to Zone 8a and timed around your local frost dates.
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Pick basil, cucumber, and green beans
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
A few tasks this July that'll pay off in August
- First harvests: basil, peppers, and thai basil
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Perry gardens in a wet, humid climate (51" 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 (18.8 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 26
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 9
📅 Growing Season
228 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 51.0" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 3.8 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
18.8 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Perry
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: The 1-inch-per-week rule applies to most vegetable crops. Perry averages 51" a year — divide by 52 and compare to that 1" target. Some months are above, some below; that's where the calendar earns its keep.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.4 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.8 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4.2 in | 7 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| May | 3.6 in | 8 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 4.8 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.7 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.4 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.1 in | 8 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.6 in | 6 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 51.2 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.
Perry Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.6-6.7
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 26 | 225 days |
| Cautious | Apr 3 | Nov 15 | 226 days |
| Average year | Mar 26 | Nov 9 | 228 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 15 | Oct 31 | 230 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 6 | Oct 24 | 232 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±40 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 1.6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Perry County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Perry 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 Perry County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Perry 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 Perry County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Perry County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Perry 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 Perry County AR" or "garden center Perry 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 Perry County AR" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Perry 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 Perry
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: Plants use day length as their seasonal clock. Some crops flower when days lengthen (most flowers), some when days shorten (chrysanthemums, soybeans). Perry's curve is the timing layer beneath everything you grow.
Longest Day
14.3 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.7 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.6 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.9 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.7 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.8 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.3 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.1 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.1 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.7 hr | 4.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Perry
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Soil temperature is a leading indicator. A black plastic mulch can warm soil 5-10°F faster than bare ground — meaningful in Perry's spring if you're trying to plant tomatoes earlier.
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 | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 41°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 46°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 59°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 67°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 79°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 85°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 89°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 82°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 71°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 54°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 44°F | 51°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 Perry
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Perry sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.
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 | 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 Perry
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: Cover crops protect microbial life through winter and summer. Bare soil bakes; covered soil stays cooler, moister, and biologically active. The difference shows up in next year's crops.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 31 | Sep 7 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 29 | Sep 14 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 31 | Sep 14 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 25 | Aug 31 | ✓ 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 15 | Oct 26 | — | 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 29 | Mar 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 9 | Mar 5 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 14 | Mar 12 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 25 | Mar 5 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 9 | Mar 12 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 19 | Mar 5 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 9 | Mar 5 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Perry
The practical takeaway: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Perry's 3.8 mph background level is a baseline you should know before placing the tallest crops (sunflowers, pole beans, sweet corn).
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 10 mph Summer: 7 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 8 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
3/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (513 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Perry
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 Perry captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 51" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.
Annual Collection
25,518 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
May, Oct, Nov
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 51.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 25,518 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 Perry
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Perry.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 12 | — | Aug 31 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 2 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 24 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 12 | — | Aug 31 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 21 – Jul 9 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 2 | — | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 2 | — | — | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Apr 9 – Apr 30 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jun 25 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 12 | — | Aug 31 | Aug 13 – Oct 15 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 12 | — | Aug 31 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 2 | — | — | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 22 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 28 | Dec 28 – Jun 14 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Dec 10 – Dec 24 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 2 | — | — | May 28 – Jul 23 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 22 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Sep 24 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 2 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Jun 25 – Sep 10 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 2 | — | — | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 24 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Apr 2 – Apr 30 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Aug 31 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 12 | — | Aug 31 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jun 25 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 22 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 12 | — | Aug 31 | Apr 9 – Apr 30 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 12 | — | Aug 31 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 12 | — | Aug 31 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 2 | — | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jul 30 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 9 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 2 | — | — | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Dec 10 – Dec 24 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 12 | — | Aug 31 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Aug 31 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 2 | — | — | May 28 – Jul 23 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jul 23 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Perry
27 fruits matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Perry.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 29 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Dec 31 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Perry
39 herbs matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Perry.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Aug 31 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Aug 31 | Jun 18 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Aug 31 | May 14 – Jul 2 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Aug 31 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Aug 31 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Aug 31 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Aug 31 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Aug 31 | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Aug 31 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jul 23 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Aug 31 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 24 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Aug 31 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 25 – Nov 12 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Aug 31 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 6 – Nov 12 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Perry
54 flowers matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Perry.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 19 | — | May 14 – Oct 1 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 5 | Nov 2 – Nov 23 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Sep 28 – Oct 26 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 12 | Mar 12 | Sep 14 | May 14 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 15 | — | Mar 19 | — | May 28 – Oct 15 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 29 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 22 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 | — | May 14 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 12 | Mar 12 | Aug 31 | Apr 30 – Sep 10 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Nov 23 – Mar 1 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Oct 15 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 29 | Mar 26 | Mar 26 | — | May 14 – Jun 11 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 29 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 28 – Oct 22 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Oct 8 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 12 | Sep 14 – Oct 5 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 5 | Sep 14 – Oct 12 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Nov 5 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 22 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 29 | Feb 12 | Feb 19 | — | Apr 9 – Jun 25 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 29 | Mar 26 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 22 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 29 | Mar 26 | Mar 26 | — | May 14 – Jun 11 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 28 | Oct 26 – Nov 23 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 5 | Mar 19 | Mar 19 | — | May 28 – Nov 12 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 15 | — | Mar 19 | — | May 28 – Oct 15 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 26 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Nov 5 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 22 | — | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 8 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 12 | Oct 5 – Oct 26 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 22 | — | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 8 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 22 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Mar 26 | — | May 14 – Jun 18 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Feb 26 | — | Aug 31 | May 7 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 22 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Sep 24 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 29 | — | Feb 19 | — | Apr 16 – Jun 11 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Jan 29 | Mar 26 | Mar 26 | — | May 14 – Jun 11 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 19 | — | May 14 – Sep 17 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 19 | — | May 14 – Oct 15 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 15 | — | Mar 12 | Aug 31 | May 7 – Aug 13 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Mar 26 | — | May 21 – Jun 18 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 29 | Mar 26 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 19 | — | May 7 – Oct 1 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Sep 28 – Nov 2 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 22 | — | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 22 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 29 | — | Mar 19 | — | May 28 – Oct 15 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 8 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 15 | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Aug 31 | May 21 – Sep 10 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 5 | Mar 19 | Mar 19 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 15 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 12 | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Sep 14 | Apr 23 – Aug 13 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 7 | Nov 16 – Feb 8 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 12 | Sep 28 – Oct 26 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 15 | — | Mar 19 | — | May 28 – Oct 15 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 29 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 28 – Oct 22 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 19 | — | May 28 – Oct 15 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Perry
ZIP Codes in Perry
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 Perry County.
Your Perry County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Perry 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