Comox Valley, BC — Planting Guide
Comox Valley is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 24 and the first fall frost is November 6, giving you a growing season of approximately 227 days.
At an elevation of 59 ft, Comox Valley receives approximately 53.6 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 92°F with winter lows around 42°F. The predominant soil type is Podzolic Loam.
🌡️ Zone
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 24
🍂 First Frost
November 6
📅 Growing Season
227 days
⛰️ Elevation
59 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
53.6 in
Monthly Watering Calendar for Comox Valley
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: Watering math is simple: 1 inch of rainfall delivers ~600 gallons to a 1,000 sq ft garden. Comox Valley'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 | 2 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.5 in | 6 days | 1.8 in | High |
| Mar | 3.6 in | 10 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| May | 6.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 7.4 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.4 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 6.4 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.6 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.4 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 3.2 in | 7 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Dec | 2.8 in | 6 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.
Comox Valley Soil Profile
Soil Type
Podzolic Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Gardening Difficulty Score
Comox Valley is a very forgiving place to garden. Most plants thrive here with minimal effort.
Local Gardening Help in Comox Valley
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 Comox Valley's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Comox Valley Extension Office
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 Comox Valley
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Comox Valley
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Comox Valley'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 Comox Valley BC" or "garden center Comox Valley" 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 Comox Valley BC" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Comox Valley Gardeners" or "British Columbia 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 Comox Valley
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: Onion varieties are sold by "short-day," "intermediate-day," and "long-day." Comox Valley's latitude determines which to buy — and getting it wrong is the difference between baseball-sized bulbs and marbles.
Longest Day
16.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
7.9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.4 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 8.4 hr | 3.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 9.8 hr | 4.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.5 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 15.2 hr | 8.7 hr | Long day |
| June | 16.1 hr | 10.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.7 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| August | 14.2 hr | 8.7 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.5 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 8.8 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 7.9 hr | 2.9 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Comox Valley
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Comox Valley's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.
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 | 41°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 44°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 50°F | 54°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 60°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 70°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 81°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 86°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 91°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 83°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 72°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 57°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 47°F | 54°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 Comox Valley
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
For new gardeners: Pest pressure is a function of climate, not effort. Comox Valley's baseline tells you how much vigilance is normal. A bad pest year in low-pressure region = a normal year in high-pressure region.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Low | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
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 Comox Valley
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: Why not just leave bare soil? Weed seeds, erosion, nutrient leaching, and crust formation. A cover crop solves all of these for the cost of seeds and one mowing.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 27 | Sep 4 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 28 | Sep 11 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 31 | Sep 11 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 21 | Sep 4 | ✓ 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 4 | Oct 23 | — | 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 5 | Mar 10 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 25 | Mar 10 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 27 | Mar 10 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 21 | Mar 3 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 7 | Mar 10 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 11 | Mar 3 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 7 | Mar 10 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Comox Valley
Why it matters: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Comox Valley's 9.5 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: 11 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.8/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (273 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Comox Valley
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 Comox Valley captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 54" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.
Annual Collection
26,764 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 1,250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, 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
Soil & Growing Conditions in Comox Valley
Soil Type
Podzolic Loam
Ideal for most crops — holds moisture and nutrients while draining well.
Watering Needs
With 53.6 inches of annual rainfall, supplemental watering is typically only needed during summer dry spells.
Season Tips
227-day frost-free season
Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 22-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
Recommended for Your Garden
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Comox Valley
114 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Comox Valley.
Show all 114 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 10 | — | Aug 28 | May 5 – Jun 2 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 31 | — | — | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 26 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 26 – Jul 21 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 10 | — | Aug 28 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 26 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 19 – Jul 7 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 26 – Jul 7 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 31 | — | — | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 31 | — | — | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Apr 7 – Apr 28 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | May 26 – Jun 23 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 10 | — | Aug 28 | Aug 11 – Oct 13 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 10 | — | Aug 28 | May 5 – Jun 2 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 31 | — | — | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 20 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 25 | Dec 25 – Jun 11 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Dec 8 – Dec 22 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 31 | — | — | May 26 – Jul 21 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 20 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Sep 22 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 4 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 12 – Jun 9 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 19 – Jul 14 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 31 | — | — | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Apr 28 – Jun 2 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Jun 23 – Sep 8 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Apr 28 – Jul 7 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 31 | — | — | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 22 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Mar 31 – Apr 28 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Aug 28 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Jun 23 – Aug 11 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 5 – Jun 2 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 10 | — | Aug 28 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | May 26 – Jun 23 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 19 – Jul 14 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 20 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 10 | — | Aug 28 | Apr 7 – Apr 28 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 10 | — | Aug 28 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 10 | — | Aug 28 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Jun 23 – Aug 11 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 19 – Jul 14 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 31 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 4 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | May 26 – Jul 28 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 7 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 31 | — | — | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | Apr 28 – Jun 2 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Dec 8 – Dec 22 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 10 | — | Aug 28 | Apr 21 – May 26 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Aug 28 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 31 | — | — | May 26 – Jul 21 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 14 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | May 26 – Jul 21 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Comox Valley
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Comox Valley.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 27 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 14 – Dec 29 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Comox Valley
39 herbs that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Comox Valley.
Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Aug 28 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Aug 28 | Jun 16 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Aug 28 | May 12 – Jun 30 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Aug 28 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Aug 28 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Aug 28 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Aug 28 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Aug 28 | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Aug 28 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | May 26 – Jul 21 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Aug 28 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 22 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Aug 28 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 23 – Nov 10 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 31 | — | May 26 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Aug 28 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 3 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 4 – Nov 10 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Comox Valley
54 flowers that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Comox Valley.
Show all 54 flowers with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 10 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Oct 6 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 9 | Nov 6 – Nov 27 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 11 | Sep 18 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 27 | — | Mar 24 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Sep 11 | May 5 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 13 | — | Mar 10 | — | May 19 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 27 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | — | Jun 2 – Oct 27 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 27 | — | Mar 24 | — | May 12 – Jun 9 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Aug 28 | Apr 21 – Sep 15 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Aug 28 | Nov 6 – Feb 26 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 24 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | — | May 12 – Oct 20 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 24 | — | May 12 – Jun 9 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 27 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | — | May 26 – Oct 20 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 24 | Mar 3 | Mar 3 | — | May 12 – Oct 13 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 9 | Sep 11 – Oct 2 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 9 | Sep 18 – Oct 16 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Mar 24 | — | Jun 2 – Nov 17 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 27 | — | Mar 24 | — | Jun 2 – Nov 3 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 27 | Feb 3 | Feb 10 | — | Mar 31 – Jun 9 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 24 | — | Jun 2 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 27 | Mar 17 | Mar 17 | — | May 5 – Jun 2 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 25 | Oct 16 – Nov 20 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 10 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | — | May 19 – Nov 3 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 13 | — | Mar 10 | — | May 19 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 24 | Mar 24 | — | Jun 2 – Nov 17 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 20 | — | Mar 24 | — | Jun 2 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 9 | Oct 2 – Oct 23 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 20 | — | Mar 17 | — | May 26 – Sep 29 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 27 | — | Mar 17 | — | May 26 – Oct 27 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Mar 17 | — | May 5 – Jun 9 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Aug 28 | Nov 6 – Feb 26 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 27 | — | Mar 24 | — | Jun 2 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Mar 17 | — | May 26 – Sep 15 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 27 | — | Feb 10 | — | Apr 7 – May 19 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 24 | — | May 12 – Jun 9 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 24 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | — | May 5 – Oct 20 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 13 | — | Mar 3 | Aug 28 | Apr 28 – Aug 18 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Mar 24 | — | May 19 – Jun 16 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Jan 27 | — | Mar 17 | — | May 26 – Oct 13 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 27 | Mar 24 | Mar 24 | — | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 24 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | — | Apr 28 – Oct 6 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 11 | Sep 25 – Oct 23 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 20 | — | Mar 17 | — | May 26 – Oct 27 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 27 | — | Mar 10 | — | May 19 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 27 | — | Mar 24 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Aug 28 | May 12 – Sep 15 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | — | Jun 2 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 10 | Feb 10 | Mar 3 | Sep 11 | Apr 14 – Aug 18 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 4 | Nov 13 – Jan 22 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 9 | Sep 25 – Oct 23 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 13 | — | Mar 10 | — | May 19 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 27 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | — | May 26 – Oct 20 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 24 | Mar 10 | Mar 10 | — | May 19 – Oct 20 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Comox Valley
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Comox Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Comox Valley, BC?
Comox Valley is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Comox Valley, BC?
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Comox Valley falls around March 24. Plan transplants and direct-sow dates relative to this date.
When is the first fall frost in Comox Valley, BC?
The median first fall frost in Comox Valley arrives around November 6. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
Is Comox Valley a good location for home gardening?
Comox Valley scores 89/100 (Excellent) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. This is an above-average location for home gardening with relatively predictable growing conditions.
Your Comox Valley Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Comox Valley (Zone 8b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log