Cowichan Valley, BC — Planting Guide
Cowichan Valley is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 5 and the first fall frost is November 10, giving you a growing season of approximately 250 days.
At an elevation of 147 ft, Cowichan Valley receives approximately 63.5 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 96°F with winter lows around 46°F. The predominant soil type is Podzolic Loam.
🌡️ Zone
9a (20°F to 25°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 5
🍂 First Frost
November 10
📅 Growing Season
250 days
⛰️ Elevation
147 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
63.5 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.7 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.7 in | 7 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Mar | 4 in | 9 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Apr | 5.9 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| May | 8.1 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 7.9 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 6.4 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 6.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 5.3 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 5.9 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Dec | 4 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 63.7 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.
Cowichan Valley Soil Profile
Soil Type
Podzolic Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Gardening Difficulty Score
Cowichan Valley is a very forgiving place to garden. Most plants thrive here with minimal effort.
Local Gardening Help in Cowichan 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 Cowichan Valley's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Cowichan 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 Cowichan Valley
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Cowichan Valley
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Cowichan 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 Cowichan Valley BC" or "garden center Cowichan 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 Cowichan Valley BC" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Cowichan 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
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
15.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.9 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 | 8.5 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
| February | 9.9 hr | 4.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.5 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 15 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.9 hr | 9.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.6 hr | 9.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 14.2 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.5 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| November | 8.9 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.1 hr | 3.1 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
10 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 49°F | 56°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 49°F | 56°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 55°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 64°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 75°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 84°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 90°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 92°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 86°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 79°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 65°F | 71°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 55°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Cowichan Valley
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
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 | Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Whiteflies | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Spider mites | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Fire ants | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Thrips | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Leaf miners | Low | Mar, Apr, May, Jun |
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 Cowichan Valley
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 7 | Sep 1 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 10 | Sep 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 6 | Sep 1 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 2 | Sep 15 | ✓ 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 | Mar 23 | Oct 20 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (4 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 29 | Feb 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 31 | Feb 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 19 | Feb 19 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 30 | Feb 19 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.6/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (200 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
31,748 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 1,000 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 63.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 31,748 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 Cowichan Valley
Soil Type
Podzolic Loam
Ideal for most crops — holds moisture and nutrients while draining well.
Watering Needs
With 63.5 inches of annual rainfall, supplemental watering is typically only needed during summer dry spells.
Season Tips
250-day frost-free season
Your long season supports multiple successions and heat-demanding crops like melons, sweet potatoes, and peppers. Plant warm-season crops as soon as soil warms.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 24-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
Reduce heat stress and sun scorch in hot climates with UV-stabilized shade cloth.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Cowichan Valley
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Cowichan Valley.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 19 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 12 | — | Apr 9 – May 7 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 19 | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 12 | — | Apr 16 – May 21 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jul 9 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Mar 19 – Apr 9 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 12 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 12 | — | Apr 9 – May 7 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 12 | — | May 28 – Jul 9 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 21 – Jul 2 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Nov 12 – Jan 7 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 19 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 21 – Aug 27 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Aug 20 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 9 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 – Apr 9 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – May 7 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 14 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 12 | — | May 28 – Jul 9 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 12 | — | Mar 12 – Apr 2 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 21 – Jul 2 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 12 | — | May 7 – Jun 11 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 12 | — | May 28 – Jul 9 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 12 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 19 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 9 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Nov 12 – Jan 7 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 12 | — | Mar 26 – Apr 30 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 9 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 – Jan 7 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Cowichan Valley
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Cowichan Valley.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Oct 1 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Jan 14 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Cowichan Valley
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Cowichan Valley.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 11 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 12 | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 12 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Nov 12 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 2 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | May 28 – Aug 27 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Oct 22 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 12 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 12 | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Cowichan Valley
1 flowers that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Cowichan Valley.
Show all 1 flowers with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marigolds | Apr 9 | Feb 19 | Feb 19 | Apr 16 – Sep 17 | 50–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Cowichan Valley
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Cowichan Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Cowichan Valley, BC?
Cowichan Valley is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. 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 Cowichan Valley, BC?
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Cowichan Valley falls around March 5. Plan transplants and direct-sow dates relative to this date.
When is the first fall frost in Cowichan Valley, BC?
The median first fall frost in Cowichan Valley arrives around November 10. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
Is Cowichan Valley a good location for home gardening?
Cowichan Valley scores 83/100 (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 Cowichan Valley Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Cowichan Valley (Zone 9a). 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