Calaveras County, CA — Planting Guide
Top priorities for Calaveras County, California gardeners in May
Welcome to May in Zone 9a. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
-
Begin indoor sowing: basil, cucumber, and kale
These need a head start before your last frost (April 8). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
It's harvest week for carrots, lettuce, and radish
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
June prep starts now
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Calaveras County is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is April 8 and the first fall frost is November 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 218 days.
At an elevation of 2,363 ft, Calaveras County receives approximately 25 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 83°F with winter lows around 44°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 30 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 107 days year to year — ranging from January 21 in warm years to May 8 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 4.31 days per decade. Calaveras County scores 45/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 8
🍂 First Frost
November 12
📅 Growing Season
218 days
⛰️ Elevation
2,363 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
25 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 | 5.4 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.8 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 4 in | 6 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Apr | 2.4 in | 4 days | 1.9 in | High |
| May | 0.7 in | 2 days | 3.6 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.2 in | 1 days | 4.1 in | Critical |
| Jul | 0 in | 0 days | 4.3 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0 in | 0 days | 4.3 in | Critical |
| Sep | 0.3 in | 1 days | 4 in | Critical |
| Oct | 1 in | 3 days | 3.3 in | Critical |
| Nov | 2.3 in | 6 days | 2 in | High |
| Dec | 3.9 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 25 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.
Calaveras County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.5-7.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 8 | Dec 12 | 218 days |
| Cautious | Apr 18 | Nov 25 | 221 days |
| Average year | Apr 8 | Nov 12 | 218 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 2 | Nov 3 | 246 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 21 | Oct 21 | 273 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±107 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 shorter here (about 4.3 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Calaveras County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Calaveras 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 Calaveras County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Calaveras County University of California Cooperative Extension Extension Office
Phone: 530-750-1200
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 Calaveras County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Calaveras County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Calaveras 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 Calaveras County CA" or "garden center Calaveras 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 Calaveras County CA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Calaveras County Gardeners" or "California 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
14.6 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
13.8 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 | 9.6 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 9.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 11.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.6 hr | 12.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.4 hr | 13.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 12 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 10.5 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 8.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.9 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.4 hr | 5.2 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 May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 40°F | 47°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 39°F | 46°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 47°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 59°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 68°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 79°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 84°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 87°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 82°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 67°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 55°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 43°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Calaveras County
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
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
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 | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | High | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Low | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Calaveras County
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 | Apr 14 | Sep 17 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 15 | Sep 3 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 14 | Sep 10 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 10 | Sep 17 | ✓ 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 | May 2 | Oct 22 | — | 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 1 | Mar 18 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 4 | Mar 25 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 26 | Mar 18 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 2 | Mar 25 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 7 | Mar 18 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 3 | Mar 25 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 7 | Mar 18 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 10 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 7 mph Winter: 8 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
2.8/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (312 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
12,460 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
7 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, Feb, Mar, Dec
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
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 25.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 12,460 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (May, Jun, Jul)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Calaveras County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.5–7.6 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 7.5/10
High drought stress. Consistent irrigation is essential — consider drip systems, heavy mulch, and drought-tolerant varieties.
Season Tips
218-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 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 Calaveras County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Calaveras County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 22 | Aug 26 – Nov 4 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 18 | — | May 13 – Jun 10 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 22 | Aug 26 – Oct 7 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 18 | — | May 20 – Jun 24 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 19 – Oct 28 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 – May 13 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 18 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 21 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 18 | — | May 13 – Jun 10 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Dec 16 – Feb 10 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 22 | Aug 26 – Nov 4 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Sep 30 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 19 – Oct 28 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Sep 23 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | May 13 – Jul 22 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 30 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 – May 13 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | May 13 – Jun 10 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | May 20 – Jun 17 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 18 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 18 | — | Apr 15 – May 6 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 18 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 18 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 22 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Dec 16 – Feb 10 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 18 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Oct 14 – Feb 10 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Calaveras County
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Calaveras County.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 22 | Jul 22 – Nov 4 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 22 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 22 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 22 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 22 | Jul 22 – Feb 17 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Calaveras County
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Calaveras County.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jul 1 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 27 – Jul 15 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 15 | Aug 19 – Nov 25 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 15 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Dec 16 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | Jul 1 – Sep 30 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 15 | Jul 8 – Nov 25 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 15 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 15 | Aug 19 – Nov 25 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Calaveras County
1 flowers that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Calaveras County.
Show all 1 flowers with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marigolds | May 13 | Mar 25 | Mar 25 | May 20 – Oct 21 | 50–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Calaveras County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Calaveras County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Calaveras County, CA?
Calaveras County 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 Calaveras County, CA?
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Calaveras County falls around April 8. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 21 and May 8 — a 107-day window of variability. Use May 8 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Calaveras County, CA?
The median first fall frost in Calaveras County arrives around November 12. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 21; in mild years as late as December 12. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Calaveras County?
Calaveras County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 218 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons. Climate records show the growing season is trending shorter by about 4.31 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Calaveras County for gardening?
Calaveras County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.5–7.6 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Calaveras County?
Calaveras County has commercial agriculture that includes Grapes, Almonds, Dairy, Lettuce, Tomatoes. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Calaveras County a good location for home gardening?
Calaveras County scores 45/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Gardening here benefits from close attention to frost timing and season extension due to the challenging microclimate factors.
Your Calaveras County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Calaveras County (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