Foothill Ranch, CA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June gardening checklist
Welcome to June in Zone 10b. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
-
Collect basil, cucumber, and green beans at their peak
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
Coming up in July — start thinking about
- First harvests: peppers, tomatoes, and ageratum
Foothill Ranch gardens in a dry climate (only 9" annual precipitation). Watering strategy matters more here than in most of the country — drip irrigation, deep mulching, and morning watering aren't optional, they're table stakes. The flip side: pest and disease pressure are far lower than in humid regions, and your soil temperatures climb fast in spring so you can plant heat-lovers earlier than the zone map suggests.
Soils trend Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Foothill Ranch averages 31.6 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
10b (35°F to 40°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
February 13
🍂 Avg. First Frost
December 11
📅 Growing Season
302 days
🌧️ Climate
Arid 9.2" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 4.8 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Rare 61% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
31.6 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Foothill Ranch
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: In humid climates, watering is usually about timing (morning, not evening, to prevent disease) more than volume. In dry climates, it's about depth (water deep, less often) more than frequency. Foothill Ranch's 9" annual tells you which side you're on.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.4 in | 10 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Feb | 2.6 in | 9 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Mar | 2.2 in | 7 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Apr | 1.1 in | 4 days | 3.2 in | Critical |
| May | 0.4 in | 1 days | 3.9 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.1 in | 0 days | 4.2 in | Critical |
| Jul | 0 in | 0 days | 4.3 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0 in | 0 days | 4.3 in | Critical |
| Sep | 0.2 in | 0 days | 4.1 in | Critical |
| Oct | 0.7 in | 2 days | 3.6 in | Critical |
| Nov | 1.5 in | 5 days | 2.8 in | High |
| Dec | 2.7 in | 8 days | 1.6 in | High |
Annual total: 13.9 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.
Foothill Ranch Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
5.7-7.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 24 years of NOAA weather station data from 2 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 2 | Dec 20 | 262 days |
| Cautious | Feb 28 | Dec 17 | 292 days |
| Average year | Feb 13 | Dec 11 | 301 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 2 | Nov 29 | 300 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 10 | Nov 15 | 309 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±83 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 18.6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Orange County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Orange 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 Orange County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Orange 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 Orange County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Orange County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Orange 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 Orange County CA" or "garden center Orange 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 Orange County CA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Orange 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 in Foothill Ranch
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." Foothill Ranch's latitude determines which to buy — and getting it wrong is the difference between baseball-sized bulbs and marbles.
Longest Day
14.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.8 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
12.8 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: 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 | 10 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.7 hr | 11 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.2 hr | 12.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 14 hr | 12.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 11.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 10.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 7.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.2 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.8 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Foothill Ranch
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Air temperature lies. Your air can be 70°F in April but the soil 4 inches down is still 50°F — too cold for tomatoes or peppers to root properly. Foothill Ranch's soil temperature curve tells you the real planting window. A $5 soil thermometer pays for itself in one season.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Mar through Dec.
Best Month to Compost
Apr
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
12 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 56°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 58°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 64°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 71°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 79°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 87°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 94°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 94°F | 92°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 92°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 84°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 72°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 63°F | 67°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 Foothill Ranch
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: In Foothill Ranch's climate, pest pressure shapes which crops are easy and which are heartbreak. Tomatoes are easy in dry mountain air, hard in humid coast — same plant, completely different gardening experience.
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 | Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec |
| Whiteflies | High | Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec |
| Spider mites | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Thrips | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Scale insects | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Nematodes | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
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 Foothill Ranch
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: In Foothill Ranch, cover crops also crowd out weeds. The denser the cover, the less weed pressure next season. Pays for itself in saved weeding time.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Feb 25 | Oct 2 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Feb 22 | Oct 16 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Feb 15 | Oct 2 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 13 | Oct 9 | ✓ 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 5 | Nov 20 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (1 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crimson clover | Oct 13 | Jan 30 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
Wind & Microclimate in Foothill Ranch
For new gardeners: Light wind is good (strengthens stems, aids pollination); strong wind is bad (snaps stems, dries leaves, scatters seeds). Foothill Ranch averages 4.8 mph. If you garden near coast, ridge, or open plains, you're likely above that — plan for it.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 9 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 7 mph Winter: 8 mph
Prevailing wind: W. 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 (470 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Foothill Ranch
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Foothill Ranch gets 9" of rain a year — a couple of well-placed rain barrels can cover most summer watering. In dry climates the math's even better: every captured gallon is one you don't buy.
Annual Collection
6,927 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
8 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,500 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, Oct
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 13.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 6,927 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- In your dry climate, every drop counts — consider a larger cistern system
- Position collection tanks in shade to reduce evaporation and algae growth
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Foothill Ranch
105 vegetables matched to Zone 10b with planting dates calibrated for Foothill Ranch.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 15 – Jun 19 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 22 – Jul 10 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Feb 27 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Mar 20 – May 22 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Feb 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 23 | — | Oct 16 | Mar 20 – Apr 17 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – Jun 5 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Feb 20 | — | — | May 22 – Jul 10 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Mar 27 – May 1 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 17 – May 29 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Mar 27 – May 1 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 22 – Jun 26 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 15 – Jul 10 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Feb 27 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Jan 23 | — | Oct 16 | Mar 27 – May 1 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 55–100 |
| Celery | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 17 – May 29 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 10 – May 29 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | May 8 – Jun 19 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 17 – May 29 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 15 – Jun 19 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Feb 20 | — | — | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Feb 20 | — | — | Apr 24 – Jun 5 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Feb 27 – Mar 20 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 10 – May 8 | 45–60 |
| Cucumber | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 23 | — | Oct 16 | Mar 20 – Apr 17 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 15 – Jun 19 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Feb 20 | — | — | May 8 – Jun 19 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 1 – Jul 3 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 3 – May 8 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | May 1 – Jun 12 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – Jun 5 | 60–90 |
| Ginger | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Oct 23 – Jan 1 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 20 | — | — | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 50–65 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 1 – Aug 7 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 22 – Jun 19 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 3 – May 1 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 10 – Jun 5 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 20 | — | — | May 22 – Jun 26 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 3 – May 8 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Mar 20 – Apr 24 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | May 15 – Jul 31 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | May 8 – Jun 19 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Mar 20 – May 29 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Feb 20 | — | — | Apr 24 – Jun 5 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 22 – Aug 7 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Mar 27 – May 1 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – May 15 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 1 – Jun 19 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Feb 20 – Mar 20 | 7–21 |
| Mizuna | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Mar 20 – Apr 17 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Mar 20 – May 22 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – May 15 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | May 15 – Jul 3 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Mar 27 – Apr 24 | 40–55 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 10 – May 8 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 10 – Jun 5 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 1 – Jul 10 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 22 – Jul 10 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Mar 27 – May 1 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 23 | — | Oct 16 | Feb 20 – Mar 13 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | May 1 – Jun 12 | 75–100 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – May 29 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | May 15 – Jul 3 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 2 | Feb 20 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Apr 10 – Jun 5 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Feb 20 | — | — | May 15 – Jul 10 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 22 – Jun 19 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Mar 20 – May 22 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 15 – Jul 10 | 80–120 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Feb 20 | — | — | Apr 24 – Jun 5 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 22 – Jul 10 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Mar 20 – Apr 24 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Oct 23 – Jan 1 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 23 | — | Oct 16 | Mar 6 – Apr 10 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Oct 16 | Mar 27 – May 1 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 1 – Jun 19 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Feb 20 | — | — | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 22 – Jul 10 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Aug 21 – Feb 5 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – May 29 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 10 – Jun 5 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Foothill Ranch
16 fruits matched to Zone 10b with planting dates calibrated for Foothill Ranch.
Show all 16 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Feb 27 | — | May 29 – Sep 11 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Feb 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Feb 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Feb 27 | — | May 8 – Jun 12 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Feb 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Feb 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Figs | — | — | Feb 27 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Feb 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Feb 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Feb 27 | — | May 8 – Jul 3 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Feb 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Feb 27 | — | May 22 – Jul 3 | 80–110 |
| Loquat | — | — | Feb 27 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Feb 27 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Feb 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Feb 27 | — | May 29 – Feb 26 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Foothill Ranch
23 herbs matched to Zone 10b with planting dates calibrated for Foothill Ranch.
Show all 23 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | Oct 16 | May 8 – Jul 24 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 2 | Feb 20 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – Jun 19 | 50–75 |
| Borage | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | Oct 16 | Apr 3 – May 22 | 50–60 |
| Chervil | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | Oct 16 | Mar 20 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | Oct 16 | Mar 20 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Cumin | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | Oct 16 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | Oct 16 | Mar 20 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 2 | Feb 20 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 10 – Jun 5 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | Oct 16 | Apr 10 – Jun 19 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 20 | — | May 8 – Jul 3 | 75–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 2 | Feb 20 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 2 | Feb 20 | Feb 20 | — | May 8 – Aug 7 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | Oct 16 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 20 | — | May 15 – Oct 2 | 80–180 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 20 | — | May 8 – Jul 3 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Stevia | Jan 2 | Feb 20 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 2 | Feb 20 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – Jun 19 | 50–75 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Foothill Ranch
31 flowers matched to Zone 10b with planting dates calibrated for Foothill Ranch.
Show all 31 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Jan 2 | Jan 2 | Jan 2 | — | Feb 27 – Sep 25 | 60–75 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Oct 30 | Oct 30 – Nov 27 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Nov 28 | Dec 26 | Sep 18 | Feb 20 – May 29 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Dec 5 | — | Dec 26 | — | Mar 6 – Oct 30 | 70–90 |
| Calendula | — | Nov 28 | Dec 26 | Sep 4 | Feb 6 – May 15 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 4 | Nov 13 – Feb 5 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Jan 16 | Jan 2 | Jan 2 | — | Mar 6 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Cosmos | Jan 16 | Dec 26 | Dec 26 | — | Mar 6 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Dahlias | — | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Dec 4 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 2 | — | Jan 9 | — | Mar 20 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Dec 19 | Nov 28 | Nov 28 | — | Jan 16 – Feb 20 | 60–80 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 30 | Oct 30 – Dec 4 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Jan 9 | Jan 9 | Jan 9 | — | Mar 20 – Sep 18 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Dec 5 | — | Dec 26 | — | Mar 6 – Oct 30 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Dec 4 | 70–100 |
| Impatiens | Dec 19 | — | Jan 2 | — | Mar 13 – Oct 9 | 60–75 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Oct 16 | Dec 25 – Feb 19 | 60–90 |
| Marigolds | Jan 16 | Jan 2 | Jan 2 | — | Feb 27 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Jan 16 | Dec 26 | Dec 26 | — | Feb 20 – Oct 2 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | — | Division | Dec 26 | Sep 4 | Feb 6 – Apr 17 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Dec 19 | — | Jan 2 | — | Mar 13 – Sep 25 | 70–90 |
| Portulaca | Jan 16 | Jan 2 | Jan 2 | — | Feb 20 – Oct 9 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Oct 30 | Oct 30 – Nov 27 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Dec 19 | — | Jan 9 | — | Mar 20 – Oct 16 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Dec 19 | — | Dec 26 | — | Mar 6 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 2 | — | Jan 9 | — | May 1 – Jun 12 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Nov 28 | Dec 26 | Sep 4 | Feb 27 – Aug 7 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Jan 23 | Dec 26 | Dec 26 | — | Mar 20 – Oct 2 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Nov 28 | Dec 26 | Sep 18 | Jan 23 – Apr 17 | 45–60 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Dec 5 | — | Dec 26 | — | Mar 6 – Oct 30 | 70–90 |
| Zinnia | Jan 16 | Dec 26 | Dec 26 | — | Mar 6 – Oct 2 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Foothill Ranch
ZIP Codes in Foothill Ranch
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 Orange County.
Your Orange County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Orange County (Zone 10b). 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