Madera, CA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Madera County, California gardeners: here's your June plan
June rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Madera County, California.
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Time to start begonias, black-eyed susan, and bleeding hearts inside
Starting these indoors now means sturdy transplants ready the moment your soil warms up.
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It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
July prep starts now
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Madera gardens in a dry climate (only 10" 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.
Madera averages 31.5 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
9a (20°F to 25°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 18
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 9
📅 Growing Season
205 days
🌧️ Climate
Arid 9.9" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 5.9 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
31.5 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
4 ZIPs conditions vary — enter your ZIP for exact data
Monthly Watering Calendar for Madera
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
What this means for you: Plants need different amounts of water at different growth stages — heavy at flowering and fruit-set, lighter at establishment. Madera's 10" annual rainfall is your starting math; the timing tells you when natural rain will cover you and when you need to step in.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.6 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.9 in | 9 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 2.3 in | 7 days | 2 in | High |
| Apr | 1.3 in | 4 days | 3 in | High |
| May | 0.4 in | 1 days | 3.9 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.1 in | 1 days | 4.2 in | Critical |
| Jul | 0 in | 0 days | 4.3 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0 in | 0 days | 4.3 in | Critical |
| Sep | 0.1 in | 1 days | 4.2 in | Critical |
| Oct | 0.7 in | 2 days | 3.6 in | Critical |
| Nov | 1.4 in | 6 days | 2.9 in | High |
| Dec | 2.7 in | 10 days | — | None |
Annual total: 14.5 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.
Madera Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 28 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 18 | Dec 3 | 199 days |
| Cautious | Apr 26 | Nov 22 | 210 days |
| Average year | Apr 18 | Nov 9 | 205 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 24 | Oct 30 | 220 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 15 | Oct 11 | 238 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±93 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 5.6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Madera County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Madera 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 Madera County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Madera 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 Madera County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Madera County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Madera 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 Madera County CA" or "garden center Madera 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 Madera County CA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Madera 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 Madera
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Day length is the trigger that tells lettuce, spinach, and cilantro to bolt. In Madera, knowing when that day-length threshold arrives helps you plant a final round in time to harvest before it bolts.
Longest Day
14.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.5 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
13.6 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: 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 | 9.7 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 11.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.5 hr | 12.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.3 hr | 13.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 11.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 10.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 8.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 10 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.5 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 Madera
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Most root crops germinate well at 50-60°F. Most fruit-bearing crops want 65-75°F. Madera's monthly soil curve maps these windows to actual months.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
Apr
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
11 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 49°F | 58°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 52°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 59°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 68°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 78°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 87°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 93°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 95°F | 91°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 87°F | 88°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 81°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 67°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 58°F | 64°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 Madera
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Madera's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
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 | 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 | Moderate | 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
- 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 Madera
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: You don't need a farm to use cover crops. A 4x8 raised bed accepts cover crops just as well as a half-acre. Madera's climate determines the calendar; the principle is universal.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 29 | Aug 31 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 26 | Sep 14 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 24 | Sep 7 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 24 | Sep 14 | ✓ 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 13 | Oct 12 | — | 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 | Sep 17 | Apr 4 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 4 | Apr 4 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 17 | Apr 4 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 22 | Mar 28 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
Wind & Microclimate in Madera
The practical takeaway: Why care about wind? Above about 10 mph, evaporation jumps and pollinators struggle to land on flowers. Madera's 5.9 mph average means you can plant tall crops without much support, but it doesn't mean ignore wind — a 20+ mph storm still snaps unstaked tomatoes.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 9 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 7 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
Low
Relatively flat terrain (358 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Madera
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Madera gets 10" 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
7,226 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 14.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 7,226 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 Madera
114 vegetables matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Madera.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 14 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 28 | — | Sep 14 | May 23 – Jun 20 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 17 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 28 | — | Sep 14 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 7 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | May 2 – May 23 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 28 | — | Sep 14 | Aug 29 – Oct 31 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 28 | — | Sep 14 | May 23 – Jun 20 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 28 | Dec 28 – Jun 14 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Dec 26 – Feb 20 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 14 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 10 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 7 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | May 23 – Aug 1 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Sep 14 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | May 23 – Jun 20 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 28 | — | Sep 14 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 28 | — | Sep 14 | Apr 25 – May 16 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 28 | — | Sep 14 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 28 | — | Sep 14 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 7 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Dec 26 – Feb 20 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 28 | — | Sep 14 | May 9 – Jun 13 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Sep 14 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Oct 24 – Feb 20 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Madera
24 fruits matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Madera.
Show all 24 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 14 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Feb 27 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Madera
37 herbs matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Madera.
Show all 37 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Sep 14 | Jul 11 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 7 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Sep 14 | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Sep 14 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Sep 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Sep 14 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Sep 14 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Sep 14 | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Sep 14 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 7 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Sep 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 15 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Mar 7 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Mar 7 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 10 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Sep 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Dec 5 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Sep 14 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Mar 7 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 7 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Aug 29 – Dec 5 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Madera
49 flowers matched to Zone 9a with planting dates calibrated for Madera.
Show all 49 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 7 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Nov 14 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 12 | Nov 9 – Nov 30 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Sep 21 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 21 | Mar 21 | Aug 31 | May 16 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 7 | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Dec 5 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 21 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 31 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 21 | — | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Jun 13 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 21 | Mar 21 | Aug 17 | May 2 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Aug 17 | Oct 26 – Mar 1 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 6 – Dec 12 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 21 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Jun 13 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 21 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Oct 31 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 21 | Mar 21 | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Nov 14 | 60–90 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 12 | Sep 28 – Oct 19 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | — | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Dec 26 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 21 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Nov 28 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 21 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 21 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Jun 13 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 28 | Oct 12 – Nov 9 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 7 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Dec 12 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 7 | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Dec 5 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Dec 26 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 21 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 12 | Oct 12 – Nov 2 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 21 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 3 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 21 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Nov 28 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Jun 27 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Nov 9 – Mar 1 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 21 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Sep 19 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 21 | — | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 – May 16 | 70–80 |
| Marigolds | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Oct 31 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Nov 21 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 7 | — | Mar 21 | Aug 17 | May 9 – Aug 8 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Feb 21 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Nov 14 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 21 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Nov 28 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Sep 28 – Oct 26 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 21 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Nov 28 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 21 | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Nov 21 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 21 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Feb 21 | Mar 21 | Aug 17 | May 23 – Sep 19 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 28 | Mar 28 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 20 – Nov 21 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Feb 21 | Mar 21 | Aug 31 | Apr 25 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Nov 9 – Jan 4 | 65–85 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 7 | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Dec 5 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 21 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Nov 21 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Madera
ZIP Codes in Madera
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 Madera County.
Your Madera County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Madera 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