Nelson, CA — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Top priorities for Butte County, California gardeners in July
A quick July briefing for Butte County, California gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
-
It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
Coming up in August — start thinking about
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: calendula, california poppy, and pansy
Nelson gardens in a long-season climate (Zone 9b, 204 frost-free days). Spring arrives early and fall lingers, so most of the work is matching the right crop to the right window — heat-lovers go in the ground as soon as the soil warms, and cool-season crops shift to fall and even winter rather than spring. Succession planting is your friend; you can plant the same crop three or four times in a season.
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.
Nelson averages 27.3 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
9b (25°F to 30°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 20
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 10
📅 Growing Season
204 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 22.8" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 6.1 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
27.3 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Nelson
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 Nelson, the watering question isn't "how often" — it's "is the soil moist 4 inches down?" Stick a finger in. Dry? Water. Damp? Wait. The 23" annual rainfall is just the starting context.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 9.7 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 9.9 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 6.9 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3 in | 4 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| May | 1.1 in | 2 days | 3.2 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.2 in | 0 days | 4.1 in | Critical |
| Jul | 0 in | 0 days | 4.3 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0 in | 0 days | 4.3 in | Critical |
| Sep | 0.4 in | 0 days | 3.9 in | Critical |
| Oct | 2.1 in | 2 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Nov | 3.7 in | 5 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Dec | 7.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 44.8 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.
Nelson Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-7.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 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 24 | Dec 14 | 204 days |
| Cautious | May 9 | Nov 26 | 201 days |
| Average year | Apr 20 | Nov 10 | 204 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 26 | Oct 11 | 199 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 12 | Sep 21 | 221 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±102 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 1.6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Butte County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Butte 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 Butte County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Butte 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 Butte County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Butte County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Butte 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 Butte County CA" or "garden center Butte 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 Butte County CA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Butte 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 Nelson
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: The longest day at Nelson's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.
Longest Day
14.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
13.3 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 | 9.5 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 11.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.8 hr | 13.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 12.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 11.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 10.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 8.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.2 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Nelson
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Lettuce germinates at 35°F. Beans want 60°F. Tomatoes 65°F+. Soil temp, not air temp, is what plants feel. Nelson's monthly curve tells you when each crop actually has the conditions to take off.
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
12 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 52°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 53°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 59°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 65°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 75°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 84°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 95°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 93°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 87°F | 88°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 80°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 65°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 57°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 Nelson
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: The most successful gardeners in high-pressure regions don't spray more — they design around the problem. Crop rotation, companion planting, and resistant varieties beat reactive spraying.
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 Nelson
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: A fall-planted cover crop in Nelson is the closest thing to free soil amendment. Plant cereal rye or hairy vetch after harvest; chop it down before it flowers in spring; the soil it leaves behind out-grows any store-bought compost.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 23 | Sep 8 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 25 | Sep 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 24 | Sep 8 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 26 | Sep 1 | ✓ 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 1 | 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 | Sep 5 | Apr 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 4 | Apr 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 20 | Apr 6 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 16 | Apr 6 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
Wind & Microclimate in Nelson
Quick context: Why care about wind? Above about 10 mph, evaporation jumps and pollinators struggle to land on flowers. Nelson's 6.1 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: 11 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 7 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (764 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Nelson
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Nelson's 23" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
22,328 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 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
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 44.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 22,328 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jun, Jul, Aug)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Nelson
114 vegetables matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Nelson.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | May 4 | — | Sep 7 – Nov 16 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 30 | — | Sep 15 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | May 4 | — | Sep 7 – Oct 19 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 30 | — | Sep 15 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | May 4 – May 25 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 30 | — | Sep 15 | Aug 31 – Nov 2 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 30 | — | Sep 15 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Dec 29 – Jun 15 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Dec 28 – Feb 22 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 4 | — | Sep 7 – Nov 16 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 12 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 24 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 12 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Sep 15 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 30 | — | Sep 15 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 30 | — | Sep 15 | Apr 27 – May 18 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 30 | — | Sep 15 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 30 | — | Sep 15 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 9 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 24 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 19 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Dec 28 – Feb 22 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 30 | — | Sep 15 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Sep 15 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Oct 26 – Feb 22 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Nelson
24 fruits matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Nelson.
Show all 24 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Mar 1 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Nelson
37 herbs matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Nelson.
Show all 37 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Sep 15 | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 9 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Sep 15 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Sep 15 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Sep 15 | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Sep 15 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Sep 15 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Sep 15 | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Sep 15 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 9 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Sep 15 | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Mar 9 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Mar 9 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 12 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Sep 15 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Dec 7 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Sep 15 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Mar 9 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 9 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Aug 31 – Dec 7 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Nelson
42 flowers matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Nelson.
Show all 42 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Nov 23 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 20 | Nov 17 – Dec 8 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Sep 29 – Oct 27 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 16 | Mar 16 | Sep 1 | May 11 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 9 | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Dec 14 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 16 | Mar 16 | Aug 18 | Apr 27 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Aug 4 | Oct 13 – Feb 16 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Dec 21 | 60–90 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 16 | — | May 25 – Nov 23 | 60–90 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 13 | Sep 29 – Oct 20 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | — | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Jan 11 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 23 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Dec 14 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 23 | Feb 16 | Feb 16 | — | Apr 6 – Jun 1 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 23 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 70–90 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Oct 6 – Nov 10 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Dec 7 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 9 | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Dec 14 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Jan 11 | 70–100 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 20 | Oct 20 – Nov 10 | 14–28 |
| Impatiens | Feb 23 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Dec 7 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Mar 30 | — | May 18 – Jun 22 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Nov 17 – Feb 23 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 23 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 23 | — | Feb 16 | — | Apr 13 – May 11 | 70–80 |
| Marigolds | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Nov 16 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 23 | Mar 23 | Mar 23 | — | May 18 – Nov 30 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 9 | — | Mar 16 | Aug 18 | May 4 – Jul 20 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Feb 23 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Nov 23 | 70–90 |
| Portulaca | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | May 18 – Dec 7 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Oct 6 – Nov 3 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 23 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Dec 7 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 23 | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Nov 30 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 23 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Feb 16 | Mar 16 | Aug 18 | May 18 – Sep 28 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 30 | Mar 23 | Mar 23 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 30 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Feb 16 | Mar 16 | Sep 1 | Apr 20 – Jul 20 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 1 | Nov 10 – Dec 22 | 65–85 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 9 | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Dec 14 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 23 | Mar 23 | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Nov 30 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Nelson
ZIP Codes in Nelson
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 Butte County.
Your Butte County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Butte County (Zone 9b). 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