Oxnard, CA — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your July gardening checklist
Welcome to July in Zone 10a. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
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Pick basil, cucumber, and green beans
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
To set up a strong August, finish these tasks
- First harvests: peppers, tomatoes, and ageratum
- Fall sowing: bachelor's button, calendula, and california poppy
Oxnard gardens in a dry climate (only 12" 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.
Oxnard averages 21.3 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
10a (30°F to 35°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 18
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 15
📅 Growing Season
242 days
🌧️ Climate
Semi Arid 11.8" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 6.4 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Rare 44% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
21.3 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
7 ZIPs conditions vary — enter your ZIP for exact data
Monthly Watering Calendar for Oxnard
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: Over-watering kills more plants than under-watering. Oxnard's 12" annual rainfall changes the gardening playbook — humid-region gardeners often water by the calendar when they should water by the soil moisture.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.8 in | 10 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Feb | 4.4 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 3.2 in | 8 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 1.5 in | 5 days | 2.8 in | High |
| May | 0.6 in | 1 days | 3.7 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 | 0.8 in | 3 days | 3.5 in | Critical |
| Nov | 1.7 in | 6 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Dec | 3.1 in | 9 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
Annual total: 19.4 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.
Oxnard Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6-7.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 28 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 12 | Dec 9 | 241 days |
| Cautious | Apr 4 | Nov 23 | 233 days |
| Average year | Mar 18 | Nov 15 | 242 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 1 | Nov 7 | 251 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 6 | Oct 29 | 265 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±66 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 8.4 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Ventura County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Ventura 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 Ventura County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Ventura 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 Ventura County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Ventura County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Ventura 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 Ventura County CA" or "garden center Ventura 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 Ventura County CA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Ventura 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 Oxnard
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: Lettuce and cilantro "bolt" (go to seed) when days lengthen. Knowing your day-length curve helps you time spring plantings to harvest before the bolting trigger hits. Oxnard's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
Longest Day
14.3 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.7 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
13.1 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 | 9.9 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 9.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.8 hr | 11.2 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.3 hr | 13.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.1 hr | 13 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 12 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 10.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 8.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.2 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.7 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Oxnard
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: 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. Oxnard'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 Nov.
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 | 54°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 56°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 61°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 67°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 77°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 83°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 90°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 91°F | 88°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 88°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 78°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 66°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 57°F | 65°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 Oxnard
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: Pest score isn't pass/fail. It's a planning input. Higher scores mean: more compost (resilient plants), wider spacing (air circulation), resistant varieties (built-in defense), and inspection (catch issues at egg stage).
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 | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Scale insects | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Nematodes | Moderate | 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 Oxnard
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: You don't need a farm to use cover crops. A 4x8 raised bed accepts cover crops just as well as a half-acre. Oxnard'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 | Mar 30 | Sep 20 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 24 | Sep 20 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 22 | Sep 20 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 19 | Sep 20 | ✓ 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 | Apr 6 | Oct 18 | — | 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 | Sep 20 | Feb 25 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
Wind & Microclimate in Oxnard
Why it matters: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Oxnard averages 6.4 mph — fine for most days. But every region has its windy days, and the first time a row of unstaked peppers leans over after a storm is a lesson you only need once.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 10 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 9 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.2/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (915 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Oxnard
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: Captured rainwater is better for plants than tap water (no chlorine), works during water restrictions, and reduces stormwater runoff. Oxnard's 12" annual rainfall is a meaningful pool — most homes could capture 10,000+ gallons a year with a decent system.
Annual Collection
9,668 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 2,250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, Feb, Mar, Dec
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, 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 19.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 9,668 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 Oxnard
105 vegetables matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Oxnard.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 18 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Apr 22 – Jun 24 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 25 | — | Sep 20 | Apr 22 – May 20 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 27 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 25 | — | — | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 20 – Jul 1 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 18 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 25 | — | Sep 20 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 55–100 |
| Celery | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 20 – Jul 1 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 13 – Jul 1 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 20 – Jul 1 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 13 – Jun 10 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 25 | — | — | May 27 – Jul 22 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 25 | — | — | May 27 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Apr 1 – Apr 22 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 18 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 13 – Jun 10 | 45–60 |
| Cucumber | Feb 18 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 20 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 25 | — | Sep 20 | Apr 22 – May 20 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 18 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 25 | — | — | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 13 – Jun 10 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 27 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Ginger | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Nov 25 – Feb 3 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 25 | — | — | May 20 – Jul 15 | 50–65 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Sep 9 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 18 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 18 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 6 – Jun 3 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 25 | — | — | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Apr 22 – May 27 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Jun 17 – Sep 2 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Apr 22 – Jul 1 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 25 | — | — | May 27 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 9 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 20 – Jun 17 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 18 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Mar 25 – Apr 22 | 7–21 |
| Mizuna | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Apr 22 – May 20 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Apr 22 – Jun 24 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 20 – Jun 17 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 20 – Jul 15 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Apr 29 – May 27 | 40–55 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 18 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 13 – Jun 10 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 20 – Jul 15 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 18 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 25 | — | Sep 20 | Mar 25 – Apr 15 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 75–100 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 13 – Jun 10 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 27 – Jul 1 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 4 | Mar 25 | Mar 25 | — | May 20 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 20 – Jul 15 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 25 | — | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 18 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Apr 22 – Jun 24 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 18 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 13 – Jul 15 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 18 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 80–120 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 25 | — | — | May 27 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Apr 22 – May 27 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Nov 25 – Feb 3 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 25 | — | Sep 20 | Apr 8 – May 13 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Sep 20 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 18 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 25 | — | — | May 20 – Jul 15 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Sep 23 – Mar 10 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 20 – Jul 1 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 18 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 13 – Jul 8 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Oxnard
16 fruits matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Oxnard.
Show all 16 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 14 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Apr 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 1 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Apr 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 80–110 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 1 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Apr 1 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jul 1 – Mar 31 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Oxnard
23 herbs matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Oxnard.
Show all 23 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Sep 20 | Jun 10 – Aug 26 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 4 | Mar 25 | Mar 25 | — | May 20 – Jul 22 | 50–75 |
| Borage | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Sep 20 | May 6 – Jun 24 | 50–60 |
| Chervil | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Sep 20 | Apr 22 – Jun 24 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 25 | — | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Sep 20 | Apr 22 – Jun 24 | 40–60 |
| Cumin | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Sep 20 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Sep 20 | Apr 22 – Jun 24 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 4 | Mar 25 | Mar 25 | — | May 13 – Jul 8 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Sep 20 | May 13 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 25 | — | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 25 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 75–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 4 | Mar 25 | Mar 25 | — | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 4 | Mar 25 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 10 – Sep 9 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 25 | — | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 25 | — | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 25 | — | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 18 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Sep 20 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 25 | — | Jun 17 – Nov 4 | 80–180 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 25 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 25 | — | May 20 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Stevia | Feb 4 | Mar 25 | Mar 25 | — | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 4 | Mar 25 | Mar 25 | — | May 20 – Jul 22 | 50–75 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Oxnard
31 flowers matched to Zone 10a with planting dates calibrated for Oxnard.
Show all 31 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 4 | Feb 11 | Feb 11 | — | Apr 8 – Oct 21 | 60–75 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Oct 4 | Oct 4 – Nov 1 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Jan 7 | Feb 4 | Aug 23 | Apr 1 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 7 | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 15 – Nov 11 | 70–90 |
| Calendula | — | Jan 7 | Feb 4 | Aug 9 | Mar 18 – Jun 24 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Aug 9 | Oct 18 – Feb 7 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 18 | Feb 11 | Feb 11 | — | Apr 15 – Nov 18 | 60–90 |
| Cosmos | Feb 18 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 15 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Dahlias | — | Mar 18 | Mar 18 | — | May 27 – Dec 23 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 4 | — | Feb 18 | — | Apr 29 – Nov 11 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 21 | Jan 7 | Jan 7 | — | Feb 25 – Apr 15 | 60–80 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 4 | Oct 4 – Nov 8 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 11 | Feb 18 | Feb 18 | — | Apr 29 – Oct 28 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 7 | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 15 – Nov 11 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 18 | Mar 18 | — | May 27 – Dec 23 | 70–100 |
| Impatiens | Jan 21 | — | Feb 11 | — | Apr 22 – Nov 4 | 60–75 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Sep 20 | Nov 29 – Feb 7 | 60–90 |
| Marigolds | Feb 11 | Feb 11 | Feb 11 | — | Apr 8 – Oct 14 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 18 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – Oct 28 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | — | Division | Feb 4 | Aug 9 | Mar 18 – May 27 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Jan 21 | — | Feb 18 | — | Apr 29 – Oct 28 | 70–90 |
| Portulaca | Feb 18 | Feb 11 | Feb 11 | — | Apr 1 – Nov 4 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Oct 4 | Oct 4 – Nov 1 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 21 | — | Feb 18 | — | Apr 29 – Nov 11 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 21 | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 15 – Oct 28 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 4 | — | Feb 18 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Jan 7 | Feb 4 | Aug 9 | Apr 8 – Sep 2 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Feb 25 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 29 – Oct 28 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Jan 7 | Feb 4 | Aug 23 | Mar 4 – May 27 | 45–60 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 7 | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 15 – Nov 25 | 70–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 18 | Feb 4 | Feb 4 | — | Apr 15 – Oct 28 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Oxnard
ZIP Codes in Oxnard
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 Ventura County.
Your Ventura County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Ventura County (Zone 10a). 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