Pinecrest, CA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
What to do in June
Your Pinecrest, CA garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for June and why each task matters now.
-
Time to start basil, peppers, and pole beans inside
Label every cell. You will absolutely forget which is which otherwise.
-
Collect basil, carrots, and cucumber at their peak
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
July will be here before you know it — start on
- Starting indoors: begonias, geraniums, and pansy
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: california poppy
Pinecrest gardens in a wet, humid climate (50" annually). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive in spring and fall. The biggest challenges are fungal disease and humidity-loving pests in summer — leaf spot, blight, squash bugs, vine borers. Drip irrigation (not overhead), wide plant spacing for air circulation, and disease-resistant varieties make the difference.
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.
Pinecrest averages 28.6 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
9b (25°F to 30°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 25
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 27
📅 Growing Season
185 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 50.1" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
28.6 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Pinecrest
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: Watering by the calendar wastes water. Watering by the soil moisture (or by a free rain gauge) cuts your water use 30%+ and produces healthier roots. Pinecrest's 50" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 7.8 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 8.2 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 6.7 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 2.8 in | 4 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| May | 1.1 in | 1 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 | 1 days | 3.9 in | Critical |
| Oct | 1.5 in | 3 days | 2.8 in | High |
| Nov | 3 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 6.1 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 37.8 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.
Pinecrest Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.6-7.5
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Jun 20 | Nov 17 | 150 days |
| Cautious | May 29 | Nov 4 | 159 days |
| Average year | Apr 25 | Oct 27 | 185 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 14 | Sep 17 | 156 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 28 | Aug 15 | 140 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±83 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 9.3 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Tuolumne County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Tuolumne 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 Tuolumne County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Tuolumne 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 Tuolumne County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Tuolumne County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Tuolumne 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 Tuolumne County CA" or "garden center Tuolumne 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 Tuolumne County CA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Tuolumne 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 Pinecrest
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: A 14-hour day in June produces dramatically more photosynthesis than a 10-hour day in November. Pinecrest's seasonal swing determines which crops can pack growth into spring vs. limp through fall.
Longest Day
14.6 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
13.2 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.6 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 9.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 11.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.6 hr | 13.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.4 hr | 13 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 11.7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 10.7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 8.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.9 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.4 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 Pinecrest
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Pinecrest, an aggressive mulch program shifts your effective soil temperature curve toward optimal for most crops.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 32°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 32°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 41°F | 42°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 49°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 62°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 71°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 80°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 79°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 75°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 61°F | 65°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 47°F | 54°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 37°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Pinecrest
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: 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
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
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 | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
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 Pinecrest
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: In Pinecrest, cover crops also crowd out weeds. The denser the cover, the less weed pressure next season. Pays for itself in saved weeding time.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 29 | Sep 1 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 30 | Aug 25 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 29 | Aug 18 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 30 | 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 7 | Sep 29 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 26 | Apr 4 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 3 | Apr 4 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 1 | Apr 11 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 18 | Apr 4 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 27 | Apr 4 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 25 | Apr 4 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 7 | Apr 4 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Pinecrest
Why it matters: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Pinecrest's 0.0 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 8 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (846 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Pinecrest
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Pinecrest's 50" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.
Annual Collection
18,839 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 37.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 18,839 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 Pinecrest
114 vegetables matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Pinecrest.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | May 9 | — | Sep 12 – Nov 21 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 4 | — | Sep 1 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | May 9 | — | Sep 12 – Oct 24 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 4 | — | Sep 1 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 8 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 14 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | May 9 – May 30 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 4 | — | Sep 1 | Sep 5 – Nov 7 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 4 | — | Sep 1 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Dec 15 – Jun 1 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jan 2 – Feb 27 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 9 | — | Sep 12 – Nov 21 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 17 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 14 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Aug 29 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | May 30 – Aug 8 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 17 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | May 2 – May 30 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Sep 1 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 4 | — | Sep 1 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 4 | — | Sep 1 | May 2 – May 23 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 4 | — | Sep 1 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 4 | — | Sep 1 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 14 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Aug 29 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jan 2 – Feb 27 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 4 | — | Sep 1 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Sep 1 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Oct 31 – Feb 27 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Pinecrest
24 fruits matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Pinecrest.
Show all 24 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 21 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Mar 6 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Pinecrest
37 herbs matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Pinecrest.
Show all 37 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Sep 1 | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 14 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Sep 1 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Sep 1 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Sep 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Sep 1 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Sep 1 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Sep 1 | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Sep 1 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 14 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Sep 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Mar 14 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Mar 14 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 17 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Sep 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Dec 12 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Sep 1 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Mar 14 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 14 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Dec 12 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Pinecrest
42 flowers matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Pinecrest.
Show all 42 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Nov 28 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Nov 3 – Nov 24 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Sep 15 – Oct 13 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 21 | Mar 21 | Aug 18 | May 16 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 14 | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Dec 19 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Nov 7 | 60–80 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 21 | Mar 21 | Aug 4 | May 2 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Jul 21 | Sep 29 – Feb 2 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 6 – Dec 26 | 60–90 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 6 – Nov 7 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 28 | Mar 21 | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Nov 28 | 60–90 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Sep 15 – Oct 6 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | — | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Jan 16 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 28 | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Dec 19 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 28 | Feb 21 | Feb 21 | — | Apr 11 – Jun 6 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 28 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Nov 7 | 70–90 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Sep 22 – Oct 27 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Dec 12 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 14 | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Dec 19 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Jan 16 | 70–100 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Oct 6 – Oct 27 | 14–28 |
| Impatiens | Feb 28 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Dec 12 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Jun 27 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Nov 3 – Feb 9 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 28 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 28 | — | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 – May 16 | 70–80 |
| Marigolds | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Nov 21 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 28 | Mar 28 | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Dec 5 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 14 | — | Mar 21 | Aug 4 | May 9 – Jul 25 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Feb 28 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Nov 28 | 70–90 |
| Portulaca | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Dec 12 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 28 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Dec 12 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 28 | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Dec 5 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 28 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Feb 21 | Mar 21 | Aug 4 | May 23 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 4 | Mar 28 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 20 – Dec 5 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Feb 21 | Mar 21 | Aug 18 | Apr 25 – Jul 25 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Oct 27 – Dec 8 | 65–85 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 14 | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Dec 19 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 6 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 28 | Mar 28 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Dec 5 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Pinecrest
ZIP Codes in Pinecrest
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 Tuolumne County.
Your Tuolumne County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Tuolumne 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