Willows, CA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
This month in Willows, CA
June is a pivotal month for Willows, CA gardens. Focus on these tasks first and you'll set up the rest of the season for success.
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It's harvest week for basil, cucumber, and green beans
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Willows gardens in a long-season climate (Zone 9b, 267 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.
Willows averages 27.6 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
March 6
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 28
📅 Growing Season
267 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 21.0" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
27.6 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Willows
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: 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. Willows's 21" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 5.6 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 5.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 4.4 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 2.5 in | 4 days | 1.8 in | High |
| May | 0.7 in | 1 days | 3.6 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 | 0.3 in | 0 days | 4 in | Critical |
| Oct | 1.3 in | 3 days | 3 in | High |
| Nov | 2.5 in | 6 days | 1.8 in | High |
| Dec | 4.3 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 27 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.
Willows Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.5-7.9
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) | Apr 18 | Dec 19 | 245 days |
| Cautious | Apr 2 | Dec 3 | 245 days |
| Average year | Mar 6 | Nov 28 | 267 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 23 | Nov 20 | 270 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 14 | Nov 8 | 298 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±95 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 10.1 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Glenn County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Glenn 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 Glenn County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Glenn 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 Glenn County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Glenn County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Glenn 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 Glenn County CA" or "garden center Glenn 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 Glenn County CA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Glenn 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 Willows
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: Day length is the trigger that tells lettuce, spinach, and cilantro to bolt. In Willows, knowing when that day-length threshold arrives helps you plant a final round in time to harvest before it bolts.
Longest Day
14.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
14 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 | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 9.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 11.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.8 hr | 13.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 14 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 11.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 10.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 8 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 6 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 Willows
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Willows, 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 Apr 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 | 51°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 51°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 59°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 68°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 75°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 85°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 95°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 96°F | 91°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 89°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 80°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 66°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 55°F | 63°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 Willows
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: Pollinators are the good bugs. Pest pressure is the bad bugs. Willows's climate makes both more abundant in warm humid regions, and rarer in cold dry ones — plan habitat to encourage the good while managing the bad.
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 | 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
- 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 Willows
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: Cover crops are the experienced gardener's secret weapon. Willows's climate determines which species thrive: clover and vetch in mild winters, cereal rye and Austrian peas in cold ones.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 17 | Sep 26 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 10 | Oct 3 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 14 | Oct 3 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 7 | Sep 19 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Mar 20 | Nov 7 | — | 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 27 | Feb 13 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 4 | Feb 13 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 9 | Feb 13 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 18 | Feb 13 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
Wind & Microclimate in Willows
For new gardeners: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Willows averages 0.0 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: 12 mph Summer: 12 mph
Fall: 7 mph Winter: 11 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 (925 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Willows
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Willows, that's your 21" times your roof.
Annual Collection
13,456 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
7 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
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 27.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 13,456 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (May, Jun, Jul)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Willows
114 vegetables matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Willows.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 20 | — | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 13 | — | Oct 3 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 13 | — | — | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 8 – Jun 19 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 20 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 13 | — | Oct 3 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 8 – Jun 19 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 1 – Jun 19 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 8 – Jun 19 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 1 – May 29 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 13 | — | — | May 15 – Jul 10 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 13 | — | — | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Mar 20 – Apr 10 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 1 – May 29 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 13 | — | Oct 3 | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 13 | — | Oct 3 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 13 | — | — | May 29 – Jul 10 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Jul 24 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 1 – May 29 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Jan 16 – Jul 3 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Nov 13 – Jan 8 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 13 | — | — | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 20 | — | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Aug 28 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 13 | — | — | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Jun 5 – Aug 21 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Apr 10 – Jun 19 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 13 | — | — | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 28 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jun 5 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Jul 10 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Mar 13 – Apr 10 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Oct 3 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jun 5 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 13 | — | Oct 3 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 1 – May 29 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jul 3 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Jul 31 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 13 | — | Oct 3 | Mar 13 – Apr 3 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 13 | — | Oct 3 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 13 | — | Oct 3 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 1 – May 29 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jun 19 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 23 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jul 3 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 13 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 1 – Jul 3 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 20 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 13 | — | — | May 15 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Nov 13 – Jan 8 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 13 | — | Oct 3 | Mar 27 – May 1 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Oct 3 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Jul 10 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 13 | — | — | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | Sep 11 – Jan 8 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jun 19 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 6 | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | — | May 1 – Jun 26 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Willows
24 fruits matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Willows.
Show all 24 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 2 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 20 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 20 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 20 | — | Jun 19 – Jan 15 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Willows
37 herbs matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Willows.
Show all 37 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Oct 3 | May 29 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 23 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jul 10 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 13 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Oct 3 | Apr 24 – Jun 12 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Oct 3 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jul 17 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Oct 3 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Oct 3 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Oct 3 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Oct 3 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Oct 3 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 23 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | — | May 1 – Jun 26 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Oct 3 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 13 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Jul 24 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jul 3 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Jul 24 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 23 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 23 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | — | May 29 – Aug 28 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Oct 3 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 13 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 23 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Jul 24 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 | Oct 3 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 23 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 23 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jul 10 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 13 | — | May 22 – Jul 24 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 13 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Willows
42 flowers matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Willows.
Show all 42 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 10 – Oct 9 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Nov 7 | Dec 5 – Dec 26 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Oct 17 – Nov 14 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Jan 2 | Jan 30 | Sep 19 | Mar 27 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Dec 26 | — | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 – Oct 30 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 9 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | May 1 – Sep 18 | 60–80 |
| Calendula | — | Jan 2 | Jan 30 | Sep 5 | Mar 13 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Oct 31 – Mar 6 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 17 – Nov 6 | 60–90 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 9 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – Sep 18 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 6 | Jan 30 | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 31 | Oct 17 – Nov 7 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | — | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Nov 27 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 9 | — | Feb 20 | — | May 1 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 9 | Jan 2 | Jan 2 | — | Feb 20 – Apr 17 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 20 | — | May 1 – Sep 18 | 70–90 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Oct 24 – Nov 28 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Oct 23 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Dec 26 | — | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 – Oct 30 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 6 | Mar 6 | — | May 15 – Nov 27 | 70–100 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Nov 7 | Nov 7 – Nov 28 | 14–28 |
| Impatiens | Jan 9 | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Oct 23 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Feb 13 | — | Apr 3 – May 8 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Sep 26 | Dec 5 – Mar 13 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 9 | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Jul 17 | 90–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 9 | — | Jan 2 | — | Feb 27 – Mar 27 | 70–80 |
| Marigolds | Jan 30 | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 10 – Oct 2 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 6 | Feb 6 | Feb 6 | — | Apr 3 – Oct 16 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Dec 26 | — | Jan 30 | Sep 5 | Mar 20 – Jun 5 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Jan 9 | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Portulaca | Feb 6 | Feb 13 | Feb 13 | — | Apr 3 – Oct 23 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Oct 17 | Oct 24 – Nov 21 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 9 | — | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 – Oct 23 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 9 | — | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 9 | — | Feb 13 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Jan 2 | Jan 30 | Sep 5 | Apr 3 – Aug 14 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Feb 13 | Feb 6 | Feb 6 | — | May 1 – Oct 16 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Jan 2 | Jan 30 | Sep 19 | Mar 6 – Jun 5 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Nov 28 – Jan 9 | 65–85 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Dec 26 | — | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 – Oct 30 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 9 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 6 | Feb 6 | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 – Oct 16 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Willows
ZIP Codes in Willows
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 Glenn County.
Your Glenn County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Glenn 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