Elbert, CO — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June gardening checklist
Here's what deserves your attention in Elbert County, Colorado this month. Everything below is tailored to Zone 5b and timed around your local frost dates.
-
Move alpine strawberries, aronia, and blackberries from tray to bed
Pick a cloudy afternoon or evening to plant. Less transplant shock, and your seedlings will barely blink.
-
Start basil, cucumber, and kale under lights
Starting these indoors now means sturdy transplants ready the moment your soil warms up.
-
Harvest carrots, lettuce, and radish as they ripen
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
Looking ahead to July
- Starting indoors: peppers, pole beans, and tomatoes
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Elbert gardens in a dry climate (only 20" 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.
Elbert averages 26.7 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
5b (-15°F to -10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 12
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 3
📅 Growing Season
144 days
🌧️ Climate
Semi Arid 19.5" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 9.5 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
26.7 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Elbert
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 math is simple: 1 inch of rainfall delivers ~600 gallons to a 1,000 sq ft garden. Elbert's 20" annual rainfall covers some months entirely; others need a few hours of drip irrigation per week. The calendar tells you which is which.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.2 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.2 in | 7 days | 2.1 in | High |
| May | 2.4 in | 7 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Jun | 1.7 in | 5 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Jul | 1.9 in | 6 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Aug | 2.3 in | 6 days | 2 in | High |
| Sep | 2 in | 5 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Oct | 1.9 in | 5 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Nov | 1.8 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.4 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 22 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.
Elbert Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 28 | Oct 16 | 141 days |
| Cautious | May 19 | Oct 7 | 141 days |
| Average year | May 12 | Oct 3 | 144 days |
| Optimistic | May 3 | Sep 23 | 143 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 26 | Sep 12 | 139 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±32 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 4.8 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Elbert County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Elbert 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 Elbert County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Elbert County Colorado State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 970-491-6281
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 Elbert County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Elbert County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Elbert 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 Elbert County CO" or "garden center Elbert 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 Elbert County CO" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Elbert County Gardeners" or "Colorado 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 Elbert
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Photoperiod-sensitive crops will fail spectacularly if planted at the wrong latitude. Sweet onions in Michigan? Tiny. Spanish onions in Florida? Tiny. Match variety to Elbert's daylight pattern and you'll see the difference.
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.7 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 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 10.7 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 9.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Elbert
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Elbert's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jul through Aug.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
4 months
Short season — insulate pile or use indoor vermicomposting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 6°F | 14°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 6°F | 16°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 15°F | 19°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 28°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 42°F | 39°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jun | 54°F | 49°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 60°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 62°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 56°F | 53°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 41°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Nov | 29°F | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 15°F | 24°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 Elbert
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: High pest pressure means weekly inspection. Low pest pressure means monthly. The score tells you which routine to set up before you have a problem.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Elbert
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: Cover crops fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 21 | Jul 25 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 21 | Jul 25 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 13 | Aug 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 | Jun 11 | Sep 19 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Jul 23 | Apr 21 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 19 | Apr 21 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 28 | Apr 28 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 28 | Apr 28 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 1 | Apr 28 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 10 | Apr 28 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Elbert
The practical takeaway: A 10 mph wind doesn't feel like much, but it triples leaf transpiration vs. still air. Elbert's 9.5 mph average means most days are gentle on plants, but consider how a 20+ mph spring gust would affect a flat of seedlings hardened off too quickly.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 14 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.6/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
High
Hilly terrain with 2,022 ft of elevation range — cold air pools in low spots. Avoid planting frost-sensitive crops in valleys.
Rainwater Harvesting in Elbert
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Elbert, that's your 20" times your roof.
Annual Collection
10,964 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 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Limited
Your state has quantity limits on rainwater collection — check local regulations before installing large systems.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Aug, Sep
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Dec
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 22.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 10,964 gallons annually
- Check CO state regulations — rainwater harvesting has quantity limits
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Elbert
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Elbert.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 13 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 26 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 25 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Sep 1 – Oct 27 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 19 | — | — | Aug 18 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 25 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 7 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 19 | — | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 19 | — | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | May 26 – Jun 16 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 11 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 25 | Sep 29 – Oct 13 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 25 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 19 | — | — | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 7 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Nov 21 – Feb 6 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 19 | — | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 26 | — | Sep 29 – Nov 10 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Nov 10 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Sep 8 – Oct 13 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Sep 22 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 19 | — | — | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Aug 11 – Oct 27 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 19 | — | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 25 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Aug 11 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 25 | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 11 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 13 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 13 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 25 | May 26 – Jun 16 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 25 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 25 | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 7 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Aug 11 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 19 | — | — | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Sep 22 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 26 | — | Sep 15 – Nov 10 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 19 | — | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 13 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 6 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 6 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 25 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jul 25 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 19 | — | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 13 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Elbert
27 fruits matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Elbert.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | Sep 1 – Nov 17 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 2 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 15 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 2 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 2 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 6 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | Sep 1 – Nov 17 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Elbert
34 herbs matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Elbert.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 25 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 25 | Aug 4 – Oct 20 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 19 | — | Aug 18 – Nov 3 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 25 | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 25 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 25 | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 25 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 25 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 25 | Aug 18 – Oct 20 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 25 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 25 | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 19 | — | Aug 18 – Nov 3 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 19 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 29 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 29 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 29 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 25 | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 29 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 19 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 25 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 29 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 19 | — | Sep 22 – Nov 3 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Elbert
51 flowers matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Elbert.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 13 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Sep 26 – Oct 17 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 14 | — | May 12 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 10 | — | May 26 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 31 | Apr 21 | May 12 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 3 | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 10 | May 12 | May 26 | — | Aug 11 – Nov 17 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 10 | — | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 31 | Apr 21 | May 12 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 29 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 10 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 10 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Nov 17 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 14 | May 12 | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 20 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Jul 4 – Jul 25 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Jul 11 – Aug 1 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 14 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Aug 11 – Nov 10 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 10 | — | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Nov 17 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Sep 8 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 10 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Nov 17 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 10 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Nov 17 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 3 | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 19 | May 19 | — | Aug 11 – Nov 10 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 3 | — | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Nov 17 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Aug 1 – Aug 29 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 3 | — | May 26 | — | Aug 11 – Nov 3 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 17 | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 27 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 14 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Mar 3 | — | Jun 2 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Nov 3 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 3 | — | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 15 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 10 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 31 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 13 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 14 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 27 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 3 | — | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 17 | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 10 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Aug 11 – Nov 3 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 13 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Mar 3 | — | May 26 | — | Aug 11 – Nov 17 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 10 | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 10 | — | May 26 | — | Sep 22 – Dec 1 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 21 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 27 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 12 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | May 12 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 29 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Jul 25 – Aug 15 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 24 | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 10 | May 12 | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Nov 17 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 14 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 27 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Elbert
ZIP Codes in Elbert
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):