Laurel, DE — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June planting checklist for Laurel, DE
We've pulled the most time-sensitive tasks for Laurel, DE this June and put them front and centre. Tackle them in order.
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Indoor seed-starting week for peppers, astilbe, and begonias
You're about 21 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
July will be here before you know it — start on
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Laurel has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 7b). The last spring frost typically lands around April 3 and the first fall frost arrives around November 7 — a 218-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Drought pressure is moderate (14.2 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7b (5°F to 10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 3
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 7
📅 Growing Season
218 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 42.8" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 6.9 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
14.2 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Laurel
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Laurel gets 43" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.5 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.5 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.9 in | 10 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Apr | 3.7 in | 12 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.5 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 3.7 in | 10 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 5.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.1 in | 10 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.4 in | 9 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.2 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.3 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 46 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.
Laurel Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.6-6.5
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 22 | Nov 18 | 210 days |
| Cautious | Apr 10 | Nov 11 | 215 days |
| Average year | Apr 3 | Nov 7 | 218 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 27 | Nov 2 | 220 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 22 | Oct 22 | 214 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±30 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 2.8 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Sussex County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Sussex 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 Sussex County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Sussex County University of Delaware Cooperative Extension Extension Office
Phone: 302-831-2667
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 Sussex County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Sussex County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Sussex 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 Sussex County DE" or "garden center Sussex 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 Sussex County DE" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Sussex County Gardeners" or "Delaware 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 Laurel
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: Plants use day length as their seasonal clock. Some crops flower when days lengthen (most flowers), some when days shorten (chrysanthemums, soybeans). Laurel's curve is the timing layer beneath everything you grow.
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.2 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 | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.2 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 6.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 7.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 8 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 8.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.5 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 hr | 3.2 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Laurel
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Most root crops germinate well at 50-60°F. Most fruit-bearing crops want 65-75°F. Laurel's monthly soil curve maps these windows to actual months.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 39°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 40°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 46°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 56°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 68°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 76°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 87°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 86°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 80°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 67°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 54°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 43°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Laurel
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Laurel sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | 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 Laurel
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: The "chop and drop" approach to cover crops: cut them down right before flowering, let them lay on the surface as mulch, plant your vegetables through the mulch. Less work, healthier soil.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 15 | Aug 29 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 11 | Sep 5 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 9 | Sep 12 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 6 | Sep 5 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Apr 25 | Oct 17 | — | 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 | Sep 2 | Mar 20 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 1 | Mar 20 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 23 | Mar 20 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 18 | Mar 13 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 24 | Mar 13 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 15 | Mar 13 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 15 | Mar 13 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Laurel
What this means for you: Pollinators avoid windy days. Laurel's 6.9 mph average wind isn't enough to stop bees and butterflies — but plant fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) in protected microclimates and you'll see noticeably better fruit set.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 16 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.1/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (220 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Laurel
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: Even in arid regions, rainwater harvesting works — you just need bigger storage and patience. In wet regions like Laurel (43" annually), you're mostly limited by how much water you can store between storms.
Annual Collection
22,926 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 500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Mar, May, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Oct, Nov, 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 46.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 22,926 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Oct, Nov, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Laurel
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Laurel.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 30 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 29 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 2 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 29 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 30 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Apr 17 – May 8 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 29 | Aug 21 – Oct 23 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 29 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 30 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 26 | Dec 26 – May 8 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 30 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 30 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 2 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 30 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Jul 3 – Sep 18 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 8 – Jul 17 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 29 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 29 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 30 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 29 | Apr 17 – May 8 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 29 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 29 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 29 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 29 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Laurel
31 fruits matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Laurel.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Nov 6 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Dec 4 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Laurel
36 herbs matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Laurel.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 29 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 29 | Jun 26 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 25 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 29 | May 22 – Jul 10 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 29 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 29 | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 29 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 29 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 29 | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 29 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 29 | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 25 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 29 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jul 3 – Nov 20 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 29 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 14 – Nov 20 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Laurel
53 flowers matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Laurel.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 20 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Oct 2 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 3 | Oct 31 – Nov 21 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Sep 26 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Sep 12 | Jun 5 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 23 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 30 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Sep 12 | May 22 – Sep 18 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 6 | — | Sep 12 | May 15 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 30 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 30 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Mar 27 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 3 | Aug 29 – Sep 19 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 3 | Sep 5 – Sep 26 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Nov 6 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | — | Apr 24 – Jul 17 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 30 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 30 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Nov 13 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 23 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 16 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 30 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 23 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 3 | Sep 26 – Oct 17 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 23 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 9 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 6 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 16 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 6 | — | Aug 29 | May 15 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 2 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 30 | — | Mar 6 | — | May 1 – Jul 10 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 20 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Sep 18 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Oct 16 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 23 | — | Mar 27 | Aug 29 | May 22 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 6 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 30 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Sep 11 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | May 22 – Oct 2 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Oct 3 – Oct 31 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 23 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 23 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 6 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jul 31 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Sep 12 | Jun 5 – Sep 11 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 16 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 3 | Sep 26 | May 15 – Aug 21 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Nov 21 – Feb 13 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 3 | Sep 19 – Oct 10 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 23 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 30 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 16 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Laurel
ZIP Codes in Laurel
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 Sussex County.
Your Sussex County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Sussex County (Zone 7b). 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