Blog

🔍

Sussex County, DE — Planting Guide

Sussex County, Delaware Zone 7b June

Your June planting checklist for Sussex County, Delaware

We've pulled the most time-sensitive tasks for Sussex County, Delaware this June and put them front and centre. Tackle them in order.

Avg. last frost April 3
Avg. first frost November 7
Soil temp (4") 76°F
Watering Moderate
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14.7 hrs
  1. Indoor seed-starting week for peppers, astilbe, and begonias

    You're about 20 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.

  2. 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

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Sussex County is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is April 3 and the first fall frost is November 7, giving you a growing season of approximately 218 days.

At an elevation of 1,090 ft, Sussex County receives approximately 46 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 88°F with winter lows around 31°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 30 days year to year — ranging from March 22 in warm years to April 22 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 2.77 days per decade. Sussex County scores 62/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

7b (5°F to 10°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

April 3

🍂 First Frost

November 7

📅 Growing Season

218 days

⛰️ Elevation

1,090 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

46 in

Sussex County, DE Long season
218 days
❄
Last Spring Frost April 3
➔ 218 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost November 7

Monthly Watering Calendar for Sussex County

When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.

Why it matters: Mulch reduces watering needs 30-50% by cutting evaporation. Sussex County's 46" annual rainfall might be enough for vegetables in some months and not in others — a 2-3" mulch layer evens the swing.

1"/wk 0" 1.3" 2.7" 4" 5.3" Jan 3.5" Feb 3.5" +0.4" Mar 3.9" +0.6" Apr 3.7" May 4.5" +0.6" Jun 3.7" Jul 5.3" Aug 4.1" +0.4" Sep 3.9" +0.9" Oct 3.4" Nov 3.2" Dec 3.3"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering 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.

Sussex County 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

Too early frost risk Safe to Plant Apr 3 → Nov 7 218 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: Apr 22 Protect by: Nov 18

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
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

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.

🌱
Is the growing season changing?

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

62 Good
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
1.5/10
Soil Difficulty
1.0/10
Altitude Challenge
0.2/10
Climate Shift
10.0/10
Rainfall Challenge
0.4/10

Sussex County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.

Zone 7b Frost Countdown
--
Loading...
Last Frost: Apr 3 First Frost: Nov 7

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.

Find Master Gardeners in DE →

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.

Request a Soil Test →

Services Available in Sussex County

Soil testing Pest identification Gardening workshops
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.

After Onion (harvest ends Aug 21) 78 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Squash (Winter) (harvest ends Sep 4) 64 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Potatoes (harvest ends Sep 4) 64 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Lettuce (harvest ends Jul 17) 113 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d Green Beans 50-65d
After Corn (harvest ends Jul 31) 99 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Watermelon (harvest ends Aug 14) 85 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
Show 6 more succession options
After Okra (harvest ends Aug 7) 92 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Spinach (harvest ends Jul 10) 120 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Chard (harvest ends Jul 17) 113 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Cabbage (harvest ends Jul 31) 99 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Snap Peas (harvest ends Aug 7) 92 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Zucchini (harvest ends Jul 31) 99 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d Green Beans 50-65d

Sunlight & Day Length in Sussex County

Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.

Why it matters: Onion varieties are sold by "short-day," "intermediate-day," and "long-day." Sussex County's latitude determines which to buy — and getting it wrong is the difference between baseball-sized bulbs and marbles.

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.

14hr 12hr 2h 6h 9h 13h 16h Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Daylight hours (sunrise to sunset) Peak sun hours (direct sunlight after cloud cover) ▪ Gold zone = long day (14+ hr) ▪ Blue zone = short day (<12 hr)

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
MonthDaylight HoursPeak Sun HoursDay 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 Sussex County

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. Sussex County'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.

60°F 70°F 20° 40° 60° 80° 100° Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
4" depth 8" depth - - - 60°F (corn, beans) - - - 70°F (tomatoes, peppers)
View detailed monthly data
MonthSoil 4" DeepSoil 8" DeepCompost ActivityTime 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 Sussex County

Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.

The practical takeaway: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Sussex County's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.

Insect Pest Pressure

7 / 10

High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.

Disease Risk

7.1 / 10

High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.

Seasonal Risk

Spring Moderate
Summer High
Fall Low
Winter Low
View 6 common pests in your area
PestRisk LevelPeak 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 Sussex County

Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.

What this means for you: 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 (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 Sussex County

Quick context: Why care about wind? Above about 10 mph, evaporation jumps and pollinators struggle to land on flowers. Sussex County's 10.2 mph average means you can plant tall crops without much support, but it doesn't mean ignore wind — a 20+ mph storm still snaps unstaked tomatoes.

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 Sussex County

How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.

Why this matters: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Sussex County, that's your 46" times your roof.

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

Soil & Growing Conditions in Sussex County

Soil Type

Silt Loam

Soil pH 5.6–6.5 · Moderately Well Drained drainage

Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.

Watering Needs

Drought stress: 1.5/10

Sussex County has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.

Season Tips

218-day frost-free season

Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.

Your Free Printable Garden Planner

Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 22-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Recommended for Your Garden

🧪
Soil Test Kit $12-25

Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.

Know your soil before you plant for best results.

📏
Digital pH Meter $10-20

Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.

Helpful for your garden setup.

🍂
Organic Compost $8-30

Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.

Helpful for your garden setup.

🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Sussex County

112 vegetables that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Sussex County.

Show all 112 vegetables with planting 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 Sussex County

31 fruits that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Sussex County.

Show all 31 fruits with planting 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 Sussex County

36 herbs that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Sussex County.

Show all 36 herbs with planting 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 Sussex County

53 flowers that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Sussex County.

Show all 53 flowers with planting 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 Sussex County