Fountain, FL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June to-do list for Bay County, Florida
Each item below is timed to Bay County, Florida's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
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Pick basil, cucumber, and green beans
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
Get ahead of July
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Fountain gardens in a wet, humid climate (60" annually). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive in spring and fall. The biggest challenges are fungal disease and humidity-loving pests in summer — leaf spot, blight, squash bugs, vine borers. Drip irrigation (not overhead), wide plant spacing for air circulation, and disease-resistant varieties make the difference.
Native soil is Sand — warms fast and drains free, but nutrients and water wash through. Plan on heavy organic-matter additions and either drip irrigation or frequent shallow waterings to keep crops happy.
Drought pressure is moderate (19.7 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
9b (25°F to 30°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 5
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 20
📅 Growing Season
260 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 59.5" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 5.5 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
19.7 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Fountain
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Watering by the calendar wastes water. Watering by the soil moisture (or by a free rain gauge) cuts your water use 30%+ and produces healthier roots. Fountain's 60" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.7 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.8 in | 6 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 2.6 in | 7 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Apr | 2.3 in | 6 days | 2 in | High |
| May | 3.2 in | 8 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 6.7 in | 14 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 7.3 in | 15 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 6.8 in | 15 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 6.6 in | 16 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.7 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 2.2 in | 6 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Dec | 2.3 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 50.2 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.
Fountain Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
5.2-6
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 2 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) | Mar 27 | Dec 12 | 260 days |
| Cautious | Mar 14 | Nov 28 | 259 days |
| Average year | Mar 5 | Nov 20 | 260 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 23 | Nov 12 | 262 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 6 | Oct 28 | 264 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±50 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 2.7 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Bay County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Bay 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 Bay County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Bay County University of Florida IFAS Extension Extension Office
Phone: 352-392-1761
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 Bay County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Bay County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Bay 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 Bay County FL" or "garden center Bay 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 Bay County FL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Bay County Gardeners" or "Florida 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 Fountain
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Day length triggers flowering in many crops. Some need short days (sweet potatoes), some long (most flowers), and some are day-neutral (most modern tomatoes). Fountain's latitude determines which varieties fit your beds.
Longest Day
13.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.7 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 shorter days favor short-day onion varieties like Vidalia, Texas 1015, and Red Creole. Plant in fall for best results.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.3 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 7.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.9 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.8 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.1 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Fountain
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. Fountain's typical curve helps you plan — but a $5 soil thermometer in the bed beats any average.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
10 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 48°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 47°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 52°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 63°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 73°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 82°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 90°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 91°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 86°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 76°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 63°F | 68°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 53°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Fountain
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: In Fountain's climate, pest pressure shapes which crops are easy and which are heartbreak. Tomatoes are easy in dry mountain air, hard in humid coast — same plant, completely different gardening experience.
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, Nov |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
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 Fountain
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: 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 | Mar 14 | Sep 25 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 13 | Sep 11 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 14 | Sep 11 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 8 | Sep 18 | ✓ 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 1 | Oct 30 | — | 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 11 | Feb 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 10 | Feb 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 4 | Feb 12 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 29 | Feb 12 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 14 | Feb 19 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 27 | Feb 12 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 15 | Feb 12 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Fountain
Why this matters: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Fountain's 5.5 mph average is one piece of the watering math: rainfall + irrigation must exceed evaporation + transpiration, and wind boosts both losses.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: E. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (40 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Fountain
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Fountain gets 60" of rain a year — a couple of well-placed rain barrels can cover most summer watering. In dry climates the math's even better: every captured gallon is one you don't buy.
Annual Collection
25,019 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 1,250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, 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 50.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 25,019 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Your area gets ample rainfall — even small barrels make a big difference
- Consider a rain garden to handle overflow during heavy rainfall months
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Fountain
114 vegetables matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Fountain.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 19 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 12 | — | Sep 25 | Apr 9 – May 7 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | — | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 19 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 12 | — | Sep 25 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 12 | — | — | May 14 – Jul 9 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 12 | — | — | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Mar 19 – Apr 9 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Apr 30 – May 28 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 12 | — | Sep 25 | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 12 | — | Sep 25 | Apr 9 – May 7 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 12 | — | — | May 28 – Jul 9 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Jul 23 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | May 21 – Jul 2 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 9 | Jan 8 – Jun 25 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Nov 12 – Jan 7 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | — | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 19 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Aug 27 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | — | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Jun 4 – Aug 20 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | — | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jun 4 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Jul 9 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Mar 12 – Apr 9 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Sep 25 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 9 – May 7 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jun 4 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 16 – May 14 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 12 | — | Sep 25 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Apr 30 – May 28 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jul 2 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Jul 30 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 12 | — | Sep 25 | Mar 12 – Apr 2 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | May 21 – Jul 2 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 12 | — | Sep 25 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 12 | — | Sep 25 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jun 18 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jul 2 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 12 | — | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 19 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 12 | — | — | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Nov 12 – Jan 7 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 12 | — | Sep 25 | Mar 26 – Apr 30 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Sep 25 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Jul 9 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | — | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Sep 10 – Jan 7 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jun 18 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Fountain
24 fruits matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Fountain.
Show all 24 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 1 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 19 | — | May 28 – Jul 2 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 19 | — | May 28 – Jul 23 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 19 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | Jun 18 – Jan 14 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Fountain
37 herbs matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Fountain.
Show all 37 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Sep 25 | May 28 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jul 9 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 12 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Sep 25 | Apr 23 – Jun 11 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Sep 25 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jul 16 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Sep 25 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Sep 25 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Sep 25 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Sep 25 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Sep 25 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Sep 25 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 12 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 12 | — | May 28 – Jul 23 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Jul 23 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jul 2 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Jul 23 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | — | May 28 – Aug 27 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Sep 25 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 12 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 22 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Jul 23 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 12 | — | May 28 – Jul 23 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Sep 25 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jul 9 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 12 | — | May 21 – Jul 23 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 12 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Fountain
42 flowers matched to Zone 9b with planting dates calibrated for Fountain.
Show all 42 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Jan 22 | Feb 12 | Feb 12 | — | Apr 9 – Oct 8 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 30 | Nov 27 – Dec 18 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Oct 9 | Oct 9 – Nov 6 | 90–120 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Sep 11 | Mar 26 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Dec 25 | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 – Oct 29 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 8 | Feb 12 | Feb 19 | — | Apr 30 – Sep 17 | 60–80 |
| Calendula | — | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Aug 28 | Mar 12 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Aug 14 | Oct 23 – Feb 26 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 12 | — | Apr 16 – Nov 5 | 60–90 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 8 | Feb 12 | Feb 19 | — | Apr 16 – Sep 17 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 5 | Jan 29 | Jan 29 | — | Apr 9 – Oct 8 | 60–90 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 23 | Oct 9 – Oct 30 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | — | Mar 5 | Mar 5 | — | May 14 – Nov 26 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 8 | — | Feb 19 | — | Apr 30 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 8 | Jan 1 | Jan 1 | — | Feb 19 – Apr 16 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 19 | — | Apr 30 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 9 | Oct 16 – Nov 20 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Jan 22 | Feb 12 | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 – Oct 22 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Dec 25 | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 – Oct 29 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 5 | Mar 5 | — | May 14 – Nov 26 | 70–100 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 30 | Oct 30 – Nov 20 | 14–28 |
| Impatiens | Jan 8 | — | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 – Oct 22 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Feb 12 | — | Apr 2 – May 7 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Sep 18 | Nov 27 – Mar 5 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 8 | — | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 – Jul 16 | 90–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 8 | — | Jan 1 | — | Feb 26 – Mar 26 | 70–80 |
| Marigolds | Jan 29 | Feb 12 | Feb 12 | — | Apr 9 – Oct 1 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 2 – Oct 15 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Dec 25 | — | Jan 29 | Aug 28 | Mar 19 – Jun 4 | 70–90 |
| Petunia | Jan 8 | — | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Portulaca | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 12 | — | Apr 2 – Oct 22 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Oct 9 | Oct 16 – Nov 13 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 8 | — | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 – Oct 22 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 8 | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 – Oct 15 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 8 | — | Feb 12 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | — | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Aug 28 | Apr 2 – Aug 13 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Feb 12 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 30 – Oct 15 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | — | Jan 1 | Jan 29 | Sep 11 | Mar 5 – Jun 4 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 11 | Nov 20 – Jan 1 | 65–85 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Dec 25 | — | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 – Oct 29 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 8 | Feb 12 | Feb 19 | — | Apr 16 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 – Oct 15 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Fountain
ZIP Codes in Fountain
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 Bay County.
Your Bay County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Bay County (Zone 9b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log