Cave Spring, GA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Floyd County, Georgia gardeners: here's your June plan
Your Floyd County, Georgia garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for June and why each task matters now.
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Begin indoor sowing: peppers, astilbe, and begonias
Label every cell. You will absolutely forget which is which otherwise.
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Bring in the basil, carrots, and cucumber
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
Looking ahead to July
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Cave Spring gardens in a wet, humid climate (54" 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.
The dominant soil here is Clay Loam — holds water well but slow to warm in spring and prone to compaction. Raised beds and generous compost transform what's available into productive growing space.
Cave Spring averages 23.3 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend improving). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 6
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 30
📅 Growing Season
207 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 54.1" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 3.5 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
23.3 wk/yr trend improving
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Cave Spring
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: Plants need different amounts of water at different growth stages — heavy at flowering and fruit-set, lighter at establishment. Cave Spring's 54" annual rainfall is your starting math; the timing tells you when natural rain will cover you and when you need to step in.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.6 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 5.2 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.8 in | 8 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| May | 4.7 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.3 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.9 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.4 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.3 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3 in | 6 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 4 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 53.3 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.
Cave Spring Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.2
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 19 | Nov 14 | 209 days |
| Cautious | Apr 12 | Nov 3 | 205 days |
| Average year | Apr 6 | Oct 30 | 207 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 29 | Oct 23 | 208 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 19 | Oct 17 | 212 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±31 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 1.2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Floyd County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Floyd 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 Floyd County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Floyd County University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Extension Office
Phone: 706-542-3824
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 Floyd County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Floyd County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Floyd 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 Floyd County GA" or "garden center Floyd 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 Floyd County GA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Floyd County Gardeners" or "Georgia 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 Cave Spring
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: 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). Cave Spring's latitude determines which varieties fit your beds.
Longest Day
14.3 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.7 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: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.8 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.3 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.1 hr | 7.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.2 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.7 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Cave Spring
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Cave Spring's soil temperature curve also tells you when your compost is working and when it's napping.
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 | 38°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 41°F | 46°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 47°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 57°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 70°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 77°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 87°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 88°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 82°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 68°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 56°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 44°F | 53°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 Cave Spring
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: Pest pressure is a function of climate, not effort. Cave Spring's baseline tells you how much vigilance is normal. A bad pest year in low-pressure region = a normal year in high-pressure region.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
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 | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
- Watch for powdery mildew, downy mildew, blight — common in your climate
Cover Crops for Cave Spring
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: Cover crops do four things at once: fix nitrogen (legumes), suppress weeds (any), prevent erosion, and add organic matter when chopped down. Cave Spring's seasonal pattern determines which species fit which gap.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 8 | Sep 4 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 14 | Aug 28 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 13 | Sep 4 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 10 | Sep 4 | ✓ 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 | May 7 | Oct 16 | — | 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 | Aug 19 | Mar 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 3 | Mar 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 18 | Mar 23 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 4 | Mar 23 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 15 | Mar 23 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 10 | Mar 16 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 5 | Mar 23 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Cave Spring
For new gardeners: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Cave Spring's 3.5 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 8 mph Summer: 6 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
3.1/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (457 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Cave Spring
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Cave Spring's 54" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
26,564 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
Apr, Oct, 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 53.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 26,564 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 Cave Spring
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Cave Spring.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 21 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 5 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 21 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Apr 20 – May 11 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 21 | Aug 24 – Oct 26 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 21 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 18 | Dec 18 – Jun 4 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Dec 21 – Jan 4 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 5 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Apr 13 – May 11 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 21 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 21 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 21 | Apr 20 – May 11 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 21 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 21 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Dec 21 – Jan 4 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 21 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 21 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Cave Spring
27 fruits matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Cave Spring.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 9 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Jan 11 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Cave Spring
39 herbs matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Cave Spring.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 21 | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 21 | May 25 – Jul 13 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 21 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 21 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 21 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 21 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 21 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 21 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 21 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 5 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 21 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 6 – Nov 23 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 21 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 23 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Cave Spring
54 flowers matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Cave Spring.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Oct 12 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 25 | Oct 23 – Nov 13 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 4 | Sep 18 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Sep 4 | May 25 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 26 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 23 | Mar 23 | Aug 21 | May 11 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 4 | Nov 13 – Feb 19 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Mar 23 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 2 | Sep 4 – Sep 25 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 25 | Sep 4 – Oct 2 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 16 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 9 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | — | Apr 20 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 18 | Oct 16 – Nov 13 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 16 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Nov 23 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 26 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 16 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 2 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 2 | Sep 25 – Oct 16 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 2 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 19 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jun 29 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 9 | — | Aug 21 | May 18 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 5 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 9 | — | Mar 2 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Oct 26 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 26 | — | Mar 23 | Aug 21 | May 18 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | May 18 – Oct 12 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 4 | Sep 18 – Oct 23 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 2 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 9 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 26 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Aug 21 | Jun 1 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Sep 4 | May 4 – Aug 24 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Aug 28 | Nov 6 – Jan 29 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 2 | Sep 18 – Oct 16 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 26 | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 26 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Cave Spring
ZIP Codes in Cave Spring
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 Floyd County.
Your Floyd County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Floyd County (Zone 8a). 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