Oconee, GA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Oconee gardens in a wet, humid climate (49" 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.
Oconee averages 27.4 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
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 21
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 11
📅 Growing Season
235 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 49.3" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
27.4 wk/yr trend improving
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Oconee
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Over-watering kills more plants than under-watering. Oconee's 49" annual rainfall changes the gardening playbook — humid-region gardeners often water by the calendar when they should water by the soil moisture.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.3 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.1 in | 10 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Mar | 4.6 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.6 in | 8 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 4.7 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.1 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.2 in | 8 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.6 in | 6 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.9 in | 6 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Dec | 3.8 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 50.6 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.
Oconee Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 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 8 | Nov 26 | 232 days |
| Cautious | Mar 27 | Nov 15 | 233 days |
| Average year | Mar 21 | Nov 11 | 235 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 11 | Nov 3 | 237 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 5 | Oct 23 | 232 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±33 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Washington County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Washington 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 Washington County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Washington 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 Washington County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Washington County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Washington 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 Washington County GA" or "garden center Washington 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 Washington County GA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Washington 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 Oconee
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Plants use day length as their seasonal clock. Some crops flower when days lengthen (most flowers), some when days shorten (chrysanthemums, soybeans). Oconee's curve is the timing layer beneath everything you grow.
Longest Day
14.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.8 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.4 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 | 10.1 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.7 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.2 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 14 hr | 7.3 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.2 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.3 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.8 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Oconee
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Lettuce germinates at 35°F. Beans want 60°F. Tomatoes 65°F+. Soil temp, not air temp, is what plants feel. Oconee's monthly curve tells you when each crop actually has the conditions to take off.
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
9 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 46°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 47°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 53°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 61°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 71°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 83°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 90°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 93°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 87°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 76°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 62°F | 65°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 50°F | 58°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 Oconee
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
For new gardeners: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Oconee sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Squash vine borers | High | 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 Oconee
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: In Oconee, cover crops also crowd out weeds. The denser the cover, the less weed pressure next season. Pays for itself in saved weeding time.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 23 | Sep 16 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 30 | Sep 16 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 25 | Sep 9 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 24 | Sep 9 | ✓ 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 10 | Oct 14 | — | 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 31 | Feb 28 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 3 | Mar 7 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 15 | Feb 28 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 18 | Feb 28 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 11 | Mar 7 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 5 | Mar 7 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 2 | Feb 28 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Oconee
Quick context: Wind affects three things gardeners forget: how fast soil dries (more wind = more watering), whether pollinators can work (calm beats gusty), and whether your trellised crops stay upright. Oconee sees 0.0 mph on average — a forgiving baseline.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 9 mph Summer: 6 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
2.9/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (484 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Oconee
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: A single rain barrel under a downspout catches 50 gallons in a 0.5" storm. Oconee's 49" annual rainfall means even modest harvesting systems quickly amortize their cost in water savings.
Annual Collection
25,219 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, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, May, Oct
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 50.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 25,219 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 Oconee
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Oconee.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Apr 25 – Jun 27 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 7 | — | Sep 2 | May 2 – May 30 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 28 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 15 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 2 – Jun 6 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 23 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 2 – Jun 6 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 23 – Jul 18 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 7 | — | Sep 2 | May 9 – Jun 13 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 23 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 16 – Jul 4 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 23 – Jul 4 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 16 – Jun 13 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 28 | — | — | May 30 – Jul 25 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 28 | — | — | May 30 – Jul 11 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Apr 4 – Apr 25 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Jun 20 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 7 | — | Sep 2 | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Jul 25 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 7 | — | Sep 2 | May 2 – May 30 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 28 | — | — | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 17 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 9 – Jun 13 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 16 – Jun 13 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Jun 6 – Jul 18 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 30 | Dec 30 – Jun 16 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Dec 5 – Dec 19 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 28 | — | — | May 23 – Jul 18 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 17 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Sep 19 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 9 – Jun 6 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 16 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 28 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 9 – Jun 13 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Apr 25 – May 30 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Jun 20 – Sep 5 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Apr 25 – Jul 4 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 28 | — | — | May 30 – Jul 11 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 19 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 2 – Jun 6 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Jun 27 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Mar 28 – Apr 25 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Sep 2 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Apr 25 – Jun 27 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Jun 27 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Jul 25 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Jun 20 – Aug 8 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 2 – May 30 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 7 | — | Sep 2 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Jun 20 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 16 – Jul 11 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 17 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Jul 25 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 2 – Jun 6 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 7 | — | Sep 2 | Apr 4 – Apr 25 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Jun 6 – Jul 18 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 7 | — | Sep 2 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 7 | — | Sep 2 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 30 – Jul 25 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 16 – Jun 13 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Jun 20 – Aug 8 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Jul 25 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Jul 25 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 16 – Jul 11 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 28 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Apr 25 – Jun 27 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Jul 25 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 4 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 28 | — | — | May 30 – Jul 11 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | Apr 25 – May 30 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 15 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 15 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Dec 5 – Dec 19 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 7 | — | Sep 2 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Sep 2 | May 2 – Jun 6 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 28 | — | — | May 23 – Jul 18 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Jul 11 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Jul 18 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Oconee
27 fruits matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Oconee.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 24 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jul 11 – Dec 26 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Oconee
39 herbs matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Oconee.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Sep 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Sep 2 | Jun 13 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Aug 1 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Sep 2 | May 9 – Jun 27 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Sep 2 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Aug 1 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Sep 2 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Sep 2 | Apr 25 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Sep 2 | Apr 25 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Sep 2 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Sep 2 | Apr 25 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Jul 18 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Sep 2 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Jul 18 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 20 – Sep 19 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Sep 2 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 20 – Nov 7 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Sep 2 | Apr 25 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 31 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Aug 1 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 7 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Oconee
54 flowers matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Oconee.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | — | May 2 – Oct 3 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 14 | Nov 11 – Dec 2 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 16 | Sep 23 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 24 | — | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Jul 18 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Sep 16 | May 2 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 10 | — | Mar 7 | — | May 16 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Oct 24 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 24 | — | Mar 21 | — | May 9 – Jun 6 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Sep 2 | Apr 18 – Sep 12 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 2 | Nov 11 – Mar 3 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 21 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | — | May 9 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 21 | — | May 9 – Jun 6 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | — | May 23 – Oct 17 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 21 | Feb 28 | Feb 28 | — | May 9 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 14 | Sep 16 – Oct 7 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 14 | Sep 23 – Oct 21 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Nov 14 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 24 | — | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 24 | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | — | Mar 28 – Jun 6 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 24 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | — | May 2 – May 30 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 30 | Oct 21 – Nov 25 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | — | May 16 – Oct 31 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 10 | — | Mar 7 | — | May 16 – Oct 17 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 21 | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Nov 14 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 17 | — | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 14 | Oct 7 – Oct 28 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 17 | — | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Sep 26 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 24 | — | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Oct 24 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Mar 14 | — | May 2 – Jun 6 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Sep 2 | Nov 11 – Mar 3 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 24 | — | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Sep 12 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 24 | — | Feb 7 | — | Apr 4 – May 16 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 21 | — | May 9 – Jun 6 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | — | May 2 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 21 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | — | May 2 – Oct 17 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 10 | — | Feb 28 | Sep 2 | Apr 25 – Aug 15 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Mar 21 | — | May 16 – Jun 13 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Jan 24 | — | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 24 | Mar 21 | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Aug 8 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 21 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | — | Apr 25 – Oct 3 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 16 | Sep 30 – Oct 28 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 17 | — | Mar 14 | — | May 23 – Oct 24 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 24 | — | Mar 7 | — | May 16 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 24 | — | Mar 21 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 10 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Sep 2 | May 9 – Sep 12 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | — | May 30 – Oct 17 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 7 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Sep 16 | Apr 11 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Nov 18 – Jan 27 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 14 | Sep 30 – Oct 28 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 10 | — | Mar 7 | — | May 16 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | — | May 23 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 21 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | — | May 16 – Oct 17 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Oconee
ZIP Codes in Oconee
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 Washington County.
Your Washington County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Washington County (Zone 8b). 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