Mesa, ID — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your July gardening checklist
Welcome to July in Zone 6a. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
-
Indoor seed-starting week for basil, peppers, and pole beans
Bottom-water once the first true leaves appear — it keeps stems dry and knocks back damping-off.
-
Pick basil, carrots, and cucumber
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
-
Plant your fall garden: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Mid-season soil is hot. Sow a bit deeper than the packet suggests to find cooler, damper ground.
Before August arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: alliums, bachelor's button, and crocus
Mesa gardens in a wet, humid climate (45" 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.
Soils trend Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Mesa averages 32.2 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 20
🍂 Avg. First Frost
September 25
📅 Growing Season
128 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 45.0" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 4.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
32.2 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Mesa
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: In Mesa, the watering question isn't "how often" — it's "is the soil moist 4 inches down?" Stick a finger in. Dry? Water. Damp? Wait. The 45" annual rainfall is just the starting context.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.1 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.9 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2 in | 6 days | 2.3 in | High |
| May | 2.6 in | 8 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Jun | 1.4 in | 5 days | 2.9 in | High |
| Jul | 2 in | 5 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Aug | 2.1 in | 7 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Sep | 1.7 in | 6 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Oct | 1.8 in | 6 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Nov | 1.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.2 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 20.6 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.
Mesa Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-8
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 28 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) | Jun 23 | Oct 25 | 124 days |
| Cautious | Jun 12 | Oct 7 | 117 days |
| Average year | May 20 | Sep 25 | 128 days |
| Optimistic | May 5 | Sep 11 | 129 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | 128 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±69 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 shorter here (about 2.1 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Adams County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Adams 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 Adams County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Adams County University of Idaho Extension Extension Office
Phone: 208-885-6681
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 Adams County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Adams County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Adams 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 Adams County ID" or "garden center Adams 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 Adams County ID" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Adams County Gardeners" or "Idaho 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 Mesa
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Lettuce and cilantro "bolt" (go to seed) when days lengthen. Knowing your day-length curve helps you time spring plantings to harvest before the bolting trigger hits. Mesa's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
Longest Day
15.4 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.6 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
11.1 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.2 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.6 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.4 hr | 11.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.1 hr | 10.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.9 hr | 9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.3 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.6 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Mesa
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Mesa's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil rarely reaches 60°F — use black plastic mulch to warm soil.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
3 months
Short season — insulate pile or use indoor vermicomposting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2°F | 11°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 2°F | 9°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 12°F | 15°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 24°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 39°F | 35°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jun | 48°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jul | 58°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 57°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 50°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 37°F | 41°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 22°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 9°F | 18°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Mesa
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Pest score isn't pass/fail. It's a planning input. Higher scores mean: more compost (resilient plants), wider spacing (air circulation), resistant varieties (built-in defense), and inspection (catch issues at egg stage).
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Mesa
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: The "chop and drop" approach to cover crops: cut them down right before flowering, let them lay on the surface as mulch, plant your vegetables through the mulch. Less work, healthier soil.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Jun 1 | Jul 31 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 29 | Jul 31 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 22 | Jul 31 | ✓ 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 | Jun 18 | Sep 4 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Jul 31 | May 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 12 | May 6 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 7 | May 6 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 13 | Apr 29 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 17 | Apr 29 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 16 | Apr 29 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Mesa
Quick context: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Mesa averages 4.0 mph — fine for most days. But every region has its windy days, and the first time a row of unstaked peppers leans over after a storm is a lesson you only need once.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 14 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 14 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
High
Hilly terrain with 1,820 ft of elevation range — cold air pools in low spots. Avoid planting frost-sensitive crops in valleys.
Rainwater Harvesting in Mesa
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Mesa's 45" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
10,267 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
7 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, 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 20.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 10,267 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Nov, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Mesa
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Mesa.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 6 | — | Jul 17 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Sep 9 – Nov 4 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 27 | — | — | Aug 26 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | May 6 | — | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 27 | — | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 27 | — | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jun 3 – Jun 24 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 19 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 6 | — | Jul 17 | Oct 7 – Nov 18 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 6 | — | Jul 17 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 27 | — | — | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 14 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 14 | Nov 13 – Feb 26 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 27 | — | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 3 | — | Oct 7 – Dec 16 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 12 – Nov 18 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Sep 16 – Oct 21 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Sep 2 – Sep 30 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 27 | — | — | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Aug 19 – Nov 4 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 27 | — | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Sep 16 – Nov 18 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Sep 2 – Nov 18 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Aug 26 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 6 | — | Jul 17 | Aug 19 – Sep 30 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 19 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 21 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 6 | — | Jul 17 | Jun 3 – Jun 24 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 6 | — | Jul 17 | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 6 | — | Jul 17 | Aug 19 – Sep 30 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 27 | — | — | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Sep 2 – Sep 30 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 3 | — | Sep 23 – Nov 18 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 27 | — | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 6 | — | Jul 17 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 17 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 27 | — | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Mesa
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Mesa.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | Sep 9 – Dec 23 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 10 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 10 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 10 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 14 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | Sep 9 – Dec 23 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Mesa
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Mesa.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Aug 12 – Oct 28 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Nov 11 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 17 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Aug 26 – Oct 28 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Nov 11 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 27 | — | Sep 30 – Dec 9 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Mesa
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Mesa.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Apr 1 | May 20 | May 20 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 21 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 14 | Sep 11 – Oct 9 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 22 | — | May 20 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 18 | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | May 20 | Aug 14 | Jul 22 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 11 | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 4 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 12 – Nov 25 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 18 | — | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | May 20 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 7 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Apr 15 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Nov 11 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 18 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 25 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 22 | May 20 | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Nov 4 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 14 | Jul 3 – Jul 24 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 14 | Jul 10 – Jul 31 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 22 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Aug 12 – Nov 25 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 18 | — | May 27 | — | Aug 12 – Nov 25 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 25 | Apr 22 | May 6 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 23 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Dec 2 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 18 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Apr 1 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Dec 9 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 11 | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 4 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 20 | May 20 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 18 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 11 | — | May 27 | — | Aug 12 – Nov 25 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 14 | Jul 31 – Aug 21 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 11 | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 11 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 25 | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 11 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 19 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Mar 11 | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 11 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 18 | — | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 23 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 18 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Apr 8 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 21 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 22 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Nov 11 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 11 | — | May 20 | Jul 31 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 25 | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 11 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 18 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 28 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 15 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 28 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Apr 8 | — | May 20 | — | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Mar 11 | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 25 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 18 | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 11 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 18 | — | May 27 | — | Sep 16 – Dec 2 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 11 | Apr 29 | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 29 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Aug 19 – Nov 11 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Apr 1 | Apr 29 | May 20 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | May 20 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 14 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Mar 11 | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 11 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 25 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 22 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 11 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Mesa
ZIP Codes in Mesa
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 Adams County.
Your Adams County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Adams County (Zone 6a). 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