Murphy, ID — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June in the garden — Owyhee County, Idaho
June rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Owyhee County, Idaho.
-
Move basil, cucumber, and kale from tray to bed
Water the tray well an hour before you transplant. Roots slide out cleanly and settle in faster.
-
Seed basil, cucumber, and green beans outdoors
Keep the top inch of soil moist until germination — a gentle morning watering for 5–7 days does the job.
-
Start sunflower indoors
You're about 12 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
Pick radish, cress, and microgreens
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
To set up a strong July, finish these tasks
- Starting indoors: basil, cucumber, and kale
- First harvests: carrots, lettuce, and radish
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Murphy gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (34" annual rainfall, most of it October to April). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive almost year-round. The challenge is summer heat: long-season warm-weather crops (full-size tomatoes, peppers, melons) need every bit of summer sun, so prioritize short-season varieties, use dark mulches to warm the soil, and reserve your warmest microclimates (south-facing walls, near pavement) for the tender stuff.
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.
Murphy averages 33.2 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
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
June 9
🍂 Avg. First Frost
September 20
📅 Growing Season
103 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 34.2" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
33.2 wk/yr trend improving
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Murphy
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: Watering math is simple: 1 inch of rainfall delivers ~600 gallons to a 1,000 sq ft garden. Murphy's 34" annual rainfall covers some months entirely; others need a few hours of drip irrigation per week. The calendar tells you which is which.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.1 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.1 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.7 in | 8 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Apr | 2 in | 8 days | 2.3 in | High |
| May | 2.3 in | 7 days | 2 in | High |
| Jun | 1.4 in | 4 days | 2.9 in | High |
| Jul | 1.8 in | 5 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Aug | 1.7 in | 6 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Sep | 1.3 in | 6 days | 3 in | High |
| Oct | 1.6 in | 6 days | 2.7 in | High |
| Nov | 1.2 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 18.2 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Murphy Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.8
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) | Jun 19 | Oct 17 | 120 days |
| Cautious | Jun 16 | Sep 29 | 105 days |
| Average year | Jun 9 | Sep 20 | 103 days |
| Optimistic | Jun 1 | Sep 13 | 104 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 8 | Sep 1 | 116 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±41 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 5.8 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Owyhee County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Owyhee 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 Owyhee County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Owyhee 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 Owyhee County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Owyhee County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Owyhee 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 Owyhee County ID" or "garden center Owyhee 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 Owyhee County ID" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Owyhee 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.
Sunlight & Day Length in Murphy
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: Photoperiod-sensitive crops will fail spectacularly if planted at the wrong latitude. Sweet onions in Michigan? Tiny. Spanish onions in Florida? Tiny. Match variety to Murphy's daylight pattern and you'll see the difference.
Longest Day
15.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
11 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 | 9.2 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 7.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.4 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.1 hr | 11 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.8 hr | 10.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 9.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.5 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.9 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 Murphy
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Most root crops germinate well at 50-60°F. Most fruit-bearing crops want 65-75°F. Murphy's monthly soil curve maps these windows to actual months.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 17°F | 25°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 19°F | 25°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 28°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 39°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 51°F | 47°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 62°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 70°F | 62°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 68°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 61°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 50°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 36°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 24°F | 31°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 Murphy
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: In Murphy's climate, pest pressure shapes which crops are easy and which are heartbreak. Tomatoes are easy in dry mountain air, hard in humid coast — same plant, completely different gardening experience.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | High | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
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 Murphy
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: Bare soil is wasted soil — it loses nutrients to rain, dries out, compacts, and gets taken over by weeds. Cover crops (clovers, ryegrass, vetch, peas) are the "between seasons" trick that makes soil better every year. In Murphy, you can fit a cover crop into the gaps.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Jun 15 | Jul 26 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Jun 17 | Jul 12 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | May 14 | Jul 12 | ✓ 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 | Jul 10 | Aug 30 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Jul 20 | May 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Jul 17 | May 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Jul 24 | May 19 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jun 30 | May 19 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 21 | May 26 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 15 | May 19 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 29 | May 19 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Murphy
Why it matters: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Murphy averages 0.0 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: 12 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.3/10
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 2,080 ft of elevation range — cold air pools in low spots. Avoid planting frost-sensitive crops in valleys.
Rainwater Harvesting in Murphy
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: Rainwater scales linearly with roof area. A 2,000 sq ft roof in Murphy captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 34" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.
Annual Collection
9,070 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
8 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,000 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Mar, Apr, May, Jul
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, 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 18.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 9,070 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- In your dry climate, every drop counts — consider a larger cistern system
- Position collection tanks in shade to reduce evaporation and algae growth
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Murphy
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Murphy.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | May 12 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 15 – Oct 20 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 22 – Nov 10 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Jun 23 | — | Oct 27 – Jan 5 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 26 | — | Jul 12 | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Sep 29 – Nov 24 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Jun 16 | — | — | Sep 15 – Nov 3 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Sep 8 – Nov 3 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | May 12 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 22 – Oct 27 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 15 – Nov 10 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Jun 23 | — | Oct 27 – Dec 8 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | May 26 | — | Jul 12 | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Sep 22 – Oct 27 | 100–120 |
| Celery | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Sep 1 – Oct 27 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Chard | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Oct 27 – Jan 5 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Sep 1 – Oct 13 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 4 – Sep 1 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 15 – Oct 20 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jun 16 | — | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Jun 16 | — | — | Aug 18 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Cress | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jun 23 – Jul 14 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | May 12 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 8 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 26 | — | Jul 12 | Oct 27 – Dec 29 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | May 12 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 26 | — | Jul 12 | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | May 12 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 15 – Oct 20 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jun 16 | — | — | Sep 1 – Oct 13 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Apr 7 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 1 – Nov 3 | 65–85 |
| Endive | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 4 – Sep 1 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 25 – Oct 6 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 9 | Nov 8 – Mar 21 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Jun 16 | — | — | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 23 | — | Oct 27 – Jan 5 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Apr 7 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 1 – Dec 8 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | May 12 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Oct 6 – Nov 10 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Oct 27 – Jan 5 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | May 12 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jul 28 – Aug 25 | 45–60 |
| Kale | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jun 16 | — | — | Sep 15 – Oct 20 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Sep 8 – Nov 24 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Sep 1 – Oct 13 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jun 16 | — | — | Aug 18 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Oct 6 – Dec 8 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 22 – Dec 8 | 90–150 |
| Mache | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 15 | 55–70 |
| Melon | May 12 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 1 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 12 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jul 14 – Aug 11 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 15 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 50–65 |
| Onion | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Sep 8 – Oct 27 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 26 | — | Jul 12 | Sep 8 – Oct 20 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | May 12 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 8 | 45–60 |
| Peas | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Apr 7 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 1 – Nov 10 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | May 12 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 22 – Nov 10 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 11 – Sep 15 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 26 | — | Jul 12 | Jun 23 – Jul 14 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 25 – Oct 6 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 26 | — | Jul 12 | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 26 | — | Jul 12 | Sep 8 – Oct 20 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 4 – Sep 1 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Sep 8 – Oct 27 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jun 16 | — | — | Sep 8 – Nov 3 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | May 12 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | May 12 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 13 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | May 12 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 15 – Nov 10 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 23 | — | Oct 13 – Dec 8 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jun 16 | — | — | Aug 18 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 22 – Nov 10 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 26 | — | Jul 12 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | May 12 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 1 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jun 16 | — | — | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Sep 22 – Nov 10 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 29 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | May 12 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Murphy
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Murphy.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | Sep 29 – Jan 12 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 30 | — | Sep 8 – Oct 13 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 30 | — | Sep 8 – Nov 3 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 30 | — | Sep 22 – Nov 3 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | Sep 29 – Feb 9 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Murphy
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Murphy.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 12 | Sep 1 – Nov 17 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 20 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Sep 15 – Dec 1 | 90–120 |
| Borage | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 12 | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 12 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 20 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 12 | Aug 4 – Oct 13 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 12 | Sep 15 – Nov 17 | 100–120 |
| Dill | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 12 | Aug 4 – Oct 13 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Sep 15 – Dec 1 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Sep 1 – Oct 27 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 6 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 12 | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Sep 8 – Jan 26 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Sep 1 – Oct 27 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 20 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Jun 16 | — | Oct 20 – Jan 26 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Murphy
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Murphy.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Apr 28 | Jun 9 | Jun 9 | — | Aug 4 – Nov 24 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 16 | Sep 13 – Oct 4 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Jul 26 | Aug 9 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 9 | Jul 26 | Aug 11 – Nov 10 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 31 | — | Jun 9 | — | Aug 18 – Dec 8 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Apr 7 | Jun 9 | Jun 16 | — | Aug 25 – Dec 29 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 9 | Jul 26 | Jul 28 – Nov 10 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | May 12 | — | Jul 26 | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | May 12 | Jun 9 | Jun 9 | — | Aug 11 – Dec 8 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 16 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Apr 7 | Jun 9 | Jun 16 | — | Aug 18 – Dec 29 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | May 12 | Jun 9 | Jun 9 | — | Aug 18 – Dec 8 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 16 | Jul 12 – Aug 2 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 16 | Jul 19 – Aug 9 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | May 12 | Jun 16 | Jun 16 | — | Aug 25 – Dec 29 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 25 – Dec 29 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Apr 14 | May 5 | May 19 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 6 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Apr 7 | Jun 16 | Jun 16 | — | Sep 1 – Dec 29 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 16 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 16 | — | Aug 25 – Jan 12 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 31 | — | Jun 9 | — | Aug 18 – Dec 8 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Jun 9 | Jun 9 | — | Aug 18 – Dec 22 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 31 | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 25 – Dec 29 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 16 | Aug 9 – Aug 30 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 31 | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 25 – Dec 15 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 25 – Dec 15 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Jun 16 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | May 12 | — | Jul 12 | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Apr 7 | — | Jun 23 | — | Sep 1 – Nov 10 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Jun 16 | — | Aug 25 – Dec 15 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Apr 7 | — | May 19 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 6 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 16 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Apr 28 | Jun 9 | Jun 9 | — | Aug 4 – Nov 10 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | May 12 | Jun 9 | Jun 9 | — | Aug 4 – Dec 8 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 31 | — | Jun 9 | Jul 12 | Aug 4 – Oct 13 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Jun 16 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 25 – Dec 15 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Apr 7 | Jun 16 | Jun 16 | — | Aug 25 – Nov 17 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | May 12 | Jun 9 | Jun 9 | — | Jul 28 – Nov 24 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Jul 26 | Aug 23 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Mar 31 | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 25 – Dec 29 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Apr 14 | — | Jun 9 | — | Aug 18 – Dec 8 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 | — | Oct 6 – Dec 29 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 31 | May 12 | Jun 9 | Jul 26 | Aug 18 – Nov 10 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | May 19 | Jun 9 | Jun 9 | — | Sep 1 – Dec 8 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Apr 28 | May 12 | Jun 9 | Aug 9 | Jul 21 – Oct 13 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | May 5 | — | Jul 26 | Jul 14 – Oct 6 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 16 | Aug 2 – Aug 23 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Mar 31 | — | Jun 9 | — | Aug 18 – Dec 8 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Apr 7 | Jun 9 | Jun 16 | — | Aug 18 – Dec 29 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | May 12 | Jun 9 | Jun 9 | — | Aug 18 – Dec 8 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Murphy
ZIP Codes in Murphy
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 Owyhee County.
Your Owyhee County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Owyhee County (Zone 7a). 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