Cairo, IL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Top priorities for Cairo, IL gardeners in June
We've pulled the most time-sensitive tasks for Cairo, IL this June and put them front and centre. Tackle them in order.
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Begin indoor sowing: peppers, astilbe, and begonias
Your window is short. These crops want several weeks of indoor growth before they go outside.
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It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Cairo gardens in a wet, humid climate (51" 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 Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Drought pressure is moderate (14.0 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 10
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 21
📅 Growing Season
194 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 50.7" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 6.7 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
14.0 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Cairo
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: In Cairo, 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 51" annual rainfall is just the starting context.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.6 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3 in | 10 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 4.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| May | 4.1 in | 11 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Jun | 5.1 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.8 in | 9 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Aug | 4.8 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3 in | 8 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3 in | 7 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.4 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 38.7 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.
Cairo Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.9-7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 24 | Nov 2 | 192 days |
| Cautious | Apr 16 | Oct 27 | 194 days |
| Average year | Apr 10 | Oct 21 | 194 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 5 | Oct 14 | 192 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 29 | Oct 5 | 190 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±26 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Alexander County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Alexander 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 Alexander County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Alexander County University of Illinois Extension Extension Office
Phone: 217-333-7672
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 Alexander County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Alexander County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Alexander 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 Alexander County IL" or "garden center Alexander 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 Alexander County IL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Alexander County Gardeners" or "Illinois 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 Cairo
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). Cairo's curve is the timing layer beneath everything you grow.
Longest Day
14.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.5 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.7 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your 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 | 9.7 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 4.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 6.5 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.5 hr | 9.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.3 hr | 9.7 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 10 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.5 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Cairo
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Soil temperature is a leading indicator. A black plastic mulch can warm soil 5-10°F faster than bare ground — meaningful in Cairo's spring if you're trying to plant tomatoes earlier.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 37°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 36°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 47°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 58°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 66°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 77°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 83°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 88°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 78°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 68°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 53°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 42°F | 50°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 Cairo
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: 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
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 | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
- Watch for powdery mildew, downy mildew, blight — common in your climate
Cover Crops for Cairo
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: 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 Cairo, you can fit a cover crop into the gaps.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 18 | Aug 26 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 18 | Aug 19 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 14 | Aug 12 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 15 | Aug 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 | Apr 30 | Oct 7 | — | 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 28 | Mar 27 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 12 | Mar 20 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 10 | Mar 27 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 26 | Mar 20 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 20 | Mar 27 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 1 | Mar 27 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 1 | Mar 20 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Cairo
Quick context: Pollinators avoid windy days. Cairo's 6.7 mph average wind isn't enough to stop bees and butterflies — but plant fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) in protected microclimates and you'll see noticeably better fruit set.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.4/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (296 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Cairo
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Cairo, that's your 51" times your roof.
Annual Collection
19,288 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jun, Aug
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 38.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 19,288 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Cairo
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Cairo.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Aug 28 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 12 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 9 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 12 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Aug 28 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Apr 24 – May 15 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 12 | Aug 28 – Oct 30 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 12 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Dec 9 – Apr 21 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Aug 28 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 9 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Aug 28 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jul 10 – Sep 25 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Oct 9 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 12 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 12 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 12 | Apr 24 – May 15 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 12 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 12 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 12 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Cairo
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Cairo.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Nov 13 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Dec 11 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Cairo
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Cairo.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 12 | Jul 3 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 12 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 12 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 12 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 12 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 12 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 12 | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 12 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 12 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 12 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 10 – Nov 27 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 12 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 21 – Nov 27 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Cairo
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Cairo.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 27 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 25 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 16 | Oct 14 – Nov 4 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Sep 9 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Aug 26 | Jun 12 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 30 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Aug 26 | May 29 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 26 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 30 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 16 | Aug 12 – Sep 2 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 16 | Aug 19 – Sep 9 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 30 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 13 | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | — | May 8 – Aug 7 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 30 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Nov 13 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 23 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 16 | Sep 9 – Sep 30 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 16 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 13 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 16 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 13 | — | Aug 12 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 6 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 16 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 6 | — | Mar 20 | — | May 15 – Aug 7 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 27 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 9 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | Aug 12 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 13 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 18 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Sep 23 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 30 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 13 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 30 | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Aug 26 | Jun 19 – Sep 11 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 9 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Sep 9 | May 22 – Aug 14 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Mar 6 | — | Aug 26 | May 15 – Aug 7 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 16 | Sep 2 – Sep 23 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Cairo
ZIP Codes in Cairo
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 Alexander County.
Your Alexander County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Alexander 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