Fidelity, IL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
What to do in June
If you only do a handful of things in the garden this June, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.
-
Indoor seed-starting week for peppers, pole beans, and tomatoes
Label every cell. You will absolutely forget which is which otherwise.
-
Collect basil, carrots, and cucumber at their peak
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
July prep starts now
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Fidelity has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 6b). The last spring frost typically lands around April 11 and the first fall frost arrives around October 21 — a 193-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
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 (13.9 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6b (-5°F to 0°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 11
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 21
📅 Growing Season
193 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 41.4" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 8.2 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
13.9 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Fidelity
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Plants need different amounts of water at different growth stages — heavy at flowering and fruit-set, lighter at establishment. Fidelity's 41" annual rainfall is your starting math; the timing tells you when natural rain will cover you and when you need to step in.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.2 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.7 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.4 in | 8 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Apr | 3.2 in | 8 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4 in | 10 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jul | 3.7 in | 9 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 4.1 in | 9 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Sep | 2.9 in | 7 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.4 in | 7 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Nov | 2.6 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 34.3 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Fidelity Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.7-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 20 | Nov 4 | 198 days |
| Cautious | Apr 16 | Oct 28 | 195 days |
| Average year | Apr 11 | Oct 21 | 193 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 4 | Oct 16 | 195 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 26 | Oct 7 | 195 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±25 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit shorter (0.4 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Jersey County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Jersey 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 Jersey County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Jersey 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 Jersey County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Jersey County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Jersey 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 Jersey County IL" or "garden center Jersey 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 Jersey County IL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Jersey 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 Fidelity
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Onions are a great example of why day length matters. They "bulb up" only when daylight hits a specific number of hours — plant the wrong variety (short-day in the north, long-day in the south) and you'll get tiny bulbs no matter how well you grow them. Fidelity's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.3 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 | 9.5 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 6.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 9.3 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Fidelity
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Fidelity, an aggressive mulch program shifts your effective soil temperature curve toward optimal for most crops.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
7 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 | 29°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 33°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 39°F | 41°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 50°F | 49°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 64°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 72°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 80°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 84°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 74°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 61°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 50°F | 56°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 36°F | 44°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 Fidelity
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Fidelity's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.
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 | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
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
Cover Crops for Fidelity
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: 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 | Apr 21 | Aug 26 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 17 | Aug 12 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 12 | Aug 26 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | May 10 | Sep 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 | Aug 17 | Mar 21 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 23 | Mar 28 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 29 | Mar 21 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 3 | Mar 21 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 17 | Mar 21 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 20 | Mar 21 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 26 | Mar 21 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Fidelity
For new gardeners: A 10 mph wind doesn't feel like much, but it triples leaf transpiration vs. still air. Fidelity's 8.2 mph average means most days are gentle on plants, but consider how a 20+ mph spring gust would affect a flat of seedlings hardened off too quickly.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (113 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Fidelity
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Fidelity's 41" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.
Annual Collection
17,095 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 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, 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 34.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 17,095 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 Fidelity
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Fidelity.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 12 | May 23 – Jun 20 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 12 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Apr 25 – May 16 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 12 | Aug 29 – Oct 10 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 12 | May 23 – Jun 20 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 31 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Dec 9 – Mar 24 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 7 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 31 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 10 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jul 11 – Sep 26 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Apr 18 – May 16 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 12 | May 30 – Jul 25 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | May 16 – Jun 13 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | May 23 – Jun 20 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 12 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 31 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 12 | Apr 25 – May 16 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 12 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 12 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 12 | May 9 – Jun 13 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 12 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Fidelity
27 fruits matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Fidelity.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 14 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 14 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Fidelity
35 herbs matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Fidelity.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 12 | Jul 4 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 12 | May 30 – Jul 18 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 12 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 12 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 12 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 12 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 12 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 8 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 12 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 31 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Fidelity
53 flowers matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Fidelity.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 6 – Sep 19 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Oct 7 – Nov 4 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 14 | — | Apr 11 | — | May 9 – Jun 6 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 7 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Apr 11 | Sep 9 | Jun 13 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 31 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 24 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 7 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Apr 11 | — | May 30 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 14 | — | — | May 23 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 24 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Jul 29 – Aug 19 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Aug 5 – Aug 26 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 24 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 7 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 14 | Mar 14 | Mar 21 | — | May 9 – Aug 8 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 31 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 31 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 17 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 31 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Aug 26 – Sep 16 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 31 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 10 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 14 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 10 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 14 | — | — | May 23 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 31 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 3 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 7 | — | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Aug 15 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 28 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 6 – Sep 12 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 6 – Oct 3 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 | Aug 26 | Jun 6 – Aug 15 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 14 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 19 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Feb 28 | — | Apr 11 | — | May 16 – Jun 13 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 31 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 24 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 7 | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 7 | — | Apr 18 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 31 | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Sep 5 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | — | May 23 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 16 | Aug 26 – Sep 23 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 31 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Sep 26 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Fidelity
ZIP Codes in Fidelity
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 Jersey County.
Your Jersey County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Jersey County (Zone 6b). 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