Gridley, IL — Planting Guide for June
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June in Gridley, IL — your action list
Welcome to June in Zone 6a. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
-
Time to start basil, peppers, and pole beans inside
Your window is short. These crops want several weeks of indoor growth before they go outside.
-
Start harvesting basil, carrots, and cucumber
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Gridley gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (35" 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 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 (14.7 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 18
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 18
📅 Growing Season
183 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 35.3" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
14.7 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Gridley
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: Mulch reduces watering needs 30-50% by cutting evaporation. Gridley's 35" annual rainfall might be enough for vegetables in some months and not in others — a 2-3" mulch layer evens the swing.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.9 in | 10 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| May | 4 in | 10 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jun | 3.8 in | 10 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Jul | 3.5 in | 9 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.2 in | 8 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2.7 in | 8 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Oct | 2.8 in | 8 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.9 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 31.9 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.
Gridley Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6-7
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) | May 2 | Nov 1 | 183 days |
| Cautious | Apr 24 | Oct 27 | 186 days |
| Average year | Apr 18 | Oct 18 | 183 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 14 | Oct 11 | 180 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 5 | Oct 5 | 183 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±27 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 1.8 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
McLean County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in McLean 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 McLean County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
McLean 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 McLean County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in McLean County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to McLean 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 McLean County IL" or "garden center McLean 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 McLean County IL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "McLean 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 Gridley
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: A 14-hour day in June produces dramatically more photosynthesis than a 10-hour day in November. Gridley's seasonal swing determines which crops can pack growth into spring vs. limp through fall.
Longest Day
14.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.1 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 | 9.4 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 4.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.3 hr | 8.7 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.9 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.6 hr | 9.3 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.7 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.1 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 Gridley
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Lettuce germinates at 35°F. Beans want 60°F. Tomatoes 65°F+. Soil temp, not air temp, is what plants feel. Gridley's monthly curve tells you when each crop actually has the conditions to take off.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
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 | 23°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 22°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 34°F | 35°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 44°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 59°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 69°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 77°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 77°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 70°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 59°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 41°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 31°F | 37°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 Gridley
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Pest pressure is a function of climate, not effort. Gridley's baseline tells you how much vigilance is normal. A bad pest year in low-pressure region = a normal year in high-pressure region.
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 | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Slugs | Low | Apr, May, Jun |
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 Gridley
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: Why not just leave bare soil? Weed seeds, erosion, nutrient leaching, and crust formation. A cover crop solves all of these for the cost of seeds and one mowing.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 23 | Aug 9 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 22 | Aug 23 | ✓ 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 3 | Sep 20 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 16 | Mar 28 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 26 | Apr 4 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 6 | Mar 28 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 21 | Mar 28 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 19 | Mar 28 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 16 | Mar 28 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Gridley
What this means for you: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Gridley 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: 12 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 13 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 (166 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Gridley
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Gridley, that's your 35" times your roof.
Annual Collection
15,898 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 31.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 15,898 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 Gridley
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Gridley.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 9 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | May 2 – May 23 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 9 | Sep 5 – Oct 17 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 9 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 7 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Dec 6 – Mar 21 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 14 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 7 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 17 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Aug 29 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | May 23 – Aug 1 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 17 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 9 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | May 23 – Jun 20 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 9 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 7 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 9 | May 2 – May 23 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 9 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Aug 29 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 9 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 9 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Gridley
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Gridley.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 21 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 21 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Gridley
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Gridley.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 9 | Jul 11 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 9 | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 9 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 9 | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 9 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 9 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 9 | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 9 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 9 | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 15 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 9 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 9 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 7 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Gridley
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Gridley.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 28 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Sep 19 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Oct 4 – Nov 1 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 21 | — | Apr 18 | — | May 23 – Jun 20 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Sep 6 | Jun 20 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 7 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 24 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 21 | — | — | May 30 – Jul 11 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 14 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 14 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 24 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Jul 26 – Aug 16 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Aug 2 – Aug 23 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 24 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 21 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Aug 22 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 14 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 14 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 7 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 7 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 17 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 7 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Aug 23 – Sep 13 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 7 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 10 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 10 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 21 | — | — | May 30 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 7 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 10 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 14 | — | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Aug 22 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 14 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 7 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 10 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 7 | — | Apr 18 | Aug 23 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 14 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 26 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 7 | — | Apr 18 | — | May 30 – Jun 27 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 7 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 24 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 10 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 28 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | — | May 30 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Aug 16 – Sep 13 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 7 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 10 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Gridley
ZIP Codes in Gridley
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 McLean County.
Your McLean County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for McLean County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log