Putnam, IL — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Putnam gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (36" 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 (13.0 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
5b (-15°F to -10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 21
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 13
📅 Growing Season
175 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 35.7" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
13.0 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Putnam
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
What this means for you: The 1-inch-per-week rule applies to most vegetable crops. Putnam averages 36" a year — divide by 52 and compare to that 1" target. Some months are above, some below; that's where the calendar earns its keep.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.8 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.1 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.6 in | 11 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 5.2 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.3 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.3 in | 7 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.2 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 41.6 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Putnam Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6-6.7
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 9 | Oct 28 | 172 days |
| Cautious | Apr 27 | Oct 17 | 173 days |
| Average year | Apr 21 | Oct 13 | 175 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 16 | Oct 8 | 175 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 6 | Sep 30 | 177 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±32 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 1.2 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Putnam County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Putnam 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 Putnam County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Putnam 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 Putnam County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Putnam County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Putnam 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 Putnam County IL" or "garden center Putnam 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 Putnam County IL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Putnam 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 Putnam
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: Onion varieties are sold by "short-day," "intermediate-day," and "long-day." Putnam's latitude determines which to buy — and getting it wrong is the difference between baseball-sized bulbs and marbles.
Longest Day
15 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.6 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 | 9.3 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 4.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 6.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.3 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| June | 15 hr | 9.6 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.7 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 8.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.6 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9 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 Putnam
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Cold soil = stunted starts. A bean seed planted in 55°F soil rots before it germinates. Same seed in 65°F soil sprouts in 5 days. Putnam's soil temperature pattern shows you the difference month to month.
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 | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 25°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 33°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 44°F | 46°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 57°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 69°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 78°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 78°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 69°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 58°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 44°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 Putnam
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Putnam sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
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 | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Slugs | Low | Apr, May, Jun |
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 Putnam
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
What this means for you: 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 | May 2 | Aug 18 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 1 | Aug 11 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 25 | Aug 11 | ✓ 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 17 | Sep 15 | — | 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 7 | Apr 7 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 17 | Apr 7 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 23 | Mar 31 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 6 | Apr 7 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 22 | Apr 7 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 10 | Mar 31 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Putnam
Why this matters: A 10 mph wind doesn't feel like much, but it triples leaf transpiration vs. still air. Putnam's 0.0 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: 12 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.2/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (257 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Putnam
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: Most gardens use 0.5-1 gallon per square foot per week in summer. Putnam's 36" annual rainfall is enough to cover most needs if you can capture it. Rain barrels under downspouts are the simplest entry point.
Annual Collection
20,733 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
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 41.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 20,733 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 Putnam
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Putnam.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 4 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 4 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | May 5 – May 26 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 4 | Sep 8 – Sep 22 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 4 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 10 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 1 | Dec 1 – Feb 16 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 5 | — | Sep 8 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 10 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 20 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 1 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | May 26 – Aug 4 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 4 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 4 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 10 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 4 | May 5 – May 26 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 4 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 4 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 1 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 5 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 20 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 4 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 4 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Putnam
27 fruits matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Putnam.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 12 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 27 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 12 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 12 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 27 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Putnam
34 herbs matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Putnam.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 4 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 4 | Jul 14 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 13 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 4 | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 4 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 4 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 4 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 4 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 4 | Jul 28 – Sep 29 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 4 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 4 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 13 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 4 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 4 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Sep 1 – Oct 13 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Putnam
51 flowers matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Putnam.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 22 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 1 | Oct 6 – Oct 27 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 24 | — | Apr 21 | — | May 26 – Jun 23 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 17 | — | May 5 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 10 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 29 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | May 5 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 27 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 17 | — | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Sep 8 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 17 | May 5 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 27 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 1 | Jul 14 – Aug 4 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 1 | Jul 21 – Aug 11 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 20 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 17 | — | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 17 | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | — | May 26 – Aug 18 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 17 | May 5 | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 17 | May 5 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 27 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 10 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 29 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 10 | — | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 1 | Aug 11 – Sep 8 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 10 | — | May 5 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 13 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 24 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 6 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 24 | — | — | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 10 | — | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 13 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 10 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 25 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 17 | May 5 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 10 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Oct 6 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 24 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 17 | May 5 | May 5 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 13 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 10 | — | May 5 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 27 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 17 | — | May 5 | — | Sep 1 – Nov 10 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 10 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 31 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 3 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 1 | Aug 4 – Aug 25 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 3 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 29 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 6 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Putnam
ZIP Codes in Putnam
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 Putnam County.
Your Putnam County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Putnam County (Zone 5b). 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