Roscoe, IL — Planting Guide for June
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Your June game plan for Roscoe, IL
June is a pivotal month for Roscoe, IL gardens. Focus on these tasks first and you'll set up the rest of the season for success.
-
Start basil, pole beans, and thai basil under lights
Give them 6–8 weeks indoors before the last frost and you'll transplant into warm soil with seedlings that are already leaping.
-
Pick carrots, green beans, and kale
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
- Starting indoors: peppers, begonias, and eggplant
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Roscoe gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (37" 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 (14.0 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 26
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 12
📅 Growing Season
169 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 37.4" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 8.7 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
14.0 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Roscoe
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: In Roscoe, the watering question isn't "how often" — it's "is the soil moist 4 inches down?" Stick a finger in. Dry? Water. Damp? Wait. The 37" annual rainfall is just the starting context.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.8 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.6 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.4 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.9 in | 11 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| May | 4.7 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.6 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4 in | 7 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.8 in | 8 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.6 in | 7 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.8 in | 7 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.2 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 38.2 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Roscoe Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.3
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 10 | Oct 27 | 170 days |
| Cautious | Apr 29 | Oct 16 | 170 days |
| Average year | Apr 26 | Oct 12 | 169 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 21 | Oct 7 | 169 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 13 | Oct 1 | 171 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±26 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit shorter (1 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Winnebago County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Winnebago 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 Winnebago County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Winnebago 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 Winnebago County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Winnebago County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Winnebago 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 Winnebago County IL" or "garden center Winnebago 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 Winnebago County IL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Winnebago 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 Roscoe
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: The longest day at Roscoe's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.
Longest Day
15.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.9 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.2 hr | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 6.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.4 hr | 8.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.1 hr | 9 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.8 hr | 9.9 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.5 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.9 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 Roscoe
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Soil temperature is a leading indicator. A black plastic mulch can warm soil 5-10°F faster than bare ground — meaningful in Roscoe's spring if you're trying to plant tomatoes earlier.
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 | 24°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 22°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 30°F | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 45°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 59°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 68°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 75°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 77°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 71°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 56°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 43°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 30°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 Roscoe
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. Roscoe's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.
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 | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Moderate | 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
- Watch for powdery mildew, damping off, gray mold — common in your climate
Cover Crops for Roscoe
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: Cover crops are the experienced gardener's secret weapon. Roscoe's climate determines which species thrive: clover and vetch in mild winters, cereal rye and Austrian peas in cold ones.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 7 | Aug 17 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 29 | Aug 10 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 26 | Aug 10 | ✓ 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 27 | Sep 14 | — | 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 8 | Apr 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 22 | Apr 5 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 31 | Apr 5 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 12 | Apr 5 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 10 | Apr 5 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 12 | Apr 12 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Roscoe
Why this matters: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Roscoe's 8.7 mph background level is a baseline you should know before placing the tallest crops (sunflowers, pole beans, sweet corn).
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 14 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
6.9/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (99 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Roscoe
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: The first inch of rain washes the roof clean — a first-flush diverter sends it to waste before the barrel fills. Worth the extra $20 for cleaner garden water. Roscoe gets 37" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
19,038 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 38.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 19,038 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 Roscoe
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Roscoe.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 3 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 3 | — | — | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 3 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | May 10 – May 31 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 3 | Sep 13 – Sep 27 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 3 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 15 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Nov 30 – Feb 15 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 3 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 10 | — | Sep 13 – Oct 25 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 15 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 25 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 6 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 3 | — | — | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jul 26 – Oct 11 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | May 3 – May 31 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 3 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 3 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 15 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 3 | May 10 – May 31 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 3 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 3 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 6 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 10 | — | Aug 30 – Oct 25 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 3 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 3 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 3 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Roscoe
27 fruits matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Roscoe.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 1 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 1 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Roscoe
34 herbs matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Roscoe.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 3 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 3 | Jul 19 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 3 | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 3 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 3 | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 3 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 3 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 3 | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 3 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 3 | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 3 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 3 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 3 | — | Sep 6 – Oct 18 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Roscoe
51 flowers matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Roscoe.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 27 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Oct 5 – Oct 26 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 29 | — | Apr 26 | — | May 31 – Jun 28 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 22 | — | May 10 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 15 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 10 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 22 | — | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 22 | May 10 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Nov 1 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 29 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Jul 13 – Aug 3 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Jul 20 – Aug 10 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 25 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 22 | — | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 1 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | — | May 31 – Aug 23 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 22 | May 10 | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 1 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 22 | May 10 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 15 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 4 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 25 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 15 | — | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 1 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Aug 10 – Sep 7 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 15 | — | May 10 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 1 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 11 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 29 | — | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 15 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 18 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 15 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 30 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 22 | May 10 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 15 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 27 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 11 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 1 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 22 | May 10 | May 10 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Sep 27 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 15 | — | May 10 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 22 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 22 | — | May 10 | — | Sep 6 – Nov 15 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 5 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 11 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Aug 3 – Aug 24 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 8 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Nov 1 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 11 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Roscoe
ZIP Codes in Roscoe
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 Winnebago County.
Your Winnebago County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Winnebago 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