Steeleville, IL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June planting checklist for Steeleville, IL
If you only do a handful of things in the garden this June, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.
-
Start peppers, astilbe, and begonias under lights
These need a head start before your last frost (April 11). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Collect basil, carrots, and cucumber at their peak
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
Looking ahead to July
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Steeleville has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 7a). The last spring frost typically lands around April 11 and the first fall frost arrives around October 20 — a 192-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Drought pressure is moderate (13.7 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 11
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 20
📅 Growing Season
192 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 43.2" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.1 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
13.7 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Steeleville
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: A drip irrigation system pays for itself in 1-2 seasons in any climate. Steeleville's 43" annual rainfall determines whether you'll run it weekly (dry zones) or maybe just during summer dry spells (wet zones).
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.2 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.4 in | 9 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Apr | 3.2 in | 9 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.1 in | 11 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.6 in | 10 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3 in | 9 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3.2 in | 8 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.4 in | 7 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Nov | 2.2 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.8 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 32.7 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Steeleville Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 23 | Oct 30 | 190 days |
| Cautious | Apr 17 | Oct 25 | 191 days |
| Average year | Apr 11 | Oct 20 | 192 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 5 | Oct 12 | 190 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 25 | Oct 5 | 194 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±29 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit shorter (0.9 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Randolph County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Randolph 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 Randolph County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Randolph 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 Randolph County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Randolph County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Randolph 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 Randolph County IL" or "garden center Randolph 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 Randolph County IL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Randolph 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 Steeleville
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: Lettuce and cilantro "bolt" (go to seed) when days lengthen. Knowing your day-length curve helps you time spring plantings to harvest before the bolting trigger hits. Steeleville's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
Longest Day
14.6 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.4 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 | 9.6 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.6 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.4 hr | 9.4 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.9 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.4 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 Steeleville
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Lettuce germinates at 35°F. Beans want 60°F. Tomatoes 65°F+. Soil temp, not air temp, is what plants feel. Steeleville'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 May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
7 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 30°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 31°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 41°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 52°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 65°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 75°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 81°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 81°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 77°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 63°F | 65°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 49°F | 55°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 38°F | 47°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 Steeleville
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Steeleville's pest score is your early-warning system: high score means commit to disease-resistant varieties and accept some crop loss to bugs.
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 | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | High | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
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 Steeleville
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. Steeleville'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 | Apr 14 | Aug 18 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 19 | Aug 25 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 13 | Aug 18 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | May 10 | Sep 22 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 14 | Mar 28 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 15 | Mar 28 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 3 | Mar 28 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 7 | Mar 21 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 8 | Mar 21 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 29 | Mar 28 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 22 | Mar 21 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Steeleville
Quick context: Wind dries soil, knocks over young transplants, and disrupts pollination for bees and butterflies. Steeleville averages 7.1 mph — above 10 mph means windbreaks (shrubs, fences, taller crops to windward), staked tomatoes from day one, and an extra round of watering during dry windy spells. Lower wind = lower water bills and fewer broken stems.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 13 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.3/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (211 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Steeleville
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: A single rain barrel under a downspout catches 50 gallons in a 0.5" storm. Steeleville's 43" annual rainfall means even modest harvesting systems quickly amortize their cost in water savings.
Annual Collection
16,297 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
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 32.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 16,297 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 Steeleville
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Steeleville.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 7 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 11 | May 23 – Jun 20 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 10 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 11 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 7 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Apr 25 – May 16 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 11 | Aug 29 – Oct 31 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 11 | May 23 – Jun 20 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Dec 8 – Apr 20 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 7 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 10 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 7 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jul 11 – Sep 26 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Apr 18 – May 16 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 11 | May 30 – Jul 25 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | May 16 – Jun 13 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | May 23 – Jun 20 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 11 | Apr 25 – May 16 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 11 | May 9 – Jun 13 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Steeleville
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Steeleville.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 14 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Dec 12 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Steeleville
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Steeleville.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 11 | Jul 4 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 11 | May 30 – Jul 18 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 11 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 11 | Jun 6 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 11 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 11 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 11 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 11 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 11 | Jun 6 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 8 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 11 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 11 – Nov 28 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | Aug 11 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 28 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Steeleville
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Steeleville.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 28 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 6 – Sep 26 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Oct 13 – Nov 3 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Sep 8 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 7 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Aug 25 | Jun 13 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 31 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 7 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Aug 25 | May 30 – Sep 12 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 14 | — | Aug 25 | May 23 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 31 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Aug 11 – Sep 1 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Aug 18 – Sep 8 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 31 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 7 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | — | May 9 – Aug 8 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Nov 14 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 10 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 24 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 31 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Sep 8 – Sep 29 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 31 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 17 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 14 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 17 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 14 | — | Aug 11 | May 23 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 7 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 17 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 7 | — | Mar 21 | — | May 16 – Aug 8 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 28 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 6 – Sep 12 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 6 – Oct 10 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 | Aug 11 | Jun 6 – Aug 15 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 14 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 19 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | May 30 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 31 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 31 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 14 | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 7 | — | Apr 18 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 31 | Mar 14 | Apr 11 | Aug 25 | Jun 20 – Sep 12 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 10 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 28 | Mar 14 | Apr 11 | Sep 8 | May 23 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Mar 7 | — | Aug 25 | May 16 – Aug 8 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Sep 1 – Sep 22 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 10 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Steeleville
ZIP Codes in Steeleville
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 Randolph County.
Your Randolph County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Randolph County (Zone 7a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log