Wheeler, IL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June in the garden — Jasper County, Illinois
A quick June briefing for Jasper County, Illinois gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
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Begin indoor sowing: basil, peppers, and pole beans
Label every cell. You will absolutely forget which is which otherwise.
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It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
July will be here before you know it — start on
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Wheeler has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 6b). The last spring frost typically lands around April 13 and the first fall frost arrives around October 20 — a 190-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 (12.1 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6b (-5°F to 0°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 13
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 20
📅 Growing Season
190 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 22.1" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
12.1 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Wheeler
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: Watering math is simple: 1 inch of rainfall delivers ~600 gallons to a 1,000 sq ft garden. Wheeler's 22" annual rainfall covers some months entirely; others need a few hours of drip irrigation per week. The calendar tells you which is which.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.4 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.5 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.4 in | 8 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Apr | 3.1 in | 9 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.1 in | 9 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.7 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.3 in | 9 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.5 in | 9 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3.4 in | 7 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3 in | 8 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.2 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 35.1 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.
Wheeler Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.9-7.3
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) | Apr 27 | Oct 31 | 187 days |
| Cautious | Apr 18 | Oct 28 | 193 days |
| Average year | Apr 13 | Oct 20 | 190 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 7 | Oct 14 | 190 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 30 | Oct 7 | 191 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±28 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 4.6 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Jasper County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Jasper 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 Jasper County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Jasper 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 Jasper County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Jasper County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Jasper 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 Jasper County IL" or "garden center Jasper 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 Jasper County IL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Jasper 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 Wheeler
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: The longest day at Wheeler'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
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.2 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 | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 8.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 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 Wheeler
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Most root crops germinate well at 50-60°F. Most fruit-bearing crops want 65-75°F. Wheeler's monthly soil curve maps these windows to actual months.
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
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 | 29°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 30°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 38°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 49°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 62°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 73°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 78°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 80°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 75°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 63°F | 65°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 48°F | 55°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 38°F | 43°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 Wheeler
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Wheeler'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 | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Wheeler
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: Cover crops do four things at once: fix nitrogen (legumes), suppress weeds (any), prevent erosion, and add organic matter when chopped down. Wheeler's seasonal pattern determines which species fit which gap.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 17 | Aug 18 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 19 | Aug 11 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 15 | Aug 25 | ✓ 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 | Apr 28 | Oct 6 | — | 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 18 | Mar 30 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 10 | Mar 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 3 | Mar 30 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 4 | Mar 23 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 6 | Mar 23 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 24 | Mar 23 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 25 | Mar 30 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Wheeler
What this means for you: Wind affects three things gardeners forget: how fast soil dries (more wind = more watering), whether pollinators can work (calm beats gusty), and whether your trellised crops stay upright. Wheeler sees 0.0 mph on average — a forgiving baseline.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.9/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (138 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Wheeler
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Wheeler's 22" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
17,493 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Aug, Sep
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 35.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 17,493 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 Wheeler
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Wheeler.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 11 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Apr 27 – May 18 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 11 | Aug 31 – Oct 12 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 11 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 2 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Dec 8 – Mar 23 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 2 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 12 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 24 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 12 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 11 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 2 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 11 | Apr 27 – May 18 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 24 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 11 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 11 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Wheeler
27 fruits matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Wheeler.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Wheeler
35 herbs matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Wheeler.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 11 | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 11 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 11 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 11 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 11 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 11 | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 11 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 11 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 11 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Wheeler
53 flowers matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Wheeler.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Sep 21 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Oct 6 – Nov 3 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 16 | — | Apr 13 | — | May 11 – Jun 8 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Sep 8 | Jun 15 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 1 – Sep 7 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 16 | — | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 26 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Jul 28 – Aug 18 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Aug 4 – Aug 25 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 16 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | — | May 11 – Aug 10 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Nov 2 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Aug 25 – Sep 15 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 12 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 16 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 12 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 16 | — | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 2 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 5 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 9 | — | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Aug 17 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 5 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | Aug 25 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 16 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 21 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | May 18 – Jun 15 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 26 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 9 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 7 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | — | May 25 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Aug 25 – Sep 22 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 28 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Wheeler
ZIP Codes in Wheeler
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 Jasper County.
Your Jasper County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Jasper County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log