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Orange County, IN — Planting Guide

Orange County, Indiana Zone 6b June

June to-do list for Orange County, Indiana

Your garden in Orange County, Indiana is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this June.

Avg. last frost April 14
Avg. first frost October 20
Soil temp (4") 74°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14.7 hrs
  1. Get basil, peppers, and pole beans seeds going inside

    These need a head start before your last frost (April 14). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.

  2. Start harvesting basil, carrots, and cucumber

    Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.

A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
  • First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber

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Orange County is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 14 and the first fall frost is October 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 189 days.

At an elevation of 1,246 ft, Orange County receives approximately 34.8 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 90°F with winter lows around 27°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 31 days year to year — ranging from March 31 in warm years to May 1 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 1.17 days per decade. Orange County scores 69/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

6b (-5°F to 0°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

April 14

🍂 First Frost

October 20

📅 Growing Season

189 days

⛰️ Elevation

1,246 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

34.8 in

Orange County, IN Moderate season
189 days
❄
Last Spring Frost April 14
➔ 189 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost October 20

Monthly Watering Calendar for Orange County

When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.

Quick context: The 1-inch-per-week rule applies to most vegetable crops. Orange County averages 35" a year — divide by 52 and compare to that 1" target. Some months are above, some below; that's where the calendar earns its keep.

1"/wk 0" 1.3" 2.5" 3.8" 5" Jan 1.7" Feb 1.7" +2.1" Mar 2.2" +1.2" Apr 3.1" May 4" Jun 4.6" +0.7" Jul 3.6" Aug 4.2" +1.3" Sep 3" +1.9" Oct 2.4" Nov 2.6" Dec 1.8"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 1.7 in 7 days — None
Feb 1.7 in 7 days — None
Mar 2.2 in 8 days 2.1 in High
Apr 3.1 in 10 days 1.2 in Moderate
May 4 in 12 days 0.3 in Low
Jun 4.6 in 10 days — Low
Jul 3.6 in 9 days 0.7 in Moderate
Aug 4.2 in 10 days 0.1 in Low
Sep 3 in 7 days 1.3 in Moderate
Oct 2.4 in 8 days 1.9 in High
Nov 2.6 in 8 days — None
Dec 1.8 in 7 days — None

Annual total: 34.9 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.

Orange County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Silt Loam

Soil pH

6.3-7

Drainage

Well Drained

Frost Risk Probability

Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations

Too early frost risk Safe to Plant Apr 14 → Oct 20 189 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: May 1 Protect by: Nov 1

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 1 Nov 1 184 days
Cautious Apr 21 Oct 25 187 days
Average year Apr 14 Oct 20 189 days
Optimistic Apr 9 Oct 16 190 days
Aggressive (risky) Mar 31 Oct 6 189 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

Not very — frost dates can vary by ±31 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.

🌱
Is the growing season changing?

Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 1.2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.

Gardening Difficulty Score

69 Good
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
3.5/10
Soil Difficulty
0.0/10
Altitude Challenge
0.5/10
Climate Shift
4.7/10
Rainfall Challenge
0.0/10

Orange County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.

Zone 6b Frost Countdown
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Last Frost: Apr 14 First Frost: Oct 20

Local Gardening Help in Orange 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 Orange County's climate and soil.

County Extension Office

Orange County Purdue University Extension Extension Office

Phone: 765-494-8491

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.

Find Master Gardeners in IN →

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.

Request a Soil Test →

Services Available in Orange County

Soil testing Pest identification Gardening workshops 4-H
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Orange County

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Orange 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 Orange County IN" or "garden center Orange 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 Orange County IN" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Orange County Gardeners" or "Indiana 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.

After Squash (Winter) (harvest ends Sep 15) 35 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Melon (harvest ends Aug 25) 56 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Spinach (harvest ends Jul 21) 91 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Sweet Corn (harvest ends Jul 28) 84 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Beets (harvest ends Jul 7) 105 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Broccoli (harvest ends Jul 28) 84 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
Show 6 more succession options
After Snap Peas (harvest ends Aug 18) 63 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Green Beans (harvest ends Aug 4) 77 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Pole Beans (harvest ends Aug 18) 63 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Peppers (harvest ends Sep 8) 42 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Chard (harvest ends Jul 28) 84 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Watermelon (harvest ends Aug 25) 56 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d

Sunlight & Day Length in Orange County

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. Orange County's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.

Longest Day

14.7 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

9.3 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

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.

14hr 12hr 2h 6h 9h 13h 16h Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Daylight hours (sunrise to sunset) Peak sun hours (direct sunlight after cloud cover) ▪ Gold zone = long day (14+ hr) ▪ Blue zone = short day (<12 hr)

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
MonthDaylight HoursPeak Sun HoursDay Length
January 9.6 hr 4 hr Short day
February 10.6 hr 4.6 hr Short day
March 11.7 hr 5.8 hr Short day
April 13 hr 6.9 hr Neutral
May 14.1 hr 7.9 hr Long day
June 14.7 hr 8.8 hr Long day
July 14.4 hr 9 hr Long day
August 13.5 hr 8.4 hr Neutral
September 12.2 hr 7 hr Neutral
October 11 hr 6 hr Short day
November 9.9 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 Orange County

Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.

The practical takeaway: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Orange County's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.

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.

60°F 70°F 20° 40° 60° 80° 100° Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
4" depth 8" depth - - - 60°F (corn, beans) - - - 70°F (tomatoes, peppers)
View detailed monthly data
MonthSoil 4" DeepSoil 8" DeepCompost ActivityTime to Finish
Jan 32°F 38°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Feb 33°F 38°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Mar 37°F 41°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Apr 49°F 50°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
May 62°F 61°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Jun 74°F 68°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 79°F 75°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 84°F 79°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 74°F 73°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 61°F 66°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Nov 49°F 55°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Dec 36°F 44°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 Orange County

Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.

Why it matters: In Orange County's climate, pest pressure shapes which crops are easy and which are heartbreak. Tomatoes are easy in dry mountain air, hard in humid coast — same plant, completely different gardening experience.

Insect Pest Pressure

6.6 / 10

Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.

Disease Risk

1.9 / 10

Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.

Seasonal Risk

Spring Low
Summer High
Fall Low
Winter Low
View 6 common pests in your area
PestRisk LevelPeak Months
Aphids High 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 Low May, Jun, Jul
Stink bugs Moderate 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 Orange County

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. Orange County'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 18 Aug 25 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Sorghum-sudan grass Apr 22 Aug 11 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Mar 20 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 2 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 26 Mar 24 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Crimson clover Aug 19 Mar 24 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring
Daikon radish Aug 25 Mar 31 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Aug 1 Mar 31 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Sep 9 Mar 31 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Jul 31 Mar 31 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Jul 30 Mar 31 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Orange County

Quick context: 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. Orange County sees 8.9 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: 13 mph   Summer: 9 mph

Fall: 11 mph   Winter: 13 mph

Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.

Windbreak Benefit

6.6/10

Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.

Frost Pocket Risk

Low

Relatively flat terrain (106 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.

Rainwater Harvesting in Orange County

How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.

What this means for you: A single rain barrel under a downspout catches 50 gallons in a 0.5" storm. Orange County's 35" annual rainfall means even modest harvesting systems quickly amortize their cost in water savings.

Annual Collection

17,394 gal

Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)

Recommended Setup

6 rain barrels (55 gal each)

For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,500 gal tank.

Legal Status

Unrestricted

Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.

Best Collection Months

May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.

Months to Draw From Storage

Jan, Feb, Dec

Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.

Rainwater collection tips for your area
  • Your county receives approximately 34.9 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 17,394 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

Soil & Growing Conditions in Orange County

Soil Type

Silt Loam

Soil pH 6.3–7 · Excessively Drained drainage

Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.

Watering Needs

Drought stress: 3.5/10

Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (34.8 in. annual rainfall)

Season Tips

189-day frost-free season

Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.

Your Free Printable Garden Planner

Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 22-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Recommended for Your Garden

🧪
Soil Test Kit $12-25

Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.

Know your soil before you plant for best results.

📏
Digital pH Meter $10-20

Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.

Helpful for your garden setup.

🍂
Organic Compost $8-30

Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.

Helpful for your garden setup.

🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Orange County

107 vegetables that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Orange County.

Show all 107 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 21 – Aug 25 80–100
Amaranth Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 28 – Sep 15 90–120
Arugula Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 May 19 – Jul 21 30–50
Asparagus — — Apr 28 — — 730–1095
Beets — Mar 31 — Aug 11 May 26 – Jun 23 50–70
Belgian Endive Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Aug 4 – Sep 29 110–150
Bitter Melon Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 30 – Aug 11 60–90
Black Beans — Apr 21 — — Jul 21 – Sep 8 90–120
Bok Choy Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 May 26 – Jun 30 40–60
Broccoli Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 16 – Jul 28 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 May 26 – Jun 30 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jul 14 – Sep 8 90–130
Butternut Squash Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 28 – Sep 1 85–110
Cabbage Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 16 – Aug 11 60–100
Calabash Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 21 – Sep 15 80–120
Carrots — Mar 31 — Aug 11 Jun 2 – Jul 7 60–80
Cauliflower Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 9 – Aug 11 55–100
Celeriac Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jul 28 – Sep 1 100–120
Celery Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jul 7 – Sep 1 80–120
Celtuce Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 16 – Jul 28 60–90
Chard Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 9 – Jul 28 50–60
Chickpeas Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jul 7 – Aug 18 80–110
Chicory Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 16 – Jul 28 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 9 – Jul 7 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 21 – Aug 25 80–100
Collard Greens Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 9 – Aug 11 55–75
Corn — Apr 21 — — Jun 23 – Aug 18 60–100
Cowpeas — Apr 21 — — Jun 23 – Aug 4 60–90
Cress Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Apr 28 – May 19 14–21
Crookneck Squash Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 16 – Jul 14 45–60
Crosne — Mar 31 — Aug 11 Sep 1 – Oct 13 150–200
Cucumber Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 23 – Aug 18 50–70
Daikon — Mar 31 — Aug 11 May 26 – Jun 23 50–70
Delicata Squash Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 21 – Aug 25 80–100
Edamame — Apr 21 — — Jul 7 – Aug 18 75–100
Eggplant Feb 3 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 7 – Sep 8 65–85
Endive Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 2 – Jul 7 45–65
Escarole Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 9 – Jul 7 50–70
Fava Beans Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 30 – Aug 11 75–100
Fennel Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 30 – Aug 11 60–90
Garlic — — — Sep 8 Dec 8 – Mar 23 90–240
Green Beans — Apr 21 — — Jun 16 – Aug 11 50–65
Horseradish — — Apr 28 — Sep 1 – Nov 10 120–180
Hot Peppers Feb 3 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 7 – Oct 13 70–120
Hubbard Squash Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Aug 11 – Sep 15 100–120
Kabocha Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 28 – Aug 25 85–100
Kai Lan Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 2 – Jun 30 45–60
Kale Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 9 – Aug 4 50–70
Kidney Beans — Apr 21 — — Jul 21 – Aug 25 85–110
Kohlrabi Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 2 – Jul 7 45–65
Komatsuna Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 May 19 – Jun 23 35–50
Leeks Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jul 14 – Sep 29 90–150
Lentils Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jul 7 – Aug 18 80–110
Lettuce Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 May 19 – Jul 28 30–60
Lima Beans — Apr 21 — — Jun 23 – Aug 4 60–90
Loofah Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Aug 11 – Oct 13 100–150
Luffa Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 28 – Oct 13 90–150
Mache Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 May 26 – Jun 30 40–60
Melon Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 7 – Aug 25 70–100
Microgreens Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Apr 21 – May 19 7–21
Mitsuba Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 11 Jun 2 – Jul 28 50–70
Mizuna Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 May 19 – Jun 16 30–45
Mustard Greens Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 May 19 – Jul 21 30–50
Napa Cabbage Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 9 – Jul 14 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 23 – Jul 21 55–70
Okra Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 23 – Aug 18 50–65
Onion Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jul 14 – Sep 1 90–120
Pac Choi Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 May 26 – Jun 23 40–55
Parsnip — Mar 31 — Aug 11 Jul 14 – Aug 25 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 16 – Jul 14 45–60
Peas Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 9 – Aug 4 55–70
Peppers Feb 3 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 30 – Sep 8 60–90
Pole Beans Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 23 – Aug 18 55–70
Potatoes Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 7 – Sep 15 70–120
Pumpkin Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 28 – Sep 15 85–120
Purslane Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 May 26 – Jun 30 40–60
Radicchio Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 16 – Jul 21 60–80
Radish — Mar 31 — Aug 11 Apr 28 – May 19 22–35
Rhubarb — — May 5 — — 365–730
Romanesco Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 30 – Aug 11 75–100
Rutabaga — Mar 31 — Aug 11 Jun 23 – Jul 28 80–100
Salsify — Mar 31 — Aug 11 Jul 14 – Aug 25 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 23 – Aug 18 70–110
Scallions Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 9 – Jul 7 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 30 – Aug 4 60–80
Shallot Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jul 14 – Sep 1 90–120
Shiso Feb 24 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 23 – Aug 18 50–70
Snap Peas Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 23 – Aug 18 55–70
Snow Peas Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 Jun 9 – Aug 4 50–65
Soybeans — Apr 21 — — Jul 14 – Sep 8 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 28 – Aug 25 85–100
Spinach Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 May 19 – Jul 21 35–50
Squash (Summer) Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 16 – Aug 18 45–65
Squash (Winter) Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 21 – Sep 15 80–120
Sunchoke — — Apr 28 — Aug 18 – Oct 13 110–150
Sweet Corn — Apr 21 — — Jun 23 – Aug 4 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 28 – Sep 15 90–120
Tatsoi Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 May 19 – Jun 23 35–50
Tomatillo Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 30 – Sep 8 60–85
Tomatoes Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 30 – Sep 8 60–85
Turnip — Mar 31 — Aug 11 May 12 – Jun 16 40–60
Watercress Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 11 May 26 – Jun 30 40–60
Watermelon Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 7 – Aug 25 70–100
Wax Beans — Apr 21 — — Jun 16 – Aug 11 50–65
Winter Melon Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 28 – Sep 15 90–120
Yard Long Beans Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 23 – Aug 4 55–80
Zucchini Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 16 – Aug 11 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Orange County

27 fruits that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Orange County.

Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — May 5 — Aug 4 – Nov 17 90–180
Aronia — — May 5 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — May 5 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — May 5 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — May 5 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — May 5 — Jul 14 – Aug 18 70–90
Che Fruit — — May 5 — — 1095–1825
Cranberries — — May 5 — — 730–1095
Currants — — May 5 — — 730–1095
Elderberries — — May 5 — — 730–1095
Goji Berries — — May 5 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — May 5 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — May 5 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — May 5 — Jul 14 – Sep 8 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — May 5 — — 1095–1825
Haskaps — — May 5 — — 730–1095
Honeydew — — May 5 — Jul 28 – Sep 8 80–110
Jostaberry — — May 5 — — 730–1095
Lingonberries — — May 5 — — 730–1095
Medlar — — May 5 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — May 5 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — May 5 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — May 5 — — 1095–2555
Quince — — May 5 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — May 5 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — May 5 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — May 5 — Aug 4 – Nov 17 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Orange County

35 herbs that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Orange County.

Show all 35 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 11 — 365–730
Anise Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 11 Jul 7 – Sep 22 90–120
Basil Feb 24 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 23 – Aug 25 50–75
Bee Balm — — Apr 21 — Jul 21 – Oct 6 90–120
Borage Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 11 Jun 2 – Jul 21 50–60
Caraway Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 11 — 365–450
Catnip — — Apr 21 — Jun 23 – Aug 25 60–80
Chamomile Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 11 Jun 9 – Aug 18 60–90
Chervil Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 11 May 19 – Jul 21 40–60
Chives — — Apr 21 — Jun 23 – Sep 1 60–90
Cilantro Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 11 May 19 – Jul 21 40–60
Comfrey — — Apr 21 — Jun 23 – Sep 1 60–90
Cumin Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 11 Jul 21 – Sep 22 100–120
Dill Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 11 May 19 – Jul 21 40–60
Epazote Feb 24 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 16 – Aug 11 45–60
Fennel (herb) Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 11 Jun 9 – Aug 18 60–90
Feverfew — — Apr 21 — Jul 21 – Oct 6 90–120
Garlic Chives — — Apr 21 — Jun 23 – Sep 1 60–90
Horehound — — Apr 21 — Jul 7 – Sep 1 75–90
Hyssop — — Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Sep 1 70–90
Lemon Balm — — Apr 21 — Jun 23 – Aug 11 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Sep 1 70–90
Lovage — — Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Sep 1 70–90
Marjoram — — Apr 21 — Jun 23 – Sep 1 60–90
Mint — — Apr 21 — Jun 23 – Sep 1 60–90
Oregano — — Apr 21 — Jun 23 – Sep 1 60–90
Parsley Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 11 Jun 9 – Aug 11 60–80
Rue — — Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Sep 1 70–90
Sage — — Apr 21 — Jul 7 – Sep 1 75–90
Savory — — Apr 21 — Jun 16 – Aug 11 50–70
Sorrel Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 11 May 19 – Jul 21 40–60
Tarragon — — Apr 21 — Jun 23 – Sep 1 60–90
Thai Basil Feb 24 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 23 – Aug 25 50–75
Thyme — — Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Sep 1 70–90
Valerian — — Apr 21 — Aug 25 – Nov 3 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Orange County

53 flowers that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Orange County.

Show all 53 flowers with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Feb 24 Apr 14 Apr 14 — Jun 9 – Sep 22 60–75
Alliums — — — Sep 8 Oct 6 – Nov 3 28–42
Anemones Mar 17 — Apr 14 — May 12 – Jun 9 90–120
Astilbe Feb 10 — Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Sep 8 70–100
Bachelor's Button Mar 3 Mar 17 Apr 14 Sep 8 Jun 16 – Sep 8 60–90
Begonias Feb 3 — Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Oct 6 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Feb 10 Apr 14 Apr 21 — Jul 7 – Oct 27 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Feb 10 — Apr 21 — Jun 16 – Jul 21 60–90
Calendula Mar 3 Mar 17 Apr 14 — Jun 2 – Sep 8 50–70
California Poppy — Mar 17 — — May 26 – Jul 21 60–90
Celosia Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 21 — Jun 23 – Oct 13 60–90
Columbine Feb 10 Apr 21 Apr 21 — Jun 16 – Jul 21 70–100
Coreopsis Feb 10 Apr 14 Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Oct 27 60–80
Cosmos Mar 17 Apr 14 Apr 14 — Jun 23 – Oct 6 60–90
Crocus — — — Sep 8 Jul 28 – Aug 18 10–20
Daffodils — — — Sep 8 Aug 4 – Aug 25 20–40
Dahlias Mar 17 Apr 21 Apr 21 — Jul 7 – Oct 27 70–120
Daylily Feb 10 — Apr 21 — Jul 7 – Oct 27 60–90
Dianthus Feb 17 Mar 17 Mar 24 — May 12 – Aug 11 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Feb 10 Apr 21 Apr 21 — Jul 7 – Oct 27 70–90
Foxglove Feb 10 Apr 21 Apr 21 — Jun 16 – Jul 21 80–120
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Feb 24 Apr 21 Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Nov 3 70–100
Geraniums Feb 3 — Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Oct 6 70–100
Gladiolus — Apr 14 Apr 14 — Jun 30 – Oct 20 70–100
Hostas Feb 3 — Apr 21 — Jul 7 – Oct 27 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Sep 8 Aug 25 – Sep 15 14–28
Hydrangeas Feb 3 — Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Oct 13 90–150
Impatiens Feb 17 — Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Oct 13 60–75
Irises — Division Apr 21 — Jun 16 – Jul 14 60–100
Larkspur — Mar 17 — — May 26 – Jul 21 60–90
Lavender Feb 3 — Apr 28 — Jul 7 – Sep 1 90–120
Lilies — Division Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Oct 6 70–120
Lobelia Feb 10 — Mar 31 — May 26 – Aug 18 70–80
Lupine Feb 10 Apr 21 Apr 21 — Jun 16 – Jul 21 75–100
Marigolds Mar 3 Apr 14 Apr 14 — Jun 9 – Sep 15 50–70
Nasturtium Mar 17 Apr 14 Apr 14 — Jun 9 – Oct 6 55–65
Pansy Feb 3 — Apr 14 Aug 25 Jun 9 – Aug 18 70–90
Peonies — Division Apr 21 — Jun 23 – Jul 28 90–120
Petunia Feb 17 — Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Oct 13 70–90
Phlox Feb 10 Apr 21 Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Sep 22 80–110
Portulaca Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 21 — Jun 9 – Sep 29 50–70
Ranunculus Mar 3 — Apr 14 — May 19 – Jun 16 90–120
Roses Feb 3 — Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Oct 27 90–180
Salvia Feb 10 — Apr 14 — Jun 23 – Oct 6 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Feb 10 — Apr 21 — Aug 11 – Nov 3 60–90
Snapdragon Feb 3 Mar 24 Apr 14 — Jun 23 – Sep 8 70–100
Sunflower Mar 24 Apr 14 Apr 14 — Jul 7 – Oct 6 70–100
Sweet Alyssum Mar 3 Mar 24 Apr 14 — May 26 – Aug 11 45–60
Sweet Pea Mar 3 Mar 10 Apr 14 — Jun 30 – Sep 8 65–85
Tulips — — — Sep 15 Aug 25 – Sep 22 15–30
Vinca (Annual) Feb 3 — Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Oct 13 70–90
Yarrow Feb 10 Apr 14 Apr 21 — Jun 30 – Oct 27 60–90
Zinnia Mar 17 Apr 14 Apr 14 — Jun 23 – Sep 29 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for Orange County