Shelby County, IN — Planting Guide
Top priorities for Shelby County, Indiana gardeners in June
Welcome to June in Zone 6a. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
-
Get peppers, pole beans, and tomatoes seeds going inside
Your window is short. These crops want several weeks of indoor growth before they go outside.
-
Basket week: basil, carrots, and cucumber
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
To set up a strong July, finish these tasks
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Shelby County is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 10 and the first fall frost is October 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 193 days.
At an elevation of 1,068 ft, Shelby County receives approximately 34.4 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 86°F with winter lows around 22°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 30 days year to year — ranging from March 30 in warm years to April 29 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 0.92 days per decade. Shelby County scores 68/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 10
🍂 First Frost
October 20
📅 Growing Season
193 days
⛰️ Elevation
1,068 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
34.4 in
Monthly Watering Calendar for Shelby County
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Shelby County gets 34" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.5 in | 8 days | 1.8 in | High |
| Apr | 3.1 in | 9 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.7 in | 9 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 4.2 in | 9 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Jul | 4.1 in | 10 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.9 in | 9 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Sep | 3 in | 7 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.7 in | 9 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Nov | 2.3 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 34.4 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.
Shelby County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-7.2
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 29 | Oct 31 | 185 days |
| Cautious | Apr 17 | Oct 24 | 190 days |
| Average year | Apr 10 | Oct 20 | 193 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 7 | Oct 17 | 193 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 30 | Oct 7 | 191 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±30 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 longer (0.9 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Shelby County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Shelby 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 Shelby County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Shelby 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.
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 Shelby County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Shelby County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Shelby 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 Shelby County IN" or "garden center Shelby 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 Shelby County IN" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Shelby 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.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length in Shelby County
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: Onions are a great example of why day length matters. They "bulb up" only when daylight hits a specific number of hours — plant the wrong variety (short-day in the north, long-day in the south) and you'll get tiny bulbs no matter how well you grow them. Shelby County's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.
Longest Day
14.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.3 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 | 9.5 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.8 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 9.3 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.2 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Shelby County
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. Shelby County'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
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 | 31°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 33°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 41°F | 42°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 51°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 63°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 74°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 83°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 84°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 76°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 64°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 49°F | 56°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 39°F | 46°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 Shelby County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Shelby County's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.
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 | 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 | 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 Shelby 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: The "chop and drop" approach to cover crops: cut them down right before flowering, let them lay on the surface as mulch, plant your vegetables through the mulch. Less work, healthier soil.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 20 | Aug 11 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 16 | Aug 11 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 11 | 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 | May 1 | 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 15 | Mar 27 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 26 | Mar 27 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 6 | Mar 27 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 11 | Mar 20 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 6 | Mar 20 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 30 | Mar 20 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 28 | Mar 20 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Shelby County
The practical takeaway: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Shelby County's 9.7 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.
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: 11 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
7.3/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (181 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Shelby 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: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Shelby County, that's your 34" times your roof.
Annual Collection
17,144 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, 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 34.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 17,144 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 Shelby County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 6.1–7.2 · Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 5.5/10
Moderate drought pressure. Drip irrigation and mulching are highly recommended to maintain soil moisture through summer.
Season Tips
193-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.
Recommended for Your Garden
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Shelby County
107 vegetables that grow well in Zone 6a with planting dates for Shelby County.
Show all 107 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Apr 24 – May 15 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | Aug 28 – Oct 9 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 30 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Dec 8 – Mar 23 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Aug 28 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 30 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 9 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Sep 25 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Oct 9 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 30 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | Apr 24 – May 15 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Shelby County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 6a with planting dates for Shelby County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Nov 13 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Nov 13 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Shelby County
35 herbs that grow well in Zone 6a with planting dates for Shelby County.
Show all 35 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | Jul 3 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 30 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Shelby County
53 flowers that grow well in Zone 6a with planting dates for Shelby County.
Show all 53 flowers with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 11 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Oct 6 – Nov 3 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 13 | — | Apr 10 | — | May 15 – Jun 12 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Sep 8 | Jun 12 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 25 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 16 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Aug 28 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 13 | — | — | May 22 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 6 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 16 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Jul 28 – Aug 18 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Aug 4 – Aug 25 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 16 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 13 | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | — | May 15 – Aug 14 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 6 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 30 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 25 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 9 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Aug 25 – Sep 15 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 2 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 13 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 2 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 13 | — | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 30 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 2 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 6 | — | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Aug 14 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 27 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 2 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | Aug 25 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 13 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 18 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 18 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Feb 27 | — | Apr 10 | — | May 22 – Jun 19 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 16 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 30 | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 2 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 20 | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | — | May 22 – Jul 31 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Aug 18 – Sep 15 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 2 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Shelby County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Shelby County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Shelby County, IN?
Shelby County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Shelby County, IN?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Shelby County falls around April 10. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 30 and April 29 — a 30-day window of variability. Use April 29 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Shelby County, IN?
The median first fall frost in Shelby County arrives around October 20. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 7; in mild years as late as October 31. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Shelby County?
Shelby County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 193 days. This is enough time for most warm-season crops including tomatoes, peppers, and squash with proper timing. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 0.92 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Shelby County for gardening?
Shelby County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 6.1–7.2 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Shelby County?
Shelby County has commercial agriculture that includes Corn, Soybeans, Hay. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Shelby County a good location for home gardening?
Shelby County scores 68/100 (Good) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Your Shelby County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Shelby County (Zone 6a). 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