Bode, IA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June game plan for Bode, IA
Here's what deserves your attention in Bode, IA this month. Everything below is tailored to Zone 5a and timed around your local frost dates.
-
Begin indoor sowing: basil, cucumber, and kale
A seed-starting mix and a sunny window (or a grow light) are all you need. Keep soil warm — around 70°F — for fast germination.
-
Pick carrots, kale, and lettuce
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
Looking ahead to July
- Starting indoors: peppers, astilbe, and begonias
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Bode has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 5a). The last spring frost typically lands around April 29 and the first fall frost arrives around October 6 — a 160-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.
Bode averages 20.7 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
5a (-20°F to -15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 29
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 6
📅 Growing Season
160 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 28.3" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
20.7 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Bode
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: Over-watering kills more plants than under-watering. Bode's 28" annual rainfall changes the gardening playbook — humid-region gardeners often water by the calendar when they should water by the soil moisture.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.5 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.1 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3 in | 10 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.6 in | 9 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 3.8 in | 9 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Jul | 3.6 in | 8 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.4 in | 9 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2.9 in | 8 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.6 in | 7 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Nov | 1.9 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.8 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 31.6 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.
Bode Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 15 | Oct 21 | 159 days |
| Cautious | May 4 | Oct 12 | 161 days |
| Average year | Apr 29 | Oct 6 | 160 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 22 | Oct 2 | 163 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 16 | Sep 20 | 157 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±29 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit shorter (0.7 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Humboldt County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Humboldt 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 Humboldt County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Humboldt County Iowa State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 515-294-6675
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 Humboldt County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Humboldt County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Humboldt 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 Humboldt County IA" or "garden center Humboldt 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 Humboldt County IA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Humboldt County Gardeners" or "Iowa 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 Bode
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: Onion varieties are sold by "short-day," "intermediate-day," and "long-day." Bode's latitude determines which to buy — and getting it wrong is the difference between baseball-sized bulbs and marbles.
Longest Day
15.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.6 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.2 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 4.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.4 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.1 hr | 9.6 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.9 hr | 9.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.5 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.9 hr | 3.3 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Bode
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Cold soil = stunted starts. A bean seed planted in 55°F soil rots before it germinates. Same seed in 65°F soil sprouts in 5 days. Bode's soil temperature pattern shows you the difference month to month.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
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 | 16°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 18°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 26°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 41°F | 40°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 55°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 65°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 73°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 74°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 67°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 54°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 36°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 23°F | 33°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 Bode
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: High pest pressure means weekly inspection. Low pest pressure means monthly. The score tells you which routine to set up before you have a problem.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Colorado potato beetle | Low | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Bode
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: 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 (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 10 | Aug 4 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 2 | Aug 4 | ✓ 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 26 | Sep 8 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (5 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daikon radish | Aug 12 | Apr 8 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 24 | Apr 8 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 6 | Apr 8 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 16 | Apr 15 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 7 | Apr 8 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Bode
Why this matters: Pollinators avoid windy days. Bode's 0.0 mph average wind isn't enough to stop bees and butterflies — but plant fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) in protected microclimates and you'll see noticeably better fruit set.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 13 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 11 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 (239 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Bode
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: Even in arid regions, rainwater harvesting works — you just need bigger storage and patience. In wet regions like Bode (28" annually), you're mostly limited by how much water you can store between storms.
Annual Collection
15,749 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 31.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 15,749 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 Bode
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Bode.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 28 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 6 | — | — | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 28 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 6 | — | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 6 | — | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | May 13 – Jun 3 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 28 | Sep 16 – Sep 30 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 28 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 6 | — | — | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 18 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Nov 24 – Feb 9 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 6 | — | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 13 | — | Sep 16 – Oct 28 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 18 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 28 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 9 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 6 | — | — | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jul 29 – Oct 14 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 6 | — | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | May 6 – Jun 3 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 28 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 28 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 18 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 28 | May 13 – Jun 3 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 28 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 28 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 11 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 6 | — | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 9 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 13 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 28 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 6 | — | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 28 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 28 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 6 | — | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Bode
27 fruits matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Bode.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 20 | — | Aug 19 – Nov 4 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 20 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 20 | — | Aug 19 – Nov 4 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Bode
34 herbs matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Bode.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 28 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 28 | Jul 22 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 11 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 28 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 28 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 28 | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 28 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 28 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 28 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 28 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 11 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 28 | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 28 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 28 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 11 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 6 | — | Sep 9 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Bode
51 flowers matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Bode.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 11 | May 6 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 23 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Sep 29 – Oct 27 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 1 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 25 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 18 | — | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 13 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 28 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 25 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Sep 9 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Mar 25 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 25 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 28 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Jul 7 – Jul 28 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Jul 14 – Aug 4 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 21 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 25 | — | May 13 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | — | Jun 3 – Aug 19 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 25 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 28 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 25 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 4 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Nov 11 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 18 | — | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 7 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 6 | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 21 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 18 | — | May 13 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Aug 4 – Sep 1 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 18 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 14 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 4 | — | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 7 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 1 | — | — | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 18 | — | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 14 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 18 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 25 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 18 | May 6 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 23 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 7 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 18 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 4 | — | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 25 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 14 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 25 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 30 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 18 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 28 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 25 | — | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 25 | — | May 13 | — | Sep 9 – Nov 11 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 8 | May 6 | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Jul 28 – Aug 18 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 11 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 7 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Bode
ZIP Codes in Bode
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 Humboldt County.
Your Humboldt County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Humboldt County (Zone 5a). 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