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Ottawa County, KS — Planting Guide

Ottawa County, Kansas Zone 6b June

Your June gardening checklist

Each item below is timed to Ottawa County, Kansas's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.

Avg. last frost April 14
Avg. first frost October 23
Soil temp (4") 68°F
Watering Moderate
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14.7 hrs
  1. Indoor seed-starting week for basil, peppers, and pole beans

    Give them 6–8 weeks indoors before the last frost and you'll transplant into warm soil with seedlings that are already leaping.

  2. It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber

    The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.

Get ahead of July
  • First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Ottawa County is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 14 and the first fall frost is October 23, giving you a growing season of approximately 192 days.

At an elevation of 993 ft, Ottawa County receives approximately 24 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 85°F with winter lows around 14°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 24 days year to year — ranging from April 3 in warm years to April 27 in cold years. Ottawa County scores 71/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

6b (-5°F to 0°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

April 14

🍂 First Frost

October 23

📅 Growing Season

192 days

⛰️ Elevation

993 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

24 in

Ottawa County, KS Moderate season
192 days
❄
Last Spring Frost April 14
➔ 192 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost October 23

Monthly Watering Calendar for Ottawa 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: Plants need different amounts of water at different growth stages — heavy at flowering and fruit-set, lighter at establishment. Ottawa County's 24" annual rainfall is your starting math; the timing tells you when natural rain will cover you and when you need to step in.

1"/wk 0" 1.3" 2.5" 3.8" 5" Jan 0.7" Feb 0.8" Mar 1.7" +1.9" Apr 2.4" +0.8" May 3.5" +0.8" Jun 3.5" +1.2" Jul 3.1" +1.4" Aug 2.9" +2" Sep 2.3" +2.6" Oct 1.7" Nov 0.8" Dec 0.5"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 0.7 in 4 days — None
Feb 0.8 in 5 days — None
Mar 1.7 in 5 days — None
Apr 2.4 in 7 days 1.9 in High
May 3.5 in 10 days 0.8 in Moderate
Jun 3.5 in 9 days 0.8 in Moderate
Jul 3.1 in 8 days 1.2 in Moderate
Aug 2.9 in 6 days 1.4 in Moderate
Sep 2.3 in 5 days 2 in High
Oct 1.7 in 5 days 2.6 in High
Nov 0.8 in 3 days — None
Dec 0.5 in 3 days — None

Annual total: 23.9 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.

Ottawa County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Loam

Soil pH

6.8-7.6

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 23 192 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: Apr 27 Protect by: Nov 2

Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.

How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.

Planting Strategy Last Spring Frost First Fall Frost Frost-Free Days
Conservative (safest) Apr 27 Nov 2 189 days
Cautious Apr 19 Oct 26 190 days
Average year Apr 14 Oct 23 192 days
Optimistic Apr 11 Oct 14 186 days
Aggressive (risky) Apr 3 Oct 6 186 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

Not very — frost dates can vary by ±24 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.

Gardening Difficulty Score

71 Good
Frost Timing Risk
9.2/10
Drought Risk
5.5/10
Soil Difficulty
0.0/10
Altitude Challenge
0.0/10
Climate Shift
0.5/10
Rainfall Challenge
2.4/10

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

Zone 6b Frost Countdown
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Loading...
Last Frost: Apr 14 First Frost: Oct 23

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

County Extension Office

Ottawa County Kansas State University Extension Extension Office

Phone: 785-532-5820

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 KS →

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 Ottawa County

Soil testing Pest identification Gardening workshops
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Ottawa County

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Ottawa 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 Ottawa County KS" or "garden center Ottawa 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 Ottawa County KS" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Ottawa County Gardeners" or "Kansas 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 Tomatoes (harvest ends Sep 8) 45 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d
After Kale (harvest ends Aug 4) 80 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Melon (harvest ends Aug 25) 59 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Squash (Summer) (harvest ends Aug 18) 66 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Cabbage (harvest ends Aug 11) 73 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Watermelon (harvest ends Aug 25) 59 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
Show 6 more succession options
After Green Beans (harvest ends Aug 4) 80 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) 87 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Beets (harvest ends Jul 7) 108 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Potatoes (harvest ends Sep 15) 38 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Spinach (harvest ends Jul 21) 94 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Broccoli (harvest ends Jul 28) 87 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d

Sunlight & Day Length in Ottawa County

Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.

For new gardeners: You can't change the sun. Picking the right day-length-matched varieties for Ottawa County matters more than any other "fix" you make — and the seed packet tells you (look for "long-day," "short-day," "day-neutral").

Longest Day

14.7 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

9.3 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

10.3 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.

14hr 12hr 4h 7h 10h 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 9.5 hr 5.5 hr Short day
February 10.5 hr 6.2 hr Short day
March 11.7 hr 7.1 hr Short day
April 13 hr 8.4 hr Neutral
May 14.1 hr 9.1 hr Long day
June 14.7 hr 9.8 hr Long day
July 14.5 hr 10.3 hr Long day
August 13.5 hr 9.3 hr Neutral
September 12.2 hr 8.2 hr Neutral
October 10.9 hr 7.1 hr Short day
November 9.8 hr 5.5 hr Short day
December 9.3 hr 5.2 hr Short day

Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.

Soil Temperature & Composting in Ottawa County

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

The practical takeaway: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Ottawa County, an aggressive mulch program shifts your effective soil temperature curve toward optimal for most crops.

Plant Warm Crops When

Soil reaches 60°F+

Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.

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 10° 30° 50° 70° 90° 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 25°F 32°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Feb 25°F 32°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Mar 34°F 35°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Apr 45°F 44°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
May 59°F 55°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Jun 68°F 65°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 77°F 71°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 79°F 73°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 71°F 68°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 59°F 61°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Nov 44°F 48°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Dec 29°F 38°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 Ottawa County

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

Why it matters: Pest pressure is a function of climate, not effort. Ottawa County's baseline tells you how much vigilance is normal. A bad pest year in low-pressure region = a normal year in high-pressure region.

Insect Pest Pressure

6.1 / 10

Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.

Disease Risk

2.1 / 10

Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.

Seasonal Risk

Spring Low
Summer High
Fall Low
Winter Low
View 5 common pests in your area
PestRisk LevelPeak Months
Aphids Moderate May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Japanese beetles Moderate Jun, Jul, Aug
Squash bugs Moderate Jun, Jul, Aug
Tomato hornworms Low Jul, Aug
Cabbage loopers Low May, Jun, Jul, Aug
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 Ottawa County

Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.

For new gardeners: A fall-planted cover crop in Ottawa County is the closest thing to free soil amendment. Plant cereal rye or hairy vetch after harvest; chop it down before it flowers in spring; the soil it leaves behind out-grows any store-bought compost.

Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat Apr 23 Aug 14 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Sorghum-sudan grass Apr 18 Aug 14 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Mar 18 Aug 28 ✓ 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 11 Oct 9 — Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Austrian winter peas Aug 18 Mar 24 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Daikon radish Aug 28 Mar 31 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Aug 15 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 17 Mar 24 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Jul 22 Mar 24 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Ottawa County

For new gardeners: 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. Ottawa County sees 12.3 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: 17 mph   Summer: 12 mph

Fall: 13 mph   Winter: 16 mph

Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.

Windbreak Benefit

9.4/10

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 (178 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.

Rainwater Harvesting in Ottawa County

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

Why this matters: Even in arid regions, rainwater harvesting works — you just need bigger storage and patience. In wet regions like Ottawa County (24" annually), you're mostly limited by how much water you can store between storms.

Annual Collection

11,911 gal

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

Recommended Setup

7 rain barrels (55 gal each)

For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,000 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, Nov, 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 23.9 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 11,911 gallons annually
  • Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
  • Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Nov)
  • Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection

Soil & Growing Conditions in Ottawa County

Soil Type

Loam

Soil pH 6.8–7.6 · 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

192-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 Ottawa County

107 vegetables that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Ottawa 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 14 May 19 – Jul 21 30–50
Asparagus — — Apr 28 — — 730–1095
Beets — Mar 31 — Aug 14 May 26 – Jun 23 50–70
Belgian Endive Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 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 14 May 26 – Jun 30 40–60
Broccoli Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 Jun 16 – Jul 28 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 May 26 – Jun 30 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 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 14 Jun 16 – Aug 11 60–100
Calabash Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jul 21 – Sep 15 80–120
Carrots — Mar 31 — Aug 14 Jun 2 – Jul 7 60–80
Cauliflower Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 Jun 9 – Aug 11 55–100
Celeriac Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 Jul 28 – Sep 1 100–120
Celery Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 Jul 7 – Sep 1 80–120
Celtuce Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 Jun 16 – Jul 28 60–90
Chard Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 Jun 9 – Jul 28 50–60
Chickpeas Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 Jul 7 – Aug 18 80–110
Chicory Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 Jun 16 – Jul 28 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 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 14 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 14 Apr 28 – May 19 14–21
Crookneck Squash Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 16 – Jul 14 45–60
Crosne — Mar 31 — Aug 14 Sep 1 – Oct 13 150–200
Cucumber Mar 10 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 23 – Aug 18 50–70
Daikon — Mar 31 — Aug 14 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 14 Jun 2 – Jul 7 45–65
Escarole Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 Jun 9 – Jul 7 50–70
Fava Beans Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 Jun 30 – Aug 11 75–100
Fennel Feb 17 Apr 21 Apr 28 — Jun 30 – Aug 11 60–90
Garlic — — — Sep 11 Dec 11 – Mar 26 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 14 Jun 2 – Jun 30 45–60
Kale Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 Jun 9 – Aug 4 50–70
Kidney Beans — Apr 21 — — Jul 21 – Aug 25 85–110
Kohlrabi Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 Jun 2 – Jul 7 45–65
Komatsuna Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 May 19 – Jun 23 35–50
Leeks Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 Jul 14 – Sep 29 90–150
Lentils Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 Jul 7 – Aug 18 80–110
Lettuce Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 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 14 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 14 Apr 21 – May 19 7–21
Mitsuba Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 14 Jun 2 – Jul 28 50–70
Mizuna Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 May 19 – Jun 16 30–45
Mustard Greens Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 May 19 – Jul 21 30–50
Napa Cabbage Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 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 14 Jul 14 – Sep 1 90–120
Pac Choi Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 May 26 – Jun 23 40–55
Parsnip — Mar 31 — Aug 14 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 14 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 14 May 26 – Jun 30 40–60
Radicchio Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 Jun 16 – Jul 21 60–80
Radish — Mar 31 — Aug 14 Apr 28 – May 19 22–35
Rhubarb — — May 5 — — 365–730
Romanesco Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 Jun 30 – Aug 11 75–100
Rutabaga — Mar 31 — Aug 14 Jun 23 – Jul 28 80–100
Salsify — Mar 31 — Aug 14 Jul 14 – Aug 25 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 Jun 23 – Aug 18 70–110
Scallions Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 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 14 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 14 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 14 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 14 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 14 May 12 – Jun 16 40–60
Watercress Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 14 Aug 14 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 Ottawa County

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

35 herbs that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Ottawa 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 14 — 365–730
Anise Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 14 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 14 Jun 2 – Jul 21 50–60
Caraway Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 14 — 365–450
Catnip — — Apr 21 — Jun 23 – Aug 25 60–80
Chamomile Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 14 Jun 9 – Aug 18 60–90
Chervil Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 14 May 19 – Jul 21 40–60
Chives — — Apr 21 — Jun 23 – Sep 1 60–90
Cilantro Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 14 May 19 – Jul 21 40–60
Comfrey — — Apr 21 — Jun 23 – Sep 1 60–90
Cumin Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 14 Jul 21 – Sep 22 100–120
Dill Mar 10 Mar 31 Apr 7 Aug 14 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 14 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 14 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 14 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 Ottawa County

53 flowers that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Ottawa 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 11 Oct 9 – Nov 6 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 11 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 11 Jul 31 – Aug 21 10–20
Daffodils — — — Sep 11 Aug 7 – Aug 28 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 11 Aug 28 – Sep 18 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 28 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 18 Aug 28 – Sep 25 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 Ottawa County