Dover, KS — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
What to do in June
Your garden in Shawnee County, Kansas is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this June.
-
Begin indoor sowing: basil, peppers, and pole beans
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.
-
Bring in the basil, carrots, and cucumber
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
July will be here before you know it — start on
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Dover has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 6b). The last spring frost typically lands around April 14 and the first fall frost arrives around October 22 — a 191-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 Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Dover averages 22.1 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
6b (-5°F to 0°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 14
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 22
📅 Growing Season
191 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 29.0" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 9.3 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
22.1 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Dover
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: In humid climates, watering is usually about timing (morning, not evening, to prevent disease) more than volume. In dry climates, it's about depth (water deep, less often) more than frequency. Dover's 29" annual tells you which side you're on.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 0.6 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.8 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.7 in | 6 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Apr | 2.4 in | 7 days | 1.9 in | High |
| May | 4.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3 in | 7 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3 in | 6 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2.6 in | 6 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Oct | 1.8 in | 5 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Nov | 0.9 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.7 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 26.3 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.
Dover Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 30 | Nov 9 | 193 days |
| Cautious | Apr 22 | Oct 27 | 188 days |
| Average year | Apr 14 | Oct 22 | 191 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 9 | Oct 14 | 188 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 26 | Oct 6 | 194 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±34 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Shawnee County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Shawnee 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 Shawnee County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Shawnee 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.
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 Shawnee County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Shawnee County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Shawnee 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 Shawnee County KS" or "garden center Shawnee 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 Shawnee County KS" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Shawnee 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.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length in Dover
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: Photoperiod-sensitive crops will fail spectacularly if planted at the wrong latitude. Sweet onions in Michigan? Tiny. Spanish onions in Florida? Tiny. Match variety to Dover's daylight pattern and you'll see the difference.
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.
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 | 5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 10.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 9.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 5.8 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 Dover
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Most root crops germinate well at 50-60°F. Most fruit-bearing crops want 65-75°F. Dover'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 | 30°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 30°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 40°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 50°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 65°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 75°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 80°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 82°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 77°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 65°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 50°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 39°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Dover
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: 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 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | 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
- 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 Dover
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: A fall-planted cover crop in Dover 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 27 | Aug 13 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 16 | Aug 27 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 19 | Aug 13 | ✓ 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 10 | Oct 1 | — | 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 13 | Mar 31 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 24 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 1 | Mar 24 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 14 | Mar 31 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 10 | Mar 31 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 27 | Mar 24 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 21 | Mar 24 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Dover
For new gardeners: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Dover's 9.3 mph background level is a baseline you should know before placing the tallest crops (sunflowers, pole beans, sweet corn).
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 15 mph Summer: 12 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.1/10
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 (339 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Dover
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: Rainwater scales linearly with roof area. A 2,000 sq ft roof in Dover captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 29" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.
Annual Collection
13,107 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 2,250 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 26.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 13,107 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
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Dover
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Dover.
Show all 107 vegetables with 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 13 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 13 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | 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 13 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | 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 13 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 13 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | 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 13 | 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 13 | Apr 28 – May 19 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 13 | Sep 1 – Oct 13 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 13 | 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 13 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 10 | Dec 10 – Mar 25 | 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 13 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | Jul 14 – Sep 29 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | 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 13 | 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 13 | Apr 21 – May 19 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 13 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | 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 13 | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 13 | 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 13 | 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 13 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 13 | Apr 28 – May 19 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 13 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 13 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | 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 13 | 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 13 | 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 13 | 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 13 | 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 13 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 13 | 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 Dover
27 fruits matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Dover.
Show all 27 fruits with 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 Dover
35 herbs matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Dover.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 13 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 13 | 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 13 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 13 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 13 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 13 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 13 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 13 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 13 | 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 13 | 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 13 | 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 13 | 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 Dover
53 flowers matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Dover.
Show all 53 flowers with 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 10 | Oct 8 – Nov 5 | 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 10 | 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 10 | Jul 30 – Aug 20 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 10 | Aug 6 – Aug 27 | 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 10 | Aug 27 – Sep 17 | 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 27 | 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 17 | Aug 27 – Sep 24 | 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 Dover
ZIP Codes in Dover
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 Shawnee County.
Your Shawnee County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Shawnee County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log