Fowler, KS — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Top priorities for Meade County, Kansas gardeners in June
June rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Meade County, Kansas.
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Indoor seed-starting week for basil, peppers, and pole beans
Your window is short. These crops want several weeks of indoor growth before they go outside.
-
Start harvesting basil, carrots, and cucumber
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
Looking ahead to July
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Fowler has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 6b). The last spring frost typically lands around April 16 and the first fall frost arrives around October 18 — a 185-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.
Fowler averages 29.4 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 16
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 18
📅 Growing Season
185 days
🌧️ Climate
Unknown 0.0" annual
💨 Wind
Breezy 12.6 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
29.4 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Fowler
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: Mulch reduces watering needs 30-50% by cutting evaporation. Fowler's 0" annual rainfall might be enough for vegetables in some months and not in others — a 2-3" mulch layer evens the swing.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.5 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.2 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.7 in | 7 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Apr | 2 in | 7 days | 2.3 in | High |
| May | 2.5 in | 6 days | 1.8 in | High |
| Jun | 1.6 in | 5 days | 2.7 in | High |
| Jul | 1.7 in | 5 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Aug | 1.9 in | 6 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Sep | 1.7 in | 5 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Oct | 1.7 in | 5 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Nov | 1.4 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.2 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 20.1 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.
Fowler Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 2 | Oct 31 | 182 days |
| Cautious | Apr 25 | Oct 23 | 181 days |
| Average year | Apr 16 | Oct 18 | 185 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 12 | Oct 14 | 185 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 3 | Oct 3 | 183 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.
Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 1.4 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Meade County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Meade 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 Meade County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Meade 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 Meade County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Meade County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Meade 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 Meade County KS" or "garden center Meade 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 Meade County KS" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Meade 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 Fowler
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: The longest day at Fowler's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.
Longest Day
14.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.2 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 | 9.7 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 8.7 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.5 hr | 9.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.3 hr | 10.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 10 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.4 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 Fowler
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. Fowler's typical curve helps you plan — but a $5 soil thermometer in the bed beats any average.
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 | 33°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 33°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 40°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 52°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 65°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 76°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 81°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 82°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 77°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 63°F | 65°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 50°F | 55°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 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 Fowler
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Pest pressure is a function of climate, not effort. Fowler'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
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | High | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- 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 Fowler
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: Why not just leave bare soil? Weed seeds, erosion, nutrient leaching, and crust formation. A cover crop solves all of these for the cost of seeds and one mowing.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 25 | Aug 16 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 24 | Aug 16 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 21 | Aug 16 | ✓ 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 | Sep 27 | — | 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 25 | Mar 26 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 26 | Apr 2 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 22 | Mar 26 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 31 | Mar 26 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 11 | Apr 2 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 27 | Mar 26 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 26 | Apr 2 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Fowler
What this means for you: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Fowler's 12.6 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: 17 mph Summer: 11 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
9/10
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 (244 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Fowler
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: Even in arid regions, rainwater harvesting works — you just need bigger storage and patience. In wet regions like Fowler (0" annually), you're mostly limited by how much water you can store between storms.
Annual Collection
10,017 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 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Mar, Apr, May, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
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 20.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 10,017 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Nov, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Fowler
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Fowler.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 9 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 23 | — | — | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 23 | — | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 23 | — | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Apr 30 – May 21 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 9 | Sep 3 – Oct 15 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 9 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 23 | — | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 5 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Dec 6 – Mar 21 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 23 | — | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Sep 3 – Nov 12 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 5 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 15 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 17 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 30 – Aug 27 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 23 | — | — | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jul 16 – Oct 1 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 23 | — | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 15 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 15 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 9 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 5 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 9 | Apr 30 – May 21 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 9 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 23 | — | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 30 – Aug 27 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 23 | — | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 9 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 23 | — | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Fowler
27 fruits matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Fowler.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Nov 19 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Nov 19 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Fowler
35 herbs matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Fowler.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 9 | Jul 9 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 9 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 9 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 9 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 9 | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 9 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 9 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Aug 27 – Nov 5 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Fowler
53 flowers matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Fowler.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Sep 24 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Oct 4 – Nov 1 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 19 | — | Apr 16 | — | May 14 – Jun 11 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 5 | Mar 19 | Apr 16 | Sep 6 | Jun 18 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 5 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 29 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 5 | Mar 19 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 4 – Sep 10 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 19 | — | — | May 28 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 15 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 29 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 8 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Jul 26 – Aug 16 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Aug 2 – Aug 23 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 29 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 19 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 14 – Aug 13 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 29 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Nov 5 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 5 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 8 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 16 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 22 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 5 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Aug 23 – Sep 13 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 5 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 15 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 19 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 15 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 19 | — | — | May 28 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 5 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 8 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 12 | — | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Aug 20 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 5 | Apr 16 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Sep 17 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 8 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 | Aug 23 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 19 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 15 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 24 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 1 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 5 | — | Apr 16 | — | May 21 – Jun 18 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 5 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 29 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 12 | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 | — | Aug 13 – Nov 5 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 10 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 8 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | — | May 28 – Aug 13 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Aug 23 – Sep 20 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 5 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 15 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 1 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Fowler
ZIP Codes in Fowler
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 Meade County.
Your Meade County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Meade 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