Scranton, KS — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
What to do in July
If you only do a handful of things in the garden this July, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.
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Start harvesting basil, carrots, and cucumber
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
A few tasks this July that'll pay off in August
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Scranton gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (38" annual rainfall, most of it October to April). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive almost year-round. The challenge is summer heat: long-season warm-weather crops (full-size tomatoes, peppers, melons) need every bit of summer sun, so prioritize short-season varieties, use dark mulches to warm the soil, and reserve your warmest microclimates (south-facing walls, near pavement) for the tender stuff.
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.
Scranton averages 21.3 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 12
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 25
📅 Growing Season
196 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 37.7" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 9.3 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
21.3 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Scranton
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: Watering by the calendar wastes water. Watering by the soil moisture (or by a free rain gauge) cuts your water use 30%+ and produces healthier roots. Scranton's 38" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 0.8 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.9 in | 5 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Apr | 3.2 in | 7 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| May | 4 in | 10 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.4 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.5 in | 8 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.4 in | 6 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2.7 in | 6 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Oct | 1.7 in | 4 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Nov | 1 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.8 in | 4 days | — | None |
Annual total: 28.4 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Scranton Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.6-7.6
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 26 | Nov 10 | 198 days |
| Cautious | Apr 16 | Oct 27 | 194 days |
| Average year | Apr 12 | Oct 25 | 196 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 6 | Oct 17 | 194 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 26 | Oct 11 | 199 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±31 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 4 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Osage County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Osage 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 Osage County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Osage 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 Osage County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Osage County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Osage 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 Osage County KS" or "garden center Osage 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 Osage County KS" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Osage 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 Scranton
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: Onion varieties are sold by "short-day," "intermediate-day," and "long-day." Scranton's latitude determines which to buy — and getting it wrong is the difference between baseball-sized bulbs and marbles.
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.4 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 | 9.6 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 9.6 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.4 hr | 10.4 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 7.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.9 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Scranton
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Soil heats slower than air in spring and cools slower in fall. That's why "warm" April air doesn't mean "plant tomatoes" — soil still trails by weeks. Scranton's monthly soil curve makes the lag visible.
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 | 32°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 32°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 40°F | 41°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 52°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 62°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 73°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 80°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 82°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 76°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 62°F | 65°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 49°F | 55°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 39°F | 47°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 Scranton
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: The most successful gardeners in high-pressure regions don't spray more — they design around the problem. Crop rotation, companion planting, and resistant varieties beat reactive spraying.
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 | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Scranton
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: Cover crops fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 16 | Aug 30 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 20 | Aug 30 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 15 | 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 5 | Oct 11 | — | 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 29 | Mar 22 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 17 | Mar 29 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 11 | Mar 29 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 10 | Mar 29 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 12 | Mar 22 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 20 | Mar 22 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 20 | Mar 29 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Scranton
What this means for you: Why care about wind? Above about 10 mph, evaporation jumps and pollinators struggle to land on flowers. Scranton's 9.3 mph average means you can plant tall crops without much support, but it doesn't mean ignore wind — a 20+ mph storm still snaps unstaked tomatoes.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 16 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
9.1/10
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 (120 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Scranton
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Scranton, that's your 38" times your roof.
Annual Collection
14,154 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, 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 28.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 14,154 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Scranton
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Scranton.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 16 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 16 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Jul 26 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Apr 26 – May 17 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 16 | Aug 30 – Oct 11 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 16 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 1 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Dec 13 – Mar 28 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 30 – Nov 8 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 1 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 11 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 23 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jul 12 – Sep 27 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | May 17 – Jul 26 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 11 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Apr 19 – May 17 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 16 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 16 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 1 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 16 | Apr 26 – May 17 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 16 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 16 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 23 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 16 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Scranton
27 fruits matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Scranton.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 15 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 15 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Scranton
35 herbs matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Scranton.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 16 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 16 | Jul 5 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 16 | May 31 – Jul 19 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 16 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 16 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 16 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 16 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 16 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 16 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Aug 23 – Nov 1 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Scranton
53 flowers matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Scranton.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 7 – Sep 20 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Oct 11 – Nov 8 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 15 | — | Apr 12 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 12 | Sep 13 | Jun 14 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 12 | — | May 31 – Sep 6 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 25 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Aug 2 – Aug 23 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Aug 9 – Aug 30 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 15 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 10 – Aug 9 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 4 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 18 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Aug 30 – Sep 20 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 11 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 15 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 11 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 1 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 4 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 8 | — | Mar 29 | — | May 24 – Aug 16 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 1 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 7 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 4 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 1 | — | Apr 12 | Aug 30 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 15 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 20 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 7 – Sep 27 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 1 | — | Apr 12 | — | May 17 – Jun 14 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 25 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 1 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 4 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | — | May 24 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 1 | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 20 | Aug 30 – Sep 27 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Sep 27 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Scranton
ZIP Codes in Scranton
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 Osage County.
Your Osage County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Osage 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