Windom, KS — Planting Guide for June
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June in the garden — McPherson County, Kansas
Here's what deserves your attention in McPherson County, Kansas this month. Everything below is tailored to Zone 6b and timed around your local frost dates.
-
Indoor seed-starting week for basil, peppers, and pole beans
Bottom-water once the first true leaves appear — it keeps stems dry and knocks back damping-off.
-
It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
Looking ahead to July
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Windom gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (30" 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.
Windom averages 25.5 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend worsening). 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 15
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 23
📅 Growing Season
191 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 30.3" annual
💨 Wind
Breezy 10.2 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
25.5 wk/yr trend worsening
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Windom
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Windom gets 30" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 0.6 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.5 in | 6 days | 2.8 in | High |
| Apr | 2.6 in | 8 days | 1.7 in | High |
| May | 4.2 in | 11 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.3 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2.9 in | 6 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 1.6 in | 5 days | 2.7 in | High |
| Nov | 1 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.6 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 27 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.
Windom Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.4-7.6
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 27 | Nov 3 | 190 days |
| Cautious | Apr 18 | Oct 27 | 192 days |
| Average year | Apr 15 | Oct 23 | 191 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 12 | Oct 16 | 187 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 2 | Oct 7 | 188 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±25 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
McPherson County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in McPherson 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 McPherson County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
McPherson 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 McPherson County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in McPherson County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to McPherson 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 McPherson County KS" or "garden center McPherson 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 McPherson County KS" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "McPherson 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 Windom
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Onion varieties are sold by "short-day," "intermediate-day," and "long-day." Windom'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
10.3 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 | 9.6 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 10.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.4 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 9.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 7.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.9 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Windom
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. Windom'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
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 31°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 34°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 38°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 50°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 64°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 73°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 81°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 83°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 78°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 62°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 51°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 36°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 Windom
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Pest and disease pressure is the X-factor most beginners under-plan for. Windom's climate determines whether you can mostly "plant and see" or whether you need a pest-management routine from the first seedling.
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 | Moderate | 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 Windom
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: Bare soil is wasted soil — it loses nutrients to rain, dries out, compacts, and gets taken over by weeds. Cover crops (clovers, ryegrass, vetch, peas) are the "between seasons" trick that makes soil better every year. In Windom, you can fit a cover crop into the gaps.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 19 | Aug 28 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 16 | Aug 28 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 18 | Aug 28 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Apr 27 | Oct 9 | — | 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 23 | Apr 1 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 20 | Apr 1 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 31 | Mar 25 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 8 | Mar 25 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 11 | Apr 1 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 2 | Apr 1 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 31 | Apr 1 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Windom
For new gardeners: Light wind is good (strengthens stems, aids pollination); strong wind is bad (snaps stems, dries leaves, scatters seeds). Windom averages 10.2 mph. If you garden near coast, ridge, or open plains, you're likely above that — plan for it.
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: 14 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
8.5/10
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 (326 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Windom
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: Even in arid regions, rainwater harvesting works — you just need bigger storage and patience. In wet regions like Windom (30" annually), you're mostly limited by how much water you can store between storms.
Annual Collection
13,456 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, 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 27.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 13,456 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 Windom
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Windom.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 29 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 14 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 14 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 10 – Jul 29 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Apr 29 – May 20 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 14 | Sep 2 – Oct 14 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 14 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 4 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 11 | Dec 11 – Mar 26 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Sep 2 – Nov 11 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 4 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 14 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Aug 26 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jul 15 – Sep 30 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 14 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 14 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Apr 22 – May 20 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 14 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | May 20 – Jun 17 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 14 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 4 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 14 | Apr 29 – May 20 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 14 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 14 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Aug 26 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 14 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 14 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Windom
27 fruits matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Windom.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 18 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 18 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Windom
35 herbs matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Windom.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 14 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 14 | Jul 8 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 14 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 14 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 14 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 14 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 14 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 14 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 14 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 14 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 14 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 14 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Aug 26 – Nov 4 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Windom
53 flowers matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Windom.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | — | Jun 10 – Sep 23 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 11 | Oct 9 – Nov 6 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 18 | — | Apr 15 | — | May 13 – Jun 10 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 11 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 4 | Mar 18 | Apr 15 | Sep 11 | Jun 17 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 4 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 28 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 11 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 4 | Mar 18 | Apr 15 | — | Jun 3 – Sep 9 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 18 | — | — | May 27 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 28 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | — | Jun 24 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 11 | Jul 31 – Aug 21 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 11 | Aug 7 – Aug 28 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 28 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 11 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 18 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 13 – Aug 12 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 28 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Nov 4 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 4 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 7 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 21 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 4 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 11 | Aug 28 – Sep 18 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 4 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 14 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 18 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 14 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 22 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 18 | — | — | May 27 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 4 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 7 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 11 | — | Apr 1 | — | May 27 – Aug 19 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 4 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | — | Jun 10 – Sep 16 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | — | Jun 10 – Oct 7 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 4 | — | Apr 15 | Aug 28 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 18 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 14 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 23 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 10 – Sep 30 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 4 | — | Apr 15 | — | May 20 – Jun 17 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 4 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 28 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 11 | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 24 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 11 | — | Apr 22 | — | Aug 12 – Nov 4 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 9 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 7 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | — | May 27 – Aug 12 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 4 | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 18 | Aug 28 – Sep 25 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 4 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 14 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 30 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Windom
ZIP Codes in Windom
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 McPherson County.
Your McPherson County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for McPherson 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