Blog

🔍

Lee County, KY — Planting Guide

Lee County, Kentucky Zone 6b June

Your June planting checklist for Lee County, Kentucky

June is a pivotal month for Lee County, Kentucky gardens. Focus on these tasks first and you'll set up the rest of the season for success.

Avg. last frost April 18
Avg. first frost October 21
Soil temp (4") 66°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14.6 hrs
  1. Start basil, peppers, and pole beans indoors

    You're about 18 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.

  2. Harvest basil, carrots, and cucumber as they ripen

    Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.

July will be here before you know it — start on
  • First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Lee County is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 18 and the first fall frost is October 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 186 days.

At an elevation of 3,433 ft, Lee County receives approximately 52.3 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 85°F with winter lows around 20°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 31 days year to year — ranging from April 4 in warm years to May 6 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 4.19 days per decade. Lee County scores 50/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

6b (-5°F to 0°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

April 18

🍂 First Frost

October 21

📅 Growing Season

186 days

⛰️ Elevation

3,433 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

52.3 in

Lee County, KY Moderate season
186 days
❄
Last Spring Frost April 18
➔ 186 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost October 21

Monthly Watering Calendar for Lee County

When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.

For new gardeners: Over-watering kills more plants than under-watering. Lee County's 52" annual rainfall changes the gardening playbook — humid-region gardeners often water by the calendar when they should water by the soil moisture.

1"/wk 0" 1.4" 2.9" 4.3" 5.7" Jan 4.1" Feb 4.9" Mar 4.5" +0.5" Apr 3.8" May 4.5" Jun 5" Jul 5" Aug 5.7" +0.7" Sep 3.6" +1.2" Oct 3.1" Nov 4.1" Dec 4.1"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 4.1 in 10 days — None
Feb 4.9 in 9 days — None
Mar 4.5 in 10 days — Low
Apr 3.8 in 8 days 0.5 in Low
May 4.5 in 8 days — Low
Jun 5 in 12 days — Low
Jul 5 in 11 days — Low
Aug 5.7 in 12 days — Low
Sep 3.6 in 8 days 0.7 in Moderate
Oct 3.1 in 7 days 1.2 in Moderate
Nov 4.1 in 6 days — None
Dec 4.1 in 10 days — None

Annual total: 52.4 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.

Lee County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Silt Loam

Soil pH

5.3-6.8

Drainage

Well Drained

Frost Risk Probability

Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations

Too early frost risk Safe to Plant Apr 18 → Oct 21 186 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: May 6 Protect by: Nov 1

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 6 Nov 1 179 days
Cautious Apr 24 Oct 26 185 days
Average year Apr 18 Oct 21 186 days
Optimistic Apr 10 Oct 17 190 days
Aggressive (risky) Apr 4 Oct 6 185 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

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.

⚠️
Is the growing season changing?

Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 4.2 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.

Gardening Difficulty Score

50 Moderate
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
1.5/10
Soil Difficulty
1.0/10
Altitude Challenge
4.9/10
Climate Shift
10.0/10
Rainfall Challenge
2.9/10

Lee County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.

Zone 6b Frost Countdown
--
Loading...
Last Frost: Apr 18 First Frost: Oct 21

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

County Extension Office

Lee County University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Extension Office

Phone: 859-257-4302

Visit Extension Office Website →

Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.

Master Gardener Program

Free gardening help from trained volunteers

Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.

Find Master Gardeners in KY →

Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.

Soil Testing

Available through your extension office

Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.

Request a Soil Test →

Services Available in Lee County

Soil testing Pest identification Master Gardener program
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Lee County

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Lee 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 Lee County KY" or "garden center Lee 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 Lee County KY" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Lee County Gardeners" or "Kentucky Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.

What to Plant After Your Harvest

After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.

After Snap Peas (harvest ends Aug 22) 60 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Melon (harvest ends Aug 29) 53 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Sweet Potatoes (harvest ends Sep 19) 32 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Beets (harvest ends Jul 11) 102 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Peppers (harvest ends Sep 12) 39 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Potatoes (harvest ends Sep 19) 32 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
Show 6 more succession options
After Kale (harvest ends Aug 8) 74 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Sweet Corn (harvest ends Aug 1) 81 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Broccoli (harvest ends Aug 1) 81 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Watermelon (harvest ends Aug 29) 53 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Eggplant (harvest ends Sep 12) 39 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Cabbage (harvest ends Aug 15) 67 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d

Sunlight & Day Length in Lee County

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

What this means for you: Onions are a great example of why day length matters. They "bulb up" only when daylight hits a specific number of hours — plant the wrong variety (short-day in the north, long-day in the south) and you'll get tiny bulbs no matter how well you grow them. Lee County's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.

Longest Day

14.6 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

9.4 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

8.6 hr/day peak (summer)

Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.

14hr 12hr 3h 6h 10h 13h 16h Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Daylight hours (sunrise to sunset) Peak sun hours (direct sunlight after cloud cover) ▪ Gold zone = long day (14+ hr) ▪ Blue zone = short day (<12 hr)

Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.

View detailed monthly data
MonthDaylight HoursPeak Sun HoursDay Length
January 9.7 hr 4.7 hr Short day
February 10.6 hr 5.5 hr Short day
March 11.7 hr 6.7 hr Short day
April 13 hr 8 hr Neutral
May 14 hr 8.3 hr Long day
June 14.6 hr 8.6 hr Long day
July 14.4 hr 7.7 hr Long day
August 13.5 hr 7.7 hr Neutral
September 12.2 hr 7.1 hr Neutral
October 11 hr 6.7 hr Short day
November 9.9 hr 5.5 hr Short day
December 9.4 hr 4.7 hr Short day

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

Soil Temperature & Composting in Lee County

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

Why it matters: Soil temperature is a leading indicator. A black plastic mulch can warm soil 5-10°F faster than bare ground — meaningful in Lee County's spring if you're trying to plant tomatoes earlier.

Plant Warm Crops When

Soil reaches 60°F+

Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.

Best Month to Compost

Jun

Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.

Active Composting

6 months

Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.

60°F 70°F 10° 30° 50° 70° 90° Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
4" depth 8" depth - - - 60°F (corn, beans) - - - 70°F (tomatoes, peppers)
View detailed monthly data
MonthSoil 4" DeepSoil 8" DeepCompost ActivityTime to Finish
Jan 22°F 31°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Feb 25°F 30°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Mar 30°F 34°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Apr 42°F 44°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
May 55°F 52°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Jun 66°F 62°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 71°F 67°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 75°F 71°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 66°F 67°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 53°F 58°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Nov 41°F 45°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Dec 29°F 38°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks

Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.

Pest & Disease Pressure in Lee County

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

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

Insect Pest Pressure

5.7 / 10

Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.

Disease Risk

5.5 / 10

Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.

Seasonal Risk

Spring Low
Summer High
Fall Low
Winter Low
View 6 common pests in your area
PestRisk LevelPeak 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 Lee County

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

Why this matters: In Lee County, cover crops also crowd out weeds. The denser the cover, the less weed pressure next season. Pays for itself in saved weeding time.

Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat Apr 19 Aug 26 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Sorghum-sudan grass Apr 21 Aug 12 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Mar 23 Aug 19 ✓ 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 8 Oct 7 — 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 11 Apr 4 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Crimson clover Aug 16 Mar 28 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring
Daikon radish Aug 30 Apr 4 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Jul 27 Apr 4 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Sep 19 Mar 28 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Jul 18 Apr 4 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Jul 19 Apr 4 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Lee County

For new gardeners: A 10 mph wind doesn't feel like much, but it triples leaf transpiration vs. still air. Lee County's 8.0 mph average means most days are gentle on plants, but consider how a 20+ mph spring gust would affect a flat of seedlings hardened off too quickly.

Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.

Seasonal Wind Speed

Spring: 10 mph   Summer: 8 mph

Fall: 10 mph   Winter: 12 mph

Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.

Windbreak Benefit

4.5/10

Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.

Frost Pocket Risk

Moderate

Some terrain variation (419 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.

Rainwater Harvesting in Lee County

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

Quick context: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Lee County gets 52" of rain a year — a couple of well-placed rain barrels can cover most summer watering. In dry climates the math's even better: every captured gallon is one you don't buy.

Annual Collection

26,116 gal

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

Recommended Setup

6 rain barrels (55 gal each)

For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 250 gal tank.

Legal Status

Unrestricted

Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.

Best Collection Months

Feb, Jun, Jul, Aug

Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.

Months to Draw From Storage

Apr, Sep, Oct

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 52.4 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 26,116 gallons annually
  • Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
  • Your area gets ample rainfall — even small barrels make a big difference
  • Consider a rain garden to handle overflow during heavy rainfall months

Soil & Growing Conditions in Lee County

Soil Type

Silt Loam

Soil pH 5.3–6.8 · Well Drained drainage

Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.

Watering Needs

Drought stress: 1.5/10

Lee County has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.

Season Tips

186-day frost-free season

Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.

Your Free Printable Garden Planner

Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 22-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Recommended for Your Garden

🧪
Soil Test Kit $12-25

Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.

Know your soil before you plant for best results.

📏
Digital pH Meter $10-20

Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.

Helpful for your garden setup.

🍂
Organic Compost $8-30

Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.

Helpful for your garden setup.

🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Lee County

107 vegetables that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Lee County.

Show all 107 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Mar 14 Apr 25 May 2 — Jul 25 – Aug 29 80–100
Amaranth Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Aug 1 – Sep 19 90–120
Arugula Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 May 23 – Jul 25 30–50
Asparagus — — May 2 — — 730–1095
Beets — Apr 4 — Aug 12 May 30 – Jun 27 50–70
Belgian Endive Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Aug 8 – Oct 3 110–150
Bitter Melon Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Jul 4 – Aug 15 60–90
Black Beans — Apr 25 — — Jul 25 – Sep 12 90–120
Bok Choy Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 May 30 – Jul 4 40–60
Broccoli Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 20 – Aug 1 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 May 30 – Jul 4 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jul 18 – Sep 12 90–130
Butternut Squash Mar 14 Apr 25 May 2 — Aug 1 – Sep 5 85–110
Cabbage Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 20 – Aug 15 60–100
Calabash Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Jul 25 – Sep 19 80–120
Carrots — Apr 4 — Aug 12 Jun 6 – Jul 11 60–80
Cauliflower Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 13 – Aug 15 55–100
Celeriac Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Aug 1 – Sep 5 100–120
Celery Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jul 11 – Sep 5 80–120
Celtuce Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 20 – Aug 1 60–90
Chard Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 13 – Aug 1 50–60
Chickpeas Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jul 11 – Aug 22 80–110
Chicory Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 20 – Aug 1 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 13 – Jul 11 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Jul 25 – Aug 29 80–100
Collard Greens Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 13 – Aug 15 55–75
Corn — Apr 25 — — Jun 27 – Aug 22 60–100
Cowpeas — Apr 25 — — Jun 27 – Aug 8 60–90
Cress Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 May 2 – May 23 14–21
Crookneck Squash Mar 14 Apr 25 May 2 — Jun 20 – Jul 18 45–60
Crosne — Apr 4 — Aug 12 Sep 5 – Oct 17 150–200
Cucumber Mar 14 Apr 25 May 2 — Jun 27 – Aug 22 50–70
Daikon — Apr 4 — Aug 12 May 30 – Jun 27 50–70
Delicata Squash Mar 14 Apr 25 May 2 — Jul 25 – Aug 29 80–100
Edamame — Apr 25 — — Jul 11 – Aug 22 75–100
Eggplant Feb 7 Apr 25 May 2 — Jul 11 – Sep 12 65–85
Endive Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 6 – Jul 11 45–65
Escarole Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 13 – Jul 11 50–70
Fava Beans Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jul 4 – Aug 15 75–100
Fennel Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Jul 4 – Aug 15 60–90
Garlic — — — Sep 9 Dec 9 – Mar 24 90–240
Green Beans — Apr 25 — — Jun 20 – Aug 15 50–65
Horseradish — — May 2 — Sep 5 – Nov 14 120–180
Hot Peppers Feb 7 Apr 25 May 2 — Jul 11 – Oct 17 70–120
Hubbard Squash Mar 14 Apr 25 May 2 — Aug 15 – Sep 19 100–120
Kabocha Mar 14 Apr 25 May 2 — Aug 1 – Aug 29 85–100
Kai Lan Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 6 – Jul 4 45–60
Kale Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 13 – Aug 8 50–70
Kidney Beans — Apr 25 — — Jul 25 – Aug 29 85–110
Kohlrabi Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 6 – Jul 11 45–65
Komatsuna Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 May 23 – Jun 27 35–50
Leeks Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jul 18 – Oct 3 90–150
Lentils Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jul 11 – Aug 22 80–110
Lettuce Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 May 23 – Aug 1 30–60
Lima Beans — Apr 25 — — Jun 27 – Aug 8 60–90
Loofah Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Aug 15 – Oct 17 100–150
Luffa Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Aug 1 – Oct 17 90–150
Mache Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 May 30 – Jul 4 40–60
Melon Mar 14 Apr 25 May 2 — Jul 11 – Aug 29 70–100
Microgreens Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Apr 25 – May 23 7–21
Mitsuba Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 11 Aug 12 Jun 6 – Aug 1 50–70
Mizuna Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 May 23 – Jun 20 30–45
Mustard Greens Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 May 23 – Jul 25 30–50
Napa Cabbage Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 13 – Jul 18 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Jun 27 – Jul 25 55–70
Okra Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Jun 27 – Aug 22 50–65
Onion Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jul 18 – Sep 5 90–120
Pac Choi Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 May 30 – Jun 27 40–55
Parsnip — Apr 4 — Aug 12 Jul 18 – Aug 29 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Mar 14 Apr 25 May 2 — Jun 20 – Jul 18 45–60
Peas Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 13 – Aug 8 55–70
Peppers Feb 7 Apr 25 May 2 — Jul 4 – Sep 12 60–90
Pole Beans Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Jun 27 – Aug 22 55–70
Potatoes Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Jul 11 – Sep 19 70–120
Pumpkin Mar 14 Apr 25 May 2 — Aug 1 – Sep 19 85–120
Purslane Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 May 30 – Jul 4 40–60
Radicchio Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 20 – Jul 25 60–80
Radish — Apr 4 — Aug 12 May 2 – May 23 22–35
Rhubarb — — May 9 — — 365–730
Romanesco Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jul 4 – Aug 15 75–100
Rutabaga — Apr 4 — Aug 12 Jun 27 – Aug 1 80–100
Salsify — Apr 4 — Aug 12 Jul 18 – Aug 29 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 27 – Aug 22 70–110
Scallions Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 13 – Jul 11 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Jul 4 – Aug 8 60–80
Shallot Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jul 18 – Sep 5 90–120
Shiso Feb 28 Apr 25 May 2 — Jun 27 – Aug 22 50–70
Snap Peas Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Jun 27 – Aug 22 55–70
Snow Peas Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 Jun 13 – Aug 8 50–65
Soybeans — Apr 25 — — Jul 18 – Sep 12 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Mar 14 Apr 25 May 2 — Aug 1 – Aug 29 85–100
Spinach Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 May 23 – Jul 25 35–50
Squash (Summer) Mar 14 Apr 25 May 2 — Jun 20 – Aug 22 45–65
Squash (Winter) Mar 14 Apr 25 May 2 — Jul 25 – Sep 19 80–120
Sunchoke — — May 2 — Aug 22 – Oct 17 110–150
Sweet Corn — Apr 25 — — Jun 27 – Aug 8 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Aug 1 – Sep 19 90–120
Tatsoi Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 May 23 – Jun 27 35–50
Tomatillo Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Jul 4 – Sep 12 60–85
Tomatoes Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Jul 4 – Sep 12 60–85
Turnip — Apr 4 — Aug 12 May 16 – Jun 20 40–60
Watercress Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 18 Aug 12 May 30 – Jul 4 40–60
Watermelon Mar 14 Apr 25 May 2 — Jul 11 – Aug 29 70–100
Wax Beans — Apr 25 — — Jun 20 – Aug 15 50–65
Winter Melon Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Aug 1 – Sep 19 90–120
Yard Long Beans Feb 21 Apr 25 May 2 — Jun 27 – Aug 8 55–80
Zucchini Mar 14 Apr 25 May 2 — Jun 20 – Aug 15 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Lee County

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

Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — May 9 — Aug 8 – Nov 21 90–180
Aronia — — May 9 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — May 9 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — May 9 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — May 9 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — May 9 — Jul 18 – Aug 22 70–90
Che Fruit — — May 9 — — 1095–1825
Cranberries — — May 9 — — 730–1095
Currants — — May 9 — — 730–1095
Elderberries — — May 9 — — 730–1095
Goji Berries — — May 9 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — May 9 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — May 9 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — May 9 — Jul 18 – Sep 12 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — May 9 — — 1095–1825
Haskaps — — May 9 — — 730–1095
Honeydew — — May 9 — Aug 1 – Sep 12 80–110
Jostaberry — — May 9 — — 730–1095
Lingonberries — — May 9 — — 730–1095
Medlar — — May 9 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — May 9 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — May 9 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — May 9 — — 1095–2555
Quince — — May 9 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — May 9 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — May 9 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — May 9 — Aug 8 – Nov 21 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Lee County

35 herbs that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Lee County.

Show all 35 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 11 Aug 12 — 365–730
Anise Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 11 Aug 12 Jul 11 – Sep 26 90–120
Basil Feb 28 Apr 25 May 2 — Jun 27 – Aug 29 50–75
Bee Balm — — Apr 25 — Jul 25 – Oct 10 90–120
Borage Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 11 Aug 12 Jun 6 – Jul 25 50–60
Caraway Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 11 Aug 12 — 365–450
Catnip — — Apr 25 — Jun 27 – Aug 29 60–80
Chamomile Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 11 Aug 12 Jun 13 – Aug 22 60–90
Chervil Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 11 Aug 12 May 23 – Jul 25 40–60
Chives — — Apr 25 — Jun 27 – Sep 5 60–90
Cilantro Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 11 Aug 12 May 23 – Jul 25 40–60
Comfrey — — Apr 25 — Jun 27 – Sep 5 60–90
Cumin Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 11 Aug 12 Jul 25 – Sep 26 100–120
Dill Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 11 Aug 12 May 23 – Jul 25 40–60
Epazote Feb 28 Apr 25 May 2 — Jun 20 – Aug 15 45–60
Fennel (herb) Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 11 Aug 12 Jun 13 – Aug 22 60–90
Feverfew — — Apr 25 — Jul 25 – Oct 10 90–120
Garlic Chives — — Apr 25 — Jun 27 – Sep 5 60–90
Horehound — — Apr 25 — Jul 11 – Sep 5 75–90
Hyssop — — Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Sep 5 70–90
Lemon Balm — — Apr 25 — Jun 27 – Aug 15 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Sep 5 70–90
Lovage — — Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Sep 5 70–90
Marjoram — — Apr 25 — Jun 27 – Sep 5 60–90
Mint — — Apr 25 — Jun 27 – Sep 5 60–90
Oregano — — Apr 25 — Jun 27 – Sep 5 60–90
Parsley Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 11 Aug 12 Jun 13 – Aug 15 60–80
Rue — — Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Sep 5 70–90
Sage — — Apr 25 — Jul 11 – Sep 5 75–90
Savory — — Apr 25 — Jun 20 – Aug 15 50–70
Sorrel Mar 14 Apr 4 Apr 11 Aug 12 May 23 – Jul 25 40–60
Tarragon — — Apr 25 — Jun 27 – Sep 5 60–90
Thai Basil Feb 28 Apr 25 May 2 — Jun 27 – Aug 29 50–75
Thyme — — Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Sep 5 70–90
Valerian — — Apr 25 — Aug 29 – Nov 7 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Lee County

53 flowers that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Lee County.

Show all 53 flowers with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Feb 28 Apr 18 Apr 18 — Jun 13 – Sep 26 60–75
Alliums — — — Sep 9 Oct 7 – Nov 4 28–42
Anemones Mar 21 — Apr 18 — May 16 – Jun 13 90–120
Astilbe Feb 14 — Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Sep 12 70–100
Bachelor's Button Mar 7 Mar 21 Apr 18 Sep 9 Jun 20 – Sep 12 60–90
Begonias Feb 7 — Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Oct 10 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Feb 14 Apr 18 Apr 25 — Jul 11 – Oct 31 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Feb 14 — Apr 25 — Jun 20 – Jul 25 60–90
Calendula Mar 7 Mar 21 Apr 18 — Jun 6 – Sep 12 50–70
California Poppy — Mar 21 — — May 30 – Jul 25 60–90
Celosia Mar 14 Apr 25 Apr 25 — Jun 27 – Oct 17 60–90
Columbine Feb 14 Apr 25 Apr 25 — Jun 20 – Jul 25 70–100
Coreopsis Feb 14 Apr 18 Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Oct 31 60–80
Cosmos Mar 21 Apr 18 Apr 18 — Jun 27 – Oct 10 60–90
Crocus — — — Sep 9 Jul 29 – Aug 19 10–20
Daffodils — — — Sep 9 Aug 5 – Aug 26 20–40
Dahlias Mar 21 Apr 25 Apr 25 — Jul 11 – Oct 31 70–120
Daylily Feb 14 — Apr 25 — Jul 11 – Oct 31 60–90
Dianthus Feb 21 Mar 21 Mar 28 — May 16 – Aug 15 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Feb 14 Apr 25 Apr 25 — Jul 11 – Oct 31 70–90
Foxglove Feb 14 Apr 25 Apr 25 — Jun 20 – Jul 25 80–120
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Feb 28 Apr 25 Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Nov 7 70–100
Geraniums Feb 7 — Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Oct 10 70–100
Gladiolus — Apr 18 Apr 18 — Jul 4 – Oct 24 70–100
Hostas Feb 7 — Apr 25 — Jul 11 – Oct 31 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Sep 9 Aug 26 – Sep 16 14–28
Hydrangeas Feb 7 — Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Oct 17 90–150
Impatiens Feb 21 — Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Oct 17 60–75
Irises — Division Apr 25 — Jun 20 – Jul 18 60–100
Larkspur — Mar 21 — — May 30 – Jul 25 60–90
Lavender Feb 7 — May 2 — Jul 11 – Sep 5 90–120
Lilies — Division Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Oct 10 70–120
Lobelia Feb 14 — Apr 4 — May 30 – Aug 22 70–80
Lupine Feb 14 Apr 25 Apr 25 — Jun 20 – Jul 25 75–100
Marigolds Mar 7 Apr 18 Apr 18 — Jun 13 – Sep 19 50–70
Nasturtium Mar 21 Apr 18 Apr 18 — Jun 13 – Oct 10 55–65
Pansy Feb 7 — Apr 18 Aug 26 Jun 13 – Aug 22 70–90
Peonies — Division Apr 25 — Jun 27 – Aug 1 90–120
Petunia Feb 21 — Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Oct 17 70–90
Phlox Feb 14 Apr 25 Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Sep 26 80–110
Portulaca Mar 14 Apr 25 Apr 25 — Jun 13 – Oct 3 50–70
Ranunculus Mar 7 — Apr 18 — May 23 – Jun 20 90–120
Roses Feb 7 — Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Oct 31 90–180
Salvia Feb 14 — Apr 18 — Jun 27 – Oct 10 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Feb 14 — Apr 25 — Aug 15 – Nov 7 60–90
Snapdragon Feb 7 Mar 28 Apr 18 — Jun 27 – Sep 12 70–100
Sunflower Mar 28 Apr 18 Apr 18 — Jul 11 – Oct 10 70–100
Sweet Alyssum Mar 7 Mar 28 Apr 18 — May 30 – Aug 15 45–60
Sweet Pea Mar 7 Mar 14 Apr 18 — Jul 4 – Sep 12 65–85
Tulips — — — Sep 16 Aug 26 – Sep 23 15–30
Vinca (Annual) Feb 7 — Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Oct 17 70–90
Yarrow Feb 14 Apr 18 Apr 25 — Jul 4 – Oct 31 60–90
Zinnia Mar 21 Apr 18 Apr 18 — Jun 27 – Oct 3 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for Lee County