Dwarf, KY — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June in Perry County, Kentucky — your action list
We've pulled the most time-sensitive tasks for Perry County, Kentucky this June and put them front and centre. Tackle them in order.
-
Start basil, peppers, and pole beans under lights
You're about 17 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
Harvest carrots, green beans, and kale as they ripen
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
Looking ahead to July
- Starting indoors: begonias, geraniums, and hostas
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Dwarf gardens in a wet, humid climate (48" annually). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive in spring and fall. The biggest challenges are fungal disease and humidity-loving pests in summer — leaf spot, blight, squash bugs, vine borers. Drip irrigation (not overhead), wide plant spacing for air circulation, and disease-resistant varieties make the difference.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Drought pressure is moderate (13.8 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 22
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 20
📅 Growing Season
181 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 47.8" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 3.8 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
13.8 wk/yr trend improving
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Dwarf
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: The 1-inch-per-week rule applies to most vegetable crops. Dwarf averages 48" a year — divide by 52 and compare to that 1" target. Some months are above, some below; that's where the calendar earns its keep.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.9 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.3 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 2.9 in | 8 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.3 in | 9 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 3.5 in | 12 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 4.8 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 3.9 in | 10 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.8 in | 7 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Oct | 2.7 in | 7 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Nov | 3.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.3 in | 10 days | — | None |
Annual total: 43.3 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Dwarf Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.6-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 4 | Nov 1 | 181 days |
| Cautious | Apr 25 | Oct 24 | 182 days |
| Average year | Apr 22 | Oct 20 | 181 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 15 | Oct 17 | 185 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 6 | Oct 8 | 185 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±28 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 longer here (about 1.1 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Perry County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Perry 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 Perry County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Perry 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.
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 Perry County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Perry County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Perry 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 Perry County KY" or "garden center Perry 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 Perry County KY" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Perry 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.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length in Dwarf
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: Day length triggers flowering in many crops. Some need short days (sweet potatoes), some long (most flowers), and some are day-neutral (most modern tomatoes). Dwarf's latitude determines which varieties fit your beds.
Longest Day
14.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.8 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.7 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.5 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.3 hr | 7.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| November | 10 hr | 5.3 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 Dwarf
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 temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Dwarf's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 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 | 23°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 22°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 31°F | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 41°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 54°F | 52°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 63°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 73°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 73°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 69°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 54°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 42°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 28°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 Dwarf
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Pest score isn't pass/fail. It's a planning input. Higher scores mean: more compost (resilient plants), wider spacing (air circulation), resistant varieties (built-in defense), and inspection (catch issues at egg stage).
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | 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 Dwarf
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 do four things at once: fix nitrogen (legumes), suppress weeds (any), prevent erosion, and add organic matter when chopped down. Dwarf's seasonal pattern determines which species fit which gap.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 30 | Aug 25 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 28 | Aug 25 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 25 | Aug 25 | ✓ 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 16 | Oct 6 | — | 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 8 | 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 | Sep 10 | Apr 1 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 29 | Apr 8 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 24 | Apr 1 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 18 | Apr 1 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 19 | Apr 8 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Dwarf
Quick context: Why care about wind? Above about 10 mph, evaporation jumps and pollinators struggle to land on flowers. Dwarf's 3.8 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: 12 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.1/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (235 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Dwarf
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: Most gardens use 0.5-1 gallon per square foot per week in summer. Dwarf's 48" annual rainfall is enough to cover most needs if you can capture it. Rain barrels under downspouts are the simplest entry point.
Annual Collection
21,580 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 750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, Mar, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, Oct, 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 43.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 21,580 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Apr, Oct, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Dwarf
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Dwarf.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | May 6 | — | Sep 9 – Nov 18 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | May 6 | — | Sep 9 – Oct 21 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Sep 9 – Nov 18 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | May 6 – May 27 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 11 | Sep 9 – Nov 11 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Dec 8 – Apr 20 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 6 | — | Sep 9 – Nov 18 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 21 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Sep 9 – Nov 18 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 2 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jul 22 – Oct 7 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | May 27 – Aug 5 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 21 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 21 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Apr 29 – May 27 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 11 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 11 | May 6 – May 27 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 2 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 6 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 11 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Dwarf
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Dwarf.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 13 | — | Aug 12 – Nov 25 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 13 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 13 | — | Aug 12 – Dec 23 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Dwarf
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Dwarf.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 11 | Jul 15 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 11 | Jun 10 – Jul 29 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 11 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 11 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 11 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 11 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 11 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 11 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 11 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 19 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 11 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 22 – Dec 9 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 11 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Sep 2 – Dec 9 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Dwarf
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Dwarf.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 17 – Oct 7 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Oct 13 – Nov 3 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Sep 8 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 18 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Aug 25 | Jun 24 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 11 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 21 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Nov 11 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 18 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Aug 25 | Jun 10 – Sep 23 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 25 | — | Aug 25 | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Oct 21 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Nov 11 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 21 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Aug 11 – Sep 1 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Aug 18 – Sep 8 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Nov 11 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 18 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Nov 11 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Apr 1 | — | May 20 – Aug 19 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 18 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 15 – Nov 11 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Nov 25 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 11 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 21 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Nov 4 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 11 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Nov 11 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Sep 8 – Sep 29 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 11 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 28 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 25 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 28 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 25 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 18 | — | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 28 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 18 | — | Apr 1 | — | May 27 – Aug 19 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 17 – Sep 23 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 17 – Oct 21 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 11 | — | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 25 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 28 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 18 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 30 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 10 – Oct 7 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 11 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Nov 11 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 25 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 21 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 18 | — | Apr 29 | — | Aug 19 – Nov 11 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 11 | Mar 25 | Apr 22 | Aug 25 | Jul 1 – Sep 23 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 21 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Apr 22 | Sep 8 | Jun 3 – Aug 26 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Mar 18 | — | Aug 25 | May 27 – Aug 19 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Sep 1 – Sep 22 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 11 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 21 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Nov 11 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 21 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Dwarf
ZIP Codes in Dwarf
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):