Millinocket, ME — Planting Guide for June
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June in the garden — Millinocket, ME
Each item below is timed to Millinocket, ME's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
-
Begin indoor sowing: basil, cucumber, and kale
A seed-starting mix and a sunny window (or a grow light) are all you need. Keep soil warm — around 70°F — for fast germination.
-
Pick carrots, lettuce, and radish
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
July prep starts now
- Starting indoors: peppers, pole beans, and tomatoes
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Millinocket has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 5a). The last spring frost typically lands around May 10 and the first fall frost arrives around October 2 — a 145-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
Soils trend 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 (12.0 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
5a (-20°F to -15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 10
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 2
📅 Growing Season
145 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 25.4" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 5.5 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
12.0 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Millinocket
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. Millinocket gets 25" 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 | 2.4 in | 12 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.3 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.4 in | 11 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.9 in | 12 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jun | 3.9 in | 11 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jul | 3.5 in | 8 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.2 in | 9 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3.7 in | 8 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.6 in | 7 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.2 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.6 in | 10 days | — | None |
Annual total: 38.7 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.
Millinocket Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
4.8-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 25 | Oct 20 | 148 days |
| Cautious | May 16 | Oct 5 | 142 days |
| Average year | May 10 | Oct 2 | 145 days |
| Optimistic | May 7 | Sep 27 | 143 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 30 | Sep 18 | 141 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±24 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 2.4 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Penobscot County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Penobscot 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 Penobscot County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Penobscot County University of Maine Cooperative Extension Extension Office
Phone: 207-581-3188
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 Penobscot County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Penobscot County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Penobscot 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 Penobscot County ME" or "garden center Penobscot 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 Penobscot County ME" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Penobscot County Gardeners" or "Maine 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 Millinocket
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: Lettuce and cilantro "bolt" (go to seed) when days lengthen. Knowing your day-length curve helps you time spring plantings to harvest before the bolting trigger hits. Millinocket's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
Longest Day
15.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.5 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 | 8.9 hr | 3.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.2 hr | 4.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 6.5 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.7 hr | 7.5 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.5 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.1 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.9 hr | 7.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.6 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.3 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.5 hr | 3 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Millinocket
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. Millinocket'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 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.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 12°F | 24°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 15°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 25°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 41°F | 40°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 56°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 66°F | 60°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 71°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 72°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 68°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 54°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 38°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 21°F | 31°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 Millinocket
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: High pest pressure means weekly inspection. Low pest pressure means monthly. The score tells you which routine to set up before you have a problem.
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 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Colorado potato beetle | Low | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Moderate | May, 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 Millinocket
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: Why not just leave bare soil? Weed seeds, erosion, nutrient leaching, and crust formation. A cover crop solves all of these for the cost of seeds and one mowing.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 12 | Aug 7 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 10 | Jul 24 | ✓ 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 29 | Sep 18 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (5 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daikon radish | Aug 16 | Apr 19 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 23 | Apr 19 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 22 | Apr 26 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 7 | Apr 26 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 26 | Apr 26 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Millinocket
Why it matters: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Millinocket averages 5.5 mph — fine for most days. But every region has its windy days, and the first time a row of unstaked peppers leans over after a storm is a lesson you only need once.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 14 mph Summer: 12 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.8/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (194 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Millinocket
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Millinocket, that's your 25" times your roof.
Annual Collection
19,288 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 1,000 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Sep, Oct
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, 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 38.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 19,288 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Millinocket
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Millinocket.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 24 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Aug 30 – Oct 25 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Aug 16 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 24 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | May 24 – Jun 14 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 24 | Sep 27 – Oct 11 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 24 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 17 | — | — | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 1 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Nov 20 – Feb 5 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 24 | — | Sep 27 – Nov 8 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 1 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Sep 6 – Oct 11 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Sep 20 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Aug 9 – Oct 25 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 24 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 16 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 24 | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 1 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 24 | May 24 – Jun 14 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 24 | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 24 | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 17 | — | — | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Sep 20 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 24 | — | Sep 13 – Nov 8 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 24 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 24 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Millinocket
27 fruits matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Millinocket.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 31 | — | Aug 30 – Nov 15 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 31 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 31 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 31 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 4 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 31 | — | Aug 30 – Nov 15 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Millinocket
34 herbs matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Millinocket.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 24 | Aug 2 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 1 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 24 | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 24 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 24 | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 24 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 24 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 24 | Aug 16 – Oct 18 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 24 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 24 | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 1 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 24 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 24 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 17 | — | Sep 20 – Nov 1 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Millinocket
51 flowers matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Millinocket.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 4 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Sep 25 – Oct 23 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 12 | — | May 10 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 8 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 1 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 8 | May 10 | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 8 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 8 | — | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 20 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Apr 5 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 8 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Jul 3 – Jul 24 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Jul 10 – Jul 31 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 1 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 8 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 8 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 30 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 8 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 15 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 22 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 1 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 17 | May 17 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 1 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 8 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Jul 31 – Aug 28 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 1 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 25 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 15 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 12 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Mar 1 | — | May 31 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 25 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 1 | — | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 29 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 4 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 18 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 1 | — | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 15 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 25 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 5 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 11 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Mar 1 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 8 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 8 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 8 | — | May 24 | — | Sep 20 – Nov 22 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 19 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 18 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | May 10 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 10 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Jul 24 – Aug 14 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 22 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 18 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 8 | May 10 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Millinocket
ZIP Codes in Millinocket
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 Penobscot County.
Your Penobscot County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Penobscot County (Zone 5a). 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