Sumner, ME — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Oxford County, Maine gardeners: here's your July plan
Here's what deserves your attention in Oxford County, Maine this month. Everything below is tailored to Zone 5a and timed around your local frost dates.
-
Fire up the seed-starting tray: basil, peppers, and pole beans
You're about 12 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
-
Start your fall crops: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Your first frost is about 12 weeks away — plenty of time for these to mature.
A few tasks this July that'll pay off in August
- Starting indoors: vinca (annual)
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: alliums, crocus, and daffodils
Sumner 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 (13.5 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 16
🍂 Avg. First Frost
September 29
📅 Growing Season
136 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 48.1" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
13.5 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Sumner
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: In humid climates, watering is usually about timing (morning, not evening, to prevent disease) more than volume. In dry climates, it's about depth (water deep, less often) more than frequency. Sumner's 48" annual tells you which side you're on.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.7 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.8 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.5 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.7 in | 12 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.8 in | 12 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Jun | 3.6 in | 11 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 3.7 in | 10 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.6 in | 8 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.8 in | 8 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.4 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 39.9 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.
Sumner Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
4.9-6.4
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 30 | Oct 16 | 139 days |
| Cautious | May 23 | Oct 5 | 135 days |
| Average year | May 16 | Sep 29 | 136 days |
| Optimistic | May 11 | Sep 21 | 133 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 2 | Sep 14 | 135 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 2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Oxford County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Oxford 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 Oxford County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Oxford 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 Oxford County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Oxford County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Oxford 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 Oxford County ME" or "garden center Oxford 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 Oxford County ME" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Oxford 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 Sumner
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: Plants use day length as their seasonal clock. Some crops flower when days lengthen (most flowers), some when days shorten (chrysanthemums, soybeans). Sumner's curve is the timing layer beneath everything you grow.
Longest Day
15.3 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.7 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9 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 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.2 hr | 4.2 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 6.5 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.6 hr | 7.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.3 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 15 hr | 9 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.9 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.6 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.3 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.7 hr | 3.1 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Sumner
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Soil heats slower than air in spring and cools slower in fall. That's why "warm" April air doesn't mean "plant tomatoes" — soil still trails by weeks. Sumner's monthly soil curve makes the lag visible.
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 | 14°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 18°F | 24°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 27°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 42°F | 41°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 56°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 65°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 72°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 74°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 66°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 51°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 39°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 23°F | 30°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 Sumner
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Sumner's pest score is your early-warning system: high score means commit to disease-resistant varieties and accept some crop loss to bugs.
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 | Moderate | 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 Sumner
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: Cover crops do four things at once: fix nitrogen (legumes), suppress weeds (any), prevent erosion, and add organic matter when chopped down. Sumner's seasonal pattern determines which species fit which gap.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 18 | Jul 21 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 15 | Jul 21 | ✓ 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 28 | Sep 15 | — | 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 6 | Apr 25 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 20 | Apr 25 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 15 | Apr 25 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 7 | Apr 25 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 21 | Apr 25 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Sumner
Quick context: Pollinators avoid windy days. Sumner's 0.0 mph average wind isn't enough to stop bees and butterflies — but plant fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) in protected microclimates and you'll see noticeably better fruit set.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 15 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 17 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.3/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (152 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Sumner
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Sumner's 48" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
19,886 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
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, 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 39.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 19,886 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Oct)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Sumner
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Sumner.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 2 | — | Jul 21 | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Sep 5 – Oct 31 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 23 | — | — | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | May 2 | — | Jul 21 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 23 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 23 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | May 30 – Jun 20 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 2 | — | Jul 21 | Oct 3 – Oct 17 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 2 | — | Jul 21 | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 23 | — | — | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Nov 17 – Feb 2 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 23 | — | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 30 | — | Oct 3 – Nov 14 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 14 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Sep 12 – Oct 17 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Sep 26 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 23 | — | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Aug 15 – Oct 31 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 23 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | May 23 – Jun 20 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 21 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 2 | — | Jul 21 | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 17 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 2 | — | Jul 21 | May 30 – Jun 20 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 2 | — | Jul 21 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 2 | — | Jul 21 | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 23 | — | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Sep 26 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 30 | — | Sep 19 – Nov 14 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 23 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 2 | — | Jul 21 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 21 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 23 | — | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Sumner
27 fruits matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Sumner.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 21 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 10 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 21 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Sumner
34 herbs matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Sumner.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 21 | Aug 8 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 7 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 21 | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 21 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 21 | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 21 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 21 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 21 | Aug 22 – Oct 24 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 21 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 21 | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 7 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 21 | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 21 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 23 | — | Sep 26 – Nov 7 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Sumner
51 flowers matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Sumner.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 10 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 18 | — | May 16 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 14 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 17 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 7 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 30 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 14 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 14 | — | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 16 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Apr 11 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 14 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 14 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 14 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 18 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Jun 30 – Jul 21 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Jul 7 – Jul 28 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 18 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 7 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 14 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 14 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Sep 5 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 14 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 14 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 14 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 21 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 28 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 7 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 24 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 7 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 7 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 14 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Jul 28 – Aug 25 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 7 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 31 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 21 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 24 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Mar 7 | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 31 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 7 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 14 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Apr 4 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 10 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 18 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 24 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 7 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 21 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 14 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 31 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 11 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 17 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Mar 7 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 14 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 14 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 14 | — | May 30 | — | Sep 26 – Nov 28 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 25 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 24 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 16 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | May 16 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Jul 21 – Aug 11 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 28 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 14 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 18 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 24 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Sumner
ZIP Codes in Sumner
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 Oxford County.
Your Oxford County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Oxford 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