Sunset, ME — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Hancock County, Maine gardeners: here's your June plan
A quick June briefing for Hancock County, Maine gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
-
Start basil, cucumber, and kale indoors
These need a head start before your last frost (May 6). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Harvest carrots, lettuce, and radish as they ripen
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
To set up a strong July, finish these tasks
- Starting indoors: peppers, pole beans, and tomatoes
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Sunset 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 (16.3 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 6
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 11
📅 Growing Season
158 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 48.4" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
16.3 wk/yr trend worsening
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Sunset
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Sunset gets 48" 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 | 3.4 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.9 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.3 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Apr | 4.1 in | 12 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| May | 4.2 in | 13 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Jun | 4 in | 12 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jul | 4.6 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.2 in | 8 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Sep | 4.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.5 in | 8 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.3 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.2 in | 11 days | — | None |
Annual total: 45.1 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.
Sunset Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5-6.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 16 | Oct 29 | 166 days |
| Cautious | May 10 | Oct 20 | 163 days |
| Average year | May 6 | Oct 11 | 158 days |
| Optimistic | May 1 | Oct 5 | 157 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 24 | Sep 25 | 154 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±22 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 1.8 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Hancock County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Hancock 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 Hancock County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Hancock 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 Hancock County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Hancock County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Hancock 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 Hancock County ME" or "garden center Hancock 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 Hancock County ME" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Hancock 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 Sunset
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Onion varieties are sold by "short-day," "intermediate-day," and "long-day." Sunset's latitude determines which to buy — and getting it wrong is the difference between baseball-sized bulbs and marbles.
Longest Day
15.3 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.6 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 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.2 hr | 4.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 6.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.6 hr | 7.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.3 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 15 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.9 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.3 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.6 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 Sunset
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Sunset's soil temperature curve also tells you when your compost is working and when it's napping.
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 | 23°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 23°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 30°F | 35°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 45°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 58°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 68°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 76°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 78°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 72°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 56°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 42°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 29°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Sunset
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Sunset sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.
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 | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Slugs | Low | Apr, May, Jun |
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 Sunset
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. Sunset'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 | May 12 | Aug 2 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 12 | Aug 16 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 7 | Aug 2 | ✓ 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 | Jun 1 | Sep 20 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 3 | Apr 22 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 22 | Apr 15 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 26 | Apr 22 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 7 | Apr 22 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 6 | Apr 15 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 4 | Apr 15 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Sunset
Quick context: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Sunset's 0.0 mph average is one piece of the watering math: rainfall + irrigation must exceed evaporation + transpiration, and wind boosts both losses.
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: 11 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (261 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Sunset
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: Captured rainwater is better for plants than tap water (no chlorine), works during water restrictions, and reduces stormwater runoff. Sunset's 48" annual rainfall is a meaningful pool — most homes could capture 10,000+ gallons a year with a decent system.
Annual Collection
22,477 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
May, Jul, Aug, Sep
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Nov, 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 45.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 22,477 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Nov, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Sunset
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Sunset.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 22 | — | Aug 2 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 13 | — | — | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 22 | — | Aug 2 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 1 – Aug 19 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 13 | — | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 13 | — | — | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | May 20 – Jun 10 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 22 | — | Aug 2 | Sep 23 – Nov 4 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 22 | — | Aug 2 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 13 | — | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 25 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Nov 29 – Mar 14 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 13 | — | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 20 | — | Sep 23 – Dec 2 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 25 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Nov 4 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 16 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 13 | — | — | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Aug 5 – Oct 21 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 13 | — | — | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Sep 2 – Nov 4 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Aug 19 – Nov 4 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | May 13 – Jun 10 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | Aug 2 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 22 | — | Aug 2 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 25 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 22 | — | Aug 2 | May 20 – Jun 10 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 22 | — | Aug 2 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 22 | — | Aug 2 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 18 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 13 | — | — | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 16 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 20 | — | Sep 9 – Nov 4 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 13 | — | — | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 22 | — | Aug 2 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 6 | Aug 2 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 13 | — | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Sunset
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Sunset.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Dec 9 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 30 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Dec 9 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Sunset
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Sunset.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | Aug 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | Aug 2 | Jul 29 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 18 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 13 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 28 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | Aug 2 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | Aug 2 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | Aug 2 | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | Aug 2 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | Aug 2 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | Aug 2 | Aug 12 – Oct 14 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | Aug 2 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 18 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | Aug 2 | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 13 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 28 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | Aug 2 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | Aug 2 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 18 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 13 | — | Sep 16 – Nov 25 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Sunset
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Sunset.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 18 | May 6 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 7 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Sep 27 – Oct 25 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 8 | — | May 6 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 4 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 6 | Aug 30 | Jul 8 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 25 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 21 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 29 – Nov 11 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 4 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 6 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 23 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Apr 8 | — | — | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 4 | May 20 | May 20 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 4 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Nov 11 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 8 | May 6 | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 21 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Jul 19 – Aug 9 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Jul 26 – Aug 16 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 29 – Nov 11 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 4 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 29 – Nov 11 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 11 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 10 – Sep 9 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 4 | May 20 | May 20 | — | Aug 12 – Nov 18 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 4 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 18 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Nov 25 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 25 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 21 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 6 | May 6 | — | Jul 22 – Nov 4 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 25 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 29 – Nov 11 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Aug 16 – Sep 6 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 25 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 28 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 11 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 28 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 8 | — | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 25 | — | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 28 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 4 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 17 – Sep 9 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 4 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 25 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 7 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 28 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 25 | — | May 6 | Aug 16 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 11 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 28 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 4 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 14 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 14 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 25 | — | May 6 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 25 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Nov 11 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 4 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 28 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 4 | — | May 13 | — | Sep 2 – Nov 18 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 25 | Apr 15 | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 15 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 28 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 18 | Apr 15 | May 6 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 25 | Apr 1 | May 6 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Aug 9 – Sep 6 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 25 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 28 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Nov 11 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 28 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Sunset
ZIP Codes in Sunset
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 Hancock County.
Your Hancock County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Hancock County (Zone 6a). 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