Howard County, MD — Planting Guide
May to-do list for Howard County, Maryland
May is a pivotal month for Howard County, Maryland gardens. Focus on these tasks first and you'll set up the rest of the season for success.
-
Start basil, cucumber, and kale indoors
Bottom-water once the first true leaves appear — it keeps stems dry and knocks back damping-off.
-
It's harvest week for carrots, lettuce, and radish
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
To set up a strong June, finish these tasks
- Starting indoors: peppers, eggplant, and hot peppers
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Howard County is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is April 8 and the first fall frost is November 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 207 days.
At an elevation of 753 ft, Howard County receives approximately 48.3 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 91°F with winter lows around 29°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 33 days year to year — ranging from March 23 in warm years to April 25 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 5.34 days per decade. Howard County scores 52/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
7b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 8
🍂 First Frost
November 1
📅 Growing Season
207 days
⛰️ Elevation
753 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
48.3 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.6 in | 12 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.4 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4 in | 9 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Apr | 4.7 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| May | 3.8 in | 10 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Jun | 5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.9 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 3.8 in | 11 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.9 in | 9 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Nov | 3.5 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.8 in | 10 days | — | None |
Annual total: 48.3 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Howard County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.6-7
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) | Apr 25 | Nov 19 | 208 days |
| Cautious | Apr 14 | Nov 7 | 207 days |
| Average year | Apr 8 | Nov 1 | 207 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 31 | Oct 22 | 205 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 23 | Oct 13 | 204 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±33 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 5.3 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Howard County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Howard 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 Howard County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Howard County University of Maryland Extension Extension Office
Phone: 301-405-2072
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 Howard County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Howard County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Howard 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 Howard County MD" or "garden center Howard 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 Howard County MD" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Howard County Gardeners" or "Maryland 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
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.2 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 | 9.5 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 7.3 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 7.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.2 hr | 3.3 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 39°F | 46°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 39°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 45°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 59°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 66°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 79°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 85°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 85°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 80°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 69°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 55°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 45°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Howard County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Howard County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 12 | Aug 30 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 15 | Aug 30 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 17 | Aug 30 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 10 | Aug 23 | ✓ 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 6 | Oct 11 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 31 | Mar 25 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 1 | Mar 18 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 20 | Mar 18 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 24 | Mar 25 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 26 | Mar 18 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 9 | Mar 18 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 31 | Mar 25 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 16 mph Summer: 12 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
6.9/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (129 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
24,072 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 500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Mar, Apr, Jun, Jul
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Nov
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 48.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 24,072 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Nov)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Howard County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 5.6–7 · Somewhat Poorly Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (48.3 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
207-day frost-free season
Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 24-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
Recommended for Your Garden
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Howard County
113 vegetables that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Howard County.
Show all 113 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 22 | Aug 26 – Nov 4 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 22 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 25 | — | May 20 – Jun 17 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 22 | Aug 26 – Oct 7 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 25 | — | May 27 – Jul 1 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Aug 26 – Nov 4 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 – May 13 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 25 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 28 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 25 | — | May 20 – Jun 17 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 4 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 22 | Aug 26 – Nov 4 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 4 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 1 – Oct 7 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Aug 26 – Nov 4 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 22 – Aug 19 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Sep 23 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 13 – Jul 22 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 22 – Oct 7 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 1 – Aug 19 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 – May 13 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 1 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 13 – Jun 10 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 20 – Jun 17 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 25 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 4 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 25 | — | Apr 22 – May 13 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 25 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 25 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 22 – Aug 19 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 22 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 1 – Aug 19 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 25 | — | May 6 – Jun 10 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 8 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 1 – Aug 19 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Howard County
31 fruits that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Howard County.
Show all 31 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 29 | Jul 29 – Nov 11 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 29 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 29 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 29 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 29 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 29 | Jul 29 – Dec 9 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Howard County
39 herbs that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Howard County.
Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 1 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 1 | Jul 1 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 1 | May 27 – Jul 15 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 1 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 1 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 1 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 1 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 1 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 15 | Aug 19 – Nov 25 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 15 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Nov 25 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 1 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 15 | Jul 8 – Nov 25 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 15 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Apr 1 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 15 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 15 | Aug 19 – Nov 25 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Howard County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Howard County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Howard County, MD?
Howard County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Howard County, MD?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Howard County falls around April 8. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 23 and April 25 — a 33-day window of variability. Use April 25 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Howard County, MD?
The median first fall frost in Howard County arrives around November 1. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 13; in mild years as late as November 19. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Howard County?
Howard County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 207 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 5.34 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Howard County for gardening?
Howard County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 5.6–7 and Somewhat Poorly Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Howard County?
Howard County has commercial agriculture that includes Poultry, Corn, Soybeans, Wheat, Hay. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Howard County a good location for home gardening?
Howard County scores 52/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Your Howard County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Howard County (Zone 7b). 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