Blog

🔍

Hampshire County, MA — Planting Guide

Hampshire County, Massachusetts Zone 6a June

What to do in June

If you only do a handful of things in the garden this June, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.

Avg. last frost April 30
Avg. first frost October 17
Soil temp (4") 70°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 15.1 hrs
  1. Start basil, cucumber, and kale under lights

    You're about 17 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.

  2. Basket week: carrots, kale, and lettuce

    Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.

Looking ahead to July
  • Starting indoors: peppers, astilbe, and begonias
  • First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Hampshire County is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 30 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 170 days.

At an elevation of 518 ft, Hampshire County receives approximately 38.6 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 86°F with winter lows around 17°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 April 13 in warm years to May 17 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 1.73 days per decade. Hampshire County scores 69/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

6a (-10°F to -5°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

April 30

🍂 First Frost

October 17

📅 Growing Season

170 days

⛰️ Elevation

518 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

38.6 in

Hampshire County, MA Moderate season
170 days
❄
Last Spring Frost April 30
➔ 170 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost October 17

Monthly Watering Calendar for Hampshire County

When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.

What this means for you: Over-watering kills more plants than under-watering. Hampshire County's 39" annual rainfall changes the gardening playbook — humid-region gardeners often water by the calendar when they should water by the soil moisture.

1"/wk 0" 1.3" 2.5" 3.8" 5" Jan 3" Feb 2.4" Mar 3" +1.3" Apr 3" +1.3" May 3" +0.4" Jun 3.9" Jul 4.2" +0.4" Aug 3.9" +1.5" Sep 2.8" +1.1" Oct 3.2" Nov 3.2" Dec 3"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 3 in 9 days — None
Feb 2.4 in 10 days — None
Mar 3 in 9 days — None
Apr 3 in 12 days 1.3 in Moderate
May 3 in 10 days 1.3 in Moderate
Jun 3.9 in 9 days 0.4 in Low
Jul 4.2 in 10 days 0.1 in Low
Aug 3.9 in 11 days 0.4 in Low
Sep 2.8 in 8 days 1.5 in Moderate
Oct 3.2 in 9 days 1.1 in Moderate
Nov 3.2 in 9 days — None
Dec 3 in 11 days — None

Annual total: 38.6 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.

Hampshire County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Silt Loam

Soil pH

5.2-6.2

Drainage

Well Drained

Frost Risk Probability

Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations

Too early frost risk Safe to Plant Apr 30 → Oct 17 170 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Safe: May 17 Protect by: Oct 31

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 17 Oct 31 167 days
Cautious May 10 Oct 23 166 days
Average year Apr 30 Oct 17 170 days
Optimistic Apr 25 Oct 10 168 days
Aggressive (risky) Apr 13 Oct 3 173 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

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.

🌱
Is the growing season changing?

Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 1.7 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.

Gardening Difficulty Score

69 Good
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
1.5/10
Soil Difficulty
0.0/10
Altitude Challenge
0.0/10
Climate Shift
6.9/10
Rainfall Challenge
0.0/10

Hampshire County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.

Zone 6a Frost Countdown
--
Loading...
Last Frost: Apr 30 First Frost: Oct 17

Local Gardening Help in Hampshire 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 Hampshire County's climate and soil.

County Extension Office

Hampshire County University of Massachusetts Extension Extension Office

Phone: 413-545-0895

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.

Find Master Gardeners in MA →

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.

Request a Soil Test →

Services Available in Hampshire County

Soil testing Pest identification Gardening workshops
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Hampshire County

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Hampshire 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 Hampshire County MA" or "garden center Hampshire 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 Hampshire County MA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Hampshire County Gardeners" or "Massachusetts 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.

After Carrots (harvest ends Aug 6) 72 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Broccoli (harvest ends Aug 13) 65 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Cantaloupe (harvest ends Sep 3) 44 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Onion (harvest ends Sep 17) 30 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Cauliflower (harvest ends Aug 27) 51 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Zucchini (harvest ends Aug 27) 51 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d Green Beans 50-65d
Show 6 more succession options
After Squash (Summer) (harvest ends Sep 3) 44 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Basil (harvest ends Sep 10) 37 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Peas (harvest ends Aug 20) 58 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Snap Peas (harvest ends Sep 3) 44 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Watermelon (harvest ends Sep 10) 37 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Pole Beans (harvest ends Sep 3) 44 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d

Sunlight & Day Length in Hampshire County

Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.

What this means for you: Day length triggers flowering in many crops. Some need short days (sweet potatoes), some long (most flowers), and some are day-neutral (most modern tomatoes). Hampshire County's latitude determines which varieties fit your beds.

Longest Day

15.1 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

8.9 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

8.3 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.

14hr 12hr 2h 6h 10h 13h 17h Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Daylight hours (sunrise to sunset) Peak sun hours (direct sunlight after cloud cover) ▪ Gold zone = long day (14+ hr) ▪ Blue zone = short day (<12 hr)

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
MonthDaylight HoursPeak Sun HoursDay Length
January 9.2 hr 3.6 hr Short day
February 10.3 hr 4.1 hr Short day
March 11.7 hr 5.2 hr Short day
April 13.2 hr 6.4 hr Neutral
May 14.4 hr 7.3 hr Long day
June 15.1 hr 7.9 hr Long day
July 14.8 hr 8.3 hr Long day
August 13.7 hr 7.9 hr Neutral
September 12.3 hr 6.1 hr Neutral
October 10.8 hr 4.9 hr Short day
November 9.5 hr 3.7 hr Short day
December 8.9 hr 3 hr Short day

Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.

Soil Temperature & Composting in Hampshire County

Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.

Why this matters: 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. Hampshire County'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

Jun

Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.

Active Composting

6 months

Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.

60°F 70°F 10° 30° 50° 70° 90° Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
4" depth 8" depth - - - 60°F (corn, beans) - - - 70°F (tomatoes, peppers)
View detailed monthly data
MonthSoil 4" DeepSoil 8" DeepCompost ActivityTime to Finish
Jan 24°F 30°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Feb 23°F 30°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Mar 31°F 33°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Apr 44°F 46°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
May 57°F 53°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Jun 70°F 63°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 78°F 71°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 80°F 74°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 69°F 69°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 58°F 61°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Nov 44°F 48°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Dec 31°F 39°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 Hampshire County

Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.

The practical takeaway: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Hampshire County'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

5.7 / 10

Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.

Disease Risk

5 / 10

Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.

Seasonal Risk

Spring Low
Summer High
Fall Low
Winter Low
View 6 common pests in your area
PestRisk LevelPeak Months
Aphids Moderate May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Japanese beetles Moderate Jun, Jul, Aug
Squash bugs Low Jun, Jul, Aug
Tomato hornworms Low Jul, Aug
Cabbage loopers Low 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 Hampshire County

Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.

Why this matters: A fall-planted cover crop in Hampshire County is the closest thing to free soil amendment. Plant cereal rye or hairy vetch after harvest; chop it down before it flowers in spring; the soil it leaves behind out-grows any store-bought compost.

Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat May 10 Aug 8 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Sorghum-sudan grass May 6 Aug 8 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Apr 5 Aug 15 ✓ 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 20 Sep 19 — 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 19 Apr 9 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Daikon radish Aug 19 Apr 16 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Jul 31 Apr 16 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Sep 7 Apr 16 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Jul 21 Apr 16 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Jul 19 Apr 16 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Hampshire County

Quick context: Light wind is good (strengthens stems, aids pollination); strong wind is bad (snaps stems, dries leaves, scatters seeds). Hampshire County averages 10.1 mph. If you garden near coast, ridge, or open plains, you're likely above that — plan for it.

Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.

Seasonal Wind Speed

Spring: 16 mph   Summer: 10 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

6.8/10

Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.

Frost Pocket Risk

Low

Relatively flat terrain (105 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.

Rainwater Harvesting in Hampshire County

How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.

What this means for you: The first inch of rain washes the roof clean — a first-flush diverter sends it to waste before the barrel fills. Worth the extra $20 for cleaner garden water. Hampshire County gets 39" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.

Annual Collection

19,238 gal

Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)

Recommended Setup

6 rain barrels (55 gal each)

For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,000 gal tank.

Legal Status

Unrestricted

Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.

Best Collection Months

Jun, Jul, Aug, Oct

Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.

Months to Draw From Storage

Feb, Sep, Dec

Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.

Rainwater collection tips for your area
  • Your county receives approximately 38.6 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 19,238 gallons annually
  • Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
  • Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Sep, Dec)
  • Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection

Soil & Growing Conditions in Hampshire County

Soil Type

Silt Loam

Soil pH 5.2–6.2 · Moderately Well Drained drainage

Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.

Watering Needs

Drought stress: 1.5/10

Hampshire County has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.

Season Tips

170-day frost-free season

Start warm-season crops indoors and focus on short-season varieties. Cold frames extend your season by 3–4 weeks in fall.

Your Free Printable Garden Planner

Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 22-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.

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Recommended for Your Garden

🧪
Soil Test Kit $12-25

Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.

Know your soil before you plant for best results.

📏
Digital pH Meter $10-20

Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.

Helpful for your garden setup.

🍂
Organic Compost $8-30

Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.

Helpful for your garden setup.

🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Hampshire County

107 vegetables that grow well in Zone 6a with planting dates for Hampshire County.

Show all 107 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Mar 26 May 7 May 14 — Aug 6 – Sep 10 80–100
Amaranth Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Aug 13 – Oct 1 90–120
Arugula Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 4 – Aug 6 30–50
Asparagus — — May 14 — — 730–1095
Beets — Apr 16 — Aug 8 Jun 11 – Jul 9 50–70
Belgian Endive Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Aug 20 – Oct 15 110–150
Bitter Melon Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Jul 16 – Aug 27 60–90
Black Beans — May 7 — — Aug 6 – Sep 24 90–120
Bok Choy Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 11 – Jul 16 40–60
Broccoli Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jul 2 – Aug 13 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 11 – Jul 16 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jul 30 – Sep 24 90–130
Butternut Squash Mar 26 May 7 May 14 — Aug 13 – Sep 17 85–110
Cabbage Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jul 2 – Aug 27 60–100
Calabash Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Aug 6 – Oct 1 80–120
Carrots — Apr 16 — Aug 8 Jun 18 – Jul 23 60–80
Cauliflower Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 25 – Aug 27 55–100
Celeriac Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Aug 13 – Sep 17 100–120
Celery Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jul 23 – Sep 17 80–120
Celtuce Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jul 2 – Aug 13 60–90
Chard Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 25 – Aug 13 50–60
Chickpeas Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jul 23 – Sep 3 80–110
Chicory Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jul 2 – Aug 13 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 25 – Jul 23 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Aug 6 – Sep 10 80–100
Collard Greens Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 25 – Aug 27 55–75
Corn — May 7 — — Jul 9 – Sep 3 60–100
Cowpeas — May 7 — — Jul 9 – Aug 20 60–90
Cress Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 May 14 – Jun 4 14–21
Crookneck Squash Mar 26 May 7 May 14 — Jul 2 – Jul 30 45–60
Crosne — Apr 16 — Aug 8 Sep 17 – Oct 29 150–200
Cucumber Mar 26 May 7 May 14 — Jul 9 – Sep 3 50–70
Daikon — Apr 16 — Aug 8 Jun 11 – Jul 9 50–70
Delicata Squash Mar 26 May 7 May 14 — Aug 6 – Sep 10 80–100
Edamame — May 7 — — Jul 23 – Sep 3 75–100
Eggplant Feb 19 May 7 May 14 — Jul 23 – Sep 24 65–85
Endive Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 18 – Jul 23 45–65
Escarole Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 25 – Jul 23 50–70
Fava Beans Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jul 16 – Aug 27 75–100
Fennel Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Jul 16 – Aug 27 60–90
Garlic — — — Sep 5 Dec 5 – Mar 20 90–240
Green Beans — May 7 — — Jul 2 – Aug 27 50–65
Horseradish — — May 14 — Sep 17 – Nov 26 120–180
Hot Peppers Feb 19 May 7 May 14 — Jul 23 – Oct 29 70–120
Hubbard Squash Mar 26 May 7 May 14 — Aug 27 – Oct 1 100–120
Kabocha Mar 26 May 7 May 14 — Aug 13 – Sep 10 85–100
Kai Lan Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 18 – Jul 16 45–60
Kale Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 25 – Aug 20 50–70
Kidney Beans — May 7 — — Aug 6 – Sep 10 85–110
Kohlrabi Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 18 – Jul 23 45–65
Komatsuna Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 4 – Jul 9 35–50
Leeks Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jul 30 – Oct 15 90–150
Lentils Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jul 23 – Sep 3 80–110
Lettuce Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 4 – Aug 13 30–60
Lima Beans — May 7 — — Jul 9 – Aug 20 60–90
Loofah Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Aug 27 – Oct 29 100–150
Luffa Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Aug 13 – Oct 29 90–150
Mache Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 11 – Jul 16 40–60
Melon Mar 26 May 7 May 14 — Jul 23 – Sep 10 70–100
Microgreens Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 May 7 – Jun 4 7–21
Mitsuba Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 23 Aug 8 Jun 18 – Aug 13 50–70
Mizuna Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 4 – Jul 2 30–45
Mustard Greens Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 4 – Aug 6 30–50
Napa Cabbage Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 25 – Jul 30 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Jul 9 – Aug 6 55–70
Okra Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Jul 9 – Sep 3 50–65
Onion Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jul 30 – Sep 17 90–120
Pac Choi Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 11 – Jul 9 40–55
Parsnip — Apr 16 — Aug 8 Jul 30 – Sep 10 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Mar 26 May 7 May 14 — Jul 2 – Jul 30 45–60
Peas Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 25 – Aug 20 55–70
Peppers Feb 19 May 7 May 14 — Jul 16 – Sep 24 60–90
Pole Beans Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Jul 9 – Sep 3 55–70
Potatoes Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Jul 23 – Oct 1 70–120
Pumpkin Mar 26 May 7 May 14 — Aug 13 – Oct 1 85–120
Purslane Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 11 – Jul 16 40–60
Radicchio Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jul 2 – Aug 6 60–80
Radish — Apr 16 — Aug 8 May 14 – Jun 4 22–35
Rhubarb — — May 21 — — 365–730
Romanesco Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jul 16 – Aug 27 75–100
Rutabaga — Apr 16 — Aug 8 Jul 9 – Aug 13 80–100
Salsify — Apr 16 — Aug 8 Jul 30 – Sep 10 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jul 9 – Sep 3 70–110
Scallions Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 25 – Jul 23 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Jul 16 – Aug 20 60–80
Shallot Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jul 30 – Sep 17 90–120
Shiso Mar 12 May 7 May 14 — Jul 9 – Sep 3 50–70
Snap Peas Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Jul 9 – Sep 3 55–70
Snow Peas Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 25 – Aug 20 50–65
Soybeans — May 7 — — Jul 30 – Sep 24 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Mar 26 May 7 May 14 — Aug 13 – Sep 10 85–100
Spinach Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 4 – Aug 6 35–50
Squash (Summer) Mar 26 May 7 May 14 — Jul 2 – Sep 3 45–65
Squash (Winter) Mar 26 May 7 May 14 — Aug 6 – Oct 1 80–120
Sunchoke — — May 14 — Sep 3 – Oct 29 110–150
Sweet Corn — May 7 — — Jul 9 – Aug 20 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Aug 13 – Oct 1 90–120
Tatsoi Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 4 – Jul 9 35–50
Tomatillo Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Jul 16 – Sep 24 60–85
Tomatoes Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Jul 16 – Sep 24 60–85
Turnip — Apr 16 — Aug 8 May 28 – Jul 2 40–60
Watercress Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 30 Aug 8 Jun 11 – Jul 16 40–60
Watermelon Mar 26 May 7 May 14 — Jul 23 – Sep 10 70–100
Wax Beans — May 7 — — Jul 2 – Aug 27 50–65
Winter Melon Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Aug 13 – Oct 1 90–120
Yard Long Beans Mar 5 May 7 May 14 — Jul 9 – Aug 20 55–80
Zucchini Mar 26 May 7 May 14 — Jul 2 – Aug 27 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Hampshire County

27 fruits that grow well in Zone 6a with planting dates for Hampshire County.

Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — May 21 — Aug 20 – Dec 3 90–180
Aronia — — May 21 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — May 21 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — May 21 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — May 21 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — May 21 — Jul 30 – Sep 3 70–90
Che Fruit — — May 21 — — 1095–1825
Cranberries — — May 21 — — 730–1095
Currants — — May 21 — — 730–1095
Elderberries — — May 21 — — 730–1095
Goji Berries — — May 21 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — May 21 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — May 21 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — May 21 — Jul 30 – Sep 24 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — May 21 — — 1095–1825
Haskaps — — May 21 — — 730–1095
Honeydew — — May 21 — Aug 13 – Sep 24 80–110
Jostaberry — — May 21 — — 730–1095
Lingonberries — — May 21 — — 730–1095
Medlar — — May 21 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — May 21 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — May 21 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — May 21 — — 1095–2555
Quince — — May 21 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — May 21 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — May 21 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — May 21 — Aug 20 – Dec 3 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Hampshire County

35 herbs that grow well in Zone 6a with planting dates for Hampshire County.

Show all 35 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 23 Aug 8 — 365–730
Anise Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 23 Aug 8 Jul 23 – Oct 8 90–120
Basil Mar 12 May 7 May 14 — Jul 9 – Sep 10 50–75
Bee Balm — — May 7 — Aug 6 – Oct 22 90–120
Borage Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 23 Aug 8 Jun 18 – Aug 6 50–60
Caraway Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 23 Aug 8 — 365–450
Catnip — — May 7 — Jul 9 – Sep 10 60–80
Chamomile Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 23 Aug 8 Jun 25 – Sep 3 60–90
Chervil Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 23 Aug 8 Jun 4 – Aug 6 40–60
Chives — — May 7 — Jul 9 – Sep 17 60–90
Cilantro Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 23 Aug 8 Jun 4 – Aug 6 40–60
Comfrey — — May 7 — Jul 9 – Sep 17 60–90
Cumin Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 23 Aug 8 Aug 6 – Oct 8 100–120
Dill Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 23 Aug 8 Jun 4 – Aug 6 40–60
Epazote Mar 12 May 7 May 14 — Jul 2 – Aug 27 45–60
Fennel (herb) Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 23 Aug 8 Jun 25 – Sep 3 60–90
Feverfew — — May 7 — Aug 6 – Oct 22 90–120
Garlic Chives — — May 7 — Jul 9 – Sep 17 60–90
Horehound — — May 7 — Jul 23 – Sep 17 75–90
Hyssop — — May 7 — Jul 16 – Sep 17 70–90
Lemon Balm — — May 7 — Jul 9 – Aug 27 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — May 7 — Jul 16 – Sep 17 70–90
Lovage — — May 7 — Jul 16 – Sep 17 70–90
Marjoram — — May 7 — Jul 9 – Sep 17 60–90
Mint — — May 7 — Jul 9 – Sep 17 60–90
Oregano — — May 7 — Jul 9 – Sep 17 60–90
Parsley Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 23 Aug 8 Jun 25 – Aug 27 60–80
Rue — — May 7 — Jul 16 – Sep 17 70–90
Sage — — May 7 — Jul 23 – Sep 17 75–90
Savory — — May 7 — Jul 2 – Aug 27 50–70
Sorrel Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 23 Aug 8 Jun 4 – Aug 6 40–60
Tarragon — — May 7 — Jul 9 – Sep 17 60–90
Thai Basil Mar 12 May 7 May 14 — Jul 9 – Sep 10 50–75
Thyme — — May 7 — Jul 16 – Sep 17 70–90
Valerian — — May 7 — Sep 10 – Nov 19 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Hampshire County

53 flowers that grow well in Zone 6a with planting dates for Hampshire County.

Show all 53 flowers with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Mar 12 Apr 30 Apr 30 — Jun 25 – Oct 1 60–75
Alliums — — — Sep 5 Oct 3 – Oct 31 28–42
Anemones Apr 2 — Apr 30 — Jun 4 – Jul 2 90–120
Astilbe Feb 26 — May 7 — Jul 16 – Sep 24 70–100
Bachelor's Button Mar 19 Apr 2 Apr 30 Sep 5 Jul 2 – Sep 17 60–90
Begonias Feb 19 — May 7 — Jul 16 – Oct 15 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Feb 26 Apr 30 May 7 — Jul 23 – Nov 5 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Feb 26 — May 7 — Jul 2 – Aug 6 60–90
Calendula Mar 19 Apr 2 Apr 30 — Jun 18 – Sep 17 50–70
California Poppy — Apr 2 — — Jun 11 – Jul 23 60–90
Celosia Mar 26 May 7 May 7 — Jul 9 – Oct 22 60–90
Columbine Feb 26 May 14 May 14 — Jul 9 – Aug 13 70–100
Coreopsis Feb 26 May 7 May 7 — Jul 16 – Nov 5 60–80
Cosmos Apr 2 Apr 30 Apr 30 — Jul 9 – Oct 15 60–90
Crocus — — — Sep 5 Jul 25 – Aug 15 10–20
Daffodils — — — Sep 5 Aug 1 – Aug 22 20–40
Dahlias Apr 2 May 7 May 7 — Jul 23 – Nov 5 70–120
Daylily Feb 26 — May 7 — Jul 23 – Nov 5 60–90
Dianthus Mar 5 Apr 2 Apr 16 — Jun 4 – Sep 3 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Feb 26 May 14 May 14 — Aug 6 – Nov 12 70–90
Foxglove Feb 26 May 7 May 7 — Jul 2 – Aug 6 80–120
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Mar 12 May 7 May 7 — Jul 16 – Nov 19 70–100
Geraniums Feb 19 — May 7 — Jul 16 – Oct 15 70–100
Gladiolus — Apr 30 Apr 30 — Jul 16 – Oct 29 70–100
Hostas Feb 19 — May 7 — Jul 23 – Nov 5 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Sep 5 Aug 22 – Sep 12 14–28
Hydrangeas Feb 19 — May 7 — Jul 16 – Oct 22 90–150
Impatiens Mar 5 — May 7 — Jul 16 – Oct 22 60–75
Irises — Division May 7 — Jul 2 – Jul 30 60–100
Larkspur — Apr 2 — — Jun 11 – Aug 6 60–90
Lavender Feb 19 — May 14 — Jul 23 – Sep 17 90–120
Lilies — Division May 7 — Jul 16 – Oct 22 70–120
Lobelia Feb 26 — Apr 16 — Jun 11 – Sep 3 70–80
Lupine Feb 26 May 7 May 7 — Jul 2 – Aug 6 75–100
Marigolds Mar 19 May 7 May 7 — Jul 2 – Oct 1 50–70
Nasturtium Apr 2 May 7 May 7 — Jul 2 – Oct 22 55–65
Pansy Feb 19 — Apr 30 Aug 22 Jun 25 – Aug 27 70–90
Peonies — Division May 7 — Jul 9 – Aug 13 90–120
Petunia Mar 5 — May 7 — Jul 16 – Oct 22 70–90
Phlox Feb 26 May 7 May 7 — Jul 16 – Oct 8 80–110
Portulaca Mar 26 May 7 May 7 — Jun 25 – Oct 8 50–70
Ranunculus Mar 19 — Apr 30 — Jun 11 – Jul 9 90–120
Roses Feb 19 — May 7 — Jul 16 – Nov 5 90–180
Salvia Feb 26 — May 7 — Jul 16 – Oct 22 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Feb 26 — May 7 — Aug 27 – Nov 12 60–90
Snapdragon Feb 19 Apr 9 Apr 30 — Jul 9 – Sep 17 70–100
Sunflower Apr 9 May 7 May 7 — Jul 30 – Oct 22 70–100
Sweet Alyssum Mar 12 Apr 9 Apr 30 — Jun 11 – Aug 20 45–60
Sweet Pea Mar 19 Mar 26 Apr 30 — Jul 16 – Sep 24 65–85
Tulips — — — Sep 5 Aug 15 – Sep 12 15–30
Vinca (Annual) Feb 19 — May 7 — Jul 16 – Oct 22 70–90
Yarrow Feb 26 Apr 30 May 7 — Jul 16 – Nov 5 60–90
Zinnia Apr 2 May 7 May 7 — Jul 16 – Oct 22 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for Hampshire County