Barnstable, MA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
What to do in June
We've pulled the most time-sensitive tasks for Barnstable County, Massachusetts this June and put them front and centre. Tackle them in order.
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Start basil, peppers, and pole beans indoors
Bottom-water once the first true leaves appear — it keeps stems dry and knocks back damping-off.
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Pick basil, carrots, and cucumber
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Barnstable has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 7a). The last spring frost typically lands around April 18 and the first fall frost arrives around October 24 — a 189-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Drought pressure is moderate (14.4 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 18
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 24
📅 Growing Season
189 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 42.4" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 9.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
14.4 wk/yr trend worsening
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Barnstable
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: Watering math is simple: 1 inch of rainfall delivers ~600 gallons to a 1,000 sq ft garden. Barnstable's 42" annual rainfall covers some months entirely; others need a few hours of drip irrigation per week. The calendar tells you which is which.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.2 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.2 in | 11 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Apr | 3.6 in | 10 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.7 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.7 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.9 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.2 in | 10 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.4 in | 10 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.3 in | 9 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.2 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3 in | 10 days | — | None |
Annual total: 45.5 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.
Barnstable Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5-6.4
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 11 | Nov 10 | 183 days |
| Cautious | Apr 30 | Oct 30 | 183 days |
| Average year | Apr 18 | Oct 24 | 189 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 10 | Oct 17 | 190 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 2 | Oct 5 | 186 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±39 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 5.6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Barnstable County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Barnstable 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 Barnstable County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Barnstable 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.
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 Barnstable County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Barnstable County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Barnstable 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 Barnstable County MA" or "garden center Barnstable 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 Barnstable County MA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Barnstable 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.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length in Barnstable
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: Onion varieties are sold by "short-day," "intermediate-day," and "long-day." Barnstable's latitude determines which to buy — and getting it wrong is the difference between baseball-sized bulbs and marbles.
Longest Day
15 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.4 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 | 9.3 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 4.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.4 hr | 7.7 hr | Long day |
| June | 15 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.7 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.6 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9 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 Barnstable
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: 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. Barnstable's monthly soil curve makes the lag visible.
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 | 37°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 38°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 47°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 55°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 69°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 79°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 86°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 86°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 79°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 67°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 54°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 42°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 Barnstable
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: High pest pressure means weekly inspection. Low pest pressure means monthly. The score tells you which routine to set up before you have a problem.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
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 | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
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
- Watch for powdery mildew, downy mildew, blight — common in your climate
Cover Crops for Barnstable
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
What this means for you: Cover crops fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 26 | Aug 29 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 21 | Aug 22 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 22 | Aug 29 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 18 | 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 16 | Oct 3 | — | 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 16 | Mar 28 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 22 | Mar 28 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 30 | Apr 4 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 5 | Apr 4 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 21 | Apr 4 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 17 | Apr 4 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 24 | Apr 4 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Barnstable
Quick context: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Barnstable's 9.0 mph background level is a baseline you should know before placing the tallest crops (sunflowers, pole beans, sweet corn).
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: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.3/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (299 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Barnstable
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Barnstable gets 42" of rain a year — a couple of well-placed rain barrels can cover most summer watering. In dry climates the math's even better: every captured gallon is one you don't buy.
Annual Collection
22,677 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, May, Jun, Jul
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 45.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 22,677 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 Barnstable
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Barnstable.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 14 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 15 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 17 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 15 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 14 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | May 2 – May 23 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 15 | Sep 5 – Nov 7 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 15 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Dec 12 – Apr 24 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 14 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 17 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 14 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Aug 29 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | May 23 – Aug 1 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 17 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 15 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | May 23 – Jun 20 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 15 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 14 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 15 | May 2 – May 23 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 15 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 15 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Aug 29 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 4 | — | Aug 15 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 25 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Barnstable
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Barnstable.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 21 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Dec 19 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Barnstable
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Barnstable.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 15 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 15 | Jul 11 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 15 | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 15 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 15 | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 15 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 15 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 15 | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 15 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 15 | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 15 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 15 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Dec 5 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | Aug 15 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Aug 29 – Dec 5 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Barnstable
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Barnstable.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 3 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Oct 17 – Nov 7 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Sep 12 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Aug 29 | Jun 20 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 7 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 7 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Aug 29 | Jun 6 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 21 | — | Aug 29 | May 30 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Nov 7 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Aug 15 – Sep 5 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Aug 22 – Sep 12 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 7 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 21 | Mar 14 | Mar 28 | — | May 16 – Aug 15 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 14 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Nov 7 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 21 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 7 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 17 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 31 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 7 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Sep 12 – Oct 3 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 7 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 24 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 24 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 21 | — | Aug 15 | May 30 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 14 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 24 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 14 | — | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Aug 15 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 7 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 17 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 7 | — | Apr 18 | Aug 15 | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 14 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 26 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Oct 3 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Sep 26 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 7 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 7 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 21 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 7 | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Aug 29 | Jun 27 – Sep 19 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 17 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Sep 12 | May 30 – Aug 22 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Mar 14 | — | Aug 29 | May 23 – Aug 15 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Sep 5 – Sep 26 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 7 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 17 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Barnstable
ZIP Codes in Barnstable
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 Barnstable County.
Your Barnstable County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Barnstable County (Zone 7a). 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