Chartley, MA — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Top priorities for Bristol County, Massachusetts gardeners in July
July rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Bristol County, Massachusetts.
-
Start begonias, geraniums, and hostas under lights
Starting these indoors now means sturdy transplants ready the moment your soil warms up.
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Harvest basil, carrots, and cucumber as they ripen
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
To set up a strong August, finish these tasks
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Chartley gardens in a wet, humid climate (52" annually). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive in spring and fall. The biggest challenges are fungal disease and humidity-loving pests in summer — leaf spot, blight, squash bugs, vine borers. Drip irrigation (not overhead), wide plant spacing for air circulation, and disease-resistant varieties make the difference.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Drought pressure is moderate (14.2 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 26
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 17
📅 Growing Season
174 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 51.9" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 5.6 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
14.2 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Chartley
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Watering by the calendar wastes water. Watering by the soil moisture (or by a free rain gauge) cuts your water use 30%+ and produces healthier roots. Chartley's 52" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.8 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.9 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.5 in | 10 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 4.4 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| May | 4 in | 13 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.3 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.3 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.2 in | 8 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Oct | 4.2 in | 7 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Nov | 3.7 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.8 in | 11 days | — | None |
Annual total: 47.5 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.
Chartley Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.1-6.7
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) | May 14 | Nov 1 | 171 days |
| Cautious | May 2 | Oct 26 | 177 days |
| Average year | Apr 26 | Oct 17 | 174 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 19 | Oct 11 | 175 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 10 | Oct 4 | 177 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±34 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Bristol County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Bristol 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 Bristol County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Bristol 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 Bristol County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Bristol County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Bristol 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 Bristol County MA" or "garden center Bristol 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 Bristol County MA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Bristol 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 Chartley
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: The longest day at Chartley's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.
Longest Day
15 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.6 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 | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.4 hr | 7.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 15 hr | 8 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.7 hr | 8.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.6 hr | 3.6 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 Chartley
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Soil temperature is a leading indicator. A black plastic mulch can warm soil 5-10°F faster than bare ground — meaningful in Chartley's spring if you're trying to plant tomatoes earlier.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
7 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 32°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 30°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 37°F | 41°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 51°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 61°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 73°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 79°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 82°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 76°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 63°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 48°F | 55°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 38°F | 46°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 Chartley
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Chartley's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | High | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Chartley
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: In Chartley, cover crops also crowd out weeds. The denser the cover, the less weed pressure next season. Pays for itself in saved weeding time.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 1 | Aug 8 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 1 | Aug 8 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 30 | Aug 8 | ✓ 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 13 | 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 18 | Apr 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 17 | Apr 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 3 | Apr 12 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 24 | Apr 12 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 12 | Apr 5 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 27 | Apr 12 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 16 | Apr 12 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Chartley
Why this matters: Wind dries soil, knocks over young transplants, and disrupts pollination for bees and butterflies. Chartley averages 5.6 mph — above 10 mph means windbreaks (shrubs, fences, taller crops to windward), staked tomatoes from day one, and an extra round of watering during dry windy spells. Lower wind = lower water bills and fewer broken stems.
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: 10 mph Winter: 17 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (175 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Chartley
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Chartley's 52" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
23,674 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
Apr, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Mar, 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 47.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 23,674 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Mar, Nov)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Chartley
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Chartley.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | May 10 | — | Sep 13 – Nov 22 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 8 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 3 | — | — | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | May 10 | — | Sep 13 – Oct 25 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 8 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Sep 13 – Nov 22 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | May 10 – May 31 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 8 | Sep 13 – Nov 15 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 8 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Dec 5 – Apr 17 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 3 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 10 | — | Sep 13 – Nov 22 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 25 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Sep 13 – Nov 22 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 6 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 3 | — | — | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jul 26 – Oct 11 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 25 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 25 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | May 3 – May 31 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 8 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 8 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 8 | May 10 – May 31 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 8 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 8 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 6 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 10 | — | Aug 30 – Oct 25 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 8 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 3 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Chartley
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Chartley.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 29 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 16 – Dec 27 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Chartley
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Chartley.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 8 | Jul 19 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 8 | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 8 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 8 | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 8 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 8 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 8 | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 8 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 8 | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 8 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Dec 13 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 8 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 3 | — | Sep 6 – Dec 13 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Chartley
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Chartley.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 11 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Oct 10 – Oct 31 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Sep 5 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 22 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | Aug 22 | Jun 28 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 15 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 22 | — | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | Aug 22 | Jun 14 – Sep 27 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 22 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 29 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Nov 15 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 29 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Aug 8 – Aug 29 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Aug 15 – Sep 5 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 15 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 22 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 15 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Aug 23 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 22 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jul 19 – Nov 15 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 29 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Nov 8 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 15 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 15 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Sep 5 – Sep 26 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 15 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 1 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 1 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 1 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 8 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 22 | — | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 1 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 22 | — | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Aug 23 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Sep 27 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 29 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 25 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 | Aug 8 | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 1 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 1 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 22 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 4 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 29 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Oct 11 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Sep 19 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 15 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 15 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 1 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 22 | — | May 3 | — | Aug 23 – Nov 15 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 15 | Mar 29 | Apr 26 | Aug 22 | Jul 5 – Sep 27 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 25 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Apr 26 | Sep 5 | Jun 7 – Aug 30 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Mar 22 | — | Aug 22 | May 31 – Aug 23 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Aug 29 – Sep 19 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Nov 15 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 29 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Chartley
ZIP Codes in Chartley
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 Bristol County.
Your Bristol County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Bristol 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