Menemsha, MA — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your July game plan for Dukes County, Massachusetts
A quick July briefing for Dukes County, Massachusetts gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
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Start begonias, geraniums, and hostas under lights
You're about 15 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
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Collect basil, carrots, and cucumber at their peak
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
Get ahead of August
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Menemsha gardens in a wet, humid climate (45" 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 (14.8 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7b (5°F to 10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 25
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 19
📅 Growing Season
177 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 45.4" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 10.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
14.8 wk/yr trend worsening
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Menemsha
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: Over-watering kills more plants than under-watering. Menemsha's 45" annual rainfall changes the gardening playbook — humid-region gardeners often water by the calendar when they should water by the soil moisture.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.7 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.8 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.4 in | 10 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 4.5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| May | 4.5 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.2 in | 12 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Jul | 4.8 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.8 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.1 in | 10 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Nov | 3.5 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.5 in | 11 days | — | None |
Annual total: 48.2 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.
Menemsha Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.5
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 9 | 179 days |
| Cautious | May 4 | Oct 29 | 178 days |
| Average year | Apr 25 | Oct 19 | 177 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 14 | Oct 12 | 181 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 4 | Oct 5 | 184 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.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Dukes County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Dukes 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 Dukes County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Dukes 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 Dukes County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Dukes County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Dukes 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 Dukes County MA" or "garden center Dukes 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 Dukes County MA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Dukes 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 Menemsha
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: Lettuce and cilantro "bolt" (go to seed) when days lengthen. Knowing your day-length curve helps you time spring plantings to harvest before the bolting trigger hits. Menemsha's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
Longest Day
15 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.9 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 | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 4.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 6.5 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.3 hr | 7.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 15 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.7 hr | 8.9 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 7.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.6 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.6 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9 hr | 3.3 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Menemsha
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Lettuce germinates at 35°F. Beans want 60°F. Tomatoes 65°F+. Soil temp, not air temp, is what plants feel. Menemsha's monthly curve tells you when each crop actually has the conditions to take off.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 39°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 37°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 44°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 58°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 68°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 77°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 85°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 88°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 82°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 70°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 55°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 44°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 Menemsha
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Menemsha sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
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 | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Menemsha
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: Cover crops protect microbial life through winter and summer. Bare soil bakes; covered soil stays cooler, moister, and biologically active. The difference shows up in next year's crops.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 1 | Aug 24 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | May 5 | Aug 10 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 25 | Aug 24 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 31 | Aug 10 | ✓ 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 12 | Sep 28 | — | 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 21 | Apr 4 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 18 | Apr 11 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 25 | Apr 4 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 6 | Apr 4 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 13 | Apr 11 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 26 | Apr 11 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 25 | Apr 11 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Menemsha
What this means for you: Light wind is good (strengthens stems, aids pollination); strong wind is bad (snaps stems, dries leaves, scatters seeds). Menemsha averages 10.0 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: 11 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
6.6/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (178 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Menemsha
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Menemsha, that's your 45" times your roof.
Annual Collection
24,022 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Mar, 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 48.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 24,022 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Mar, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Menemsha
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Menemsha.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | May 9 | — | Sep 12 – Nov 21 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 10 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | May 9 | — | Sep 12 – Oct 24 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Aug 8 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Sep 12 – Nov 21 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | May 9 – May 30 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 10 | Sep 12 – Nov 14 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 10 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 7 | Dec 7 – Apr 19 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 9 | — | Sep 12 – Nov 21 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 24 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Sep 12 – Nov 21 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Aug 8 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 24 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 24 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | May 2 – May 30 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 10 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 10 | May 9 – May 30 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 10 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 10 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 10 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 10 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Menemsha
31 fruits matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Menemsha.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 28 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Dec 26 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Menemsha
36 herbs matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Menemsha.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Dec 12 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Dec 12 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Menemsha
53 flowers matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Menemsha.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 24 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Oct 12 – Nov 2 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Sep 7 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 21 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 14 | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | Aug 24 | Jun 27 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 7 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Nov 21 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 21 | — | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 14 | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | Aug 24 | Jun 13 – Oct 10 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 24 | Jun 6 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 21 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Aug 10 – Aug 31 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Aug 17 – Sep 7 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 4 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Nov 28 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 21 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Nov 21 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | — | May 16 – Aug 8 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 21 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Nov 21 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 7 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Dec 5 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 7 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 21 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 14 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Nov 14 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Sep 7 – Sep 28 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 31 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 28 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 7 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 28 | — | Aug 10 | Jun 6 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 21 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 24 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 21 | — | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Aug 1 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 10 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Nov 7 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 14 | — | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | Jun 13 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 28 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 21 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 3 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 24 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Sep 14 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 14 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 28 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 7 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 21 | — | May 2 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 14 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 14 | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Aug 24 | Jun 27 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Nov 7 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 14 | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | Sep 7 | Jun 6 – Sep 12 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Nov 2 – Jan 25 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Aug 31 – Sep 21 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 7 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 21 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 7 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Menemsha
ZIP Codes in Menemsha
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 Dukes County.
Your Dukes County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Dukes County (Zone 7b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log