Three Rivers, MA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June gardening checklist
Each item below is timed to Hampden County, Massachusetts's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
-
Get basil, cucumber, and kale seeds going inside
These need a head start before your last frost (April 30). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Harvest carrots, kale, and lettuce as they ripen
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
Looking ahead to July
- Starting indoors: peppers, astilbe, and begonias
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Three Rivers gardens in a wet, humid climate (48" 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 (14.1 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 30
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 17
📅 Growing Season
170 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 48.1" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.4 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
14.1 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Three Rivers
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. Three Rivers's 48" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.6 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.5 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.3 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.4 in | 9 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.7 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.6 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.8 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4 in | 10 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.4 in | 9 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 4.3 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 3.8 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.4 in | 12 days | — | None |
Annual total: 47.8 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.
Three Rivers Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.1-6.4
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 17 | Oct 31 | 167 days |
| Cautious | May 10 | Oct 23 | 166 days |
| Average year | Apr 30 | Oct 17 | 170 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 25 | Oct 10 | 168 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 13 | Oct 3 | 173 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±33 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 1.7 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Hampden County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Hampden 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 Hampden County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Hampden 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 Hampden County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Hampden County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Hampden 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 Hampden County MA" or "garden center Hampden 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 Hampden County MA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Hampden 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 Three Rivers
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: Onion varieties are sold by "short-day," "intermediate-day," and "long-day." Three Rivers's latitude determines which to buy — and getting it wrong is the difference between baseball-sized bulbs and marbles.
Longest Day
15.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.7 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 | 4.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.4 hr | 7.7 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.1 hr | 8.7 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.8 hr | 8.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.6 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.6 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.9 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 Three Rivers
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Three Rivers's soil temperature curve also tells you when your compost is working and when it's napping.
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
6 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 | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 33°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 41°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 49°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 64°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 74°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 81°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 82°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 74°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 65°F | 65°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 50°F | 55°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 37°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 Three Rivers
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. Three Rivers'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 | High | 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 | Low | 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 Three Rivers
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: In Three Rivers, 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 3 | Aug 8 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 6 | Aug 8 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 5 | Aug 15 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | May 30 | Sep 19 | — | 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 13 | Apr 9 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 18 | Apr 9 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 31 | Apr 9 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 28 | Apr 16 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 13 | Apr 16 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 10 | Apr 16 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 22 | Apr 16 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Three Rivers
What this means for you: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Three Rivers's 7.4 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: 16 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 17 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
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 (375 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Three Rivers
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: Rainwater scales linearly with roof area. A 2,000 sq ft roof in Three Rivers captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 48" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.
Annual Collection
23,823 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
Apr, Sep, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 47.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 23,823 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Apr, Sep, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Three Rivers
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Three Rivers.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 8 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 7 | — | — | Aug 6 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 17 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 8 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Aug 13 – Sep 17 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | May 14 – Jun 4 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 8 | Sep 17 – Oct 29 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 8 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 19 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Dec 5 – Mar 20 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 14 | — | Sep 17 – Nov 26 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 19 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 29 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 1 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 10 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 7 | — | — | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jul 30 – Oct 15 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 29 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 29 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 8 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 19 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 8 | May 14 – Jun 4 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 8 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 8 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 10 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 14 | — | Sep 3 – Oct 29 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 8 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Three Rivers
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Three Rivers.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Dec 3 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 21 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 24 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Dec 3 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Three Rivers
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Three Rivers.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 22 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Aug 6 – Oct 8 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 22 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 7 | — | Sep 10 – Nov 19 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Three Rivers
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Three Rivers.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 12 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 1 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Oct 3 – Oct 31 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 2 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 26 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Apr 30 | Sep 5 | Jul 2 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 19 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 15 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 23 – Nov 5 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 26 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Sep 17 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Apr 2 | — | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 22 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 26 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 26 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Nov 5 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 2 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 15 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Jul 25 – Aug 15 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Aug 1 – Aug 22 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 23 – Nov 5 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 26 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 23 – Nov 5 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 4 – Sep 3 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 26 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Nov 12 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 26 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Nov 19 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 19 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 15 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 29 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 19 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 23 – Nov 5 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Aug 22 – Sep 12 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 19 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 5 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 2 | — | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 19 | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 26 | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Sep 3 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 26 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 19 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 1 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 22 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 19 | — | Apr 30 | Aug 22 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 5 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 26 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 8 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 8 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 19 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 19 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Nov 5 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 26 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 26 | — | May 7 | — | Aug 27 – Nov 12 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 9 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 22 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Aug 15 – Sep 12 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 19 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Nov 5 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Three Rivers
ZIP Codes in Three Rivers
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):
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