Upton, MA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June in the garden — Worcester County, Massachusetts
If you only do a handful of things in the garden this June, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.
-
Fire up the seed-starting tray: basil, pole beans, and thai basil
You're about 17 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
Basket week: carrots, green beans, and kale
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
- Starting indoors: peppers, begonias, and eggplant
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Upton gardens in a wet, humid climate (51" 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
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 24
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 17
📅 Growing Season
176 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 50.6" annual
💨 Wind
Breezy 10.1 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
14.8 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Upton
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: 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. Upton's 51" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.3 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.6 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.4 in | 12 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 3.7 in | 11 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.5 in | 10 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 3 in | 9 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 4.1 in | 10 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3 in | 10 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.8 in | 8 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.3 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.9 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 37.9 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.
Upton Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
4.8-6.3
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 13 | Nov 1 | 172 days |
| Cautious | Apr 29 | Oct 24 | 178 days |
| Average year | Apr 24 | Oct 17 | 176 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 20 | Oct 11 | 174 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 10 | Oct 4 | 177 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±32 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit shorter (0.4 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Worcester County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Worcester 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 Worcester County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Worcester 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 Worcester County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Worcester County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Worcester 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 Worcester County MA" or "garden center Worcester 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 Worcester County MA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Worcester 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 Upton
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: A 14-hour day in June produces dramatically more photosynthesis than a 10-hour day in November. Upton's seasonal swing determines which crops can pack growth into spring vs. limp through fall.
Longest Day
15.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
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 | 9.2 hr | 3.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 4.2 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.4 hr | 7.7 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.1 hr | 8.6 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.8 hr | 9 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.5 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.9 hr | 3 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Upton
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Soil temperature is a leading indicator. A black plastic mulch can warm soil 5-10°F faster than bare ground — meaningful in Upton'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
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 29°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 32°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 41°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 53°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 63°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 71°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 82°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 81°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 75°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 62°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 51°F | 53°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 38°F | 43°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 Upton
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Upton'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 | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | 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 Upton
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: Cover crops are the experienced gardener's secret weapon. Upton's climate determines which species thrive: clover and vetch in mild winters, cereal rye and Austrian peas in cold ones.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 29 | Aug 22 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 1 | Aug 8 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 27 | Aug 22 | ✓ 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 6 | 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 20 | Apr 10 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 12 | Apr 10 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 4 | Apr 10 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 11 | Apr 3 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 8 | Apr 3 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 12 | Apr 10 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 20 | Apr 3 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Upton
The practical takeaway: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Upton averages 10.1 mph — fine for most days. But every region has its windy days, and the first time a row of unstaked peppers leans over after a storm is a lesson you only need once.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 14 mph Summer: 10 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 (360 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Upton
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: The first inch of rain washes the roof clean — a first-flush diverter sends it to waste before the barrel fills. Worth the extra $20 for cleaner garden water. Upton gets 51" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
18,889 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,000 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Mar, Apr, May, Jul
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Oct
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 37.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 18,889 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Oct)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Upton
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Upton.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 8 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 31 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 8 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | May 8 – May 29 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 8 | Sep 11 – Oct 23 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 8 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 13 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Dec 5 – Mar 20 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 8 | — | Sep 11 – Nov 20 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 13 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 21 – Sep 25 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 4 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jul 24 – Oct 9 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | May 29 – Aug 7 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 23 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 23 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | May 1 – May 29 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 8 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 8 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 13 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 8 | May 8 – May 29 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 8 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 8 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 4 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 8 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 23 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 8 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 8 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Upton
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Upton.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 15 | — | Aug 14 – Nov 27 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 15 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 15 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 15 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 15 | — | Aug 14 – Nov 27 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Upton
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Upton.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 8 | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 8 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 8 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 8 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 8 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 8 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 8 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 8 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 1 | — | Sep 4 – Nov 13 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Upton
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Upton.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 6 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Sep 25 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Oct 3 – Oct 31 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 27 | — | Apr 24 | — | May 29 – Jun 26 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 20 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | Sep 5 | Jun 26 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 13 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 30 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 20 | — | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 27 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 20 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 20 | May 8 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 20 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 30 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Jul 25 – Aug 15 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Aug 1 – Aug 22 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 30 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 20 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 27 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Aug 28 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 20 | May 8 | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Nov 6 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 20 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Nov 13 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 13 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 9 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 23 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 13 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Aug 22 – Sep 12 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 13 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 16 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 27 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 16 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 27 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 13 | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 16 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 20 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 28 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 20 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 13 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 16 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 | Aug 22 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 27 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 20 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 2 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 20 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 2 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 13 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 13 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 30 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 20 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 20 | — | May 1 | — | Aug 21 – Nov 6 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 3 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 24 – Oct 16 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Aug 15 – Sep 12 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 13 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 16 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Upton
ZIP Codes in Upton
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 Worcester County.
Your Worcester County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Worcester County (Zone 6a). 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