Casco, MI — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
July to-do list for St. Clair County, Michigan
If you only do a handful of things in the garden this July, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.
-
Start peppers, begonias, and eggplant indoors
A seed-starting mix and a sunny window (or a grow light) are all you need. Keep soil warm — around 70°F — for fast germination.
-
Basket week: basil, carrots, and cucumber
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
Looking ahead to August
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Casco has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 6a). The last spring frost typically lands around April 27 and the first fall frost arrives around October 27 — a 183-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Drought pressure is moderate (12.7 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 27
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 27
📅 Growing Season
183 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 23.5" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 8.3 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
12.7 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Casco
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
What this means for you: The 1-inch-per-week rule applies to most vegetable crops. Casco averages 24" a year — divide by 52 and compare to that 1" target. Some months are above, some below; that's where the calendar earns its keep.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.6 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.6 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.6 in | 8 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.9 in | 10 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.5 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.4 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.6 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.7 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.9 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 38.5 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Casco Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-7.2
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 9 | 180 days |
| Cautious | Apr 30 | Nov 1 | 185 days |
| Average year | Apr 27 | Oct 27 | 183 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 23 | Oct 19 | 179 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 13 | Oct 11 | 181 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±29 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 (0.7 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
St. Clair County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in St. Clair 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 St. Clair County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
St. Clair County Michigan State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 517-355-0240
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 St. Clair County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in St. Clair County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to St. Clair 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 St. Clair County MI" or "garden center St. Clair 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 St. Clair County MI" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "St. Clair County Gardeners" or "Michigan 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 Casco
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. Casco's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
Longest Day
15.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.8 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.5 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 | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 6.5 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.5 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.1 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.9 hr | 9.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.8 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.5 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.8 hr | 3.2 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Casco
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Casco, an aggressive mulch program shifts your effective soil temperature curve toward optimal for most crops.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
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 | 23°F | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 22°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 33°F | 34°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 44°F | 42°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 56°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 68°F | 62°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 77°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 80°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 70°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 58°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 43°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 28°F | 37°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 Casco
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Casco's pest score is your early-warning system: high score means commit to disease-resistant varieties and accept some crop loss to bugs.
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 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Casco
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
What this means for you: The "chop and drop" approach to cover crops: cut them down right before flowering, let them lay on the surface as mulch, plant your vegetables through the mulch. Less work, healthier soil.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 2 | Aug 25 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 7 | Aug 25 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 29 | Aug 18 | ✓ 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 14 | Sep 29 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 4 | Apr 13 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Sep 11 | Apr 6 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 17 | Apr 6 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 2 | Apr 6 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 29 | Apr 13 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 31 | Apr 6 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Casco
The practical takeaway: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Casco's 8.3 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: 12 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.4/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (153 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Casco
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Casco, that's your 24" times your roof.
Annual Collection
19,188 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 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, 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 38.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 19,188 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Casco
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Casco.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 4 | — | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 18 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | May 11 – Jun 1 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 18 | Sep 14 – Oct 26 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 16 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Dec 15 – Mar 30 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 4 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 11 | — | Sep 14 – Nov 23 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 16 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 26 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 7 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 4 | — | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 26 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 26 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | May 4 – Jun 1 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 18 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 18 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 16 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 18 | May 11 – Jun 1 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 18 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 18 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 9 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 7 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 11 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 26 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 18 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Aug 18 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 4 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Casco
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Casco.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 30 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 30 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Casco
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Casco.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 18 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 18 | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 9 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 18 | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 18 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 18 | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 18 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 18 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 18 | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 18 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 9 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 18 | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 18 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Aug 18 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 9 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 4 | — | Sep 7 – Nov 16 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Casco
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Casco.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 9 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 28 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Oct 13 – Nov 10 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 30 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 23 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Apr 27 | Sep 15 | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 16 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 20 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 23 | — | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 30 | — | — | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 23 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 30 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Aug 4 – Aug 25 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Aug 11 – Sep 1 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 20 – Nov 2 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 23 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 20 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 31 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 9 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 23 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 9 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Nov 16 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 16 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 16 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 20 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Sep 1 – Sep 22 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 16 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 2 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 30 | — | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 16 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 23 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 31 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 23 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 16 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 19 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 | Sep 1 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 2 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 23 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 5 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 5 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 16 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 16 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Nov 2 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 23 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 23 | — | May 4 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 6 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Aug 25 – Sep 22 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 16 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Casco
ZIP Codes in Casco
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 St. Clair County.
Your St. Clair County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for St. Clair 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