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Covert, MI — Planting Guide for June

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Van Buren County, Michigan Zone 6a June

Your June planting checklist for Van Buren County, Michigan

A quick June briefing for Van Buren County, Michigan gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.

Avg. last frost April 29
Avg. first frost October 17
Soil temp (4") 70°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 15.1 hrs
  1. Fire up the seed-starting tray: basil, cucumber, and kale

    You're about 17 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.

  2. Start harvesting carrots, kale, and lettuce

    If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.

To set up a strong July, finish these tasks
  • Starting indoors: peppers, astilbe, and begonias
  • First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber

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Covert gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (38" annual rainfall, most of it October to April). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive almost year-round. The challenge is summer heat: long-season warm-weather crops (full-size tomatoes, peppers, melons) need every bit of summer sun, so prioritize short-season varieties, use dark mulches to warm the soil, and reserve your warmest microclimates (south-facing walls, near pavement) for the tender stuff.

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 (11.5 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 29

🍂 Avg. First Frost

October 17

📅 Growing Season

171 days

🌧️ Climate

Moderate 37.6" annual

💨 Wind

Moderate 7.8 mph avg

🥶 Frost Tier

Regular 0% frost-free years

🏜️ Drought

11.5 wk/yr trend stable

📍 ZIP Codes

1 ZIP

Covert, MI Moderate season
171 days
❄
Last Spring Frost April 29
➔ 171 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost October 17

Monthly Watering Calendar for Covert

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: Mulch reduces watering needs 30-50% by cutting evaporation. Covert's 38" annual rainfall might be enough for vegetables in some months and not in others — a 2-3" mulch layer evens the swing.

1"/wk 0" 1.4" 2.7" 4.1" 5.4" Jan 1.6" Feb 1.6" Mar 2.4" +1" Apr 3.3" May 5.4" Jun 5.4" Jul 4.5" Aug 4" +0.9" Sep 3.4" +1.4" Oct 2.9" Nov 3" Dec 2.2"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 1.6 in 7 days — None
Feb 1.6 in 6 days — None
Mar 2.4 in 9 days — None
Apr 3.3 in 8 days 1 in Moderate
May 5.4 in 10 days — Low
Jun 5.4 in 9 days — Low
Jul 4.5 in 8 days — Low
Aug 4 in 8 days 0.3 in Low
Sep 3.4 in 8 days 0.9 in Moderate
Oct 2.9 in 8 days 1.4 in Moderate
Nov 3 in 6 days — None
Dec 2.2 in 8 days — None

Annual total: 39.7 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.

Covert Soil Profile

Soil Type

Silt Loam

Soil pH

5.9-6.7

Drainage

Well Drained

Frost Risk Probability

Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations

Too early frost risk Safe to Plant Apr 29 → Oct 17 171 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Safe: May 19 Protect by: Oct 29

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 19 Oct 29 163 days
Cautious May 8 Oct 24 169 days
Average year Apr 29 Oct 17 171 days
Optimistic Apr 26 Oct 11 168 days
Aggressive (risky) Apr 18 Oct 3 168 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

Not very — frost dates can vary by ±31 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.

Gardening Difficulty Score

77 Good
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
3.5/10
Soil Difficulty
0.0/10
Altitude Challenge
0.0/10
Climate Shift
0.3/10
Rainfall Challenge
0.0/10

Van Buren County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.

Zone 6a Frost Countdown
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Last Frost: Apr 29 First Frost: Oct 17

Local Gardening Help in Van Buren 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 Van Buren County's climate and soil.

County Extension Office

Van Buren 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.

Find Master Gardeners in MI →

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.

Request a Soil Test →

Services Available in Van Buren County

Soil testing Pest identification Master Gardener hotline Workshops
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Van Buren County

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Van Buren 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 Van Buren County MI" or "garden center Van Buren 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 Van Buren County MI" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Van Buren 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.

After Kale (harvest ends Aug 19) 59 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Beets (harvest ends Jul 22) 87 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Watermelon (harvest ends Sep 9) 38 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Melon (harvest ends Sep 9) 38 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Lettuce (harvest ends Aug 12) 66 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d Green Beans 50-65d
After Basil (harvest ends Sep 9) 38 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
Show 6 more succession options
After Cabbage (harvest ends Aug 26) 52 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Sweet Corn (harvest ends Aug 12) 66 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Peas (harvest ends Aug 19) 59 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Cauliflower (harvest ends Aug 26) 52 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Chard (harvest ends Aug 12) 66 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Squash (Summer) (harvest ends Sep 2) 45 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d

Sunlight & Day Length in Covert

Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.

Why this matters: You can't change the sun. Picking the right day-length-matched varieties for Covert matters more than any other "fix" you make — and the seed packet tells you (look for "long-day," "short-day," "day-neutral").

Longest Day

15.1 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

8.9 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

9.4 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.

14hr 12hr 2h 6h 10h 13h 17h Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Daylight hours (sunrise to sunset) Peak sun hours (direct sunlight after cloud cover) ▪ Gold zone = long day (14+ hr) ▪ Blue zone = short day (<12 hr)

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
MonthDaylight HoursPeak Sun HoursDay Length
January 9.2 hr 3.6 hr Short day
February 10.3 hr 4.4 hr Short day
March 11.7 hr 5.4 hr Short day
April 13.2 hr 6.5 hr Neutral
May 14.4 hr 8 hr Long day
June 15.1 hr 9.4 hr Long day
July 14.8 hr 9.1 hr Long day
August 13.7 hr 8.2 hr Neutral
September 12.3 hr 7.5 hr Neutral
October 10.8 hr 5.6 hr Short day
November 9.5 hr 3.9 hr Short day
December 8.9 hr 3.3 hr Short day

Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.

Soil Temperature & Composting in Covert

Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.

Why it matters: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Covert'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 Sep.

Best Month to Compost

Jun

Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.

Active Composting

6 months

Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.

60°F 70°F 10° 30° 50° 70° 90° Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
4" depth 8" depth - - - 60°F (corn, beans) - - - 70°F (tomatoes, peppers)
View detailed monthly data
MonthSoil 4" DeepSoil 8" DeepCompost ActivityTime to Finish
Jan 22°F 30°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Feb 22°F 29°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Mar 30°F 35°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Apr 43°F 43°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
May 60°F 55°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Jun 70°F 63°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 77°F 71°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 77°F 73°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 70°F 70°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 56°F 61°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Nov 44°F 47°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Dec 29°F 39°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 Covert

Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.

Why it matters: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Covert'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

5.2 / 10

Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.

Disease Risk

5.1 / 10

Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.

Seasonal Risk

Spring Low
Summer High
Fall Low
Winter Low
View 5 common pests in your area
PestRisk LevelPeak Months
Aphids Moderate May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Japanese beetles Moderate Jun, Jul, Aug
Squash bugs Low Jun, Jul, Aug
Tomato hornworms Moderate 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 Covert

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: Cover crops fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.

Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat May 4 Aug 15 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Sorghum-sudan grass May 8 Aug 8 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Apr 4 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 22 Sep 26 — 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 Aug 25 Apr 8 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Daikon radish Aug 31 Apr 8 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Aug 6 Apr 15 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Sep 4 Apr 8 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Jul 24 Apr 15 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Jul 8 Apr 15 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Covert

What this means for you: Light wind is good (strengthens stems, aids pollination); strong wind is bad (snaps stems, dries leaves, scatters seeds). Covert averages 7.8 mph. If you garden near coast, ridge, or open plains, you're likely above that — plan for it.

Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.

Seasonal Wind Speed

Spring: 12 mph   Summer: 8 mph

Fall: 9 mph   Winter: 11 mph

Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.

Windbreak Benefit

4.6/10

Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.

Frost Pocket Risk

Low

Relatively flat terrain (189 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.

Rainwater Harvesting in Covert

How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.

Why it matters: Captured rainwater is better for plants than tap water (no chlorine), works during water restrictions, and reduces stormwater runoff. Covert's 38" annual rainfall is a meaningful pool — most homes could capture 10,000+ gallons a year with a decent system.

Annual Collection

19,786 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 39.7 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 19,786 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 Covert

107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Covert.

Show all 107 vegetables with dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Aug 5 – Sep 9 80–100
Amaranth Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Aug 12 – Sep 30 90–120
Arugula Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 3 – Aug 5 30–50
Asparagus — — May 13 — — 730–1095
Beets — Apr 15 — Aug 8 Jun 10 – Jul 8 50–70
Belgian Endive Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Aug 19 – Oct 14 110–150
Bitter Melon Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 15 – Aug 26 60–90
Black Beans — May 6 — — Aug 5 – Sep 23 90–120
Bok Choy Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 10 – Jul 15 40–60
Broccoli Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jul 1 – Aug 12 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 10 – Jul 15 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jul 29 – Sep 23 90–130
Butternut Squash Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Aug 12 – Sep 16 85–110
Cabbage Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jul 1 – Aug 26 60–100
Calabash Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Aug 5 – Sep 30 80–120
Carrots — Apr 15 — Aug 8 Jun 17 – Jul 22 60–80
Cauliflower Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 24 – Aug 26 55–100
Celeriac Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Aug 12 – Sep 16 100–120
Celery Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jul 22 – Sep 16 80–120
Celtuce Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jul 1 – Aug 12 60–90
Chard Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 24 – Aug 12 50–60
Chickpeas Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jul 22 – Sep 2 80–110
Chicory Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jul 1 – Aug 12 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 24 – Jul 22 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Aug 5 – Sep 9 80–100
Collard Greens Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 24 – Aug 26 55–75
Corn — May 6 — — Jul 8 – Sep 2 60–100
Cowpeas — May 6 — — Jul 8 – Aug 19 60–90
Cress Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 May 13 – Jun 3 14–21
Crookneck Squash Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Jul 1 – Jul 29 45–60
Crosne — Apr 15 — Aug 8 Sep 16 – Oct 28 150–200
Cucumber Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Sep 2 50–70
Daikon — Apr 15 — Aug 8 Jun 10 – Jul 8 50–70
Delicata Squash Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Aug 5 – Sep 9 80–100
Edamame — May 6 — — Jul 22 – Sep 2 75–100
Eggplant Feb 18 May 6 May 13 — Jul 22 – Sep 23 65–85
Endive Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 17 – Jul 22 45–65
Escarole Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 24 – Jul 22 50–70
Fava Beans Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jul 15 – Aug 26 75–100
Fennel Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 15 – Aug 26 60–90
Garlic — — — Sep 5 Dec 5 – Mar 20 90–240
Green Beans — May 6 — — Jul 1 – Aug 26 50–65
Horseradish — — May 13 — Sep 16 – Nov 25 120–180
Hot Peppers Feb 18 May 6 May 13 — Jul 22 – Oct 28 70–120
Hubbard Squash Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Aug 26 – Sep 30 100–120
Kabocha Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Aug 12 – Sep 9 85–100
Kai Lan Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 17 – Jul 15 45–60
Kale Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 24 – Aug 19 50–70
Kidney Beans — May 6 — — Aug 5 – Sep 9 85–110
Kohlrabi Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 17 – Jul 22 45–65
Komatsuna Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 3 – Jul 8 35–50
Leeks Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jul 29 – Oct 14 90–150
Lentils Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jul 22 – Sep 2 80–110
Lettuce Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 3 – Aug 12 30–60
Lima Beans — May 6 — — Jul 8 – Aug 19 60–90
Loofah Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Aug 26 – Oct 28 100–150
Luffa Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Aug 12 – Oct 28 90–150
Mache Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 10 – Jul 15 40–60
Melon Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Jul 22 – Sep 9 70–100
Microgreens Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 May 6 – Jun 3 7–21
Mitsuba Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Aug 8 Jun 17 – Aug 12 50–70
Mizuna Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 3 – Jul 1 30–45
Mustard Greens Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 3 – Aug 5 30–50
Napa Cabbage Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 24 – Jul 29 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Aug 5 55–70
Okra Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Sep 2 50–65
Onion Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jul 29 – Sep 16 90–120
Pac Choi Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 10 – Jul 8 40–55
Parsnip — Apr 15 — Aug 8 Jul 29 – Sep 9 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Jul 1 – Jul 29 45–60
Peas Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 24 – Aug 19 55–70
Peppers Feb 18 May 6 May 13 — Jul 15 – Sep 23 60–90
Pole Beans Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Sep 2 55–70
Potatoes Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 22 – Sep 30 70–120
Pumpkin Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Aug 12 – Sep 30 85–120
Purslane Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 10 – Jul 15 40–60
Radicchio Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jul 1 – Aug 5 60–80
Radish — Apr 15 — Aug 8 May 13 – Jun 3 22–35
Rhubarb — — May 20 — — 365–730
Romanesco Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jul 15 – Aug 26 75–100
Rutabaga — Apr 15 — Aug 8 Jul 8 – Aug 12 80–100
Salsify — Apr 15 — Aug 8 Jul 29 – Sep 9 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jul 8 – Sep 2 70–110
Scallions Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 24 – Jul 22 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 15 – Aug 19 60–80
Shallot Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jul 29 – Sep 16 90–120
Shiso Mar 11 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Sep 2 50–70
Snap Peas Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Sep 2 55–70
Snow Peas Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 24 – Aug 19 50–65
Soybeans — May 6 — — Jul 29 – Sep 23 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Aug 12 – Sep 9 85–100
Spinach Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 3 – Aug 5 35–50
Squash (Summer) Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Jul 1 – Sep 2 45–65
Squash (Winter) Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Aug 5 – Sep 30 80–120
Sunchoke — — May 13 — Sep 2 – Oct 28 110–150
Sweet Corn — May 6 — — Jul 8 – Aug 19 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Aug 12 – Sep 30 90–120
Tatsoi Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 3 – Jul 8 35–50
Tomatillo Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 15 – Sep 23 60–85
Tomatoes Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 15 – Sep 23 60–85
Turnip — Apr 15 — Aug 8 May 27 – Jul 1 40–60
Watercress Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Aug 8 Jun 10 – Jul 15 40–60
Watermelon Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Jul 22 – Sep 9 70–100
Wax Beans — May 6 — — Jul 1 – Aug 26 50–65
Winter Melon Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Aug 12 – Sep 30 90–120
Yard Long Beans Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Aug 19 55–80
Zucchini Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Jul 1 – Aug 26 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Covert

27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Covert.

Show all 27 fruits with dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — May 20 — Aug 19 – Dec 2 90–180
Aronia — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — May 20 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — May 20 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — May 20 — Jul 29 – Sep 2 70–90
Che Fruit — — May 20 — — 1095–1825
Cranberries — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Currants — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Elderberries — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Goji Berries — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — May 20 — Jul 29 – Sep 23 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — May 20 — — 1095–1825
Haskaps — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Honeydew — — May 20 — Aug 12 – Sep 23 80–110
Jostaberry — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Lingonberries — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Medlar — — May 20 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — May 20 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — May 20 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — May 20 — — 1095–2555
Quince — — May 20 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — May 20 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — May 20 — Aug 19 – Dec 2 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Covert

35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Covert.

Show all 35 herbs with dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Aug 8 — 365–730
Anise Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Aug 8 Jul 22 – Oct 7 90–120
Basil Mar 11 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Sep 9 50–75
Bee Balm — — May 6 — Aug 5 – Oct 21 90–120
Borage Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Aug 8 Jun 17 – Aug 5 50–60
Caraway Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Aug 8 — 365–450
Catnip — — May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 9 60–80
Chamomile Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Aug 8 Jun 24 – Sep 2 60–90
Chervil Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Aug 8 Jun 3 – Aug 5 40–60
Chives — — May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 60–90
Cilantro Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Aug 8 Jun 3 – Aug 5 40–60
Comfrey — — May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 60–90
Cumin Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Aug 8 Aug 5 – Oct 7 100–120
Dill Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Aug 8 Jun 3 – Aug 5 40–60
Epazote Mar 11 May 6 May 13 — Jul 1 – Aug 26 45–60
Fennel (herb) Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Aug 8 Jun 24 – Sep 2 60–90
Feverfew — — May 6 — Aug 5 – Oct 21 90–120
Garlic Chives — — May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 60–90
Horehound — — May 6 — Jul 22 – Sep 16 75–90
Hyssop — — May 6 — Jul 15 – Sep 16 70–90
Lemon Balm — — May 6 — Jul 8 – Aug 26 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — May 6 — Jul 15 – Sep 16 70–90
Lovage — — May 6 — Jul 15 – Sep 16 70–90
Marjoram — — May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 60–90
Mint — — May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 60–90
Oregano — — May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 60–90
Parsley Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Aug 8 Jun 24 – Aug 26 60–80
Rue — — May 6 — Jul 15 – Sep 16 70–90
Sage — — May 6 — Jul 22 – Sep 16 75–90
Savory — — May 6 — Jul 1 – Aug 26 50–70
Sorrel Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Aug 8 Jun 3 – Aug 5 40–60
Tarragon — — May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 60–90
Thai Basil Mar 11 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Sep 9 50–75
Thyme — — May 6 — Jul 15 – Sep 16 70–90
Valerian — — May 6 — Sep 9 – Nov 18 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Covert

53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Covert.

Show all 53 flowers with dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Mar 11 Apr 29 Apr 29 — Jun 24 – Sep 30 60–75
Alliums — — — Sep 5 Oct 3 – Oct 31 28–42
Anemones Apr 1 — Apr 29 — Jun 3 – Jul 1 90–120
Astilbe Feb 25 — May 6 — Jul 15 – Sep 23 70–100
Bachelor's Button Mar 18 Apr 1 Apr 29 Sep 5 Jul 1 – Sep 16 60–90
Begonias Feb 18 — May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 14 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 22 – Nov 4 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Feb 25 — May 6 — Jul 1 – Aug 5 60–90
Calendula Mar 18 Apr 1 Apr 29 — Jun 17 – Sep 16 50–70
California Poppy — Apr 1 — — Jun 10 – Jul 22 60–90
Celosia Mar 25 May 6 May 6 — Jul 8 – Oct 21 60–90
Columbine Feb 25 May 13 May 13 — Jul 8 – Aug 12 70–100
Coreopsis Feb 25 May 6 May 6 — Jul 15 – Nov 4 60–80
Cosmos Apr 1 Apr 29 Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Oct 14 60–90
Crocus — — — Sep 5 Jul 25 – Aug 15 10–20
Daffodils — — — Sep 5 Aug 1 – Aug 22 20–40
Dahlias Apr 1 May 6 May 6 — Jul 22 – Nov 4 70–120
Daylily Feb 25 — May 6 — Jul 22 – Nov 4 60–90
Dianthus Mar 4 Apr 1 Apr 15 — Jun 3 – Sep 2 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Feb 25 May 13 May 13 — Aug 5 – Nov 11 70–90
Foxglove Feb 25 May 6 May 6 — Jul 1 – Aug 5 80–120
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Mar 11 May 6 May 6 — Jul 15 – Nov 18 70–100
Geraniums Feb 18 — May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 14 70–100
Gladiolus — Apr 29 Apr 29 — Jul 15 – Oct 28 70–100
Hostas Feb 18 — May 6 — Jul 22 – Nov 4 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Sep 5 Aug 22 – Sep 12 14–28
Hydrangeas Feb 18 — May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 21 90–150
Impatiens Mar 4 — May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 21 60–75
Irises — Division May 6 — Jul 1 – Jul 29 60–100
Larkspur — Apr 1 — — Jun 10 – Aug 5 60–90
Lavender Feb 18 — May 13 — Jul 22 – Sep 16 90–120
Lilies — Division May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 21 70–120
Lobelia Feb 25 — Apr 15 — Jun 10 – Sep 2 70–80
Lupine Feb 25 May 6 May 6 — Jul 1 – Aug 5 75–100
Marigolds Mar 18 May 6 May 6 — Jul 1 – Sep 30 50–70
Nasturtium Apr 1 May 6 May 6 — Jul 1 – Oct 21 55–65
Pansy Feb 18 — Apr 29 Aug 22 Jun 24 – Aug 26 70–90
Peonies — Division May 6 — Jul 8 – Aug 12 90–120
Petunia Mar 4 — May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 21 70–90
Phlox Feb 25 May 6 May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 7 80–110
Portulaca Mar 25 May 6 May 6 — Jun 24 – Oct 7 50–70
Ranunculus Mar 18 — Apr 29 — Jun 10 – Jul 8 90–120
Roses Feb 18 — May 6 — Jul 15 – Nov 4 90–180
Salvia Feb 25 — May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 21 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Feb 25 — May 6 — Aug 26 – Nov 11 60–90
Snapdragon Feb 18 Apr 8 Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 70–100
Sunflower Apr 8 May 6 May 6 — Jul 29 – Oct 21 70–100
Sweet Alyssum Mar 11 Apr 8 Apr 29 — Jun 10 – Aug 19 45–60
Sweet Pea Mar 18 Mar 25 Apr 29 — Jul 15 – Sep 23 65–85
Tulips — — — Sep 5 Aug 15 – Sep 12 15–30
Vinca (Annual) Feb 18 — May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 21 70–90
Yarrow Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 15 – Nov 4 60–90
Zinnia Apr 1 May 6 May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 21 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for Covert

ZIP Codes in Covert

Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):