Ishpeming, 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 Marquette County, Michigan
Your Marquette County, Michigan garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for July and why each task matters now.
-
Time to start peppers, pole beans, and tomatoes inside
Starting these indoors now means sturdy transplants ready the moment your soil warms up.
-
Basket week: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
Before August arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Ishpeming has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 5a). The last spring frost typically lands around May 10 and the first fall frost arrives around October 20 — a 163-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 (15.6 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
5a (-20°F to -15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 10
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 20
📅 Growing Season
163 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 24.2" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
15.6 wk/yr trend improving
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Ishpeming
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: Watering math is simple: 1 inch of rainfall delivers ~600 gallons to a 1,000 sq ft garden. Ishpeming's 24" annual rainfall covers some months entirely; others need a few hours of drip irrigation per week. The calendar tells you which is which.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.6 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Apr | 4 in | 10 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| May | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.6 in | 8 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.4 in | 10 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2.9 in | 7 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.2 in | 9 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.4 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.3 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 36.5 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.
Ishpeming Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6-6.8
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 27 | Nov 6 | 163 days |
| Cautious | May 18 | Oct 27 | 162 days |
| Average year | May 10 | Oct 20 | 163 days |
| Optimistic | May 2 | Oct 11 | 162 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 24 | Oct 3 | 162 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.
Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 1.1 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Marquette County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Marquette 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 Marquette County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Marquette 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 Marquette County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Marquette County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Marquette 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 Marquette County MI" or "garden center Marquette 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 Marquette County MI" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Marquette 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 Ishpeming
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: Plants use day length as their seasonal clock. Some crops flower when days lengthen (most flowers), some when days shorten (chrysanthemums, soybeans). Ishpeming's curve is the timing layer beneath everything you grow.
Longest Day
15.6 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.3 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 | 8.8 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.1 hr | 4.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.8 hr | 8.6 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.6 hr | 9.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.3 hr | 10.3 hr | Long day |
| August | 14 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.6 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.1 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.4 hr | 3.1 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Ishpeming
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. Ishpeming's typical curve helps you plan — but a $5 soil thermometer in the bed beats any average.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
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 | 14°F | 22°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 17°F | 24°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 26°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 42°F | 40°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 55°F | 49°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 64°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 71°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 72°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 64°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 54°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 36°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 24°F | 33°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 Ishpeming
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Pest score isn't pass/fail. It's a planning input. Higher scores mean: more compost (resilient plants), wider spacing (air circulation), resistant varieties (built-in defense), and inspection (catch issues at egg stage).
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 |
| Cabbage worms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Colorado potato beetle | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Moderate | May, 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 Ishpeming
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: Bare soil is wasted soil — it loses nutrients to rain, dries out, compacts, and gets taken over by weeds. Cover crops (clovers, ryegrass, vetch, peas) are the "between seasons" trick that makes soil better every year. In Ishpeming, you can fit a cover crop into the gaps.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 16 | Aug 25 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | ✓ 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 24 | Oct 6 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (5 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daikon radish | Aug 27 | Apr 19 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 25 | Apr 26 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 12 | Apr 19 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 28 | Apr 26 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 22 | Apr 26 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Ishpeming
What this means for you: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Ishpeming's 0.0 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: 8 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 13 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
7/10
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 (211 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Ishpeming
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: A single rain barrel under a downspout catches 50 gallons in a 0.5" storm. Ishpeming's 24" annual rainfall means even modest harvesting systems quickly amortize their cost in water savings.
Annual Collection
18,191 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
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
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 36.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 18,191 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 Ishpeming
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Ishpeming.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Aug 30 – Oct 25 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Aug 16 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | May 24 – Jun 14 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 11 | Sep 27 – Oct 11 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 17 | — | — | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 1 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Dec 8 – Feb 23 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 24 | — | Sep 27 – Nov 8 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 1 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Sep 6 – Oct 11 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Sep 20 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Aug 9 – Oct 25 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 11 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 16 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 11 | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 1 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 11 | May 24 – Jun 14 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 11 | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 17 | — | — | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Sep 20 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 24 | — | Sep 13 – Nov 8 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Ishpeming
27 fruits matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Ishpeming.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 31 | — | Aug 30 – Nov 15 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 31 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 31 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 31 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 4 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 31 | — | Aug 30 – Nov 15 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Ishpeming
34 herbs matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Ishpeming.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 11 | Aug 2 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 1 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 11 | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 11 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 11 | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 11 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 11 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 11 | Aug 16 – Oct 18 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 11 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 11 | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 1 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 11 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 11 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 17 | — | Sep 20 – Nov 1 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Ishpeming
51 flowers matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Ishpeming.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 4 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Oct 13 – Nov 10 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 12 | — | May 10 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 8 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 1 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 8 | May 10 | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 8 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 8 | — | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 20 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Apr 5 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 8 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Jul 21 – Aug 11 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Jul 28 – Aug 18 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 1 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 8 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 8 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 30 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 8 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 15 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 22 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 1 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 17 | May 17 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 1 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 8 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Aug 18 – Sep 15 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 1 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 25 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 15 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 12 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Mar 1 | — | May 31 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 25 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 1 | — | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 29 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 4 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 18 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 1 | — | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 15 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 25 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 5 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 11 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Mar 1 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 8 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 8 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 8 | — | May 24 | — | Sep 20 – Nov 22 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 19 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 18 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | May 10 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 10 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Aug 11 – Sep 1 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 22 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 18 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 8 | May 10 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Ishpeming
ZIP Codes in Ishpeming
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 Marquette County.
Your Marquette County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Marquette County (Zone 5a). 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