Jackson, MI — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
What to do in June
If you only do a handful of things in the garden this June, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.
-
Indoor seed-starting week for basil, cucumber, and kale
You're about 17 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
Collect carrots, kale, and lettuce at their peak
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
- Starting indoors: peppers, astilbe, and begonias
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Jackson has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 6a). The last spring frost typically lands around April 29 and the first fall frost arrives around October 14 — a 168-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 (14.6 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 14
📅 Growing Season
168 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 27.9" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.6 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
14.6 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
4 ZIPs
Monthly Watering Calendar for Jackson
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: In Jackson, the watering question isn't "how often" — it's "is the soil moist 4 inches down?" Stick a finger in. Dry? Water. Damp? Wait. The 28" annual rainfall is just the starting context.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.6 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.6 in | 10 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.9 in | 11 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jun | 5 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.6 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.1 in | 8 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.7 in | 7 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.9 in | 8 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.2 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 37.7 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.
Jackson Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-7.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 17 | Oct 25 | 161 days |
| Cautious | May 12 | Oct 21 | 162 days |
| Average year | Apr 29 | Oct 14 | 168 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 26 | Oct 8 | 165 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 18 | Oct 2 | 167 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±28 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
Jackson County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Jackson 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 Jackson County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Jackson 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 Jackson County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Jackson County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Jackson 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 Jackson County MI" or "garden center Jackson 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 Jackson County MI" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Jackson 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 Jackson
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: You can't change the sun. Picking the right day-length-matched varieties for Jackson 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
9.7 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.2 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.4 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.1 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.8 hr | 9.7 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.5 hr | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.9 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 Jackson
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Jackson'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 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 | 24°F | 33°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 22°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 31°F | 34°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 45°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 57°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 70°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 79°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 79°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 72°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 57°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 41°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 30°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 Jackson
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Jackson's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Slugs | Low | Apr, May, Jun |
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
- Watch for powdery mildew, damping off, gray mold — common in your climate
Cover Crops for Jackson
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: You don't need a farm to use cover crops. A 4x8 raised bed accepts cover crops just as well as a half-acre. Jackson's climate determines the calendar; the principle is universal.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 4 | Aug 12 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 10 | Aug 5 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 29 | Aug 19 | ✓ 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 27 | Sep 30 | — | 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 22 | Apr 15 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 31 | Apr 15 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 5 | Apr 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 31 | Apr 8 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 24 | Apr 8 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 25 | Apr 15 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Jackson
Why it matters: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Jackson's 7.6 mph average is one piece of the watering math: rainfall + irrigation must exceed evaporation + transpiration, and wind boosts both losses.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 13 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
6.9/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (125 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Jackson
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: Captured rainwater is better for plants than tap water (no chlorine), works during water restrictions, and reduces stormwater runoff. Jackson's 28" annual rainfall is a meaningful pool — most homes could capture 10,000+ gallons a year with a decent system.
Annual Collection
18,789 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 37.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 18,789 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 Jackson
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Jackson.
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 5 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 15 | — | Aug 5 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | 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 5 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | 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 5 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 15 | — | Aug 5 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | 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 5 | 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 5 | May 13 – Jun 3 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 15 | — | Aug 5 | Sep 16 – Oct 28 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 15 | — | Aug 5 | 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 5 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 2 | Dec 2 – Mar 17 | 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 5 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 6 | — | — | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jul 29 – Oct 14 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | 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 5 | 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 5 | May 6 – Jun 3 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | 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 5 | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 15 | — | Aug 5 | 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 5 | 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 5 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 15 | — | Aug 5 | May 13 – Jun 3 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 20 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 15 | — | Aug 5 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 15 | — | Aug 5 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | 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 5 | 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 5 | 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 5 | 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 5 | 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 5 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 5 | 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 Jackson
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Jackson.
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 Jackson
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Jackson.
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 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | 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 5 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 | 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 5 | 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 5 | 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 5 | 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 Jackson
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Jackson.
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 2 | Sep 30 – Oct 28 | 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 2 | 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 2 | Jul 22 – Aug 12 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 2 | Jul 29 – Aug 19 | 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 2 | Aug 19 – Sep 9 | 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 19 | 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 2 | Aug 12 – Sep 9 | 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 Jackson
ZIP Codes in Jackson
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):