Lyons, 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.
-
Sow basil, cucumber, and kale in trays indoors
A seed-starting mix and a sunny window (or a grow light) are all you need. Keep soil warm — around 70°F — for fast germination.
-
It's harvest week for carrots, kale, and lettuce
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
Coming up in July — start thinking about
- Starting indoors: peppers, astilbe, and begonias
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Lyons has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 6a). The last spring frost typically lands around May 1 and the first fall frost arrives around October 10 — a 162-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Drought pressure is moderate (12.7 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 1
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 10
📅 Growing Season
162 days
🌧️ Climate
Unknown 0.0" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 8.6 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
12.7 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Lyons
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: The 1-inch-per-week rule applies to most vegetable crops. Lyons averages 0" a year — divide by 52 and compare to that 1" target. Some months are above, some below; that's where the calendar earns its keep.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.7 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.2 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.1 in | 9 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.6 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.2 in | 9 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Jul | 4.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 3.8 in | 10 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.2 in | 7 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.8 in | 8 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 35.8 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.
Lyons Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-6.8
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 20 | Oct 25 | 158 days |
| Cautious | May 10 | Oct 17 | 160 days |
| Average year | May 1 | Oct 10 | 162 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 28 | Oct 5 | 160 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 19 | Sep 30 | 164 days |
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.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 1.5 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Ionia County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Ionia 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 Ionia County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Ionia 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 Ionia County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Ionia County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Ionia 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 Ionia County MI" or "garden center Ionia 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 Ionia County MI" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Ionia 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 Lyons
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: Onions are a great example of why day length matters. They "bulb up" only when daylight hits a specific number of hours — plant the wrong variety (short-day in the north, long-day in the south) and you'll get tiny bulbs no matter how well you grow them. Lyons's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.
Longest Day
15.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.8 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.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.2 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 4.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.5 hr | 8.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.2 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.9 hr | 9.4 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.8 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.5 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.8 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 Lyons
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. Lyons'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 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.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 23°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 25°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 31°F | 34°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 44°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 60°F | 53°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 69°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 78°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 78°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 71°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 58°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 42°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 31°F | 38°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 Lyons
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: Pest pressure is a function of climate, not effort. Lyons's baseline tells you how much vigilance is normal. A bad pest year in low-pressure region = a normal year in high-pressure region.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Lyons
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: Why not just leave bare soil? Weed seeds, erosion, nutrient leaching, and crust formation. A cover crop solves all of these for the cost of seeds and one mowing.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 12 | Aug 1 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 8 | Aug 15 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 4 | Aug 1 | ✓ 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 20 | Sep 12 | — | 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 7 | Apr 17 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 21 | Apr 17 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 17 | Apr 10 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 1 | Apr 10 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 6 | Apr 10 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 17 | Apr 17 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Lyons
Why this matters: Pollinators avoid windy days. Lyons's 8.6 mph average wind isn't enough to stop bees and butterflies — but plant fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) in protected microclimates and you'll see noticeably better fruit set.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 13 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 13 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
6.8/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (109 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Lyons
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Lyons's 0" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
17,842 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 35.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 17,842 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 Lyons
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Lyons.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 27 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 1 | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 8 | — | — | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 27 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Aug 14 – Sep 18 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 1 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Aug 14 – Sep 18 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 8 | — | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 8 | — | — | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | May 15 – Jun 5 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 27 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 1 | Sep 18 – Oct 30 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 27 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 1 | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 27 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 8 | — | — | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 20 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Nov 28 – Mar 13 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 8 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 15 | — | Sep 18 – Nov 27 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 20 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 24 – Oct 30 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 27 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 27 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Aug 14 – Sep 11 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 8 | — | — | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jul 31 – Oct 16 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 8 | — | — | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 30 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 30 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 27 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Aug 1 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jul 31 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 1 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 27 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 20 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 27 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 1 | May 15 – Jun 5 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 1 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 1 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jul 31 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 13 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 8 | — | — | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 27 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Aug 14 – Sep 11 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 27 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 27 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 15 | — | Sep 4 – Oct 30 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 8 | — | — | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 1 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | May 1 | Aug 1 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 27 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 8 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 6 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 27 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Lyons
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Lyons.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 22 | — | Aug 21 – Dec 4 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 22 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 22 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 22 | — | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 22 | — | Aug 21 – Dec 4 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Lyons
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Lyons.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Aug 1 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Aug 1 | Jul 24 – Oct 9 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 13 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 23 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Aug 1 | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Aug 1 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Aug 1 | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Aug 1 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Aug 1 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Aug 1 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Aug 1 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 13 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Aug 1 | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 23 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Aug 1 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | Aug 1 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 13 | May 8 | May 15 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 8 | — | Sep 11 – Nov 20 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Lyons
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Lyons.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 13 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 2 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Sep 26 – Oct 24 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 3 | — | May 1 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 27 | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | May 1 | Aug 29 | Jul 3 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 20 | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 24 – Nov 6 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 27 | — | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Sep 18 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 27 | May 8 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 27 | May 15 | May 15 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 27 | May 8 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Nov 6 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 3 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Jul 18 – Aug 8 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Jul 25 – Aug 15 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | — | Jul 24 – Nov 6 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 27 | — | May 8 | — | Jul 24 – Nov 6 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 4 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 27 | May 15 | May 15 | — | Aug 7 – Nov 13 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 27 | May 8 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 13 | May 8 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Nov 20 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 20 | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 16 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 30 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 20 | — | May 8 | — | Jul 24 – Nov 6 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Aug 15 – Sep 5 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 20 | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 6 | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 3 | — | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 20 | — | May 15 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 27 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Sep 4 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 27 | May 8 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 20 | May 8 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 2 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 20 | — | May 1 | Aug 15 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 6 | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 27 | May 8 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 9 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 27 | May 8 | May 8 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 9 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 20 | — | May 1 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 20 | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Nov 6 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 27 | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 27 | — | May 8 | — | Aug 28 – Nov 13 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 20 | Apr 10 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 10 | May 8 | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Oct 23 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | May 1 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | May 1 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 20 | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Nov 6 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Lyons
ZIP Codes in Lyons
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 Ionia County.
Your Ionia County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Ionia County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log