Munger, MI — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Top priorities for Bay County, Michigan gardeners in July
Each item below is timed to Bay County, Michigan's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
-
Time to start peppers, pole beans, and tomatoes inside
Give them 6–8 weeks indoors before the last frost and you'll transplant into warm soil with seedlings that are already leaping.
-
Start harvesting basil, carrots, and cucumber
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
-
Plant your fall garden: carrots, kale, and lettuce
A row cover ready in the garage extends your harvest by weeks once the nights turn cold.
Looking ahead to August
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: alliums, bachelor's button, and crocus
Munger gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (31" annual rainfall, most of it October to April). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive almost year-round. The challenge is summer heat: long-season warm-weather crops (full-size tomatoes, peppers, melons) need every bit of summer sun, so prioritize short-season varieties, use dark mulches to warm the soil, and reserve your warmest microclimates (south-facing walls, near pavement) for the tender stuff.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Drought pressure is moderate (14.5 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 10
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 7
📅 Growing Season
150 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 30.6" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 9.3 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
14.5 wk/yr trend worsening
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Munger
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: Mulch reduces watering needs 30-50% by cutting evaporation. Munger's 31" annual rainfall might be enough for vegetables in some months and not in others — a 2-3" mulch layer evens the swing.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.4 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.6 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.4 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.1 in | 11 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.8 in | 10 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.5 in | 9 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.7 in | 8 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2.9 in | 8 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.3 in | 8 days | 2 in | High |
| Nov | 2 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 33 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.
Munger 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 22 | Oct 21 | 152 days |
| Cautious | May 16 | Oct 14 | 151 days |
| Average year | May 10 | Oct 7 | 150 days |
| Optimistic | May 1 | Oct 1 | 153 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 23 | Sep 23 | 153 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±29 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit longer (0.7 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Bay County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Bay 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 Bay County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Bay 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 Bay County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Bay County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Bay 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 Bay County MI" or "garden center Bay 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 Bay County MI" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Bay 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 Munger
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: Onion varieties are sold by "short-day," "intermediate-day," and "long-day." Munger's latitude determines which to buy — and getting it wrong is the difference between baseball-sized bulbs and marbles.
Longest Day
15.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.8 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 | 9.1 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 | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.5 hr | 8.7 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.2 hr | 9.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 15 hr | 9.7 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.8 hr | 8.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.4 hr | 3.9 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 Munger
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Cold soil = stunted starts. A bean seed planted in 55°F soil rots before it germinates. Same seed in 65°F soil sprouts in 5 days. Munger's soil temperature pattern shows you the difference month to month.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 23°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 25°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 33°F | 35°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 45°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 59°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 71°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 77°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 79°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 71°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 56°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 42°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 30°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Munger
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Pest pressure is a function of climate, not effort. Munger'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
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
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 | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Slugs | Low | Apr, May, Jun |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Munger
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: The "chop and drop" approach to cover crops: cut them down right before flowering, let them lay on the surface as mulch, plant your vegetables through the mulch. Less work, healthier soil.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 16 | Jul 29 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 19 | Aug 12 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 11 | Aug 5 | ✓ 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 | Sep 9 | — | 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 1 | Apr 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 19 | Apr 19 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 20 | Apr 19 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 26 | Apr 26 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 3 | Apr 19 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 4 | Apr 19 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Munger
What this means for you: Pollinators avoid windy days. Munger's 9.3 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: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
7.4/10
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 (202 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Munger
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Munger's 31" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.
Annual Collection
16,447 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 1,750 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 33.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 16,447 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 Munger
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Munger.
Show all 107 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 | Jul 29 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 29 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | 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 | Jul 29 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | 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 | Jul 29 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 29 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | 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 | Jul 29 | 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 | Jul 29 | May 24 – Jun 14 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 29 | Sep 27 – Nov 8 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 29 | 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 | Jul 29 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Nov 25 – Mar 10 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 24 | — | Sep 27 – Dec 6 | 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 | Jul 29 | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Aug 9 – Oct 25 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Sep 6 – Nov 8 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Nov 8 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | 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 | Jul 29 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 29 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | 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 | Jul 29 | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 29 | 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 | Jul 29 | 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 | Jul 29 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 29 | May 24 – Jun 14 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 29 | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 29 | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | 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 | Jul 29 | 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 | Jul 29 | 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 | Jul 29 | 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 | Jul 29 | 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 | — | Jul 29 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 29 | 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 Munger
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Munger.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 31 | — | Aug 30 – Dec 13 | 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 – Dec 13 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Munger
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Munger.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 29 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 29 | 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 | Jul 29 | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 29 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 29 | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 29 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 29 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 29 | Aug 16 – Oct 18 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 29 | 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 | Jul 29 | 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 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| 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 | Jul 29 | 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 | Jul 29 | 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 29 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Munger
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Munger.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 22 | May 10 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 11 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Sep 23 – Oct 21 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 12 | — | May 10 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 8 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | May 10 | Aug 26 | Jul 12 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 1 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 25 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 8 | May 10 | May 17 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 15 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 8 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 27 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Apr 12 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Nov 1 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 8 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 15 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 12 | May 10 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Jul 15 – Aug 5 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Jul 22 – Aug 12 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 15 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 8 | — | May 17 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 15 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Sep 13 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 22 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 8 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 29 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 1 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 25 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 10 | May 10 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 8 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 1 | — | May 17 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 15 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Aug 12 – Sep 2 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 1 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 15 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 12 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Mar 1 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 8 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Sep 13 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 8 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 29 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 11 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 1 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 1 | — | May 10 | Aug 12 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 15 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 8 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 18 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 29 | — | May 10 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Mar 1 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 15 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 8 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 8 | — | May 17 | — | Sep 6 – Nov 22 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 1 | Apr 19 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 19 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 22 | Apr 19 | May 10 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 10 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Aug 5 – Sep 2 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Mar 1 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 8 | May 10 | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 15 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Munger
ZIP Codes in Munger
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 Bay County.
Your Bay County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Bay 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