Perry, 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
Your garden in Shiawassee County, Michigan is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this June.
-
Start basil, cucumber, and kale indoors
You're about 15 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
It's harvest week for carrots, kale, and lettuce
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
- Starting indoors: peppers, astilbe, and begonias
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Perry gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (32" 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 (12.6 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 31.5" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 8.6 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
12.6 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Perry
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Watering by the calendar wastes water. Watering by the soil moisture (or by a free rain gauge) cuts your water use 30%+ and produces healthier roots. Perry's 32" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.1 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.3 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.8 in | 9 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.5 in | 9 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 4.4 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 2.9 in | 8 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2.9 in | 7 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.3 in | 7 days | 2 in | High |
| Nov | 2 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.9 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 30.9 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.
Perry Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.8
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 15 | Oct 25 | 163 days |
| Cautious | May 4 | Oct 21 | 170 days |
| Average year | Apr 29 | Oct 14 | 168 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 26 | Oct 6 | 163 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 18 | Sep 30 | 165 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±27 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 1.7 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Shiawassee County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Shiawassee 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 Shiawassee County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Shiawassee 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 Shiawassee County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Shiawassee County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Shiawassee 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 Shiawassee County MI" or "garden center Shiawassee 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 Shiawassee County MI" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Shiawassee 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 Perry
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." Perry'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 | 9.2 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 4.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.5 hr | 8.6 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.2 hr | 9.7 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.9 hr | 9.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.8 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.5 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.8 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Perry
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Most root crops germinate well at 50-60°F. Most fruit-bearing crops want 65-75°F. Perry's monthly soil curve maps these windows to actual months.
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 | 21°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 25°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 33°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 44°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 58°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 71°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 75°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 78°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 71°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 56°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 42°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 31°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 Perry
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Perry's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
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 | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
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 Perry
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: 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 6 | Aug 19 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 30 | Aug 5 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 2 | 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 21 | Sep 23 | — | 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 4 | Apr 8 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 23 | Apr 15 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 23 | Apr 8 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 2 | Apr 15 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 12 | Apr 8 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 10 | Apr 15 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Perry
Why this matters: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Perry averages 8.6 mph — fine for most days. But every region has its windy days, and the first time a row of unstaked peppers leans over after a storm is a lesson you only need once.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 13 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.2/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (250 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Perry
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Perry's 32" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
15,400 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 30.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 15,400 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 Perry
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Perry.
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 Perry
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Perry.
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 Perry
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Perry.
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 Perry
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Perry.
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 Perry
ZIP Codes in Perry
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 Shiawassee County.
Your Shiawassee County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Shiawassee 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