Tower, MI — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June planting checklist for Tower, MI
June rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Tower, MI.
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Plant out alpine strawberries, aronia, and blueberries
Bring a watering can to the bed. Each transplant gets a drink the moment it's in the ground, not ten minutes later.
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Sow basil, cucumber, and kale in trays indoors
Label every cell. You will absolutely forget which is which otherwise.
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Bring in the carrots, kale, and lettuce
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
Coming up in July — start thinking about
- Starting indoors: peppers, pole beans, and tomatoes
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Tower sits in Zone 4b — a short, intense growing season. Your last spring frost lands around May 5 and the first fall frost arrives by October 21, giving you roughly 169 frost-free days. Start warm-season crops indoors weeks before the calendar tells you to, prioritize cold-hardy varieties, and use row covers, cold frames, or low tunnels to stretch fall harvests deep into autumn. Brassicas, root crops, and short-season tomatoes are your reliable winners.
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 (13.1 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
4b (-25°F to -20°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 5
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 21
📅 Growing Season
169 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 22.5" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.3 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
13.1 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Tower
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: A drip irrigation system pays for itself in 1-2 seasons in any climate. Tower's 23" annual rainfall determines whether you'll run it weekly (dry zones) or maybe just during summer dry spells (wet zones).
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.6 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.7 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 4.1 in | 9 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| May | 4.5 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 3.8 in | 8 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Sep | 4 in | 7 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.3 in | 6 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.7 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 40.5 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Tower Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.9-7
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 | Nov 5 | 169 days |
| Cautious | May 12 | Oct 26 | 167 days |
| Average year | May 5 | Oct 21 | 169 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 27 | Oct 8 | 164 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 23 | Sep 30 | 160 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±26 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 2.6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Cheboygan County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Cheboygan 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 Cheboygan County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Cheboygan 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 Cheboygan County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Cheboygan County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Cheboygan 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 Cheboygan County MI" or "garden center Cheboygan 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 Cheboygan County MI" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Cheboygan 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 Tower
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: The longest day at Tower's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.
Longest Day
15.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.5 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.9 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 8.9 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.1 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.7 hr | 8.7 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.5 hr | 9.6 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.1 hr | 9.9 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.9 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.2 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.5 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 Tower
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. Tower's typical curve helps you plan — but a $5 soil thermometer in the bed beats any average.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 13°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 15°F | 22°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 26°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 41°F | 38°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 53°F | 49°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 64°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 72°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 72°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 67°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 52°F | 53°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 36°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 23°F | 31°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 Tower
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Pollinators are the good bugs. Pest pressure is the bad bugs. Tower's climate makes both more abundant in warm humid regions, and rarer in cold dry ones — plan habitat to encourage the good while managing the bad.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Colorado potato beetle | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Tower
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: In Tower, cover crops also crowd out weeds. The denser the cover, the less weed pressure next season. Pays for itself in saved weeding time.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 10 | Aug 19 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 8 | Aug 12 | ✓ 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 19 | Sep 30 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (5 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daikon radish | Aug 24 | Apr 21 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 8 | Apr 21 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 15 | Apr 14 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 14 | Apr 21 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 31 | Apr 14 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Tower
Why this matters: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Tower's 7.3 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.
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: 9 mph Winter: 12 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 (187 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Tower
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Tower's 23" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
20,185 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 40.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 20,185 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 Tower
95 vegetables matched to Zone 4b with planting dates calibrated for Tower.
Show all 95 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 13 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 29 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 19 | — | — | Aug 18 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 29 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 19 | — | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | May 19 – Jun 9 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 11 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 29 | Sep 29 – Sep 22 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 29 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 19 | — | — | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Dec 9 – Feb 3 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 19 | — | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 19 | — | Sep 22 – Oct 13 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Sep 8 – Oct 13 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Sep 22 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 19 | — | — | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 19 | — | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | May 12 – Jun 9 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jul 29 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 29 | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 11 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 17 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 13 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 13 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 29 | May 26 – Jun 16 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 29 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 29 | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 10 | May 12 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 19 | — | — | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Sep 22 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 19 | — | Sep 8 – Oct 13 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 19 | — | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 6 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 6 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 29 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 29 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 19 | — | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Tower
22 fruits matched to Zone 4b with planting dates calibrated for Tower.
Show all 22 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | Sep 1 – Oct 27 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 2 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 15 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 2 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 2 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 6 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | Sep 1 – Oct 27 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Tower
30 herbs matched to Zone 4b with planting dates calibrated for Tower.
Show all 30 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jul 29 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jul 29 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 10 | May 12 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 12 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jul 29 | Jun 23 – Aug 11 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jul 29 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jul 29 | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jul 29 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jul 29 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jul 29 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 40–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jul 29 | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jul 29 | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jul 29 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 10 | May 12 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 12 | — | Sep 15 – Oct 6 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Tower
49 flowers matched to Zone 4b with planting dates calibrated for Tower.
Show all 49 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 17 | May 12 | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 22 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Oct 14 – Nov 11 | 28–42 |
| Astilbe | Feb 24 | — | May 19 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 17 | — | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 24 | May 5 | May 19 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 27 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 24 | — | May 19 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | May 5 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 8 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Mar 31 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 24 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 24 | May 12 | May 19 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 27 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 13 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Jul 22 – Aug 19 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 7 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 24 | — | May 19 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 3 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 24 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 24 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 10 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Nov 3 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 17 | — | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 12 | May 12 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 17 | — | May 19 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Aug 12 – Sep 2 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 17 | — | May 19 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 13 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 3 | — | May 19 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 19 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 7 | — | — | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 19 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 13 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 24 | — | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 24 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 24 | May 12 | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 29 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 17 | — | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 3 | — | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 24 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 20 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 31 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 17 | — | May 19 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 27 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 3 | — | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 24 | — | May 19 | — | Sep 22 – Nov 17 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 24 | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 14 | May 12 | May 12 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Aug 5 – Aug 26 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 17 | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 24 | May 5 | May 19 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Tower
ZIP Codes in Tower
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 Cheboygan County.
Your Cheboygan County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Cheboygan County (Zone 4b). 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