White Cloud, MI — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Newaygo County, Michigan gardeners: here's your June plan
Each item below is timed to Newaygo County, Michigan's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
-
Harden off and plant alpine strawberries, aronia, and blackberries
Bring a watering can to the bed. Each transplant gets a drink the moment it's in the ground, not ten minutes later.
-
Indoor seed-starting week for cucumber, kale, and lettuce
These need a head start before your last frost (May 16). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Harvest lettuce, radish, and anemones as they ripen
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
Before July arrives, get these ready
- Starting indoors: basil, peppers, and pole beans
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
White Cloud gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (33" 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 (12.7 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
5b (-15°F to -10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 16
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 5
📅 Growing Season
142 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 33.1" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
12.7 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for White Cloud
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: Over-watering kills more plants than under-watering. White Cloud's 33" annual rainfall changes the gardening playbook — humid-region gardeners often water by the calendar when they should water by the soil moisture.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.9 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.6 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.3 in | 9 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.9 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 3.8 in | 9 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.2 in | 8 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.2 in | 8 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 38.2 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.
White Cloud Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.8-6.9
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 29 | Oct 22 | 146 days |
| Cautious | May 21 | Oct 11 | 143 days |
| Average year | May 16 | Oct 5 | 142 days |
| Optimistic | May 8 | Sep 30 | 145 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 27 | Sep 21 | 147 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±32 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 1.4 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Newaygo County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Newaygo 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 Newaygo County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Newaygo 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 Newaygo County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Newaygo County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Newaygo 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 Newaygo County MI" or "garden center Newaygo 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 Newaygo County MI" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Newaygo 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 White Cloud
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: Photoperiod-sensitive crops will fail spectacularly if planted at the wrong latitude. Sweet onions in Michigan? Tiny. Spanish onions in Florida? Tiny. Match variety to White Cloud's daylight pattern and you'll see the difference.
Longest Day
15.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.8 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.3 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 | 3.5 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 | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.5 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.2 hr | 9.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.9 hr | 9.3 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.8 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.4 hr | 3.6 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 White Cloud
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. White Cloud'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
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 | 24°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 31°F | 34°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 43°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 58°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 67°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 78°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 77°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 69°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 58°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 42°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 31°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in White Cloud
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
For new gardeners: Pest score isn't pass/fail. It's a planning input. Higher scores mean: more compost (resilient plants), wider spacing (air circulation), resistant varieties (built-in defense), and inspection (catch issues at egg stage).
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for White Cloud
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
What this means for you: Bare soil is wasted soil — it loses nutrients to rain, dries out, compacts, and gets taken over by weeds. Cover crops (clovers, ryegrass, vetch, peas) are the "between seasons" trick that makes soil better every year. In White Cloud, you can fit a cover crop into the gaps.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 28 | Jul 27 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 20 | Jul 27 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 18 | Aug 10 | ✓ 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 | Jun 9 | Sep 7 | — | 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 9 | Apr 25 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 9 | Apr 25 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 15 | Apr 25 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 22 | May 2 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 4 | May 2 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 5 | Apr 25 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in White Cloud
What this means for you: Pollinators avoid windy days. White Cloud's 0.0 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: 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
4.8/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (163 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in White Cloud
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: A single rain barrel under a downspout catches 50 gallons in a 0.5" storm. White Cloud's 33" annual rainfall means even modest harvesting systems quickly amortize their cost in water savings.
Annual Collection
19,038 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 38.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 19,038 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 White Cloud
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for White Cloud.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 2 | — | Jul 27 | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Sep 5 – Oct 31 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 23 | — | — | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | May 2 | — | Jul 27 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 23 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 23 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | May 30 – Jun 20 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 2 | — | Jul 27 | Oct 3 – Oct 17 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 2 | — | Jul 27 | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 23 | — | — | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Nov 23 – Feb 8 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 23 | — | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 30 | — | Oct 3 – Nov 14 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 14 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Sep 12 – Oct 17 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Sep 26 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 23 | — | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Aug 15 – Oct 31 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 23 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | May 23 – Jun 20 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 27 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 2 | — | Jul 27 | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 17 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 2 | — | Jul 27 | May 30 – Jun 20 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 2 | — | Jul 27 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 2 | — | Jul 27 | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 23 | — | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Sep 26 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 30 | — | Sep 19 – Nov 14 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 23 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 2 | — | Jul 27 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 27 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 23 | — | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in White Cloud
27 fruits matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for White Cloud.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 21 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 10 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 21 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in White Cloud
34 herbs matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for White Cloud.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 27 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 27 | Aug 8 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 7 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 27 | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 27 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 27 | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 27 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 27 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 27 | Aug 22 – Oct 24 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 27 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 27 | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 7 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 27 | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 11 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 27 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 23 | — | Sep 26 – Nov 7 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in White Cloud
51 flowers matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for White Cloud.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 17 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Sep 28 – Oct 19 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 18 | — | May 16 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 14 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 24 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 7 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 30 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 21 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 14 | — | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 16 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 3 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 14 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 14 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 21 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 18 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Jul 6 – Jul 27 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Jul 13 – Aug 3 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 18 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 14 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 14 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 21 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Sep 12 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 14 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 21 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 14 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 21 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 7 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 24 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 14 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 7 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 21 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Aug 3 – Aug 31 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 7 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 7 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 21 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 31 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 18 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Mar 7 | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 7 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 7 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 19 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 14 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Apr 4 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 17 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 18 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 31 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 7 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 21 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 14 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 7 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 17 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Mar 7 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 21 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 14 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 14 | — | May 30 | — | Sep 26 – Dec 5 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 25 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 31 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 16 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Apr 4 | Apr 11 | May 16 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Jul 27 – Aug 17 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 28 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 21 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 18 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 31 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for White Cloud
ZIP Codes in White Cloud
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 Newaygo County.
Your Newaygo County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Newaygo County (Zone 5b). 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