Sandy Hook, MS — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your July game plan for Marion County, Mississippi
July rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Marion County, Mississippi.
-
Basket week: basil, cucumber, and green beans
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
Before August arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: peppers, tomatoes, and ageratum
Sandy Hook gardens in a long-season climate (Zone 8b, 257 frost-free days). Spring arrives early and fall lingers, so most of the work is matching the right crop to the right window — heat-lovers go in the ground as soon as the soil warms, and cool-season crops shift to fall and even winter rather than spring. Succession planting is your friend; you can plant the same crop three or four times in a season.
The dominant soil here is Clay Loam — holds water well but slow to warm in spring and prone to compaction. Raised beds and generous compost transform what's available into productive growing space.
Drought pressure is moderate (18.0 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 8
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 20
📅 Growing Season
257 days
🌧️ Climate
Unknown 0.0" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
18.0 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Sandy Hook
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. Sandy Hook's 0" 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 | 3.7 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.5 in | 10 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 4.4 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.8 in | 7 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| May | 4.1 in | 8 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.4 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.7 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.1 in | 12 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Sep | 4 in | 8 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.2 in | 7 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.5 in | 8 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Dec | 3.6 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 48 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.
Sandy Hook Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 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) | Mar 30 | Dec 5 | 250 days |
| Cautious | Mar 20 | Nov 26 | 251 days |
| Average year | Mar 8 | Nov 20 | 257 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 1 | Nov 12 | 256 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 14 | Oct 28 | 256 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±45 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
Marion County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Marion 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 Marion County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Marion County Mississippi State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 662-325-3935
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 Marion County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Marion County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Marion 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 Marion County MS" or "garden center Marion 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 Marion County MS" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Marion County Gardeners" or "Mississippi 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 Sandy Hook
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: Lettuce and cilantro "bolt" (go to seed) when days lengthen. Knowing your day-length curve helps you time spring plantings to harvest before the bolting trigger hits. Sandy Hook's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
Longest Day
14 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.3 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: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.2 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.8 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 10 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Sandy Hook
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Soil heats slower than air in spring and cools slower in fall. That's why "warm" April air doesn't mean "plant tomatoes" — soil still trails by weeks. Sandy Hook's monthly soil curve makes the lag visible.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
10 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 45°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 46°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 53°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 63°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 74°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 83°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 92°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 90°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 87°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 75°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 61°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 50°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Sandy Hook
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Sandy Hook's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Squash vine borers | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | High | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Low | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Sandy Hook
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: 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 Sandy Hook, you can fit a cover crop into the gaps.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 12 | Sep 11 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 14 | Sep 18 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 14 | Sep 18 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 11 | Sep 25 | ✓ 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 | Apr 4 | Nov 6 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 9 | Feb 15 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 16 | Feb 22 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 7 | Feb 15 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 4 | Feb 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 24 | Feb 22 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 25 | Feb 15 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 15 | Feb 22 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Sandy Hook
Why it 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. Sandy Hook's 0.0 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: 8 mph Summer: 6 mph
Fall: 7 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Low wind — no windbreak needed for most crops.
Windbreak Benefit
2.8/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (468 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Sandy Hook
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: Captured rainwater is better for plants than tap water (no chlorine), works during water restrictions, and reduces stormwater runoff. Sandy Hook's 0" annual rainfall is a meaningful pool — most homes could capture 10,000+ gallons a year with a decent system.
Annual Collection
23,923 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 500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Mar, May, Jun, Jul
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Oct, Nov
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 48.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 23,923 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Oct, Nov)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Sandy Hook
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Sandy Hook.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 22 | — | Sep 11 | Apr 19 – May 17 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 24 – Jul 5 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 10 – Jun 21 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 10 – Jul 5 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 22 | — | Sep 11 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 10 – Jun 21 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 3 – Jun 21 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 10 – Jun 21 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 3 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 17 – Jul 12 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 17 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Mar 22 – Apr 12 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 22 | — | Sep 11 | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 17 – Jul 12 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 22 | — | Sep 11 | Apr 19 – May 17 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 31 – Jul 12 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 4 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Aug 2 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 3 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 24 – Jul 5 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 9 | Jan 8 – Jun 25 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Nov 22 – Dec 6 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 4 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Sep 6 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Apr 26 – May 24 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 3 – Jun 28 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Apr 12 – May 17 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Jun 7 – Aug 23 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Apr 12 – Jun 21 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 17 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jun 21 – Sep 6 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 17 – Jun 14 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Jul 19 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Mar 15 – Apr 12 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Sep 11 | Apr 26 – Jun 21 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Apr 12 – May 10 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 17 – Jun 14 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 17 – Jul 12 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Jun 7 – Jul 26 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Apr 19 – May 17 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 22 | — | Sep 11 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 3 – Jun 28 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 4 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 24 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 17 – Jul 12 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 22 | — | Sep 11 | Mar 22 – Apr 12 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 22 | — | Sep 11 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 22 | — | Sep 11 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 3 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 24 – Jun 28 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Jun 7 – Jul 26 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 17 – Jul 12 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 17 – Jul 12 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | May 3 – Jun 28 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 10 – Jul 12 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 22 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 17 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Apr 12 – May 17 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 24 – Aug 2 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 24 – Aug 2 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Nov 22 – Dec 6 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 22 | — | Sep 11 | Apr 5 – May 10 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Sep 11 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Jul 19 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 17 – Jun 28 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Sandy Hook
27 fruits matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Sandy Hook.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 11 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 29 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 28 – Dec 13 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Sandy Hook
39 herbs matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Sandy Hook.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Sep 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Sep 11 | May 31 – Aug 16 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 17 – Jul 19 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Sep 11 | Apr 26 – Jun 14 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Sep 11 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 19 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Sep 11 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Sep 11 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Sep 11 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Sep 11 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Sep 11 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Sep 11 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 15 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 5 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 24 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | Jun 7 – Sep 6 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Sep 11 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 15 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 25 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | Sep 11 | Apr 12 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 24 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 18 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 17 – Jul 19 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 15 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 25 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Sandy Hook
54 flowers matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Sandy Hook.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | Apr 19 – Sep 20 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 23 | Nov 20 – Dec 11 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 25 | Oct 2 – Oct 30 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 11 | — | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Jul 5 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Jan 18 | Feb 15 | Sep 25 | Apr 19 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Dec 28 | — | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Oct 11 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 11 | — | Mar 8 | — | Apr 26 – May 24 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Jan 18 | Feb 15 | Sep 11 | Apr 5 – Aug 30 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 11 | Nov 20 – Mar 12 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 8 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | Apr 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 11 | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | Apr 26 – May 24 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | — | May 10 – Oct 4 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 23 | Sep 25 – Oct 16 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 23 | Oct 2 – Oct 30 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Nov 1 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 11 | — | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Oct 18 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 11 | Jan 18 | Jan 25 | — | Mar 15 – May 24 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 11 | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 11 | Mar 1 | Mar 1 | — | Apr 19 – May 17 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 9 | Oct 30 – Dec 4 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Jan 25 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Oct 18 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Dec 28 | — | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Oct 4 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 4 | — | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 23 | Oct 16 – Nov 6 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 4 | — | Mar 1 | — | May 10 – Sep 13 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 11 | — | Mar 1 | — | May 10 – Oct 11 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Mar 1 | — | Apr 19 – May 24 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Sep 11 | Nov 20 – Mar 12 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 11 | — | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Aug 23 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Mar 1 | — | May 10 – Aug 30 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 11 | — | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 – May 3 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Jan 11 | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | Apr 26 – May 24 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | Apr 19 – Sep 6 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 8 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | Apr 19 – Oct 4 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Dec 28 | — | Feb 15 | Sep 11 | Apr 12 – Aug 2 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Mar 8 | — | May 3 – May 31 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Jan 11 | — | Mar 1 | — | May 10 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 11 | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 8 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | Apr 12 – Sep 20 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 25 | Oct 9 – Nov 6 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 4 | — | Mar 1 | — | May 10 – Oct 11 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 11 | — | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 11 | — | Mar 8 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Dec 28 | Jan 25 | Feb 15 | Sep 11 | Apr 26 – Aug 30 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Feb 15 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | May 17 – Oct 4 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Jan 25 | Jan 25 | Feb 15 | Sep 25 | Mar 29 – Aug 2 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 18 | Nov 27 – Feb 5 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 23 | Oct 9 – Nov 6 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Dec 28 | — | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 11 | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | — | May 10 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 8 | Feb 22 | Feb 22 | — | May 3 – Oct 4 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Sandy Hook
ZIP Codes in Sandy Hook
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 Marion County.
Your Marion County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Marion County (Zone 8b). 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