Birch Tree, MO — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
July in the garden — Shannon County, Missouri
Your Shannon County, Missouri garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for July and why each task matters now.
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Collect basil, carrots, and cucumber at their peak
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
Before August arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Birch Tree has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 6b). The last spring frost typically lands around April 12 and the first fall frost arrives around October 20 — a 191-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
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 (17.6 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6b (-5°F to 0°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 12
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 20
📅 Growing Season
191 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 44.8" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 6.6 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
17.6 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Birch Tree
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Mulch reduces watering needs 30-50% by cutting evaporation. Birch Tree's 45" annual rainfall might be enough for vegetables in some months and not in others — a 2-3" mulch layer evens the swing.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.7 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.4 in | 8 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Apr | 3.4 in | 10 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.7 in | 12 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4 in | 8 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.3 in | 9 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3 in | 8 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.2 in | 7 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 35.7 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.
Birch Tree Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.8-7.1
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) | Apr 24 | Nov 5 | 195 days |
| Cautious | Apr 17 | Oct 27 | 193 days |
| Average year | Apr 12 | Oct 20 | 191 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 6 | Oct 15 | 192 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 26 | Oct 6 | 194 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±29 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 1.7 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Shannon County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Shannon 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 Shannon County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Shannon County University of Missouri Extension Extension Office
Phone: 573-882-7554
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 Shannon County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Shannon County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Shannon 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 Shannon County MO" or "garden center Shannon 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 Shannon County MO" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Shannon County Gardeners" or "Missouri 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 Birch Tree
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Day length is the trigger that tells lettuce, spinach, and cilantro to bolt. In Birch Tree, knowing when that day-length threshold arrives helps you plant a final round in time to harvest before it bolts.
Longest Day
14.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.5 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.2 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 | 9.7 hr | 4.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 8 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.5 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.3 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 6 hr | Short day |
| November | 10 hr | 4.1 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.5 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Birch Tree
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: 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. Birch Tree's monthly soil curve makes the lag visible.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
7 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 | 32°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 31°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 39°F | 41°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 50°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 61°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 74°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 80°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 80°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 74°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 64°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 49°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 36°F | 45°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 Birch Tree
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
For new gardeners: The most successful gardeners in high-pressure regions don't spray more — they design around the problem. Crop rotation, companion planting, and resistant varieties beat reactive spraying.
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 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | High | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | 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
- Watch for powdery mildew, damping off, gray mold — common in your climate
Cover Crops for Birch Tree
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: The "chop and drop" approach to cover crops: cut them down right before flowering, let them lay on the surface as mulch, plant your vegetables through the mulch. Less work, healthier soil.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 22 | Aug 11 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 16 | Aug 18 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 17 | Aug 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 | May 12 | Oct 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 | Aug 22 | Mar 29 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 13 | Mar 22 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 4 | Mar 22 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 10 | Mar 22 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 21 | Mar 22 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 23 | Mar 22 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 22 | Mar 29 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Birch Tree
For new gardeners: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Birch Tree's 6.6 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: 13 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 13 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
6.9/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (148 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Birch Tree
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: Rainwater scales linearly with roof area. A 2,000 sq ft roof in Birch Tree captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 45" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.
Annual Collection
17,792 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 35.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 17,792 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 Birch Tree
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Birch Tree.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 26 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 11 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 11 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 7 – Jul 26 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Apr 26 – May 17 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 11 | Aug 30 – Oct 11 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 11 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 1 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Dec 8 – Mar 23 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 30 – Nov 8 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 1 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 11 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 23 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jul 12 – Sep 27 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | May 17 – Jul 26 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 11 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Apr 19 – May 17 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 11 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 1 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 11 | Apr 26 – May 17 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 23 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 11 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | Aug 11 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 19 | — | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Birch Tree
27 fruits matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Birch Tree.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 15 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 15 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Birch Tree
35 herbs matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Birch Tree.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 11 | Jul 5 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 11 | May 31 – Jul 19 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 11 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 11 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 11 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 11 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 11 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 11 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 11 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 11 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | Aug 11 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 19 | — | Aug 23 – Nov 1 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Birch Tree
53 flowers matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Birch Tree.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 7 – Sep 20 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Oct 6 – Nov 3 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 15 | — | Apr 12 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 12 | Sep 8 | Jun 14 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 12 | — | May 31 – Sep 6 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 25 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Jul 28 – Aug 18 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Aug 4 – Aug 25 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 15 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 10 – Aug 9 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 4 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 18 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Aug 25 – Sep 15 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 11 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 15 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 11 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 15 | — | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 1 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 4 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 8 | — | Mar 29 | — | May 24 – Aug 16 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 1 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 7 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 4 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 1 | — | Apr 12 | Aug 25 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 15 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 20 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 7 – Sep 27 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 1 | — | Apr 12 | — | May 17 – Jun 14 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 25 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 1 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 4 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | — | May 24 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 1 | Mar 8 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Aug 25 – Sep 22 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 1 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 8 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Sep 27 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Birch Tree
ZIP Codes in Birch Tree
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 Shannon County.
Your Shannon County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Shannon County (Zone 6b). 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