Black, MO — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Top priorities for Reynolds County, Missouri gardeners in July
Welcome to July in Zone 6b. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
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It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
Get ahead of August
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Black has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 6b). The last spring frost typically lands around April 10 and the first fall frost arrives around October 24 — a 197-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 (14.6 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 10
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 24
📅 Growing Season
197 days
🌧️ Climate
Unknown 0.0" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
14.6 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Black
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. Black'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 | 1.4 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.6 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.6 in | 9 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Apr | 3.5 in | 8 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.6 in | 11 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 4.5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.5 in | 9 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.1 in | 9 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.4 in | 8 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Nov | 2.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.9 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 34.4 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.
Black Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 24 | Nov 5 | 195 days |
| Cautious | Apr 18 | Oct 29 | 194 days |
| Average year | Apr 10 | Oct 24 | 197 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 5 | Oct 16 | 194 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.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit shorter (0.6 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Reynolds County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Reynolds 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 Reynolds County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Reynolds 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 Reynolds County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Reynolds County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Reynolds 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 Reynolds County MO" or "garden center Reynolds 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 Reynolds County MO" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Reynolds 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 Black
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: A 14-hour day in June produces dramatically more photosynthesis than a 10-hour day in November. Black's seasonal swing determines which crops can pack growth into spring vs. limp through fall.
Longest Day
14.6 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.4 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 | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 4.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 6.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.6 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.3 hr | 9.4 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 10 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.4 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Black
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Cold soil = stunted starts. A bean seed planted in 55°F soil rots before it germinates. Same seed in 65°F soil sprouts in 5 days. Black's soil temperature pattern shows you the difference month to month.
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 | 31°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 32°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 41°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 52°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 62°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 74°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 80°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 84°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 76°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 62°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 49°F | 56°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 38°F | 46°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 Black
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Black's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Black
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: 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 Black, 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 | Apr 14 | Aug 15 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 15 | Aug 22 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 16 | Aug 29 | ✓ 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 11 | Oct 3 | — | 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 23 | Mar 20 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 15 | Mar 20 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 27 | Mar 27 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 16 | Mar 27 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 21 | Mar 20 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 26 | Mar 27 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 1 | Mar 20 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Black
Why it matters: Wind affects three things gardeners forget: how fast soil dries (more wind = more watering), whether pollinators can work (calm beats gusty), and whether your trellised crops stay upright. Black sees 0.0 mph on average — a forgiving baseline.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.2/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (204 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Black
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: A single rain barrel under a downspout catches 50 gallons in a 0.5" storm. Black's 0" annual rainfall means even modest harvesting systems quickly amortize their cost in water savings.
Annual Collection
17,144 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jun, 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 34.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 17,144 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 Black
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Black.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 15 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 15 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Apr 24 – May 15 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 15 | Aug 28 – Oct 9 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 15 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 30 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Dec 12 – Mar 27 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Aug 28 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 30 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 9 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 25 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Oct 9 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 15 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 30 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 15 | Apr 24 – May 15 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 15 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 15 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 10 | Aug 15 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 17 | — | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Black
27 fruits matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Black.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Nov 13 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Nov 13 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Black
35 herbs matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Black.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 15 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 15 | Jul 3 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 15 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 15 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 15 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 15 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 15 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 15 | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 15 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 15 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 15 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 3 | Aug 15 | May 15 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 30 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Black
53 flowers matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Black.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 18 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Oct 10 – Nov 7 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 13 | — | Apr 10 | — | May 8 – Jun 5 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Sep 12 | Jun 12 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Sep 4 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 13 | — | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 23 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Aug 1 – Aug 22 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Aug 8 – Aug 29 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 13 | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | — | May 8 – Aug 7 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 30 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 2 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 16 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Aug 29 – Sep 19 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 9 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 13 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 9 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 13 | — | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 30 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 2 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 6 | — | Mar 27 | — | May 22 – Aug 14 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 27 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 2 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | Aug 29 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 13 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 18 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 6 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Feb 27 | — | Apr 10 | — | May 15 – Jun 12 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 23 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 6 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 30 | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Sep 4 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 2 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | — | May 22 – Aug 7 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Feb 27 | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Aug 29 – Sep 26 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Sep 25 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Black
ZIP Codes in Black
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 Reynolds County.
Your Reynolds County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Reynolds 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