Brookfield, MO — 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 Linn County, Missouri
Your Linn 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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Harvest basil, carrots, and cucumber as they ripen
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
Get ahead of August
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Brookfield gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (35" annual rainfall, most of it October to April). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive almost year-round. The challenge is summer heat: long-season warm-weather crops (full-size tomatoes, peppers, melons) need every bit of summer sun, so prioritize short-season varieties, use dark mulches to warm the soil, and reserve your warmest microclimates (south-facing walls, near pavement) for the tender stuff.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Drought pressure is moderate (19.3 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 17
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 20
📅 Growing Season
186 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 35.1" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 5.6 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
19.3 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Brookfield
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
What this means for you: Watering math is simple: 1 inch of rainfall delivers ~600 gallons to a 1,000 sq ft garden. Brookfield's 35" annual rainfall covers some months entirely; others need a few hours of drip irrigation per week. The calendar tells you which is which.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.7 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.8 in | 11 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.5 in | 12 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 3.7 in | 9 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 3.5 in | 8 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.8 in | 7 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Sep | 2.9 in | 7 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.4 in | 8 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Nov | 2.7 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 32.6 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.
Brookfield Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.8
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 30 | Nov 1 | 185 days |
| Cautious | Apr 23 | Oct 27 | 187 days |
| Average year | Apr 17 | Oct 20 | 186 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 11 | Oct 13 | 185 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 4 | Oct 6 | 185 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±25 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 (0.3 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Linn County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Linn 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 Linn County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Linn 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 Linn County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Linn County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Linn 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 Linn County MO" or "garden center Linn 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 Linn County MO" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Linn 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 Brookfield
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: Photoperiod-sensitive crops will fail spectacularly if planted at the wrong latitude. Sweet onions in Michigan? Tiny. Spanish onions in Florida? Tiny. Match variety to Brookfield's daylight pattern and you'll see the difference.
Longest Day
14.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.1 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 | 9.5 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.8 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.6 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.2 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Brookfield
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Brookfield, an aggressive mulch program shifts your effective soil temperature curve toward optimal for most crops.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 24°F | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 26°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 33°F | 35°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 44°F | 46°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 57°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 68°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 76°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 79°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 71°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 56°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 45°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 30°F | 39°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 Brookfield
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
For new gardeners: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Brookfield'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 | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Slugs | Low | Apr, May, Jun |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Brookfield
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: Cover crops fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 18 | Aug 18 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 21 | Aug 18 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 20 | Aug 18 | ✓ 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 16 | Sep 22 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 28 | Mar 27 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Sep 11 | Mar 27 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 29 | Mar 27 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 14 | Apr 3 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 15 | Mar 27 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 14 | Apr 3 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Brookfield
Why it matters: A 10 mph wind doesn't feel like much, but it triples leaf transpiration vs. still air. Brookfield's 5.6 mph average means most days are gentle on plants, but consider how a 20+ mph spring gust would affect a flat of seedlings hardened off too quickly.
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: 11 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
7.2/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (170 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Brookfield
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Brookfield's 35" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.
Annual Collection
16,247 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 32.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 16,247 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 Brookfield
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Brookfield.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 24 | — | — | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 24 | — | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 24 | — | — | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 1 – May 22 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 11 | Sep 4 – Oct 16 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 24 | — | — | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 6 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Dec 8 – Mar 23 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 24 | — | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 1 | — | Sep 4 – Nov 13 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 6 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 16 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Aug 14 – Sep 18 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Aug 28 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 24 | — | — | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jul 31 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 24 | — | — | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 16 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Oct 16 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 6 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 18 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 11 | May 1 – May 22 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 27 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 24 | — | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Aug 28 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 1 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 24 | — | — | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 11 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 24 | — | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Brookfield
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Brookfield.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Nov 20 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Nov 20 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Brookfield
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Brookfield.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Sep 25 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 27 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Oct 9 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 27 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Oct 9 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 27 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Aug 28 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Brookfield
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Brookfield.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 27 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Sep 18 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Oct 6 – Nov 3 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 20 | — | Apr 17 | — | May 22 – Jun 19 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Apr 17 | Sep 8 | Jun 19 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 6 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 23 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 6 | Mar 20 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Sep 4 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 20 | — | — | May 29 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 13 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 13 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 20 | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Jul 28 – Aug 18 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Aug 4 – Aug 25 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 20 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 23 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 20 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | — | May 22 – Aug 21 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 13 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 24 – Oct 30 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 13 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 27 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Nov 6 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 6 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 2 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 17 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 16 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 6 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Aug 25 – Sep 15 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 6 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 9 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 9 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 20 | — | — | May 29 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 6 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 9 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 13 | — | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Aug 21 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 13 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 6 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Sep 18 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 20 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 6 | — | Apr 17 | Aug 25 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 13 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 25 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 6 | — | Apr 17 | — | May 29 – Jun 26 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 6 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 6 | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 9 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 27 | Mar 27 | Apr 17 | — | May 29 – Aug 7 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 6 | Mar 13 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Aug 18 – Sep 15 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 6 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 13 | Apr 17 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 20 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 9 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Brookfield
ZIP Codes in Brookfield
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 Linn County.
Your Linn County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Linn County (Zone 6a). 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