Dover, MO — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June in Lafayette County, Missouri — your action list
We've pulled the most time-sensitive tasks for Lafayette County, Missouri this June and put them front and centre. Tackle them in order.
-
Time to start basil, peppers, and pole beans inside
You're about 17 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
Bring in the basil, carrots, and cucumber
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
To set up a strong July, finish these tasks
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Dover gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (40" 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.
Dover averages 20.3 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6b (-5°F to 0°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 13
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 24
📅 Growing Season
194 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 39.6" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
20.3 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Dover
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: A drip irrigation system pays for itself in 1-2 seasons in any climate. Dover's 40" annual rainfall determines whether you'll run it weekly (dry zones) or maybe just during summer dry spells (wet zones).
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.7 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.6 in | 9 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Apr | 4.6 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| May | 4.6 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.9 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.9 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.4 in | 7 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 41.7 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.
Dover Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.6-6.7
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 29 | Nov 4 | 189 days |
| Cautious | Apr 19 | Oct 27 | 191 days |
| Average year | Apr 13 | Oct 24 | 194 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 6 | Oct 16 | 193 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 27 | Oct 7 | 194 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±33 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 1.2 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Lafayette County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Lafayette 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 Lafayette County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Lafayette 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 Lafayette County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Lafayette County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Lafayette 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 Lafayette County MO" or "garden center Lafayette 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 Lafayette County MO" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Lafayette 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 Dover
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: You can't change the sun. Picking the right day-length-matched varieties for Dover matters more than any other "fix" you make — and the seed packet tells you (look for "long-day," "short-day," "day-neutral").
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.8 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 | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 6.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 7.9 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 9.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 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 Dover
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Dover's soil temperature curve also tells you when your compost is working and when it's napping.
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 | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 31°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 38°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 53°F | 52°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 63°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 73°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 83°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 84°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 75°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 63°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 49°F | 54°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 36°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 Dover
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Dover's pest score is your early-warning system: high score means commit to disease-resistant varieties and accept some crop loss to bugs.
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 | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Moderate | 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
Cover Crops for Dover
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: Cover crops protect microbial life through winter and summer. Bare soil bakes; covered soil stays cooler, moister, and biologically active. The difference shows up in next year's crops.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 20 | Aug 29 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 17 | Aug 15 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 15 | Aug 15 | ✓ 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 3 | 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 | Sep 1 | Mar 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 17 | Mar 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 8 | Mar 23 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 12 | Mar 30 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 20 | Mar 30 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 17 | Mar 30 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 2 | Mar 23 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Dover
What this means for you: Why care about wind? Above about 10 mph, evaporation jumps and pollinators struggle to land on flowers. Dover's 0.0 mph average means you can plant tall crops without much support, but it doesn't mean ignore wind — a 20+ mph storm still snaps unstaked tomatoes.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 13 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.7/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (194 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Dover
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Dover's 40" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.
Annual Collection
20,783 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, 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 41.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 20,783 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 Dover
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Dover.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 15 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 15 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Apr 27 – May 18 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 15 | Aug 31 – Oct 12 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 15 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 2 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Dec 12 – Mar 27 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 2 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 12 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 24 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 12 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 15 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 15 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 2 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 15 | Apr 27 – May 18 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 15 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 15 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 24 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 15 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 15 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Dover
27 fruits matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Dover.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Dover
35 herbs matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Dover.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 15 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 15 | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 15 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 15 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 15 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 15 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 15 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 15 | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 15 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 15 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 15 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 15 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Dover
53 flowers matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Dover.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Sep 21 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Oct 10 – Nov 7 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 16 | — | Apr 13 | — | May 11 – Jun 8 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Sep 12 | Jun 15 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 1 – Sep 7 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 16 | — | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 26 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Aug 1 – Aug 22 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Aug 8 – Aug 29 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 16 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | — | May 11 – Aug 10 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Nov 2 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Aug 29 – Sep 19 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 12 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 16 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 12 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 16 | — | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 2 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 5 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 9 | — | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Aug 17 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 5 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | Aug 29 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 16 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 21 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | May 18 – Jun 15 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 26 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 9 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 7 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | — | May 25 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Aug 29 – Sep 26 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 28 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Dover
ZIP Codes in Dover
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 Lafayette County.
Your Lafayette County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lafayette 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