Rea, MO — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
July to-do list for Andrew County, Missouri
Your garden in Andrew County, Missouri is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this July.
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Harvest basil, carrots, and cucumber as they ripen
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
Before August arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Rea gardens in a dry climate (only 2" annual precipitation). Watering strategy matters more here than in most of the country — drip irrigation, deep mulching, and morning watering aren't optional, they're table stakes. The flip side: pest and disease pressure are far lower than in humid regions, and your soil temperatures climb fast in spring so you can plant heat-lovers earlier than the zone map suggests.
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.
Rea averages 21.6 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
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 17
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 18
📅 Growing Season
184 days
🌧️ Climate
Arid 1.9" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 8.5 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
21.6 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Rea
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: In humid climates, watering is usually about timing (morning, not evening, to prevent disease) more than volume. In dry climates, it's about depth (water deep, less often) more than frequency. Rea's 2" annual tells you which side you're on.
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 | 2.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.4 in | 10 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.9 in | 10 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jun | 5.1 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.6 in | 9 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 4.1 in | 8 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.7 in | 7 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.3 in | 6 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 37.6 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.
Rea Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.3-7
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 30 | Nov 1 | 185 days |
| Cautious | Apr 22 | Oct 25 | 186 days |
| Average year | Apr 17 | Oct 18 | 184 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 12 | Oct 10 | 181 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 29 | Oct 3 | 188 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±31 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 1.8 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Andrew County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Andrew 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 Andrew County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Andrew 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 Andrew County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Andrew County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Andrew 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 Andrew County MO" or "garden center Andrew 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 Andrew County MO" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Andrew 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 Rea
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: The longest day at Rea's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.
Longest Day
14.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.3 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: 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 | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.8 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.6 hr | 9.3 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.7 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.2 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Rea
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Rea'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 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 | 21°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 23°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 32°F | 34°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 44°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 56°F | 53°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 70°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 75°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 78°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 71°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 58°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 42°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 29°F | 38°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 Rea
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: Pest pressure is a function of climate, not effort. Rea's baseline tells you how much vigilance is normal. A bad pest year in low-pressure region = a normal year in high-pressure region.
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 | 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
- 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 Rea
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: A fall-planted cover crop in Rea is the closest thing to free soil amendment. Plant cereal rye or hairy vetch after harvest; chop it down before it flowers in spring; the soil it leaves behind out-grows any store-bought compost.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 22 | Aug 23 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 21 | Aug 23 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Apr 30 | Oct 4 | — | 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 16 | Apr 3 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 21 | Apr 3 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 10 | Mar 27 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 16 | Mar 27 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 24 | Apr 3 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 14 | Mar 27 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Rea
What this means for you: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Rea's 8.5 mph average is one piece of the watering math: rainfall + irrigation must exceed evaporation + transpiration, and wind boosts both losses.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 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 (184 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Rea
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: Even in arid regions, rainwater harvesting works — you just need bigger storage and patience. In wet regions like Rea (2" annually), you're mostly limited by how much water you can store between storms.
Annual Collection
18,739 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, Aug, Sep
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 37.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 18,739 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 Rea
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Rea.
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 9 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 9 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | 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 9 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | 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 9 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | 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 9 | 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 9 | May 1 – May 22 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 9 | Sep 4 – Oct 16 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 9 | 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 9 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Dec 6 – Mar 21 | 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 9 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 24 | — | — | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | 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 9 | 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 9 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 9 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | 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 9 | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 9 | 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 9 | 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 9 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 9 | May 1 – May 22 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 3 | — | Aug 9 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | 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 9 | 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 9 | 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 9 | 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 9 | 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 9 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | 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 Rea
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Rea.
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 Rea
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Rea.
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 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 9 | 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 9 | Jun 5 – Jul 24 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 9 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 9 | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 9 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 9 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 9 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | Aug 9 | 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 9 | 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 9 | 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 9 | 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 Rea
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Rea.
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 6 | Oct 4 – Nov 1 | 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 6 | 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 6 | Jul 26 – Aug 16 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Aug 2 – Aug 23 | 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 6 | Aug 23 – Sep 13 | 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 23 | 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 6 | Aug 16 – Sep 13 | 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 Rea
ZIP Codes in Rea
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 Andrew County.
Your Andrew County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Andrew 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