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Clay County, NE — Planting Guide

Clay County, Nebraska Zone 6a June

Your June planting checklist for Clay County, Nebraska

Your garden in Clay County, Nebraska is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this June.

Avg. last frost April 22
Avg. first frost October 14
Soil temp (4") 69°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14.9 hrs
  1. Indoor seed-starting week for basil, pole beans, and thai basil

    Your window is short. These crops want several weeks of indoor growth before they go outside.

  2. It's harvest week for carrots, green beans, and kale

    Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.

Looking ahead to July
  • Starting indoors: peppers, begonias, and eggplant
  • First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber

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Clay County is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 22 and the first fall frost is October 14, giving you a growing season of approximately 175 days.

At an elevation of 967 ft, Clay County receives approximately 27.9 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 85°F with winter lows around 17°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 21 days year to year — ranging from April 12 in warm years to May 3 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 0.74 days per decade. Clay County scores 74/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

6a (-10°F to -5°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

April 22

🍂 First Frost

October 14

📅 Growing Season

175 days

⛰️ Elevation

967 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

27.9 in

Clay County, NE Moderate season
175 days
❄
Last Spring Frost April 22
➔ 175 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost October 14

Monthly Watering Calendar for Clay County

When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.

Why it matters: Watering math is simple: 1 inch of rainfall delivers ~600 gallons to a 1,000 sq ft garden. Clay County's 28" annual rainfall covers some months entirely; others need a few hours of drip irrigation per week. The calendar tells you which is which.

1"/wk 0" 1.3" 2.5" 3.8" 5" Jan 0.7" Feb 1.1" Mar 2" +1.7" Apr 2.6" +0.4" May 3.9" Jun 4.5" +0.6" Jul 3.7" +1.2" Aug 3.1" +1.7" Sep 2.6" +2.4" Oct 1.9" Nov 0.9" Dec 0.8"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 0.7 in 3 days — None
Feb 1.1 in 5 days — None
Mar 2 in 5 days — None
Apr 2.6 in 7 days 1.7 in High
May 3.9 in 11 days 0.4 in Low
Jun 4.5 in 8 days — Low
Jul 3.7 in 8 days 0.6 in Moderate
Aug 3.1 in 6 days 1.2 in Moderate
Sep 2.6 in 6 days 1.7 in High
Oct 1.9 in 4 days 2.4 in High
Nov 0.9 in 3 days — None
Dec 0.8 in 4 days — None

Annual total: 27.8 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.

Clay County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Loam

Soil pH

6.4-7.3

Drainage

Well Drained

Frost Risk Probability

Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations

Too early frost risk Safe to Plant Apr 22 → Oct 14 175 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Safe: May 3 Protect by: Oct 26

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) May 3 Oct 26 176 days
Cautious Apr 28 Oct 18 173 days
Average year Apr 22 Oct 14 175 days
Optimistic Apr 16 Oct 9 176 days
Aggressive (risky) Apr 12 Oct 2 173 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

Not very — frost dates can vary by ±21 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.

⚠️
Is the growing season changing?

Slightly — seasons are trending a bit shorter (0.7 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.

Gardening Difficulty Score

74 Good
Frost Timing Risk
8.1/10
Drought Risk
3.5/10
Soil Difficulty
0.0/10
Altitude Challenge
0.0/10
Climate Shift
3.0/10
Rainfall Challenge
0.8/10

Clay County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.

Zone 6a Frost Countdown
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Loading...
Last Frost: Apr 22 First Frost: Oct 14

Local Gardening Help in Clay 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 Clay County's climate and soil.

County Extension Office

Clay County University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension Extension Office

Phone: 402-472-2966

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.

Find Master Gardeners in NE →

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.

Request a Soil Test →

Services Available in Clay County

Soil testing Pest identification Gardening workshops
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Clay County

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Clay 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 Clay County NE" or "garden center Clay 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 Clay County NE" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Clay County Gardeners" or "Nebraska 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.

After Squash (Summer) (harvest ends Aug 26) 49 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d
After Chard (harvest ends Aug 5) 70 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Broccoli (harvest ends Aug 5) 70 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Green Beans (harvest ends Aug 12) 63 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Cantaloupe (harvest ends Aug 26) 49 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d
After Zucchini (harvest ends Aug 19) 56 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d Green Beans 50-65d
Show 6 more succession options
After Cauliflower (harvest ends Aug 19) 56 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Sweet Corn (harvest ends Aug 5) 70 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Peas (harvest ends Aug 12) 63 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Cabbage (harvest ends Aug 19) 56 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Watermelon (harvest ends Sep 2) 42 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Spinach (harvest ends Jul 29) 77 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d

Sunlight & Day Length in Clay County

Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.

Why this matters: Lettuce and cilantro "bolt" (go to seed) when days lengthen. Knowing your day-length curve helps you time spring plantings to harvest before the bolting trigger hits. Clay County's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.

Longest Day

14.9 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

9.1 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

10 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.

14hr 12hr 3h 6h 10h 13h 16h Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Daylight hours (sunrise to sunset) Peak sun hours (direct sunlight after cloud cover) ▪ Gold zone = long day (14+ hr) ▪ Blue zone = short day (<12 hr)

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
MonthDaylight HoursPeak Sun HoursDay Length
January 9.4 hr 5.1 hr Short day
February 10.4 hr 5.9 hr Short day
March 11.7 hr 7.3 hr Short day
April 13.1 hr 8.3 hr Neutral
May 14.3 hr 9.2 hr Long day
June 14.9 hr 9.7 hr Long day
July 14.6 hr 10 hr Long day
August 13.6 hr 9.5 hr Neutral
September 12.3 hr 8.1 hr Neutral
October 10.9 hr 7.3 hr Short day
November 9.7 hr 5.6 hr Short day
December 9.1 hr 4.9 hr Short day

Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.

Soil Temperature & Composting in Clay County

Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.

For new gardeners: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. Clay County's typical curve helps you plan — but a $5 soil thermometer in the bed beats any average.

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.

60°F 70°F 10° 30° 50° 70° 90° Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
4" depth 8" depth - - - 60°F (corn, beans) - - - 70°F (tomatoes, peppers)
View detailed monthly data
MonthSoil 4" DeepSoil 8" DeepCompost ActivityTime to Finish
Jan 23°F 31°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Feb 26°F 31°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Mar 34°F 34°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Apr 44°F 44°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
May 58°F 56°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Jun 69°F 64°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 77°F 71°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 77°F 72°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 71°F 71°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 58°F 59°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Nov 42°F 48°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Dec 32°F 40°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 Clay County

Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.

Quick context: The most successful gardeners in high-pressure regions don't spray more — they design around the problem. Crop rotation, companion planting, and resistant varieties beat reactive spraying.

Insect Pest Pressure

5.3 / 10

Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.

Disease Risk

1.8 / 10

Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.

Seasonal Risk

Spring Low
Summer High
Fall Low
Winter Low
View 5 common pests in your area
PestRisk LevelPeak 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
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 Clay County

Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.

The practical takeaway: Why not just leave bare soil? Weed seeds, erosion, nutrient leaching, and crust formation. A cover crop solves all of these for the cost of seeds and one mowing.

Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat May 3 Aug 5 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Sorghum-sudan grass Apr 23 Aug 12 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Mar 23 Aug 19 ✓ 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 13 Sep 16 — 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 20 Apr 1 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Daikon radish Sep 3 Apr 8 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Jul 21 Apr 1 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Sep 16 Apr 1 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Jul 8 Apr 1 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Jul 25 Apr 8 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Clay County

For new gardeners: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Clay County's 11.6 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.

Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.

Seasonal Wind Speed

Spring: 16 mph   Summer: 12 mph

Fall: 14 mph   Winter: 16 mph

Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.

Windbreak Benefit

9.4/10

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 (126 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.

Rainwater Harvesting in Clay County

How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.

Quick context: Rainwater scales linearly with roof area. A 2,000 sq ft roof in Clay County captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 28" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.

Annual Collection

13,855 gal

Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)

Recommended Setup

7 rain barrels (55 gal each)

For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,000 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, Nov, 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 27.8 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 13,855 gallons annually
  • Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
  • Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Nov, Dec)
  • Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection

Soil & Growing Conditions in Clay County

Soil Type

Loam

Soil pH 6.4–7.3 · Excessively Drained drainage

Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.

Watering Needs

Drought stress: 3.5/10

Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (27.9 in. annual rainfall)

Season Tips

175-day frost-free season

Start warm-season crops indoors and focus on short-season varieties. Cold frames extend your season by 3–4 weeks in fall.

Your Free Printable Garden Planner

Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 22-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Recommended for Your Garden

🧪
Soil Test Kit $12-25

Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.

Know your soil before you plant for best results.

📏
Digital pH Meter $10-20

Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.

Helpful for your garden setup.

🍂
Organic Compost $8-30

Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.

Helpful for your garden setup.

🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Clay County

107 vegetables that grow well in Zone 6a with planting dates for Clay County.

Show all 107 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Mar 18 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 29 – Sep 2 80–100
Amaranth Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Aug 5 – Sep 23 90–120
Arugula Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 May 27 – Jul 29 30–50
Asparagus — — May 6 — — 730–1095
Beets — Apr 8 — Aug 5 Jun 3 – Jul 1 50–70
Belgian Endive Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Aug 12 – Oct 7 110–150
Bitter Melon Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 8 – Aug 19 60–90
Black Beans — Apr 29 — — Jul 29 – Sep 16 90–120
Bok Choy Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 3 – Jul 8 40–60
Broccoli Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 24 – Aug 5 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 3 – Jul 8 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jul 22 – Sep 16 90–130
Butternut Squash Mar 18 Apr 29 May 6 — Aug 5 – Sep 9 85–110
Cabbage Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 24 – Aug 19 60–100
Calabash Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 29 – Sep 23 80–120
Carrots — Apr 8 — Aug 5 Jun 10 – Jul 15 60–80
Cauliflower Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 17 – Aug 19 55–100
Celeriac Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Aug 5 – Sep 9 100–120
Celery Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jul 15 – Sep 9 80–120
Celtuce Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 24 – Aug 5 60–90
Chard Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 17 – Aug 5 50–60
Chickpeas Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jul 15 – Aug 26 80–110
Chicory Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 24 – Aug 5 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 17 – Jul 15 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 29 – Sep 2 80–100
Collard Greens Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 17 – Aug 19 55–75
Corn — Apr 29 — — Jul 1 – Aug 26 60–100
Cowpeas — Apr 29 — — Jul 1 – Aug 12 60–90
Cress Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 May 6 – May 27 14–21
Crookneck Squash Mar 18 Apr 29 May 6 — Jun 24 – Jul 22 45–60
Crosne — Apr 8 — Aug 5 Sep 9 – Oct 21 150–200
Cucumber Mar 18 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 1 – Aug 26 50–70
Daikon — Apr 8 — Aug 5 Jun 3 – Jul 1 50–70
Delicata Squash Mar 18 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 29 – Sep 2 80–100
Edamame — Apr 29 — — Jul 15 – Aug 26 75–100
Eggplant Feb 11 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 15 – Sep 16 65–85
Endive Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 10 – Jul 15 45–65
Escarole Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 17 – Jul 15 50–70
Fava Beans Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jul 8 – Aug 19 75–100
Fennel Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 8 – Aug 19 60–90
Garlic — — — Sep 2 Dec 2 – Mar 17 90–240
Green Beans — Apr 29 — — Jun 24 – Aug 19 50–65
Horseradish — — May 6 — Sep 9 – Nov 18 120–180
Hot Peppers Feb 11 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 21 70–120
Hubbard Squash Mar 18 Apr 29 May 6 — Aug 19 – Sep 23 100–120
Kabocha Mar 18 Apr 29 May 6 — Aug 5 – Sep 2 85–100
Kai Lan Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 10 – Jul 8 45–60
Kale Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 17 – Aug 12 50–70
Kidney Beans — Apr 29 — — Jul 29 – Sep 2 85–110
Kohlrabi Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 10 – Jul 15 45–65
Komatsuna Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 May 27 – Jul 1 35–50
Leeks Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jul 22 – Oct 7 90–150
Lentils Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jul 15 – Aug 26 80–110
Lettuce Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 May 27 – Aug 5 30–60
Lima Beans — Apr 29 — — Jul 1 – Aug 12 60–90
Loofah Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Aug 19 – Oct 21 100–150
Luffa Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Aug 5 – Oct 21 90–150
Mache Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 3 – Jul 8 40–60
Melon Mar 18 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 15 – Sep 2 70–100
Microgreens Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Apr 29 – May 27 7–21
Mitsuba Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 15 Aug 5 Jun 10 – Aug 5 50–70
Mizuna Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 May 27 – Jun 24 30–45
Mustard Greens Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 May 27 – Jul 29 30–50
Napa Cabbage Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 17 – Jul 22 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 1 – Jul 29 55–70
Okra Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 1 – Aug 26 50–65
Onion Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jul 22 – Sep 9 90–120
Pac Choi Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 3 – Jul 1 40–55
Parsnip — Apr 8 — Aug 5 Jul 22 – Sep 2 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Mar 18 Apr 29 May 6 — Jun 24 – Jul 22 45–60
Peas Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 17 – Aug 12 55–70
Peppers Feb 11 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 60–90
Pole Beans Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 1 – Aug 26 55–70
Potatoes Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 15 – Sep 23 70–120
Pumpkin Mar 18 Apr 29 May 6 — Aug 5 – Sep 23 85–120
Purslane Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 3 – Jul 8 40–60
Radicchio Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 24 – Jul 29 60–80
Radish — Apr 8 — Aug 5 May 6 – May 27 22–35
Rhubarb — — May 13 — — 365–730
Romanesco Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jul 8 – Aug 19 75–100
Rutabaga — Apr 8 — Aug 5 Jul 1 – Aug 5 80–100
Salsify — Apr 8 — Aug 5 Jul 22 – Sep 2 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jul 1 – Aug 26 70–110
Scallions Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 17 – Jul 15 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 8 – Aug 12 60–80
Shallot Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jul 22 – Sep 9 90–120
Shiso Mar 4 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 1 – Aug 26 50–70
Snap Peas Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 1 – Aug 26 55–70
Snow Peas Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 17 – Aug 12 50–65
Soybeans — Apr 29 — — Jul 22 – Sep 16 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Mar 18 Apr 29 May 6 — Aug 5 – Sep 2 85–100
Spinach Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 May 27 – Jul 29 35–50
Squash (Summer) Mar 18 Apr 29 May 6 — Jun 24 – Aug 26 45–65
Squash (Winter) Mar 18 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 29 – Sep 23 80–120
Sunchoke — — May 6 — Aug 26 – Oct 21 110–150
Sweet Corn — Apr 29 — — Jul 1 – Aug 12 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Aug 5 – Sep 23 90–120
Tatsoi Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 May 27 – Jul 1 35–50
Tomatillo Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 60–85
Tomatoes Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 60–85
Turnip — Apr 8 — Aug 5 May 20 – Jun 24 40–60
Watercress Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 22 Aug 5 Jun 3 – Jul 8 40–60
Watermelon Mar 18 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 15 – Sep 2 70–100
Wax Beans — Apr 29 — — Jun 24 – Aug 19 50–65
Winter Melon Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Aug 5 – Sep 23 90–120
Yard Long Beans Feb 25 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 1 – Aug 12 55–80
Zucchini Mar 18 Apr 29 May 6 — Jun 24 – Aug 19 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Clay County

27 fruits that grow well in Zone 6a with planting dates for Clay County.

Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — May 13 — Aug 12 – Nov 25 90–180
Aronia — — May 13 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — May 13 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — May 13 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — May 13 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — May 13 — Jul 22 – Aug 26 70–90
Che Fruit — — May 13 — — 1095–1825
Cranberries — — May 13 — — 730–1095
Currants — — May 13 — — 730–1095
Elderberries — — May 13 — — 730–1095
Goji Berries — — May 13 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — May 13 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — May 13 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — May 13 — Jul 22 – Sep 16 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — May 13 — — 1095–1825
Haskaps — — May 13 — — 730–1095
Honeydew — — May 13 — Aug 5 – Sep 16 80–110
Jostaberry — — May 13 — — 730–1095
Lingonberries — — May 13 — — 730–1095
Medlar — — May 13 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — May 13 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — May 13 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — May 13 — — 1095–2555
Quince — — May 13 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — May 13 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — May 13 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — May 13 — Aug 12 – Nov 25 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Clay County

35 herbs that grow well in Zone 6a with planting dates for Clay County.

Show all 35 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 15 Aug 5 — 365–730
Anise Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 15 Aug 5 Jul 15 – Sep 30 90–120
Basil Mar 4 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 1 – Sep 2 50–75
Bee Balm — — Apr 29 — Jul 29 – Oct 14 90–120
Borage Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 15 Aug 5 Jun 10 – Jul 29 50–60
Caraway Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 15 Aug 5 — 365–450
Catnip — — Apr 29 — Jul 1 – Sep 2 60–80
Chamomile Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 15 Aug 5 Jun 17 – Aug 26 60–90
Chervil Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 15 Aug 5 May 27 – Jul 29 40–60
Chives — — Apr 29 — Jul 1 – Sep 9 60–90
Cilantro Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 15 Aug 5 May 27 – Jul 29 40–60
Comfrey — — Apr 29 — Jul 1 – Sep 9 60–90
Cumin Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 15 Aug 5 Jul 29 – Sep 30 100–120
Dill Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 15 Aug 5 May 27 – Jul 29 40–60
Epazote Mar 4 Apr 29 May 6 — Jun 24 – Aug 19 45–60
Fennel (herb) Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 15 Aug 5 Jun 17 – Aug 26 60–90
Feverfew — — Apr 29 — Jul 29 – Oct 14 90–120
Garlic Chives — — Apr 29 — Jul 1 – Sep 9 60–90
Horehound — — Apr 29 — Jul 15 – Sep 9 75–90
Hyssop — — Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Sep 9 70–90
Lemon Balm — — Apr 29 — Jul 1 – Aug 19 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Sep 9 70–90
Lovage — — Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Sep 9 70–90
Marjoram — — Apr 29 — Jul 1 – Sep 9 60–90
Mint — — Apr 29 — Jul 1 – Sep 9 60–90
Oregano — — Apr 29 — Jul 1 – Sep 9 60–90
Parsley Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 15 Aug 5 Jun 17 – Aug 19 60–80
Rue — — Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Sep 9 70–90
Sage — — Apr 29 — Jul 15 – Sep 9 75–90
Savory — — Apr 29 — Jun 24 – Aug 19 50–70
Sorrel Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 15 Aug 5 May 27 – Jul 29 40–60
Tarragon — — Apr 29 — Jul 1 – Sep 9 60–90
Thai Basil Mar 4 Apr 29 May 6 — Jul 1 – Sep 2 50–75
Thyme — — Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Sep 9 70–90
Valerian — — Apr 29 — Sep 2 – Nov 11 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Clay County

53 flowers that grow well in Zone 6a with planting dates for Clay County.

Show all 53 flowers with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Mar 4 Apr 22 Apr 22 — Jun 17 – Sep 23 60–75
Alliums — — — Sep 2 Sep 30 – Oct 28 28–42
Anemones Mar 25 — Apr 22 — May 27 – Jun 24 90–120
Astilbe Feb 18 — Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 70–100
Bachelor's Button Mar 11 Mar 25 Apr 22 Sep 2 Jun 24 – Sep 9 60–90
Begonias Feb 11 — Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Oct 7 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Feb 18 Apr 22 Apr 29 — Jul 15 – Oct 28 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Feb 18 — Apr 29 — Jun 24 – Jul 29 60–90
Calendula Mar 11 Mar 25 Apr 22 — Jun 10 – Sep 9 50–70
California Poppy — Mar 25 — — Jun 3 – Jul 15 60–90
Celosia Mar 18 Apr 29 Apr 29 — Jul 1 – Oct 14 60–90
Columbine Feb 18 May 6 May 6 — Jul 1 – Aug 5 70–100
Coreopsis Feb 18 Apr 29 Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Oct 28 60–80
Cosmos Mar 25 Apr 22 Apr 22 — Jul 1 – Oct 7 60–90
Crocus — — — Sep 2 Jul 22 – Aug 12 10–20
Daffodils — — — Sep 2 Jul 29 – Aug 19 20–40
Dahlias Mar 25 Apr 29 Apr 29 — Jul 15 – Oct 28 70–120
Daylily Feb 18 — Apr 29 — Jul 15 – Oct 28 60–90
Dianthus Feb 25 Mar 25 Apr 8 — May 27 – Aug 26 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Feb 18 May 6 May 6 — Jul 29 – Nov 4 70–90
Foxglove Feb 18 Apr 29 Apr 29 — Jun 24 – Jul 29 80–120
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Mar 4 Apr 29 Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Nov 11 70–100
Geraniums Feb 11 — Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Oct 7 70–100
Gladiolus — Apr 22 Apr 22 — Jul 8 – Oct 21 70–100
Hostas Feb 11 — Apr 29 — Jul 15 – Oct 28 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Sep 2 Aug 19 – Sep 9 14–28
Hydrangeas Feb 11 — Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Oct 14 90–150
Impatiens Feb 25 — Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Oct 14 60–75
Irises — Division Apr 29 — Jun 24 – Jul 22 60–100
Larkspur — Mar 25 — — Jun 3 – Jul 29 60–90
Lavender Feb 11 — May 6 — Jul 15 – Sep 9 90–120
Lilies — Division Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Oct 14 70–120
Lobelia Feb 18 — Apr 8 — Jun 3 – Aug 26 70–80
Lupine Feb 18 Apr 29 Apr 29 — Jun 24 – Jul 29 75–100
Marigolds Mar 11 Apr 29 Apr 29 — Jun 24 – Sep 23 50–70
Nasturtium Mar 25 Apr 29 Apr 29 — Jun 24 – Oct 14 55–65
Pansy Feb 11 — Apr 22 Aug 19 Jun 17 – Aug 19 70–90
Peonies — Division Apr 29 — Jul 1 – Aug 5 90–120
Petunia Feb 25 — Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Oct 14 70–90
Phlox Feb 18 Apr 29 Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Sep 30 80–110
Portulaca Mar 18 Apr 29 Apr 29 — Jun 17 – Sep 30 50–70
Ranunculus Mar 11 — Apr 22 — Jun 3 – Jul 1 90–120
Roses Feb 11 — Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Oct 28 90–180
Salvia Feb 18 — Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Oct 14 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Feb 18 — Apr 29 — Aug 19 – Nov 4 60–90
Snapdragon Feb 11 Apr 1 Apr 22 — Jul 1 – Sep 9 70–100
Sunflower Apr 1 Apr 29 Apr 29 — Jul 22 – Oct 14 70–100
Sweet Alyssum Mar 4 Apr 1 Apr 22 — Jun 3 – Aug 12 45–60
Sweet Pea Mar 11 Mar 18 Apr 22 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 65–85
Tulips — — — Sep 2 Aug 12 – Sep 9 15–30
Vinca (Annual) Feb 11 — Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Oct 14 70–90
Yarrow Feb 18 Apr 22 Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Oct 28 60–90
Zinnia Mar 25 Apr 29 Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Oct 14 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for Clay County