Avoca, NE — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Cass County, Nebraska gardeners: here's your June plan
If you only do a handful of things in the garden this June, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.
-
Sow basil, pole beans, and thai basil in trays indoors
These need a head start before your last frost (April 22). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Bring in the carrots, green beans, and kale
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
- Starting indoors: peppers, begonias, and eggplant
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Avoca gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (32" 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 Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Avoca averages 22.9 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 22
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 11
📅 Growing Season
172 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 31.9" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
22.9 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Avoca
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: In Avoca, the watering question isn't "how often" — it's "is the soil moist 4 inches down?" Stick a finger in. Dry? Water. Damp? Wait. The 32" annual rainfall is just the starting context.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 0.5 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.6 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.5 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.2 in | 8 days | 2.1 in | High |
| May | 2.6 in | 10 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Jun | 3 in | 8 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 2.8 in | 7 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 2.7 in | 6 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Sep | 2.2 in | 6 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Oct | 1.3 in | 5 days | 3 in | High |
| Nov | 0.6 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.6 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 20.6 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.
Avoca Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 3 | Oct 26 | 176 days |
| Cautious | Apr 27 | Oct 16 | 172 days |
| Average year | Apr 22 | Oct 11 | 172 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 16 | Oct 6 | 173 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 9 | Sep 28 | 172 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±24 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit longer (0.4 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Cass County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Cass 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 Cass County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Cass 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.
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 Cass County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Cass County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Cass 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 Cass County NE" or "garden center Cass 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 Cass County NE" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Cass 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.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length in Avoca
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: 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. Avoca'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
10.7 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 | 9.4 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.3 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.9 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.7 hr | 10.7 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 9.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.7 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.1 hr | 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 Avoca
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Avoca, an aggressive mulch program shifts your effective soil temperature curve toward optimal for most crops.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 22°F | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 22°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 34°F | 35°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 46°F | 46°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 57°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 68°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 78°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 80°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 73°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 57°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 42°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 32°F | 37°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 Avoca
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Avoca'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
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Slugs | Low | Apr, May, Jun |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Avoca
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: Cover crops fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 3 | Aug 16 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 28 | Aug 2 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 28 | Aug 16 | ✓ 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 12 | Sep 13 | — | 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 3 | Apr 8 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 15 | Apr 1 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 25 | Apr 1 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 11 | Apr 1 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 3 | Apr 8 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 14 | Apr 8 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Avoca
Why it matters: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Avoca's 0.0 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: 15 mph Summer: 13 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.4/10
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 (203 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Avoca
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Avoca's 32" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
10,267 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 2,250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, 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 20.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 10,267 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Nov)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Avoca
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Avoca.
Show all 107 vegetables with 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 2 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 2 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | 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 2 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | 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 2 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 2 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | 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 2 | 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 2 | May 6 – May 27 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 2 | Sep 9 – Oct 21 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 2 | 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 2 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Nov 29 – Mar 14 | 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 2 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jul 22 – Oct 7 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | 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 2 | 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 2 | Apr 29 – May 27 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 2 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | 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 2 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 2 | 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 2 | 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 2 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 2 | May 6 – May 27 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 2 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 2 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | 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 2 | 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 2 | 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 2 | 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 2 | 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 2 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 2 | 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 Avoca
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Avoca.
Show all 27 fruits with 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 Avoca
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Avoca.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 2 | 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 2 | Jun 10 – Jul 29 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 2 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 2 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 2 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 2 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 2 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 2 | 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 2 | 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 2 | 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 2 | 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 Avoca
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Avoca.
Show all 53 flowers with 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 | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Sep 27 – Oct 25 | 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 | Aug 30 | 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 | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Jul 19 – Aug 9 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Jul 26 – Aug 16 | 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 | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Aug 16 – Sep 6 | 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 16 | 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 | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Aug 9 – Sep 6 | 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 Avoca
ZIP Codes in Avoca
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 Cass County.
Your Cass County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Cass 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