Cairo, NE — 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 Hall County, Nebraska
Here's what deserves your attention in Hall County, Nebraska this month. Everything below is tailored to Zone 5b and timed around your local frost dates.
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Get peppers, begonias, and eggplant seeds going inside
These need a head start before your last frost (April 28). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Harvest basil, carrots, and cucumber as they ripen
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
-
Direct-sow carrots, kale, and lettuce for cool weather
A row cover ready in the garage extends your harvest by weeks once the nights turn cold.
Coming up in August — start thinking about
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: alliums, crocus, and daffodils
Cairo has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 5b). The last spring frost typically lands around April 28 and the first fall frost arrives around October 8 — a 163-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
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.
Cairo averages 30.4 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
5b (-15°F to -10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 28
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 8
📅 Growing Season
163 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 26.2" annual
💨 Wind
Breezy 10.6 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
30.4 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Cairo
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Cairo gets 26" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 0.5 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.7 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.3 in | 7 days | 2 in | High |
| May | 2.7 in | 10 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Jun | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 2.8 in | 7 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 2.4 in | 6 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Sep | 1.9 in | 6 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Oct | 1.2 in | 4 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| Nov | 0.6 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.5 in | 4 days | — | None |
Annual total: 20.3 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.
Cairo Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.5-7.6
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 14 | Oct 23 | 162 days |
| Cautious | May 5 | Oct 14 | 162 days |
| Average year | Apr 28 | Oct 8 | 163 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 22 | Oct 3 | 164 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 14 | Sep 25 | 164 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±29 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 3.3 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Hall County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Hall 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 Hall County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Hall 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 Hall County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Hall County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Hall 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 Hall County NE" or "garden center Hall 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 Hall County NE" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Hall 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 Cairo
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: Photoperiod-sensitive crops will fail spectacularly if planted at the wrong latitude. Sweet onions in Michigan? Tiny. Spanish onions in Florida? Tiny. Match variety to Cairo's daylight pattern and you'll see the difference.
Longest Day
14.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
11 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 | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.3 hr | 9.3 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.9 hr | 10.6 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.7 hr | 11 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 9.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.7 hr | 5.7 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 Cairo
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Most root crops germinate well at 50-60°F. Most fruit-bearing crops want 65-75°F. Cairo's monthly soil curve maps these windows to actual months.
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 | 23°F | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 25°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 34°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 47°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 58°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 70°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 79°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 79°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 71°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 57°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 42°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 30°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Cairo
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: Pest score isn't pass/fail. It's a planning input. Higher scores mean: more compost (resilient plants), wider spacing (air circulation), resistant varieties (built-in defense), and inspection (catch issues at egg stage).
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 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 | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Moderate | 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 Cairo
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: Cover crops protect microbial life through winter and summer. Bare soil bakes; covered soil stays cooler, moister, and biologically active. The difference shows up in next year's crops.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 9 | Jul 30 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 2 | Aug 6 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 31 | Aug 6 | ✓ 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 26 | Sep 10 | — | 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 8 | Apr 7 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 18 | Apr 14 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 26 | Apr 14 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 26 | Apr 14 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 2 | Apr 7 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 10 | Apr 14 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Cairo
Quick context: Wind dries soil, knocks over young transplants, and disrupts pollination for bees and butterflies. Cairo averages 10.6 mph — above 10 mph means windbreaks (shrubs, fences, taller crops to windward), staked tomatoes from day one, and an extra round of watering during dry windy spells. Lower wind = lower water bills and fewer broken stems.
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: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
9.5/10
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 (379 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Cairo
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Cairo's 26" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
10,117 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 20.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 10,117 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 Cairo
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Cairo.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 24 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 3 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 30 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 3 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 5 | — | — | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 24 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 15 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 3 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 30 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Aug 11 – Sep 15 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 23 – Aug 11 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 3 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 5 | — | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 5 | — | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | May 12 – Jun 2 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 24 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 30 | Sep 15 – Sep 29 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 24 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 30 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 24 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 5 | — | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 17 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 3 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Nov 26 – Feb 11 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 5 | — | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 12 | — | Sep 15 – Oct 27 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 17 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 27 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 24 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 24 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 8 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 5 | — | — | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jul 28 – Oct 13 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 5 | — | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 24 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | May 5 – Jun 2 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 30 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 3 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 4 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 3 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 30 | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 24 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 17 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 3 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 3 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 24 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 29 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 30 | May 12 – Jun 2 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 30 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 30 | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 3 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 10 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 3 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 5 | — | — | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 24 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 8 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 24 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 24 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 12 | — | Sep 1 – Oct 27 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 5 | — | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 3 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 3 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 3 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 14 | — | Jul 30 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | Jul 30 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 24 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 5 | — | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 3 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 3 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 24 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Cairo
27 fruits matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Cairo.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 19 | — | Aug 18 – Nov 3 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 19 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 19 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 19 | — | Aug 18 – Nov 3 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Cairo
34 herbs matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Cairo.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 30 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 30 | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 10 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 20 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 30 | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 30 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 30 | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 30 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 30 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 30 | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 30 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 10 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 30 | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 20 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 30 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | Jul 30 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 10 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 5 | — | Sep 8 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Cairo
51 flowers matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Cairo.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 10 | May 5 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 29 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Oct 1 – Oct 22 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 31 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 24 | — | May 12 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 6 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 17 | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 12 | — | Jul 28 – Nov 3 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 24 | — | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Sep 15 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Mar 24 | May 5 | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 13 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 24 | May 12 | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 24 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Nov 3 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 31 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Jul 9 – Jul 30 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Jul 16 – Aug 6 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 27 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 24 | — | May 12 | — | Aug 4 – Nov 3 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 24 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 2 – Aug 25 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 24 | May 12 | May 12 | — | Aug 4 – Nov 3 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 24 | May 12 | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 3 | May 5 | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Nov 3 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 17 | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 6 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 5 | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 27 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 17 | — | May 12 | — | Aug 4 – Nov 3 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Aug 6 – Sep 3 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 17 | — | May 12 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 20 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 3 | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 13 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 31 | — | — | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 17 | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 20 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 17 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Sep 1 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 24 | May 12 | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 17 | May 5 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 29 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 13 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 3 | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 13 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 24 | May 12 | May 12 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 20 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 24 | May 5 | May 5 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 29 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 17 | — | May 12 | — | Jul 28 – Nov 3 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 24 | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 13 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 24 | — | May 12 | — | Sep 8 – Nov 17 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 7 | May 5 | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 13 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 17 | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Jul 30 – Aug 20 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 10 | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Nov 3 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 13 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Cairo
ZIP Codes in Cairo
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 Hall County.
Your Hall County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Hall County (Zone 5b). 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