Hampton, NE — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
What to do in July
We've pulled the most time-sensitive tasks for Hamilton County, Nebraska this July and put them front and centre. Tackle them in order.
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Begin indoor sowing: peppers, begonias, and eggplant
Label every cell. You will absolutely forget which is which otherwise.
-
Harvest basil, carrots, and cucumber as they ripen
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
August will be here before you know it — start on
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Hampton has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 5b). The last spring frost typically lands around April 25 and the first fall frost arrives around October 10 — a 168-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.
Hampton averages 29.5 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 25
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 10
📅 Growing Season
168 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 26.6" annual
💨 Wind
Breezy 11.1 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
29.5 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Hampton
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Hampton gets 27" 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 | 0.8 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 5.1 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.6 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.7 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3 in | 6 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.5 in | 5 days | 1.8 in | High |
| Nov | 1.3 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.9 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 33.7 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Hampton Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.5
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 11 | Oct 25 | 167 days |
| Cautious | Apr 30 | Oct 16 | 169 days |
| Average year | Apr 25 | Oct 10 | 168 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 17 | Oct 6 | 172 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 12 | Sep 25 | 166 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 2.3 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Hamilton County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Hamilton 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 Hamilton County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Hamilton 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 Hamilton County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Hamilton County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Hamilton 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 Hamilton County NE" or "garden center Hamilton 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 Hamilton County NE" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Hamilton 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 Hampton
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: You can't change the sun. Picking the right day-length-matched varieties for Hampton matters more than any other "fix" you make — and the seed packet tells you (look for "long-day," "short-day," "day-neutral").
Longest Day
14.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.2 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 | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.3 hr | 8.6 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.9 hr | 9.7 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.7 hr | 10.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 9.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.7 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.1 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Hampton
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Hampton's soil temperature curve also tells you when your compost is working and when it's napping.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 22°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 22°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 31°F | 34°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 44°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 57°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 68°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 78°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 80°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 70°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 59°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 44°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 30°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Hampton
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: High pest pressure means weekly inspection. Low pest pressure means monthly. The score tells you which routine to set up before you have a problem.
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 | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | 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 Hampton
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: Bare soil is wasted soil — it loses nutrients to rain, dries out, compacts, and gets taken over by weeds. Cover crops (clovers, ryegrass, vetch, peas) are the "between seasons" trick that makes soil better every year. In Hampton, you can fit a cover crop into the gaps.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 6 | Aug 1 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 4 | Aug 1 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 31 | Aug 8 | ✓ 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 24 | Sep 26 | — | 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 4 | Apr 11 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 15 | Apr 11 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 22 | Apr 11 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 9 | Apr 11 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 17 | Apr 11 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 19 | Apr 11 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Hampton
The practical takeaway: A 10 mph wind doesn't feel like much, but it triples leaf transpiration vs. still air. Hampton's 11.1 mph average means most days are gentle on plants, but consider how a 20+ mph spring gust would affect a flat of seedlings hardened off too quickly.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 15 mph Summer: 12 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 14 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.7/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (110 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Hampton
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: Captured rainwater is better for plants than tap water (no chlorine), works during water restrictions, and reduces stormwater runoff. Hampton's 27" annual rainfall is a meaningful pool — most homes could capture 10,000+ gallons a year with a decent system.
Annual Collection
16,796 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 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, 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 33.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 16,796 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Hampton
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Hampton.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 1 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 1 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 8 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | May 9 – May 30 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 1 | Sep 12 – Sep 26 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 1 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 14 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Nov 28 – Feb 13 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 9 | — | Sep 12 – Oct 24 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 14 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 24 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | May 30 – Aug 8 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | May 2 – May 30 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 1 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 1 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 14 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 1 | May 9 – May 30 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 1 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 1 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 1 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 1 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Hampton
27 fruits matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Hampton.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 31 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 31 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Hampton
34 herbs matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Hampton.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 1 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 1 | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 1 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 1 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 1 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 1 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 1 | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 1 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 1 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 1 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 17 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Hampton
51 flowers matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Hampton.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 26 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Oct 3 – Oct 24 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 28 | — | Apr 25 | — | May 30 – Jun 27 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 21 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 14 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 9 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 31 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 21 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Sep 12 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 31 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Jul 11 – Aug 1 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Jul 18 – Aug 8 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 24 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 21 | — | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | — | May 30 – Aug 22 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 31 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 14 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 24 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 14 | — | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 14 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 17 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 28 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 10 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 28 | — | — | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 14 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 17 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 14 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 29 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 14 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 10 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 28 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 17 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 14 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 31 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 21 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 21 | — | May 9 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 14 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 4 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 14 | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Aug 1 – Aug 22 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 7 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 10 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Hampton
ZIP Codes in Hampton
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 Hamilton County.
Your Hamilton County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Hamilton 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