Pickrell, NE — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June gardening checklist
June is a pivotal month for Pickrell, NE gardens. Focus on these tasks first and you'll set up the rest of the season for success.
-
Fire up the seed-starting tray: basil, pole beans, and thai basil
You're about 17 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
Bring in the carrots, green beans, and kale
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
July prep starts now
- Starting indoors: peppers, begonias, and eggplant
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Pickrell has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 6a). The last spring frost typically lands around April 22 and the first fall frost arrives around October 12 — a 173-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.
Pickrell averages 25.5 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
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 22
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 12
📅 Growing Season
173 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 30.0" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
25.5 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Pickrell
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: In Pickrell, 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 30" annual rainfall is just the starting context.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 0.6 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.9 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.5 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.2 in | 7 days | 2.1 in | High |
| May | 3.2 in | 10 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 4 in | 10 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jul | 3 in | 7 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3 in | 8 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 1.9 in | 5 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Oct | 1.7 in | 5 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Nov | 0.8 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.6 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 23.4 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.
Pickrell Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.4-7.8
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 27 | 177 days |
| Cautious | Apr 27 | Oct 19 | 175 days |
| Average year | Apr 22 | Oct 12 | 173 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 16 | Oct 7 | 174 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 8 | Sep 29 | 174 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±25 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 (0.6 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Gage County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Gage 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 Gage County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Gage 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 Gage County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Gage County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Gage 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 Gage County NE" or "garden center Gage 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 Gage County NE" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Gage 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 Pickrell
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: The longest day at Pickrell's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.
Longest Day
14.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.6 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 | 10.5 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 8.7 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.9 hr | 10.6 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.6 hr | 10.1 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 9.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.7 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.1 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Pickrell
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Pickrell's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.
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 | 33°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 26°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 32°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 44°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 57°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 70°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 77°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 79°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 69°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 59°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 43°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 31°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 Pickrell
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Pickrell's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.
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 | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Pickrell
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: A fall-planted cover crop in Pickrell is the closest thing to free soil amendment. Plant cereal rye or hairy vetch after harvest; chop it down before it flowers in spring; the soil it leaves behind out-grows any store-bought compost.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 29 | Aug 17 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 23 | Aug 10 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 25 | Aug 10 | ✓ 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 20 | Sep 21 | — | 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 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 8 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 16 | Apr 1 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 19 | Apr 8 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 5 | Apr 8 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Pickrell
Why it matters: Wind dries soil, knocks over young transplants, and disrupts pollination for bees and butterflies. Pickrell averages 0.0 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: 13 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
8.9/10
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 (396 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Pickrell
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Pickrell's 30" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.
Annual Collection
11,662 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
7 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,000 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, 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 23.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 11,662 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 Pickrell
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Pickrell.
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 3 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 3 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | 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 3 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | 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 3 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 3 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | 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 3 | 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 3 | May 6 – May 27 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 3 | Sep 9 – Oct 21 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 18 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 3 | 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 3 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Nov 30 – Mar 15 | 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 3 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 29 | — | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jul 22 – Oct 7 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | 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 3 | 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 3 | Apr 29 – May 27 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 3 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | 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 3 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 3 | 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 3 | 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 3 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 3 | May 6 – May 27 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 3 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 3 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | 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 3 | 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 3 | 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 3 | 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 3 | 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 3 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 22 | Aug 3 | 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 Pickrell
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Pickrell.
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 Pickrell
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Pickrell.
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 3 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 3 | 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 3 | Jun 10 – Jul 29 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 3 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 3 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 3 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 3 | May 27 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 18 | Apr 8 | Apr 15 | Aug 3 | 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 3 | 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 3 | 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 3 | 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 Pickrell
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Pickrell.
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 31 | Sep 28 – Oct 26 | 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 31 | 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 31 | Jul 20 – Aug 10 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Jul 27 – Aug 17 | 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 31 | Aug 17 – Sep 7 | 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 17 | 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 31 | Aug 10 – Sep 7 | 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 Pickrell
ZIP Codes in Pickrell
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 Gage County.
Your Gage County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Gage 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