Winnetoon, NE — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June in the garden — Winnetoon, NE
June is a pivotal month for Winnetoon, NE gardens. Focus on these tasks first and you'll set up the rest of the season for success.
-
Time to start basil, cucumber, and kale inside
Label every cell. You will absolutely forget which is which otherwise.
-
Basket week: carrots, kale, and lettuce
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
July prep starts now
- Starting indoors: peppers, astilbe, and begonias
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Winnetoon has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 5a). The last spring frost typically lands around April 30 and the first fall frost arrives around October 6 — a 159-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.
Winnetoon averages 24.3 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
5a (-20°F to -15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 30
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 6
📅 Growing Season
159 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 28.0" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
24.3 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Winnetoon
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: A drip irrigation system pays for itself in 1-2 seasons in any climate. Winnetoon's 28" annual rainfall determines whether you'll run it weekly (dry zones) or maybe just during summer dry spells (wet zones).
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 0.8 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.3 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3 in | 8 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.7 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.8 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.1 in | 6 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.1 in | 6 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.4 in | 5 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Nov | 1.3 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1 in | 4 days | — | None |
Annual total: 32.8 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Winnetoon Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.7
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 16 | Oct 18 | 155 days |
| Cautious | May 10 | Oct 12 | 155 days |
| Average year | Apr 30 | Oct 6 | 159 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 23 | Oct 2 | 162 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 16 | Sep 21 | 158 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±30 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 1.1 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Knox County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Knox 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 Knox County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Knox 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 Knox County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Knox County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Knox 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 Knox County NE" or "garden center Knox 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 Knox County NE" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Knox 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 Winnetoon
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: Onions are a great example of why day length matters. They "bulb up" only when daylight hits a specific number of hours — plant the wrong variety (short-day in the north, long-day in the south) and you'll get tiny bulbs no matter how well you grow them. Winnetoon's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.
Longest Day
15.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.9 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 | 9.2 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.4 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.1 hr | 10.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.8 hr | 10.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 9.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.5 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.9 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Winnetoon
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Most root crops germinate well at 50-60°F. Most fruit-bearing crops want 65-75°F. Winnetoon'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
Jul
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 | 14°F | 25°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 16°F | 24°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 28°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 40°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 54°F | 52°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 64°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 73°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 74°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 66°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 54°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 39°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 25°F | 32°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 Winnetoon
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Pollinators are the good bugs. Pest pressure is the bad bugs. Winnetoon's climate makes both more abundant in warm humid regions, and rarer in cold dry ones — plan habitat to encourage the good while managing the bad.
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 |
| Cabbage worms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Colorado potato beetle | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
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 Winnetoon
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 do four things at once: fix nitrogen (legumes), suppress weeds (any), prevent erosion, and add organic matter when chopped down. Winnetoon's seasonal pattern determines which species fit which gap.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 3 | Jul 28 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 3 | Jul 28 | ✓ 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 29 | Sep 8 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (5 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daikon radish | Aug 8 | Apr 16 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 15 | Apr 16 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 7 | Apr 16 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 12 | Apr 16 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 3 | Apr 9 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Winnetoon
For new gardeners: Light wind is good (strengthens stems, aids pollination); strong wind is bad (snaps stems, dries leaves, scatters seeds). Winnetoon averages 0.0 mph. If you garden near coast, ridge, or open plains, you're likely above that — plan for it.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 15 mph Summer: 13 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.3/10
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 (219 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Winnetoon
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: The first inch of rain washes the roof clean — a first-flush diverter sends it to waste before the barrel fills. Worth the extra $20 for cleaner garden water. Winnetoon gets 28" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
16,347 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 1,000 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
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 32.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 16,347 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 Winnetoon
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Winnetoon.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 28 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 7 | — | — | Aug 6 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 17 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 28 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Aug 13 – Sep 17 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | May 14 – Jun 4 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 28 | Sep 17 – Oct 1 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 28 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 19 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Nov 24 – Feb 9 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 14 | — | Sep 17 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 19 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 29 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 1 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 10 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 7 | — | — | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jul 30 – Oct 15 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 28 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 28 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 19 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 28 | May 14 – Jun 4 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 28 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 28 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 10 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 14 | — | Sep 3 – Oct 29 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 28 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Jul 28 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Winnetoon
27 fruits matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Winnetoon.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Nov 5 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 21 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 24 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Nov 5 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Winnetoon
34 herbs matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Winnetoon.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 28 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 28 | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 22 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 28 | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 28 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 28 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 28 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 28 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 28 | Aug 6 – Oct 8 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 28 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 28 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 22 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 28 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 28 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 7 | — | Sep 10 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Winnetoon
51 flowers matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Winnetoon.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 24 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Sep 29 – Oct 27 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 2 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 26 | — | May 14 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 19 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 14 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 29 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 26 | — | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Sep 10 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Mar 26 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 15 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 26 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 29 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 8 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Jul 7 – Jul 28 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Jul 14 – Aug 4 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 22 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 26 | — | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 20 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 26 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 29 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 26 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 5 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Nov 12 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 19 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 8 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 22 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 19 | — | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Aug 4 – Sep 1 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 19 | — | May 14 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 15 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 5 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 8 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 2 | — | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 19 | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 15 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 19 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 26 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 19 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 24 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 8 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 19 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 5 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 26 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 15 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 26 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 1 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 19 | — | May 14 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 29 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 26 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 26 | — | May 14 | — | Sep 10 – Nov 12 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 9 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Jul 28 – Aug 18 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 12 | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 8 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Winnetoon
ZIP Codes in Winnetoon
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 Knox County.
Your Knox County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Knox County (Zone 5a). 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