Cape May County, NJ — Planting Guide
Cape May County is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 29 and the first fall frost is November 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 227 days.
At an elevation of 928 ft, Cape May County receives approximately 44.7 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 94°F with winter lows around 32°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 27 days year to year — ranging from March 18 in warm years to April 14 in cold years. Cape May County scores 71/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
7b (5°F to 10°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 29
🍂 First Frost
November 11
📅 Growing Season
227 days
⛰️ Elevation
928 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
44.7 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.9 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.9 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.5 in | 11 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 4.2 in | 10 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| May | 4.2 in | 11 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.2 in | 11 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Jul | 3.8 in | 8 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Aug | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.1 in | 8 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.7 in | 9 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.2 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.4 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 44.6 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Cape May County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
4.9-6.5
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) | Apr 14 | Nov 29 | 229 days |
| Cautious | Apr 5 | Nov 17 | 226 days |
| Average year | Mar 29 | Nov 11 | 227 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 24 | Nov 6 | 227 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 18 | Oct 31 | 227 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±27 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Cape May County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Cape May 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 Cape May County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Cape May County Rutgers Cooperative Extension Extension Office
Phone: 848-932-3610
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 Cape May County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Cape May County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Cape May 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 Cape May County NJ" or "garden center Cape May 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 Cape May County NJ" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Cape May County Gardeners" or "New Jersey 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
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.7 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.5 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 7.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 8.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 8.7 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 hr | 3.3 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 37°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 39°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 45°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 58°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 68°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 78°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 84°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 88°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 82°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 70°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 55°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 44°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Cape May County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Cape May County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 5 | Sep 2 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 7 | Sep 9 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 4 | Sep 16 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 1 | Sep 9 | ✓ 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 | Apr 23 | Oct 28 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 3 | Mar 8 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 15 | Mar 8 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 2 | Mar 15 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 24 | Mar 8 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 7 | Mar 15 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 3 | Mar 15 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 8 | Mar 8 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 14 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.9/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (293 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
22,228 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 750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jun, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Nov
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 44.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 22,228 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
Soil & Growing Conditions in Cape May County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 4.9–6.5 · Somewhat Poorly Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (44.7 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
227-day frost-free season
Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
Recommended for Your Garden
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Cape May County
113 vegetables that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Cape May County.
Show all 113 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 12 | Aug 16 – Oct 25 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 12 | Aug 16 – Sep 27 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Jun 21 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jul 12 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 – Oct 25 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Apr 12 – May 3 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 15 | — | Aug 16 – Oct 18 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 25 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 12 | Aug 16 – Oct 25 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 25 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 21 – Sep 27 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 16 – Oct 25 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Sep 13 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 3 – Jul 12 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jul 12 – Sep 27 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 – May 3 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 3 – May 31 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 10 – Jun 7 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 15 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 25 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 15 | — | Apr 12 – May 3 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 15 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 15 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 12 | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 15 | — | Apr 26 – May 31 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Cape May County
31 fruits that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Cape May County.
Show all 31 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 19 | Jul 19 – Nov 1 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 19 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 19 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 19 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 19 | Jul 19 – Nov 29 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Cape May County
39 herbs that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Cape May County.
Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | Jun 21 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 5 | Jul 5 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | May 17 – Jul 5 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | May 24 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 5 | Aug 9 – Nov 15 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | May 24 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 5 | Jul 5 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 5 | Jul 5 – Nov 15 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Jul 26 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 28 – Nov 15 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 5 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 5 | Aug 9 – Nov 15 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 5 | Jul 5 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Cape May County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Cape May County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Cape May County, NJ?
Cape May County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Cape May County, NJ?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Cape May County falls around March 29. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 18 and April 14 — a 27-day window of variability. Use April 14 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Cape May County, NJ?
The median first fall frost in Cape May County arrives around November 11. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 31; in mild years as late as November 29. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Cape May County?
Cape May County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 227 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons.
What is the soil like in Cape May County for gardening?
Cape May County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 4.9–6.5 and Somewhat Poorly Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Cape May County?
Cape May County has commercial agriculture that includes Dairy, Hay, Corn, Sweet Corn. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Cape May County a good location for home gardening?
Cape May County scores 71/100 (Good) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. This is an above-average location for home gardening with relatively predictable growing conditions.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Cape May County gardeners in Zone 7b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.
