Hackensack, NJ — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
What to do in June
If you only do a handful of things in the garden this June, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.
-
Fire up the seed-starting tray: begonias, geraniums, and hostas
Starting these indoors now means sturdy transplants ready the moment your soil warms up.
-
Pick basil, carrots, and cucumber
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
July prep starts now
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Hackensack gardens in a wet, humid climate (49" annually). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive in spring and fall. The biggest challenges are fungal disease and humidity-loving pests in summer — leaf spot, blight, squash bugs, vine borers. Drip irrigation (not overhead), wide plant spacing for air circulation, and disease-resistant varieties make the difference.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Drought pressure is moderate (13.4 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7b (5°F to 10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 29
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 12
📅 Growing Season
228 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 48.9" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.6 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
13.4 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
2 ZIPs
Monthly Watering Calendar for Hackensack
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: In humid climates, watering is usually about timing (morning, not evening, to prevent disease) more than volume. In dry climates, it's about depth (water deep, less often) more than frequency. Hackensack's 49" annual tells you which side you're on.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.8 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.8 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.7 in | 12 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 4 in | 12 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| May | 4.4 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.9 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.3 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.5 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.4 in | 9 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.4 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.1 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 47.6 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.
Hackensack Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.4
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 9 | Dec 2 | 237 days |
| Cautious | Apr 5 | Nov 22 | 231 days |
| Average year | Mar 29 | Nov 12 | 228 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 25 | Nov 8 | 228 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 21 | Nov 3 | 227 days |
Moderately predictable (±19 day range). The "Cautious" dates in the table below are a safe bet.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Bergen County is a very forgiving place to garden. Most plants thrive here with minimal effort.
Local Gardening Help in Bergen 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 Bergen County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Bergen 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 Bergen County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Bergen County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Bergen 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 Bergen County NJ" or "garden center Bergen 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 Bergen County NJ" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Bergen 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 in Hackensack
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: Day length triggers flowering in many crops. Some need short days (sweet potatoes), some long (most flowers), and some are day-neutral (most modern tomatoes). Hackensack's latitude determines which varieties fit your beds.
Longest Day
14.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.5 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 | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 4.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 6.2 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.3 hr | 7.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.9 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.7 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 7.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.7 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.1 hr | 3.1 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Hackensack
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Most root crops germinate well at 50-60°F. Most fruit-bearing crops want 65-75°F. Hackensack's monthly soil curve maps these windows to actual months.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
7 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 | 32°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 30°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 38°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 51°F | 52°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 63°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 75°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 82°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 83°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 76°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 61°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 48°F | 55°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 36°F | 44°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 Hackensack
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. Hackensack's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Hackensack
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: You don't need a farm to use cover crops. A 4x8 raised bed accepts cover crops just as well as a half-acre. Hackensack's climate determines the calendar; the principle is universal.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 6 | Sep 17 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 7 | Sep 10 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 26 | Sep 17 | ✓ 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 19 | Oct 29 | — | 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 4 | Mar 15 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 20 | Mar 8 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 4 | Mar 15 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 4 | Mar 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 11 | Mar 15 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 17 | Mar 8 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 20 | Mar 15 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Hackensack
For new gardeners: Wind affects three things gardeners forget: how fast soil dries (more wind = more watering), whether pollinators can work (calm beats gusty), and whether your trellised crops stay upright. Hackensack sees 7.6 mph on average — a forgiving baseline.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 16 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W 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 (368 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Hackensack
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Hackensack's 49" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.
Annual Collection
23,723 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
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
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 47.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 23,723 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Nov, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Hackensack
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Hackensack.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | 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 | Sep 3 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 15 | — | Sep 3 | May 10 – Jun 7 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | 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 | Sep 3 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | 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 | Sep 3 | 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 | — | Sep 3 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | 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 | Sep 3 | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | 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 | Sep 3 | 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 | Sep 3 | Apr 12 – May 3 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | — | May 31 – Jun 28 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 15 | — | Sep 3 | Aug 16 – Oct 18 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 15 | — | Sep 3 | 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 | Sep 3 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 1 | Dec 31 – May 13 | 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 | Sep 3 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 5 | — | — | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | Jun 28 – Sep 13 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | 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 | Sep 3 | 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 | Sep 3 | Apr 5 – May 3 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | Sep 3 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | May 3 – May 31 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | 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 | Sep 3 | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | May 10 – Jun 7 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 15 | — | Sep 3 | 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 | Sep 3 | 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 | Sep 3 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 15 | — | Sep 3 | Apr 12 – May 3 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 19 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 15 | — | Sep 3 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 15 | — | Sep 3 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | 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 | Sep 3 | 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 | Sep 3 | 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 | Sep 3 | 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 |
| 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 | Sep 3 | 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 | — | Sep 3 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Sep 3 | 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 Hackensack
31 fruits matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Hackensack.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | 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 Hackensack
36 herbs matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Hackensack.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | Sep 3 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | Sep 3 | 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 | Sep 3 | May 17 – Jul 5 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | Sep 3 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | Sep 3 | May 24 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | Sep 3 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | Sep 3 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | Sep 3 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | Sep 3 | May 3 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | Sep 3 | 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 |
| 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 | Sep 3 | 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 | Sep 3 | 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 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Hackensack
53 flowers matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Hackensack.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 15 | Mar 29 | Mar 29 | — | May 24 – Sep 27 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 8 | Nov 5 – Nov 26 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 17 | Oct 1 – Oct 29 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 25 | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Feb 15 | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Sep 17 | May 31 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 18 | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Oct 25 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 25 | — | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Feb 15 | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Sep 17 | May 17 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 1 | — | Sep 17 | May 10 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 1 | Mar 29 | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jun 28 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 25 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 25 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 8 | Sep 3 – Sep 24 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 8 | Sep 10 – Oct 1 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Nov 1 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 25 | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 1 | Feb 22 | Mar 1 | — | Apr 19 – Jul 12 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 25 | Apr 5 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 25 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jun 28 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 8 | Mar 29 | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Nov 8 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 18 | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 11 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 29 | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 25 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 18 | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Oct 18 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 8 | Oct 1 – Oct 22 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 18 | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 4 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 11 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jun 28 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 1 | — | Sep 3 | May 10 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 25 | — | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Sep 27 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 25 | — | Mar 1 | — | Apr 26 – Jul 5 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 1 | Apr 5 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jun 28 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 15 | Mar 29 | Mar 29 | — | May 24 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 1 | Mar 29 | Mar 29 | — | May 24 – Oct 11 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 18 | — | Mar 22 | Sep 3 | May 17 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jun 28 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 25 | Apr 5 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Sep 6 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 1 | Mar 29 | Mar 29 | — | May 17 – Sep 27 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 17 | Oct 8 – Nov 5 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 18 | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 18 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 1 | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 25 | — | Apr 5 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 18 | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Sep 17 | May 31 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 8 | Mar 29 | Mar 29 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 11 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 15 | Mar 1 | Mar 29 | Oct 1 | May 10 – Aug 16 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 17 | Nov 26 – Feb 18 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 8 | Sep 24 – Oct 15 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 18 | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 1 | Mar 29 | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 11 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Hackensack
ZIP Codes in Hackensack
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 Bergen County.
Your Bergen County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Bergen County (Zone 7b). 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