Orleans County, NY — Planting Guide
May in Orleans County, New York — your action list
We've pulled the most time-sensitive tasks for Orleans County, New York this May and put them front and centre. Tackle them in order.
-
Move basil, cucumber, and peppers into the garden
Your last frost (April 29) has passed. These warm-season crops can handle outdoor soil now.
-
Sow basil, cucumber, and green beans where they'll grow
Your soil is 57°F — warm enough for these to germinate without babying.
-
Pick radish, cress, and microgreens
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
June prep starts now
- Starting indoors: basil, cucumber, and kale
- First harvests: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Orleans County is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 29 and the first fall frost is October 23, giving you a growing season of approximately 177 days.
At an elevation of 684 ft, Orleans County receives approximately 46.9 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 86°F with winter lows around 11°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 30 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 28 days year to year — ranging from April 16 in warm years to May 14 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 3.02 days per decade. Orleans County scores 60/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
6b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 29
🍂 First Frost
October 23
📅 Growing Season
177 days
⛰️ Elevation
684 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
46.9 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 | 3.8 in | 12 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.7 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.7 in | 12 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.1 in | 10 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.8 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.5 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.6 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.6 in | 10 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.2 in | 12 days | — | None |
Annual total: 47 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.
Orleans County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.1-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 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 14 | Nov 4 | 174 days |
| Cautious | May 2 | Oct 29 | 180 days |
| Average year | Apr 29 | Oct 23 | 177 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 26 | Oct 17 | 174 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 16 | Oct 5 | 172 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±28 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 3 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Orleans County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Orleans 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 Orleans County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension Extension Office
Phone: 607-255-2237
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 Orleans County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Orleans County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Orleans 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 Orleans County NY" or "garden center Orleans 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 Orleans County NY" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Orleans County Gardeners" or "New York 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
15.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.8 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.2 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 | 9.1 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.5 hr | 7.3 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.2 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.9 hr | 8.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.8 hr | 7.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.5 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.8 hr | 3.2 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 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 | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 22°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 30°F | 34°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 43°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 57°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 69°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 75°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 78°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 72°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 56°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 42°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 28°F | 39°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 Orleans 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
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 | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Slugs | Low | Apr, May, Jun |
Organic pest management tips
- 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 Orleans County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 6 | Aug 28 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 6 | Aug 21 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 1 | Aug 14 | ✓ 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 10 | Sep 25 | — | 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 30 | Apr 8 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Sep 2 | Apr 15 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 4 | Apr 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 19 | Apr 15 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 2 | Apr 15 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 28 | Apr 15 | — | 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: 10 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 14 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
6.6/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (321 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
23,424 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 500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
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 47.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 23,424 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
Soil & Growing Conditions in Orleans County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 5.1–6.7 · Well 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. (46.9 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
177-day frost-free season
Start warm-season crops indoors and focus on short-season varieties. Cold frames extend your season by 3–4 weeks in fall.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 24-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
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 Orleans County
108 vegetables that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Orleans County.
Show all 108 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 13 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | May 13 – Jun 3 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 15 | — | Sep 16 – Oct 28 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 6 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 18 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 13 | Sep 16 – Nov 25 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 18 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 22 – Oct 28 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 9 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 29 – Oct 14 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 26 – Oct 28 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Oct 28 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | May 6 – Jun 3 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 18 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 15 | — | May 13 – Jun 3 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 11 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 9 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 13 | Sep 2 – Oct 28 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 15 | — | May 27 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Orleans County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Orleans County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 20 | Aug 19 – Dec 2 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 20 | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 20 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 20 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 20 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 20 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 20 | Aug 19 – Dec 2 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Orleans County
38 herbs that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Orleans County.
Show all 38 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 22 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 11 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 6 | Aug 5 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 6 | Sep 9 – Nov 18 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Mar 11 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 6 | Aug 5 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 6 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 6 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | May 6 | Aug 5 – Nov 18 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 6 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 6 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 6 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 6 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 6 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 6 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 11 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 6 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 6 | Sep 9 – Nov 18 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 6 | Aug 5 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Orleans County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Orleans County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Orleans County, NY?
Orleans County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. 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 Orleans County, NY?
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Orleans County falls around April 29. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 16 and May 14 — a 28-day window of variability. Use May 14 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Orleans County, NY?
The median first fall frost in Orleans County arrives around October 23. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 5; in mild years as late as November 4. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Orleans County?
Orleans County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 177 days. This is enough time for most warm-season crops including tomatoes, peppers, and squash with proper timing. Climate records show the growing season is trending shorter by about 3.02 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Orleans County for gardening?
Orleans County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 5.1–6.7 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Orleans County?
Orleans County has commercial agriculture that includes Dairy, Hay, Corn, Apples, 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 Orleans County a good location for home gardening?
Orleans County scores 60/100 (Good) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Your Orleans County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Orleans County (Zone 6b). 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