Ithaca, NY — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Top priorities for Tompkins County, New York gardeners in July
Your garden in Tompkins County, New York is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this July.
-
Start peppers, pole beans, and tomatoes indoors
Bottom-water once the first true leaves appear — it keeps stems dry and knocks back damping-off.
-
Harvest basil, carrots, and cucumber as they ripen
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
Coming up in August — start thinking about
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Ithaca gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (39" annual rainfall, most of it October to April). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive almost year-round. The challenge is summer heat: long-season warm-weather crops (full-size tomatoes, peppers, melons) need every bit of summer sun, so prioritize short-season varieties, use dark mulches to warm the soil, and reserve your warmest microclimates (south-facing walls, near pavement) for the tender stuff.
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 (8.1 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 10
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 11
📅 Growing Season
154 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 38.5" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 6.8 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
8.1 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
4 ZIPs
Monthly Watering Calendar for Ithaca
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Ithaca gets 39" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.2 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.8 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.4 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.3 in | 11 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.3 in | 12 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 3.8 in | 12 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Jul | 4.4 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 3.5 in | 10 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3.8 in | 7 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Oct | 2.9 in | 9 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.5 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.6 in | 11 days | — | None |
Annual total: 40.5 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.
Ithaca 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) | May 21 | Oct 30 | 162 days |
| Cautious | May 14 | Oct 17 | 156 days |
| Average year | May 10 | Oct 11 | 154 days |
| Optimistic | May 1 | Oct 4 | 156 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 25 | Sep 29 | 157 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±26 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 longer here (about 1.1 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Tompkins County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Tompkins 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 Tompkins County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Tompkins 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 Tompkins County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Tompkins County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Tompkins 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 Tompkins County NY" or "garden center Tompkins 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 Tompkins County NY" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Tompkins 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 in Ithaca
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: 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. Ithaca'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
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 | 9.2 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 4.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.4 hr | 7.5 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.1 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.8 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.5 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.9 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 in Ithaca
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Lettuce germinates at 35°F. Beans want 60°F. Tomatoes 65°F+. Soil temp, not air temp, is what plants feel. Ithaca's monthly curve tells you when each crop actually has the conditions to take off.
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 | 24°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 24°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 32°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 45°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 57°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 69°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 78°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 77°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 73°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 56°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 45°F | 50°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 Ithaca
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Ithaca's pest score is your early-warning system: high score means commit to disease-resistant varieties and accept some crop loss to bugs.
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 | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | 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 Ithaca
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: Cover crops do four things at once: fix nitrogen (legumes), suppress weeds (any), prevent erosion, and add organic matter when chopped down. Ithaca's seasonal pattern determines which species fit which gap.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 13 | Aug 9 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 19 | Aug 16 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 14 | Aug 16 | ✓ 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 20 | — | 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 5 | Apr 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 19 | Apr 19 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 5 | Apr 19 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 14 | Apr 26 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 12 | Apr 19 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 8 | Apr 26 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Ithaca
What this means for you: Why care about wind? Above about 10 mph, evaporation jumps and pollinators struggle to land on flowers. Ithaca's 6.8 mph average means you can plant tall crops without much support, but it doesn't mean ignore wind — a 20+ mph storm still snaps unstaked tomatoes.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 14 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 14 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
7/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (667 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Ithaca
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Ithaca gets 39" of rain a year — a couple of well-placed rain barrels can cover most summer watering. In dry climates the math's even better: every captured gallon is one you don't buy.
Annual Collection
20,185 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
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Oct, 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 40.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 20,185 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Oct, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Ithaca
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Ithaca.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 2 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Aug 30 – Oct 25 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Aug 16 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 2 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | May 24 – Jun 14 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 2 | Sep 27 – Nov 8 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 2 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 17 | — | — | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 1 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Nov 29 – Mar 14 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 24 | — | Sep 27 – Dec 6 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 1 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Sep 6 – Oct 11 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Sep 20 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Aug 9 – Oct 25 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Sep 6 – Nov 8 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Nov 8 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 2 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 16 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 2 | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 1 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 2 | May 24 – Jun 14 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 2 | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 2 | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 17 | — | — | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Sep 20 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 24 | — | Sep 13 – Nov 8 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 2 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 17 | — | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Ithaca
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Ithaca.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 31 | — | Aug 30 – Dec 13 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 31 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 31 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 31 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 4 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 31 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 31 | — | Aug 30 – Dec 13 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Ithaca
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Ithaca.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 2 | Aug 2 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 1 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 2 | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 2 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 2 | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 2 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 2 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 2 | Aug 16 – Oct 18 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 2 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 2 | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 1 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 2 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 2 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 17 | — | Sep 20 – Nov 29 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Ithaca
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Ithaca.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 22 | May 10 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 11 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Sep 27 – Oct 25 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 12 | — | May 10 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 8 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | May 10 | Aug 30 | Jul 12 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 1 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 25 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 8 | May 10 | May 17 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 15 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 8 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 29 | Apr 12 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 27 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Apr 12 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Nov 1 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 8 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 15 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 12 | May 10 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Jul 19 – Aug 9 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Jul 26 – Aug 16 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 15 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 8 | — | May 17 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 15 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Sep 13 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 22 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 8 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 29 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 1 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 25 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 10 | May 10 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 8 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 1 | — | May 17 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 15 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Aug 16 – Sep 6 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 1 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 15 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 12 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Mar 1 | — | May 24 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 8 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Sep 13 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 8 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 29 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 11 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 1 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 1 | — | May 10 | Aug 16 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 15 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 8 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 18 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 18 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 29 | — | May 10 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Mar 1 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 15 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 8 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 8 | — | May 17 | — | Sep 6 – Nov 22 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 1 | Apr 19 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 19 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 22 | Apr 19 | May 10 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | May 10 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 30 | Aug 9 – Sep 6 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Mar 1 | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 8 | May 10 | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 15 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Ithaca
ZIP Codes in Ithaca
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 Tompkins County.
Your Tompkins County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Tompkins County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log