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Buncombe County, NC — Planting Guide

Buncombe County, North Carolina Zone 7b June

Your June game plan for Buncombe County, North Carolina

Welcome to June in Zone 7b. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.

Avg. last frost April 16
Avg. first frost October 22
Soil temp (4") 74°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14.4 hrs
  1. Start basil, peppers, and pole beans under lights

    Starting these indoors now means sturdy transplants ready the moment your soil warms up.

  2. Harvest basil, carrots, and cucumber as they ripen

    Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.

To set up a strong July, finish these tasks
  • First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber

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Buncombe County is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is April 16 and the first fall frost is October 22, giving you a growing season of approximately 189 days.

At an elevation of 1,983 ft, Buncombe County receives approximately 51.7 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 89°F with winter lows around 33°F. The predominant soil type is Clay Loam.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 35 days year to year — ranging from March 28 in warm years to May 2 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 3.52 days per decade. Buncombe County scores 46/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

7b (5°F to 10°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

April 16

🍂 First Frost

October 22

📅 Growing Season

189 days

⛰️ Elevation

1,983 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

51.7 in

Buncombe County, NC Moderate season
189 days
❄
Last Spring Frost April 16
➔ 189 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost October 22

Monthly Watering Calendar for Buncombe County

When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.

Quick context: Mulch reduces watering needs 30-50% by cutting evaporation. Buncombe County's 52" annual rainfall might be enough for vegetables in some months and not in others — a 2-3" mulch layer evens the swing.

1"/wk 0" 1.3" 2.5" 3.8" 5" Jan 4.5" Feb 4.4" Mar 4.6" Apr 4.3" May 4.5" Jun 4.4" Jul 4.7" Aug 4.8" +0.5" Sep 3.8" +0.8" Oct 3.5" Nov 3.5" Dec 4.6"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 4.5 in 10 days — None
Feb 4.4 in 9 days — None
Mar 4.6 in 9 days — Low
Apr 4.3 in 7 days — Low
May 4.5 in 7 days — Low
Jun 4.4 in 9 days — Low
Jul 4.7 in 11 days — Low
Aug 4.8 in 10 days — Low
Sep 3.8 in 8 days 0.5 in Low
Oct 3.5 in 7 days 0.8 in Moderate
Nov 3.5 in 8 days — None
Dec 4.6 in 8 days — None

Annual total: 51.6 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.

Buncombe County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH

5.6-6.6

Drainage

Well Drained

Frost Risk Probability

Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations

Too early frost risk Safe to Plant Apr 16 → Oct 22 189 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: May 2 Protect by: Nov 5

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 2 Nov 5 187 days
Cautious Apr 23 Oct 29 189 days
Average year Apr 16 Oct 22 189 days
Optimistic Apr 9 Oct 18 192 days
Aggressive (risky) Mar 28 Oct 7 193 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

Not very — frost dates can vary by ±35 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.

🌱
Is the growing season changing?

Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 3.5 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.

Gardening Difficulty Score

46 Moderate
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
3.5/10
Soil Difficulty
4.0/10
Altitude Challenge
2.0/10
Climate Shift
10.0/10
Rainfall Challenge
2.7/10

Buncombe County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.

Zone 7b Frost Countdown
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Loading...
Last Frost: Apr 16 First Frost: Oct 22

Local Gardening Help in Buncombe 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 Buncombe County's climate and soil.

County Extension Office

Buncombe County NC State Extension Extension Office

Phone: 919-515-3113

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.

Find Master Gardeners in NC →

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.

Request a Soil Test →

Services Available in Buncombe County

Soil testing Pest identification Master Gardener program
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Buncombe County

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Buncombe 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 Buncombe County NC" or "garden center Buncombe 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 Buncombe County NC" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Buncombe County Gardeners" or "North Carolina 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.

After Cabbage (harvest ends Aug 13) 70 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Peppers (harvest ends Sep 10) 42 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Onion (harvest ends Sep 3) 49 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d
After Sweet Corn (harvest ends Jul 30) 84 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Carrots (harvest ends Jul 23) 91 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Kale (harvest ends Aug 6) 77 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
Show 6 more succession options
After Spinach (harvest ends Jul 23) 91 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Okra (harvest ends Aug 20) 63 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Pole Beans (harvest ends Aug 20) 63 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Potatoes (harvest ends Sep 17) 35 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Green Beans (harvest ends Aug 6) 77 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Beets (harvest ends Jul 9) 105 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d

Sunlight & Day Length in Buncombe County

Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.

Quick context: A 14-hour day in June produces dramatically more photosynthesis than a 10-hour day in November. Buncombe County's seasonal swing determines which crops can pack growth into spring vs. limp through fall.

Longest Day

14.4 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

9.6 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.

14hr 12hr 3h 6h 10h 13h 16h Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Daylight hours (sunrise to sunset) Peak sun hours (direct sunlight after cloud cover) ▪ Gold zone = long day (14+ hr) ▪ Blue zone = short day (<12 hr)

Onion tip: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.

View detailed monthly data
MonthDaylight HoursPeak Sun HoursDay Length
January 9.8 hr 5 hr Short day
February 10.7 hr 5.6 hr Short day
March 11.7 hr 6.6 hr Short day
April 12.9 hr 7.9 hr Neutral
May 13.9 hr 8.5 hr Neutral
June 14.4 hr 8.1 hr Long day
July 14.2 hr 8.1 hr Long day
August 13.3 hr 7.3 hr Neutral
September 12.2 hr 7.3 hr Neutral
October 11.1 hr 6.5 hr Short day
November 10.1 hr 5.5 hr Short day
December 9.6 hr 4.5 hr Short day

Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.

Soil Temperature & Composting in Buncombe County

Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.

What this means for you: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Buncombe County's soil temperature curve also tells you when your compost is working and when it's napping.

Plant Warm Crops When

Soil reaches 60°F+

Soil warm enough from May through Oct.

Best Month to Compost

May

Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.

Active Composting

8 months

Nearly year-round composting.

60°F 70°F 20° 40° 60° 80° 100° Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
4" depth 8" depth - - - 60°F (corn, beans) - - - 70°F (tomatoes, peppers)
View detailed monthly data
MonthSoil 4" DeepSoil 8" DeepCompost ActivityTime to Finish
Jan 36°F 43°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Feb 36°F 42°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Mar 42°F 44°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Apr 55°F 53°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
May 66°F 61°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jun 74°F 69°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 81°F 76°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 83°F 79°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 77°F 77°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 67°F 68°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Nov 51°F 58°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Dec 43°F 48°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks

Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.

Pest & Disease Pressure in Buncombe County

Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.

The practical takeaway: In Buncombe County's climate, pest pressure shapes which crops are easy and which are heartbreak. Tomatoes are easy in dry mountain air, hard in humid coast — same plant, completely different gardening experience.

Insect Pest Pressure

6.5 / 10

Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.

Disease Risk

7.7 / 10

High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.

Seasonal Risk

Spring Moderate
Summer High
Fall Low
Winter Low
View 6 common pests in your area
PestRisk LevelPeak Months
Aphids High Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Japanese beetles Moderate Jun, Jul, Aug
Squash vine borers Moderate May, Jun, Jul
Stink bugs Moderate May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Whiteflies Moderate Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Spider mites Moderate Jul, Aug
Organic pest management tips
  • Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
  • Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
  • Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
  • Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
  • Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
  • Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash

Cover Crops for Buncombe County

Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.

What this means for you: Cover crops are the experienced gardener's secret weapon. Buncombe County's climate determines which species thrive: clover and vetch in mild winters, cereal rye and Austrian peas in cold ones.

Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat Apr 26 Aug 20 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Cowpeas (southern peas) Apr 23 Aug 13 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible
Sorghum-sudan grass Apr 18 Aug 13 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Mar 17 Aug 20 ✓ 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 17 Oct 1 — 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 Aug 24 Mar 26 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Crimson clover Aug 15 Mar 26 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring
Daikon radish Sep 12 Apr 2 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Jul 29 Apr 2 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Sep 21 Mar 26 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Jul 18 Mar 26 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Jul 26 Mar 26 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Buncombe County

What this means for you: Why care about wind? Above about 10 mph, evaporation jumps and pollinators struggle to land on flowers. Buncombe County's 7.3 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: 10 mph   Summer: 7 mph

Fall: 9 mph   Winter: 10 mph

Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.

Windbreak Benefit

2.8/10

Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.

Frost Pocket Risk

Low

Relatively flat terrain (225 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.

Rainwater Harvesting in Buncombe County

How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.

What this means for you: Rainwater scales linearly with roof area. A 2,000 sq ft roof in Buncombe County captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 52" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.

Annual Collection

25,717 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 250 gal tank.

Legal Status

Unrestricted

Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.

Best Collection Months

Mar, Jul, Aug, Dec

Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.

Months to Draw From Storage

Sep, Oct, Nov

Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.

Rainwater collection tips for your area
  • Your county receives approximately 51.6 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 25,717 gallons annually
  • Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
  • Your area gets ample rainfall — even small barrels make a big difference
  • Consider a rain garden to handle overflow during heavy rainfall months

Soil & Growing Conditions in Buncombe County

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH 5.6–6.6 · Somewhat Poorly Drained drainage

Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.

Watering Needs

Drought stress: 3.5/10

Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (51.7 in. annual rainfall)

Season Tips

189-day frost-free season

Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.

Your Free Printable Garden Planner

Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 22-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.

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Recommended for Your Garden

📦
Raised Bed Garden Kit $40-120

Cedar raised bed kit — ideal for poor soil, clay, or small-space gardening.

Great for improving heavy clay soil drainage.

⬜
Perlite $10-18

Improve drainage and aeration in heavy clay soils with horticultural perlite.

Great for improving heavy clay soil drainage.

🏗️
Raised Bed Soil Mix $20-45

Premium blend of topsoil, compost, and perlite formulated for raised beds.

Great for improving heavy clay soil drainage.

🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Buncombe County

112 vegetables that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Buncombe County.

Show all 112 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Mar 19 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 23 – Aug 27 80–100
Amaranth Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 30 – Sep 17 90–120
Artichoke — — Apr 30 — Sep 3 – Nov 12 120–180
Arugula Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 May 21 – Jul 23 30–50
Asparagus — — Apr 30 — — 730–1095
Beets — Apr 2 — Aug 13 May 28 – Jun 25 50–70
Belgian Endive Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Aug 6 – Oct 1 110–150
Bitter Melon Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 2 – Aug 13 60–90
Black Beans — Apr 23 — — Jul 23 – Sep 10 90–120
Bok Choy Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 May 28 – Jul 2 40–60
Broccoli Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 18 – Jul 30 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 May 28 – Jul 2 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jul 16 – Sep 10 90–130
Butternut Squash Mar 19 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 30 – Sep 3 85–110
Cabbage Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 18 – Aug 13 60–100
Calabash Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 23 – Sep 17 80–120
Cardoon — — Apr 30 — Sep 3 – Oct 15 120–150
Carrots — Apr 2 — Aug 13 Jun 4 – Jul 9 60–80
Cauliflower Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 11 – Aug 13 55–100
Celeriac Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jul 30 – Sep 3 100–120
Celery Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jul 9 – Sep 3 80–120
Celtuce Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 18 – Jul 30 60–90
Chard Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 11 – Jul 30 50–60
Chayote Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Sep 3 – Nov 12 120–180
Chickpeas Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jul 9 – Aug 20 80–110
Chicory Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 18 – Jul 30 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 11 – Jul 9 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 23 – Aug 27 80–100
Collard Greens Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 11 – Aug 13 55–75
Corn — Apr 23 — — Jun 25 – Aug 20 60–100
Cowpeas — Apr 23 — — Jun 25 – Aug 6 60–90
Cress Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Apr 30 – May 21 14–21
Crookneck Squash Mar 19 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jun 18 – Jul 16 45–60
Crosne — Apr 2 — Aug 13 Sep 3 – Nov 5 150–200
Cucumber Mar 19 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jun 25 – Aug 20 50–70
Daikon — Apr 2 — Aug 13 May 28 – Jun 25 50–70
Delicata Squash Mar 19 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 23 – Aug 27 80–100
Edamame — Apr 23 — — Jul 9 – Aug 20 75–100
Eggplant Feb 12 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 9 – Sep 10 65–85
Endive Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 4 – Jul 9 45–65
Escarole Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 11 – Jul 9 50–70
Fava Beans Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jul 2 – Aug 13 75–100
Fennel Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 2 – Aug 13 60–90
Garlic — — — Sep 10 Dec 10 – Apr 22 90–240
Green Beans — Apr 23 — — Jun 18 – Aug 13 50–65
Horseradish — — Apr 30 — Sep 3 – Nov 12 120–180
Hot Peppers Feb 12 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 9 – Oct 15 70–120
Hubbard Squash Mar 19 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Aug 13 – Sep 17 100–120
Jicama Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Sep 3 – Nov 12 120–180
Kabocha Mar 19 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 30 – Aug 27 85–100
Kai Lan Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 4 – Jul 2 45–60
Kale Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 11 – Aug 6 50–70
Kidney Beans — Apr 23 — — Jul 23 – Aug 27 85–110
Kohlrabi Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 4 – Jul 9 45–65
Komatsuna Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 May 21 – Jun 25 35–50
Leeks Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jul 16 – Oct 1 90–150
Lentils Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jul 9 – Aug 20 80–110
Lettuce Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 May 21 – Jul 30 30–60
Lima Beans — Apr 23 — — Jun 25 – Aug 6 60–90
Loofah Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Aug 13 – Oct 15 100–150
Luffa Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 30 – Oct 15 90–150
Mache Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 May 28 – Jul 2 40–60
Malabar Spinach Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jun 25 – Jul 23 55–70
Melon Mar 19 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 9 – Aug 27 70–100
Microgreens Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Apr 23 – May 21 7–21
Mitsuba Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 9 Aug 13 Jun 4 – Jul 30 50–70
Mizuna Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 May 21 – Jun 18 30–45
Mustard Greens Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 May 21 – Jul 23 30–50
Napa Cabbage Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 11 – Jul 16 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jun 25 – Jul 23 55–70
Okra Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jun 25 – Aug 20 50–65
Onion Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jul 16 – Sep 3 90–120
Pac Choi Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 May 28 – Jun 25 40–55
Parsnip — Apr 2 — Aug 13 Jul 16 – Aug 27 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Mar 19 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jun 18 – Jul 16 45–60
Peas Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 11 – Aug 6 55–70
Peppers Feb 12 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 2 – Sep 10 60–90
Pole Beans Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jun 25 – Aug 20 55–70
Potatoes Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 9 – Sep 17 70–120
Pumpkin Mar 19 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 30 – Sep 17 85–120
Purslane Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 May 28 – Jul 2 40–60
Radicchio Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 18 – Jul 23 60–80
Radish — Apr 2 — Aug 13 Apr 30 – May 21 22–35
Rhubarb — — May 7 — — 365–730
Romanesco Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jul 2 – Aug 13 75–100
Rutabaga — Apr 2 — Aug 13 Jun 25 – Jul 30 80–100
Salsify — Apr 2 — Aug 13 Jul 16 – Aug 27 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 25 – Aug 20 70–110
Scallions Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 11 – Jul 9 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 2 – Aug 6 60–80
Shallot Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jul 16 – Sep 3 90–120
Shiso Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jun 25 – Aug 20 50–70
Snap Peas Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jun 25 – Aug 20 55–70
Snow Peas Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 Jun 11 – Aug 6 50–65
Soybeans — Apr 23 — — Jul 16 – Sep 10 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Mar 19 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 30 – Aug 27 85–100
Spinach Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 May 21 – Jul 23 35–50
Squash (Summer) Mar 19 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jun 18 – Aug 20 45–65
Squash (Winter) Mar 19 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 23 – Sep 17 80–120
Sunchoke — — Apr 30 — Aug 20 – Oct 15 110–150
Sweet Corn — Apr 23 — — Jun 25 – Aug 6 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 30 – Sep 17 90–120
Tatsoi Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 May 21 – Jun 25 35–50
Tomatillo Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 2 – Sep 10 60–85
Tomatoes Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 2 – Sep 10 60–85
Turnip — Apr 2 — Aug 13 May 14 – Jun 18 40–60
Watercress Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 16 Aug 13 May 28 – Jul 2 40–60
Watermelon Mar 19 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 9 – Aug 27 70–100
Wax Beans — Apr 23 — — Jun 18 – Aug 13 50–65
Winter Melon Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jul 30 – Sep 17 90–120
Yard Long Beans Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jun 25 – Aug 6 55–80
Zucchini Mar 19 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jun 18 – Aug 13 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Buncombe County

31 fruits that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Buncombe County.

Show all 31 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — May 7 — Aug 6 – Nov 19 90–180
Aronia — — May 7 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — May 7 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — May 7 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — May 7 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — May 7 — Jul 16 – Aug 20 70–90
Che Fruit — — May 7 — — 1095–1825
Cranberries — — May 7 — — 730–1095
Currants — — May 7 — — 730–1095
Elderberries — — May 7 — — 730–1095
Figs — — May 7 — — 730–1825
Goji Berries — — May 7 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — May 7 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — May 7 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — May 7 — Jul 16 – Sep 10 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — May 7 — — 1095–1825
Haskaps — — May 7 — — 730–1095
Honeydew — — May 7 — Jul 30 – Sep 10 80–110
Jostaberry — — May 7 — — 730–1095
Kiwi — — May 7 — — 1095–1825
Lingonberries — — May 7 — — 730–1095
Loquat — — May 7 — — 730–1825
Medlar — — May 7 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — May 7 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — May 7 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — May 7 — — 1095–2555
Pomegranate — — May 7 — — 730–1095
Quince — — May 7 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — May 7 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — May 7 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — May 7 — Aug 6 – Dec 17 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Buncombe County

36 herbs that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Buncombe County.

Show all 36 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 9 Aug 13 — 365–730
Anise Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 9 Aug 13 Jul 9 – Sep 24 90–120
Basil Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jun 25 – Aug 27 50–75
Bee Balm — — Apr 23 — Jul 23 – Oct 8 90–120
Borage Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 9 Aug 13 Jun 4 – Jul 23 50–60
Caraway Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 9 Aug 13 — 365–450
Catnip — — Apr 23 — Jun 25 – Aug 27 60–80
Chamomile Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 9 Aug 13 Jun 11 – Aug 20 60–90
Chervil Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 9 Aug 13 May 21 – Jul 23 40–60
Chives — — Apr 23 — Jun 25 – Sep 3 60–90
Cilantro Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 9 Aug 13 May 21 – Jul 23 40–60
Comfrey — — Apr 23 — Jun 25 – Sep 3 60–90
Cumin Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 9 Aug 13 Jul 23 – Sep 24 100–120
Dill Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 9 Aug 13 May 21 – Jul 23 40–60
Epazote Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jun 18 – Aug 13 45–60
Fennel (herb) Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 9 Aug 13 Jun 11 – Aug 20 60–90
Feverfew — — Apr 23 — Jul 23 – Oct 8 90–120
Garlic Chives — — Apr 23 — Jun 25 – Sep 3 60–90
Horehound — — Apr 23 — Jul 9 – Sep 3 75–90
Hyssop — — Apr 23 — Jul 2 – Sep 3 70–90
Lemon Balm — — Apr 23 — Jun 25 – Aug 13 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — Apr 23 — Jul 2 – Sep 3 70–90
Lovage — — Apr 23 — Jul 2 – Sep 3 70–90
Marjoram — — Apr 23 — Jun 25 – Sep 3 60–90
Mint — — Apr 23 — Jun 25 – Sep 3 60–90
Oregano — — Apr 23 — Jun 25 – Sep 3 60–90
Parsley Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 9 Aug 13 Jun 11 – Aug 13 60–80
Rosemary — — Apr 23 — Jul 16 – Dec 3 80–180
Rue — — Apr 23 — Jul 2 – Sep 3 70–90
Sage — — Apr 23 — Jul 9 – Sep 3 75–90
Savory — — Apr 23 — Jun 18 – Aug 13 50–70
Sorrel Mar 12 Apr 2 Apr 9 Aug 13 May 21 – Jul 23 40–60
Tarragon — — Apr 23 — Jun 25 – Sep 3 60–90
Thai Basil Feb 26 Apr 23 Apr 30 — Jun 25 – Aug 27 50–75
Thyme — — Apr 23 — Jul 2 – Sep 3 70–90
Valerian — — Apr 23 — Aug 27 – Dec 3 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Buncombe County

53 flowers that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Buncombe County.

Show all 53 flowers with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Mar 5 Apr 16 Apr 16 — Jun 11 – Oct 15 60–75
Alliums — — — Sep 17 Oct 15 – Nov 5 28–42
Anemones — — — Aug 27 Sep 10 – Oct 8 90–120
Astilbe Feb 12 — Apr 23 — Jul 2 – Aug 27 70–100
Bachelor's Button Mar 5 Mar 12 Apr 16 Aug 27 Jun 18 – Sep 24 60–90
Begonias Feb 5 — Apr 16 — Jun 25 – Oct 29 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Feb 12 Apr 9 Apr 23 — Jul 2 – Nov 12 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Feb 12 — Apr 23 — Jun 11 – Jul 16 60–90
Calendula Mar 5 Mar 12 Apr 16 Aug 27 Jun 4 – Oct 1 50–70
California Poppy — Mar 19 — Aug 27 May 28 – Aug 20 60–90
Celosia Mar 19 Apr 16 Apr 16 — Jun 18 – Oct 29 60–90
Columbine Feb 19 Apr 23 Apr 23 — Jun 11 – Jul 16 70–100
Coreopsis Feb 12 Apr 16 Apr 23 — Jun 25 – Nov 12 60–80
Cosmos Mar 19 Apr 9 Apr 9 — Jun 18 – Oct 22 60–90
Crocus — — — Sep 17 Aug 13 – Sep 3 10–20
Daffodils — — — Sep 17 Aug 20 – Sep 10 20–40
Dahlias Mar 26 Apr 23 Apr 23 — Jul 2 – Nov 19 70–120
Daylily Feb 12 — Apr 23 — Jul 2 – Nov 12 60–90
Dianthus Feb 19 Mar 12 Mar 19 — May 7 – Jul 30 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Feb 12 Apr 23 Apr 23 — Jul 9 – Nov 12 70–90
Foxglove Feb 19 Apr 23 Apr 23 — Jun 11 – Jul 16 80–120
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Feb 26 Apr 16 Apr 16 — Jun 25 – Nov 26 70–100
Geraniums Feb 5 — Apr 16 — Jun 25 – Oct 29 70–100
Gladiolus — Apr 16 Apr 16 — Jun 25 – Nov 12 70–100
Hostas Feb 5 — Apr 23 — Jul 2 – Nov 5 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Sep 17 Sep 10 – Oct 1 14–28
Hydrangeas Feb 5 — Apr 16 — Jun 25 – Oct 22 90–150
Impatiens Feb 19 — Apr 16 — Jun 25 – Oct 29 60–75
Irises — Division Apr 23 — Jun 11 – Jul 16 60–100
Larkspur — Mar 19 — Aug 13 May 28 – Aug 20 60–90
Lavender Feb 12 — Apr 23 — Jul 2 – Sep 24 90–120
Lilies — Division Apr 16 — Jun 25 – Oct 15 70–120
Lobelia Feb 12 — Mar 19 — May 14 – Jul 23 70–80
Lupine Feb 19 Apr 23 Apr 23 — Jun 11 – Jul 16 75–100
Marigolds Mar 5 Apr 16 Apr 16 — Jun 11 – Oct 1 50–70
Nasturtium Mar 19 Apr 16 Apr 16 — Jun 11 – Oct 29 55–65
Pansy Feb 5 — Apr 9 Aug 13 Jun 4 – Aug 27 70–90
Peonies — Division Apr 23 — Jun 18 – Jul 16 90–120
Petunia Feb 19 — Apr 16 — Jun 25 – Oct 22 70–90
Phlox Feb 12 Apr 23 Apr 23 — Jul 2 – Sep 24 80–110
Portulaca Mar 19 Apr 16 Apr 16 — Jun 4 – Oct 15 50–70
Ranunculus — — — Aug 27 Sep 17 – Oct 15 90–120
Roses Feb 5 — Apr 16 — Jun 25 – Nov 5 90–180
Salvia Feb 19 — Apr 16 — Jun 25 – Oct 29 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Feb 12 — Apr 23 — Aug 13 – Nov 5 60–90
Snapdragon Feb 5 Mar 19 Apr 9 Aug 27 Jun 18 – Sep 24 70–100
Sunflower Mar 26 Apr 16 Apr 16 — Jul 9 – Oct 29 70–100
Sweet Alyssum Mar 5 Mar 19 Apr 16 Sep 10 May 28 – Sep 3 45–60
Sweet Pea — — — Aug 27 Nov 5 – Jan 28 65–85
Tulips — — — Sep 17 Sep 3 – Sep 24 15–30
Vinca (Annual) Feb 5 — Apr 16 — Jun 25 – Oct 29 70–90
Yarrow Feb 12 Apr 9 Apr 23 — Jun 25 – Nov 12 60–90
Zinnia Mar 19 Apr 16 Apr 16 — Jun 25 – Oct 29 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for Buncombe County