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Wayne County, NC — Planting Guide

Wayne County, North Carolina Zone 8a June

What to do in June

Your garden in Wayne County, North Carolina is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this June.

Avg. last frost March 27
Avg. first frost November 6
Soil temp (4") 80°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 14.4 hrs
  1. Start begonias, geraniums, and pansy indoors

    These need a head start before your last frost (March 27). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.

  2. It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber

    The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.

Coming up in July — start thinking about
  • First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans

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Wayne County is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 27 and the first fall frost is November 6, giving you a growing season of approximately 224 days.

At an elevation of 736 ft, Wayne County receives approximately 40.9 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 95°F with winter lows around 32°F. The predominant soil type is Clay Loam.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 30 days year to year — ranging from March 11 in warm years to April 10 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 2.13 days per decade. Wayne County scores 65/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

8a (10°F to 15°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

March 27

🍂 First Frost

November 6

📅 Growing Season

224 days

⛰️ Elevation

736 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

40.9 in

Wayne County, NC Long season
224 days
❄
Last Spring Frost March 27
➔ 224 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost November 6

Monthly Watering Calendar for Wayne County

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

The practical takeaway: A drip irrigation system pays for itself in 1-2 seasons in any climate. Wayne County's 41" annual rainfall determines whether you'll run it weekly (dry zones) or maybe just during summer dry spells (wet zones).

1"/wk 0" 1.3" 2.5" 3.8" 5" Jan 3" Feb 3.7" +0.4" Mar 3.9" +1.4" Apr 2.9" +0.9" May 3.4" Jun 4.1" +0.5" Jul 3.8" Aug 4.3" +1.5" Sep 2.8" +1.8" Oct 2.5" Nov 3.1" Dec 3.4"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 3 in 9 days — None
Feb 3.7 in 8 days — None
Mar 3.9 in 8 days 0.4 in Low
Apr 2.9 in 8 days 1.4 in Moderate
May 3.4 in 10 days 0.9 in Moderate
Jun 4.1 in 12 days 0.2 in Low
Jul 3.8 in 11 days 0.5 in Low
Aug 4.3 in 12 days — Low
Sep 2.8 in 8 days 1.5 in Moderate
Oct 2.5 in 7 days 1.8 in High
Nov 3.1 in 8 days — None
Dec 3.4 in 9 days — None

Annual total: 40.9 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.

Wayne County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH

5.2-6.5

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 Mar 27 → Nov 6 224 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Safe: Apr 10 Protect by: Nov 19

Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.

How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.

Planting Strategy Last Spring Frost First Fall Frost Frost-Free Days
Conservative (safest) Apr 10 Nov 19 223 days
Cautious Apr 3 Nov 10 221 days
Average year Mar 27 Nov 6 224 days
Optimistic Mar 20 Nov 2 227 days
Aggressive (risky) Mar 11 Oct 25 228 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

Not very — frost dates can vary by ±30 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 2.1 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.

Gardening Difficulty Score

65 Good
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
1.5/10
Soil Difficulty
1.0/10
Altitude Challenge
0.0/10
Climate Shift
8.5/10
Rainfall Challenge
0.0/10

Wayne County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.

Zone 8a Frost Countdown
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Last Frost: Mar 27 First Frost: Nov 6

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

County Extension Office

Wayne 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 Wayne County

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

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Wayne 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 Wayne County NC" or "garden center Wayne 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 Wayne County NC" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Wayne 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 Eggplant (harvest ends Aug 21) 77 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Cantaloupe (harvest ends Jul 31) 98 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Cauliflower (harvest ends Jul 24) 105 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Beets (harvest ends Jun 19) 140 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Peppers (harvest ends Aug 21) 77 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Sweet Corn (harvest ends Jul 10) 119 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
Show 6 more succession options
After Kale (harvest ends Jul 17) 112 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Corn (harvest ends Jul 24) 105 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Basil (harvest ends Aug 7) 91 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Cucumber 50-70d Green Beans 50-65d
After Melon (harvest ends Aug 7) 91 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Chard (harvest ends Jul 10) 119 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Tomatoes (harvest ends Aug 21) 77 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d

Sunlight & Day Length in Wayne County

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

Quick context: Lettuce and cilantro "bolt" (go to seed) when days lengthen. Knowing your day-length curve helps you time spring plantings to harvest before the bolting trigger hits. Wayne County's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.

Longest Day

14.4 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

9.6 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

8.6 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 9.9 hr 4.7 hr Short day
February 10.7 hr 5.5 hr Short day
March 11.7 hr 6.7 hr Short day
April 12.9 hr 7.7 hr Neutral
May 13.9 hr 8.6 hr Neutral
June 14.4 hr 8.1 hr Long day
July 14.2 hr 7.6 hr Long day
August 13.3 hr 7.3 hr Neutral
September 12.2 hr 7.2 hr Neutral
October 11.1 hr 7.2 hr Short day
November 10.1 hr 5.7 hr Short day
December 9.6 hr 4.8 hr Short day

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

Soil Temperature & Composting in Wayne County

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

For new gardeners: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. Wayne County's typical curve helps you plan — but a $5 soil thermometer in the bed beats any average.

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 37°F 45°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Feb 41°F 45°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Mar 46°F 48°F 🐢 Slow ~24 weeks
Apr 56°F 57°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
May 69°F 67°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jun 80°F 75°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Jul 84°F 80°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 88°F 84°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 80°F 81°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Oct 69°F 72°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Nov 56°F 62°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Dec 45°F 52°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 Wayne County

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

What this means for you: In Wayne 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

6.3 / 10

Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.

Disease Risk

7.4 / 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 Low Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Spider mites Moderate Jul, Aug
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
  • Watch for powdery mildew, downy mildew, blight — common in your climate

Cover Crops for Wayne County

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

Quick context: A fall-planted cover crop in Wayne County is the closest thing to free soil amendment. Plant cereal rye or hairy vetch after harvest; chop it down before it flowers in spring; the soil it leaves behind out-grows any store-bought compost.

Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat Apr 7 Sep 4 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
Cowpeas (southern peas) Apr 9 Aug 28 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible
Sorghum-sudan grass Apr 5 Aug 28 — Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes
White clover Mar 1 Aug 28 ✓ Yes Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Sunflowers Apr 23 Oct 23 — Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Austrian winter peas Sep 14 Mar 6 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils
Crimson clover Sep 1 Mar 13 ✓ Yes Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring
Daikon radish Sep 16 Mar 13 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Aug 26 Mar 13 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Oct 5 Mar 13 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Aug 14 Mar 6 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Jul 29 Mar 6 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Wayne County

The practical takeaway: Why care about wind? Above about 10 mph, evaporation jumps and pollinators struggle to land on flowers. Wayne County's 7.8 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: 10 mph   Summer: 8 mph

Fall: 9 mph   Winter: 11 mph

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

Windbreak Benefit

5/10

Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.

Frost Pocket Risk

Low

Relatively flat terrain (214 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.

Rainwater Harvesting in Wayne County

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

The practical takeaway: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Wayne County, that's your 41" times your roof.

Annual Collection

20,384 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

Mar, Jun, Jul, Aug

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

Months to Draw From Storage

Apr, Sep, Oct

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 40.9 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 20,384 gallons annually
  • Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
  • Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Apr, Sep, Oct)
  • Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection

Soil & Growing Conditions in Wayne County

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH 5.2–6.5 · Moderately Well Drained drainage

Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.

Watering Needs

Drought stress: 1.5/10

Wayne County has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.

Season Tips

224-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 Wayne County

114 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Wayne County.

Show all 114 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Feb 27 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jul 3 – Aug 7 80–100
Amaranth Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jul 10 – Aug 28 90–120
Artichoke — — Apr 10 — Aug 14 – Oct 23 120–180
Arugula Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 1 – Jul 3 30–50
Asparagus — — Apr 10 — — 730–1095
Beets — Mar 13 — Aug 28 May 8 – Jun 5 50–70
Belgian Endive Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 Jul 17 – Sep 11 110–150
Bitter Melon Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Jul 24 60–90
Black Beans — Apr 3 — — Jul 3 – Aug 21 90–120
Bok Choy Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 8 – Jun 12 40–60
Broccoli Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 29 – Jul 10 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 8 – Jun 12 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 Jun 26 – Aug 21 90–130
Butternut Squash Feb 27 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jul 10 – Aug 14 85–110
Cabbage Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 29 – Jul 24 60–100
Calabash Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jul 3 – Aug 28 80–120
Cardoon — — Apr 10 — Aug 14 – Sep 25 120–150
Carrots — Mar 13 — Aug 28 May 15 – Jun 19 60–80
Cauliflower Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 22 – Jul 24 55–100
Celeriac Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 Jul 10 – Aug 14 100–120
Celery Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 Jun 19 – Aug 14 80–120
Celtuce Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 29 – Jul 10 60–90
Chard Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 22 – Jul 10 50–60
Chayote Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Aug 14 – Oct 23 120–180
Chickpeas Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 Jun 19 – Jul 31 80–110
Chicory Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 29 – Jul 10 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 22 – Jun 19 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jul 3 – Aug 7 80–100
Collard Greens Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 22 – Jul 24 55–75
Corn — Apr 3 — — Jun 5 – Jul 31 60–100
Cowpeas — Apr 3 — — Jun 5 – Jul 17 60–90
Cress Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 Apr 10 – May 1 14–21
Crookneck Squash Feb 27 Apr 3 Apr 10 — May 29 – Jun 26 45–60
Crosne — Mar 13 — Aug 28 Aug 14 – Oct 16 150–200
Cucumber Feb 27 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 5 – Jul 31 50–70
Daikon — Mar 13 — Aug 28 May 8 – Jun 5 50–70
Delicata Squash Feb 27 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jul 3 – Aug 7 80–100
Edamame — Apr 3 — — Jun 19 – Jul 31 75–100
Eggplant Jan 23 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 19 – Aug 21 65–85
Endive Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 15 – Jun 19 45–65
Escarole Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 22 – Jun 19 50–70
Fava Beans Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 Jun 12 – Jul 24 75–100
Fennel Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Jul 24 60–90
Garlic — — — Sep 25 Dec 25 – Jun 11 90–240
Ginger Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Dec 11 – Dec 25 240–300
Green Beans — Apr 3 — — May 29 – Jul 24 50–65
Horseradish — — Apr 10 — Aug 14 – Oct 23 120–180
Hot Peppers Jan 23 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 19 – Sep 25 70–120
Hubbard Squash Feb 27 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jul 24 – Aug 28 100–120
Jicama Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Aug 14 – Oct 23 120–180
Kabocha Feb 27 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jul 10 – Aug 7 85–100
Kai Lan Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 15 – Jun 12 45–60
Kale Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 22 – Jul 17 50–70
Kidney Beans — Apr 3 — — Jul 3 – Aug 7 85–110
Kohlrabi Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 15 – Jun 19 45–65
Komatsuna Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 1 – Jun 5 35–50
Leeks Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 Jun 26 – Sep 11 90–150
Lentils Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 Jun 19 – Jul 31 80–110
Lettuce Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 1 – Jul 10 30–60
Lima Beans — Apr 3 — — Jun 5 – Jul 17 60–90
Loofah Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jul 24 – Sep 25 100–150
Luffa Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jul 10 – Sep 25 90–150
Mache Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 8 – Jun 12 40–60
Malabar Spinach Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 5 – Jul 3 55–70
Melon Feb 27 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 19 – Aug 7 70–100
Microgreens Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 Apr 3 – May 1 7–21
Mitsuba Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 28 May 15 – Jul 10 50–70
Mizuna Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 1 – May 29 30–45
Mustard Greens Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 1 – Jul 3 30–50
Napa Cabbage Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 22 – Jun 26 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 5 – Jul 3 55–70
Okra Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 5 – Jul 31 50–65
Onion Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 Jun 26 – Aug 14 90–120
Pac Choi Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 8 – Jun 5 40–55
Parsnip — Mar 13 — Aug 28 Jun 26 – Aug 7 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Feb 27 Apr 3 Apr 10 — May 29 – Jun 26 45–60
Peas Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 22 – Jul 17 55–70
Peppers Jan 23 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Aug 21 60–90
Pole Beans Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 5 – Jul 31 55–70
Potatoes Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 19 – Aug 28 70–120
Pumpkin Feb 27 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jul 10 – Aug 28 85–120
Purslane Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 8 – Jun 12 40–60
Radicchio Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 29 – Jul 3 60–80
Radish — Mar 13 — Aug 28 Apr 10 – May 1 22–35
Rhubarb — — Apr 17 — — 365–730
Romanesco Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 Jun 12 – Jul 24 75–100
Rutabaga — Mar 13 — Aug 28 Jun 5 – Jul 10 80–100
Salsify — Mar 13 — Aug 28 Jun 26 – Aug 7 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 Jun 5 – Jul 31 70–110
Scallions Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 22 – Jun 19 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Jul 17 60–80
Shallot Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 Jun 26 – Aug 14 90–120
Shiso Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 5 – Jul 31 50–70
Snap Peas Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 5 – Jul 31 55–70
Snow Peas Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 22 – Jul 17 50–65
Soybeans — Apr 3 — — Jun 26 – Aug 21 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Feb 27 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jul 10 – Aug 7 85–100
Spinach Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 1 – Jul 3 35–50
Squash (Summer) Feb 27 Apr 3 Apr 10 — May 29 – Jul 31 45–65
Squash (Winter) Feb 27 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jul 3 – Aug 28 80–120
Sunchoke — — Apr 10 — Jul 31 – Sep 25 110–150
Sweet Corn — Apr 3 — — Jun 5 – Jul 17 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jul 10 – Aug 28 90–120
Tatsoi Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 1 – Jun 5 35–50
Tomatillo Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Aug 21 60–85
Tomatoes Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Aug 21 60–85
Turmeric Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Dec 11 – Dec 25 240–300
Turnip — Mar 13 — Aug 28 Apr 24 – May 29 40–60
Watercress Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 27 Aug 28 May 8 – Jun 12 40–60
Watermelon Feb 27 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 19 – Aug 7 70–100
Wax Beans — Apr 3 — — May 29 – Jul 24 50–65
Winter Melon Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jul 10 – Aug 28 90–120
Yard Long Beans Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 5 – Jul 17 55–80
Zucchini Feb 27 Apr 3 Apr 10 — May 29 – Jul 24 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Wayne County

27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Wayne County.

Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — Apr 17 — Jul 17 – Oct 30 90–180
Aronia — — Apr 17 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — Apr 17 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — Apr 17 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — Apr 17 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — Apr 17 — Jun 26 – Jul 31 70–90
Che Fruit — — Apr 17 — — 1095–1825
Elderberries — — Apr 17 — — 730–1095
Figs — — Apr 17 — — 730–1825
Goji Berries — — Apr 17 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — Apr 17 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — Apr 17 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — Apr 17 — Jun 26 – Aug 21 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — Apr 17 — — 1095–1825
Honeydew — — Apr 17 — Jul 10 – Aug 21 80–110
Jostaberry — — Apr 17 — — 730–1095
Kiwi — — Apr 17 — — 1095–1825
Loquat — — Apr 17 — — 730–1825
Medlar — — Apr 17 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — Apr 17 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — Apr 17 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — Apr 17 — — 1095–2555
Pomegranate — — Apr 17 — — 730–1095
Quince — — Apr 17 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — Apr 17 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — Apr 17 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — Apr 17 — Jul 17 – Jan 1 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Wayne County

39 herbs that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Wayne County.

Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 28 — 365–730
Anise Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 28 Jun 19 – Sep 4 90–120
Basil Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 5 – Aug 7 50–75
Bee Balm — — Apr 3 — Jul 3 – Sep 18 90–120
Borage Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 28 May 15 – Jul 3 50–60
Caraway Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 28 — 365–450
Catnip — — Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Aug 7 60–80
Chamomile Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 28 May 22 – Jul 31 60–90
Chervil Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 28 May 1 – Jul 3 40–60
Chives — — Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Aug 14 60–90
Cilantro Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 28 May 1 – Jul 3 40–60
Comfrey — — Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Aug 14 60–90
Cumin Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 28 Jul 3 – Sep 4 100–120
Dill Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 28 May 1 – Jul 3 40–60
Epazote Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — May 29 – Jul 24 45–60
Fennel (herb) Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 28 May 22 – Jul 31 60–90
Feverfew — — Apr 3 — Jul 3 – Sep 18 90–120
Garlic Chives — — Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Aug 14 60–90
Horehound — — Apr 3 — Jun 19 – Aug 14 75–90
Hyssop — — Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Aug 14 70–90
Lemon Balm — — Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Jul 24 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Aug 14 70–90
Lemon Verbena Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Aug 21 60–90
Lemongrass Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 26 – Sep 25 75–120
Lovage — — Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Aug 14 70–90
Marjoram — — Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Aug 14 60–90
Mint — — Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Aug 14 60–90
Oregano — — Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Aug 14 60–90
Parsley Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 28 May 22 – Jul 24 60–80
Rosemary — — Apr 3 — Jun 26 – Nov 13 80–180
Rue — — Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Aug 14 70–90
Sage — — Apr 3 — Jun 19 – Aug 14 75–90
Savory — — Apr 3 — May 29 – Jul 24 50–70
Sorrel Feb 20 Mar 13 Mar 20 Aug 28 May 1 – Jul 3 40–60
Stevia Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 12 – Aug 21 60–90
Tarragon — — Apr 3 — Jun 5 – Aug 14 60–90
Thai Basil Feb 6 Apr 3 Apr 10 — Jun 5 – Aug 7 50–75
Thyme — — Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Aug 14 70–90
Valerian — — Apr 3 — Aug 7 – Nov 13 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Wayne County

54 flowers that grow well in Zone 8a with planting dates for Wayne County.

Show all 54 flowers with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Feb 13 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 15 – Oct 2 60–75
Alliums — — — Oct 2 Oct 30 – Nov 20 28–42
Anemones — — — Sep 11 Sep 25 – Oct 23 90–120
Astilbe Jan 30 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Jul 24 70–100
Bachelor's Button — Feb 13 Mar 13 Sep 11 May 15 – Aug 28 60–90
Begonias Jan 16 — Mar 20 — May 29 – Oct 16 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Jan 30 Mar 20 Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 23 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Jan 30 — Mar 27 — May 15 – Jun 12 60–90
Calendula — Feb 13 Mar 13 Aug 28 May 1 – Sep 11 50–70
California Poppy — — — Sep 11 Nov 20 – Feb 26 60–90
Celosia Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 22 – Oct 16 60–90
Columbine Jan 30 Mar 27 Mar 27 — May 15 – Jun 12 70–100
Coreopsis Jan 30 Mar 20 Mar 27 — May 29 – Oct 23 60–80
Cosmos Feb 27 Mar 13 Mar 13 — May 22 – Oct 9 60–90
Crocus — — — Oct 9 Sep 11 – Oct 2 10–20
Daffodils — — — Oct 2 Sep 11 – Oct 9 20–40
Dahlias Mar 6 Mar 27 Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Nov 6 70–120
Daylily Jan 30 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 23 60–90
Dianthus Jan 30 Feb 13 Feb 20 — Apr 10 – Jun 26 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Jan 30 Mar 27 Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 23 70–90
Foxglove Jan 30 Mar 27 Mar 27 — May 15 – Jun 12 80–120
Freesia — — — Sep 25 Oct 23 – Nov 20 84–112
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Feb 6 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 29 – Nov 13 70–100
Geraniums Jan 16 — Mar 20 — May 29 – Oct 16 70–100
Gladiolus — Mar 27 Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Nov 6 70–100
Hostas Jan 23 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 9 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Oct 9 Oct 2 – Oct 23 14–28
Hydrangeas Jan 23 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 9 90–150
Impatiens Jan 30 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 23 60–75
Irises — Division Mar 27 — May 15 – Jun 19 60–100
Larkspur — Feb 27 — Aug 28 May 8 – Aug 14 60–90
Lavender Jan 23 — Apr 3 — Jun 12 – Sep 18 90–120
Lilies — Division Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Sep 25 70–120
Lobelia Jan 30 — Feb 20 — Apr 17 – Jun 12 70–80
Lupine Jan 30 Mar 27 Mar 27 — May 15 – Jun 12 75–100
Marigolds Feb 13 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 15 – Sep 18 50–70
Nasturtium Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 15 – Oct 16 55–65
Pansy Jan 16 — Mar 13 Aug 28 May 8 – Aug 14 70–90
Peonies — Division Mar 27 — May 22 – Jun 19 90–120
Petunia Jan 30 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 9 70–90
Phlox Jan 30 Mar 27 Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Aug 14 80–110
Portulaca Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 8 – Oct 2 50–70
Ranunculus — — — Sep 11 Sep 25 – Oct 30 90–120
Roses Jan 23 — Mar 27 — Jun 5 – Oct 23 90–180
Salvia Jan 30 — Mar 20 — May 29 – Oct 16 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Jan 30 — Mar 27 — Jul 17 – Oct 9 60–90
Snapdragon Jan 16 Feb 20 Mar 13 Aug 28 May 22 – Sep 11 70–100
Sunflower Mar 6 Mar 20 Mar 20 — Jun 12 – Oct 16 70–100
Sweet Alyssum Feb 13 Feb 20 Mar 13 Sep 11 Apr 24 – Aug 14 45–60
Sweet Pea — — — Sep 4 Nov 13 – Feb 5 65–85
Tulips — — — Oct 9 Sep 25 – Oct 23 15–30
Vinca (Annual) Jan 16 — Mar 20 — May 29 – Oct 16 70–90
Yarrow Jan 30 Mar 20 Mar 27 — May 29 – Oct 23 60–90
Zinnia Feb 27 Mar 20 Mar 20 — May 29 – Oct 16 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for Wayne County