Delaware, OH — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June game plan for Delaware County, Ohio
Welcome to June in Zone 6b. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
-
Fire up the seed-starting tray: basil, pole beans, and thai basil
Starting these indoors now means sturdy transplants ready the moment your soil warms up.
-
It's harvest week for carrots, green beans, and kale
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
Coming up in July — start thinking about
- Starting indoors: peppers, begonias, and eggplant
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Delaware 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.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6b (-5°F to 0°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 25
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 21
📅 Growing Season
179 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 38.9" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.9 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
7.5 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Delaware
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: In Delaware, the watering question isn't "how often" — it's "is the soil moist 4 inches down?" Stick a finger in. Dry? Water. Damp? Wait. The 39" annual rainfall is just the starting context.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.6 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.6 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.3 in | 9 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.5 in | 11 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 3.9 in | 11 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jul | 4.1 in | 9 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.6 in | 7 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.9 in | 8 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.9 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 34.6 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.
Delaware Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.1
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 9 | Nov 1 | 176 days |
| Cautious | Apr 28 | Oct 25 | 180 days |
| Average year | Apr 25 | Oct 21 | 179 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 17 | Oct 16 | 182 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 11 | Oct 7 | 179 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±28 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit shorter (0.5 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Delaware County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Delaware 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 Delaware County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Delaware County Ohio State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 614-292-6181
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 Delaware County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Delaware County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Delaware 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 Delaware County OH" or "garden center Delaware 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 Delaware County OH" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Delaware County Gardeners" or "Ohio 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 Delaware
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: Plants use day length as their seasonal clock. Some crops flower when days lengthen (most flowers), some when days shorten (chrysanthemums, soybeans). Delaware's curve is the timing layer beneath everything you grow.
Longest Day
14.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.5 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.4 hr | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.9 hr | 9.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.6 hr | 9.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.7 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.1 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Delaware
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Soil heats slower than air in spring and cools slower in fall. That's why "warm" April air doesn't mean "plant tomatoes" — soil still trails by weeks. Delaware's monthly soil curve makes the lag visible.
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 | 23°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 33°F | 34°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 45°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 57°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 68°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 78°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 78°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 72°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 58°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 42°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 30°F | 37°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 Delaware
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
For new gardeners: In Delaware'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
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 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 | Moderate | May, Jun, 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
Cover Crops for Delaware
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: Cover crops protect microbial life through winter and summer. Bare soil bakes; covered soil stays cooler, moister, and biologically active. The difference shows up in next year's crops.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 7 | Aug 12 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 2 | Aug 12 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 25 | Aug 12 | ✓ 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 26 | Sep 30 | — | 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 12 | Apr 11 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 28 | Apr 4 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 1 | Apr 11 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 8 | Apr 4 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 17 | Apr 4 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 30 | Apr 4 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Delaware
Why this matters: Wind affects three things gardeners forget: how fast soil dries (more wind = more watering), whether pollinators can work (calm beats gusty), and whether your trellised crops stay upright. Delaware sees 7.9 mph on average — a forgiving baseline.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 13 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
7.4/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (213 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Delaware
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Delaware's 39" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
17,244 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 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, 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 34.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 17,244 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Delaware
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Delaware.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 12 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 20 – Aug 8 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | May 9 – May 30 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 12 | Sep 12 – Oct 24 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 14 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Dec 9 – Mar 24 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 9 | — | Sep 12 – Nov 21 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 14 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 24 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | May 30 – Aug 8 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 24 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 24 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | May 2 – May 30 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 12 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 12 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 14 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 12 | May 9 – May 30 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 12 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 12 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 12 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Aug 12 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Delaware
27 fruits matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Delaware.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 28 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 28 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Delaware
35 herbs matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Delaware.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 12 | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 12 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 12 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 12 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 12 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 12 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 12 | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 12 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 12 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 12 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Aug 12 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 14 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Delaware
53 flowers matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Delaware.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 7 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 3 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Oct 7 – Nov 4 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 28 | — | Apr 25 | — | May 23 – Jun 20 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 21 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 14 | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | Sep 9 | Jun 27 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 14 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Nov 7 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 21 | — | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 14 | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 28 | — | — | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 21 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Nov 7 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Jul 29 – Aug 19 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Aug 5 – Aug 26 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Nov 7 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 21 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 28 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Aug 22 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 21 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Nov 7 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 21 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Nov 14 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 14 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 17 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 31 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 14 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Aug 26 – Sep 16 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 14 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 24 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 28 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 24 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 28 | — | — | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 14 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 17 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 21 | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 29 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 21 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 17 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | Aug 26 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 28 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 21 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 3 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 10 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | May 30 – Jun 27 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 14 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Nov 7 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 21 | — | May 2 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 14 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 19 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 17 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 22 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 14 | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 16 | Aug 26 – Sep 23 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 14 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 28 | Apr 25 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 10 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Delaware
ZIP Codes in Delaware
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 Delaware County.
Your Delaware County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Delaware County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log