Freeport, OH — Planting Guide for August
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your August planting checklist for Harrison County, Ohio
Your garden in Harrison County, Ohio is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this August.
-
Start harvesting basil, cucumber, and green beans
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
-
Start your fall crops: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Count back from your first frost (October 25) — these need to mature before the cold arrives.
A few tasks this August that'll pay off in September
- First harvests: basil, peppers, and thai basil
- Fall sowing: alliums, bachelor's button, and crocus
Freeport has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 6b). The last spring frost typically lands around April 26 and the first fall frost arrives around October 25 — a 182-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Drought pressure is moderate (9.6 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6b (-5°F to 0°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 26
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 25
📅 Growing Season
182 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 41.1" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 4.9 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
9.6 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Freeport
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Freeport gets 41" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.6 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.7 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.4 in | 10 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| May | 5.1 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.9 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.9 in | 10 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.5 in | 8 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.2 in | 7 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.8 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.4 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 38.8 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.
Freeport Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 29 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 14 | Nov 8 | 178 days |
| Cautious | Apr 30 | Nov 1 | 185 days |
| Average year | Apr 26 | Oct 25 | 182 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 19 | Oct 18 | 182 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 7 | Oct 7 | 183 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±36 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 4 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Harrison County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Harrison 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 Harrison County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Harrison 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 Harrison County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Harrison County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Harrison 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 Harrison County OH" or "garden center Harrison 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 Harrison County OH" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Harrison 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 Freeport
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: A 14-hour day in June produces dramatically more photosynthesis than a 10-hour day in November. Freeport's seasonal swing determines which crops can pack growth into spring vs. limp through fall.
Longest Day
14.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.2 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.4 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 8.6 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.9 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.6 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.7 hr | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.1 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Freeport
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Air temperature lies. Your air can be 70°F in April but the soil 4 inches down is still 50°F — too cold for tomatoes or peppers to root properly. Freeport's soil temperature curve tells you the real planting window. A $5 soil thermometer pays for itself in one season.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 23°F | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 24°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 33°F | 33°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 44°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 60°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 69°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 76°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 76°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 70°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 58°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 43°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 32°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Freeport
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Freeport's pest score is your early-warning system: high score means commit to disease-resistant varieties and accept some crop loss to bugs.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Slugs | Low | Apr, May, Jun |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Freeport
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: Why not just leave bare soil? Weed seeds, erosion, nutrient leaching, and crust formation. A cover crop solves all of these for the cost of seeds and one mowing.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 30 | Aug 30 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 30 | Aug 16 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 29 | Aug 30 | ✓ 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 15 | Sep 27 | — | 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 16 | Apr 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Sep 12 | Apr 12 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 3 | Apr 5 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 22 | Apr 12 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 20 | Apr 5 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 2 | Apr 12 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Freeport
The practical takeaway: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Freeport's 4.9 mph background level is a baseline you should know before placing the tallest crops (sunflowers, pole beans, sweet corn).
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 13 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 (91 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Freeport
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: Even in arid regions, rainwater harvesting works — you just need bigger storage and patience. In wet regions like Freeport (41" annually), you're mostly limited by how much water you can store between storms.
Annual Collection
19,337 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 38.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 19,337 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 Freeport
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Freeport.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 3 | — | — | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 16 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | May 10 – May 31 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 16 | Sep 13 – Oct 25 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 15 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Dec 13 – Mar 28 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 3 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 10 | — | Sep 13 – Nov 22 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 15 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 25 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 6 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 3 | — | — | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jul 26 – Oct 11 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 25 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 25 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | May 3 – May 31 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 16 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 16 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 15 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 16 | May 10 – May 31 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 16 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 16 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 6 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 10 | — | Aug 30 – Oct 25 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 3 | — | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 12 | — | Aug 16 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 3 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 1 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Freeport
27 fruits matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Freeport.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 29 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 17 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 17 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 29 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Freeport
35 herbs matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Freeport.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 16 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 16 | Jul 19 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 16 | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 16 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 16 | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 16 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 16 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 16 | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 16 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 16 | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 16 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 19 | Aug 16 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 10 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 3 | — | Sep 6 – Nov 15 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Freeport
53 flowers matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Freeport.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 8 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 4 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Oct 11 – Nov 8 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 29 | — | Apr 26 | — | May 24 – Jun 21 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 22 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Apr 26 | Sep 13 | Jun 28 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 15 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 18 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 19 – Nov 8 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 22 | — | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 15 | Mar 29 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Sep 20 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 29 | — | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 22 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 8 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 29 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 18 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Aug 2 – Aug 23 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Aug 9 – Aug 30 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 29 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jul 19 – Nov 8 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 22 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 19 – Nov 8 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Aug 23 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 22 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jul 19 – Nov 8 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 22 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 8 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 15 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 15 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 18 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 15 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 19 – Nov 8 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Aug 30 – Sep 20 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 15 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 25 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 1 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 25 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 29 | — | — | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 15 | — | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 18 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 22 | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 30 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 22 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Sep 27 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 29 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 18 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 | Aug 30 | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 1 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 25 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 22 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 4 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 22 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 11 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 15 | — | Apr 26 | — | May 31 – Jun 28 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 15 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 8 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 22 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 18 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 22 | — | May 3 | — | Aug 23 – Nov 15 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 20 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 18 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 23 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 20 | Aug 30 – Sep 27 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 15 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 25 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 8 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 29 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 11 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Freeport
ZIP Codes in Freeport
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 Harrison County.
Your Harrison County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Harrison 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