Fossil, OR — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June in Fossil, OR — your action list
Your Fossil, OR garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for June and why each task matters now.
-
Get basil, cucumber, and peppers in the ground
Pinch off the lowest leaves on each seedling before you plant — it reduces water loss while the roots catch up.
-
Sow cucumber, kale, and lettuce in trays indoors
Bottom-water once the first true leaves appear — it keeps stems dry and knocks back damping-off.
-
Pick lettuce, radish, and arugula
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
To set up a strong July, finish these tasks
- Starting indoors: basil, peppers, and pole beans
- First harvests: carrots, green beans, and kale
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Fossil has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 7a). The last spring frost typically lands around May 23 and the first fall frost arrives around September 23 — a 123-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.
Fossil averages 33.4 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 23
🍂 Avg. First Frost
September 23
📅 Growing Season
123 days
🌧️ Climate
Unknown 0.0" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
33.4 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Fossil
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
What this means for you: Watering by the calendar wastes water. Watering by the soil moisture (or by a free rain gauge) cuts your water use 30%+ and produces healthier roots. Fossil's 0" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3 in | 16 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.3 in | 17 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.6 in | 17 days | — | None |
| Apr | 1.6 in | 11 days | 2.7 in | High |
| May | 1.5 in | 8 days | 2.8 in | High |
| Jun | 1 in | 7 days | 3.3 in | Critical |
| Jul | 0.4 in | 2 days | 3.9 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0.4 in | 2 days | 3.9 in | Critical |
| Sep | 0.8 in | 4 days | 3.5 in | Critical |
| Oct | 2.1 in | 9 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Nov | 3.3 in | 16 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.8 in | 15 days | — | None |
Annual total: 22.8 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.
Fossil Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.3
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) | Jun 19 | Oct 22 | 125 days |
| Cautious | Jun 8 | Oct 3 | 117 days |
| Average year | May 23 | Sep 23 | 123 days |
| Optimistic | May 16 | Sep 10 | 117 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 1 | Sep 1 | 123 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±49 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 longer (0.7 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Wheeler County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Wheeler 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 Wheeler County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Wheeler County Oregon State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 541-737-2713
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 Wheeler County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Wheeler County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Wheeler 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 Wheeler County OR" or "garden center Wheeler 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 Wheeler County OR" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Wheeler County Gardeners" or "Oregon 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 Fossil
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: Photoperiod-sensitive crops will fail spectacularly if planted at the wrong latitude. Sweet onions in Michigan? Tiny. Spanish onions in Florida? Tiny. Match variety to Fossil's daylight pattern and you'll see the difference.
Longest Day
15.4 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.6 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.3 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 hr | 2.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.2 hr | 3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 5.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.6 hr | 7.5 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.4 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.1 hr | 10.3 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.9 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.3 hr | 2.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.6 hr | 2 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Fossil
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: 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. Fossil'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 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 | 17°F | 26°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 17°F | 27°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 28°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 40°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 55°F | 49°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 65°F | 61°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 74°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 73°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 64°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 53°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 37°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 25°F | 32°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 Fossil
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: High pest pressure means weekly inspection. Low pest pressure means monthly. The score tells you which routine to set up before you have a problem.
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 | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Fossil
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: The "chop and drop" approach to cover crops: cut them down right before flowering, let them lay on the surface as mulch, plant your vegetables through the mulch. Less work, healthier soil.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 27 | Jul 29 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 28 | Jul 22 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 28 | Jul 29 | ✓ 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 | Jun 4 | Sep 2 | — | 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 | Jul 13 | May 9 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 2 | May 9 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 4 | May 9 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 19 | May 2 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 28 | May 9 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 4 | May 2 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Fossil
Why it matters: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Fossil averages 0.0 mph — fine for most days. But every region has its windy days, and the first time a row of unstaked peppers leans over after a storm is a lesson you only need once.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 9 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 13 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.2/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (886 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Fossil
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: The first inch of rain washes the roof clean — a first-flush diverter sends it to waste before the barrel fills. Worth the extra $20 for cleaner garden water. Fossil gets 0" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
11,363 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
7 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, Mar, Nov, Dec
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jul, Aug, Sep
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 22.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 11,363 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jul, Aug, Sep)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Fossil
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Fossil.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 25 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Jun 6 | — | Oct 10 – Dec 19 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 9 | — | Jul 15 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Sep 12 – Nov 7 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 30 | — | — | Aug 29 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 25 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 10 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Jun 6 | — | Oct 10 – Nov 21 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | May 9 | — | Jul 15 | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Sep 5 – Oct 10 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Oct 10 – Dec 19 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 30 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 30 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jun 6 – Jun 27 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 25 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 9 | — | Jul 15 | Oct 10 – Dec 12 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 25 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 9 | — | Jul 15 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 25 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 30 | — | — | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 21 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 17 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 12 | Nov 11 – Mar 24 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 30 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 6 | — | Oct 10 – Dec 19 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 21 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 21 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 25 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Sep 19 – Oct 24 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Oct 10 – Dec 19 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Apr 25 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 3 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 30 | — | — | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Aug 22 – Nov 7 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 30 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Sep 19 – Nov 21 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 21 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Aug 29 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Apr 25 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 15 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Aug 29 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 9 | — | Jul 15 | Aug 22 – Oct 3 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 25 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 21 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 24 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 25 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 24 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 9 | — | Jul 15 | Jun 6 – Jun 27 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 9 | — | Jul 15 | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 9 | — | Jul 15 | Aug 22 – Oct 3 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 30 | — | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 25 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 3 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 25 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 25 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 6 | — | Sep 26 – Nov 21 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 30 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 9 | — | Jul 15 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 25 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 30 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 25 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Fossil
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Fossil.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | Sep 12 – Dec 26 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 13 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 13 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 13 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 17 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | Sep 12 – Jan 23 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Fossil
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Fossil.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 15 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 15 | Aug 15 – Oct 31 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 14 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 15 | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 15 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 15 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 15 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 15 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 15 | Aug 29 – Oct 31 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 15 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 15 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 14 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 15 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Jan 9 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 18 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 15 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 30 | — | Oct 3 – Jan 9 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Fossil
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Fossil.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Nov 7 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Sep 16 – Oct 7 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Jul 29 | Aug 12 – Sep 9 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 21 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | May 23 | Jul 29 | Jul 25 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 14 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 21 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Dec 12 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 21 | — | May 30 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | May 23 | Jul 29 | Jul 11 – Oct 24 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Apr 25 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Nov 21 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 28 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Dec 12 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 25 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 21 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Jul 15 – Aug 5 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Jul 22 – Aug 12 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 25 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Dec 12 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 21 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Dec 12 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Sep 19 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 21 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Aug 15 – Dec 12 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 28 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Apr 4 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Dec 26 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 14 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 21 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Dec 5 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 14 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Dec 12 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Aug 12 – Sep 2 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 14 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 28 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 28 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 28 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 30 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 15 | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Mar 21 | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 28 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 21 | — | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 19 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 28 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Apr 11 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 24 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 25 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Nov 21 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 14 | — | May 23 | Jul 15 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 28 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 28 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 21 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 31 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 25 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 11 – Nov 7 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Jul 29 | Aug 26 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Mar 14 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Dec 12 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 28 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 21 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 21 | — | May 30 | — | Sep 19 – Dec 12 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 23 | Jul 29 | Aug 1 – Oct 24 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | May 2 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 21 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | May 23 | Aug 12 | Jul 4 – Sep 26 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Sep 19 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Aug 5 – Aug 26 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Mar 14 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 21 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Dec 12 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 25 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 21 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Fossil
ZIP Codes in Fossil
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 Wheeler County.
Your Wheeler County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Wheeler County (Zone 7a). 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