Ironside, OR — Planting Guide for August
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your August gardening checklist
We've pulled the most time-sensitive tasks for Malheur County, Oregon this August and put them front and centre. Tackle them in order.
-
Harvest basil, carrots, and cucumber as they ripen
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
-
Plant your fall garden: alliums, bachelor's button, and crocus
Fall crops get sweeter with a light frost. Don't be afraid of cool nights.
September prep starts now
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Ironside gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (33" 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.
Ironside averages 34.8 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
6b (-5°F to 0°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 18
🍂 Avg. First Frost
September 29
📅 Growing Season
134 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 33.4" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
34.8 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Ironside
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: The 1-inch-per-week rule applies to most vegetable crops. Ironside averages 33" a year — divide by 52 and compare to that 1" target. Some months are above, some below; that's where the calendar earns its keep.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.4 in | 16 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.7 in | 16 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.9 in | 17 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Apr | 1.2 in | 11 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| May | 0.9 in | 11 days | 3.4 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.7 in | 5 days | 3.6 in | Critical |
| Jul | 0.3 in | 2 days | 4 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0.3 in | 2 days | 4 in | Critical |
| Sep | 0.8 in | 4 days | 3.5 in | Critical |
| Oct | 1.4 in | 12 days | 2.9 in | High |
| Nov | 2.6 in | 18 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.2 in | 16 days | — | None |
Annual total: 17.4 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.
Ironside Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.3
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) | Jun 12 | Oct 23 | 133 days |
| Cautious | May 28 | Oct 10 | 135 days |
| Average year | May 18 | Sep 29 | 134 days |
| Optimistic | May 1 | Sep 19 | 141 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 18 | Sep 6 | 141 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±54 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 3.3 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Malheur County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Malheur 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 Malheur County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Malheur 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 Malheur County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Malheur County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Malheur 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 Malheur County OR" or "garden center Malheur 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 Malheur County OR" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Malheur 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 Ironside
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: Day length triggers flowering in many crops. Some need short days (sweet potatoes), some long (most flowers), and some are day-neutral (most modern tomatoes). Ironside's latitude determines which varieties fit your beds.
Longest Day
15.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.8 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10 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 | 9.1 hr | 2.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 5.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.5 hr | 7.5 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.2 hr | 8.6 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.9 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.8 hr | 8.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 4.3 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.5 hr | 2.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.8 hr | 1.8 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Ironside
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Lettuce germinates at 35°F. Beans want 60°F. Tomatoes 65°F+. Soil temp, not air temp, is what plants feel. Ironside's monthly curve tells you when each crop actually has the conditions to take off.
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 | 24°F | 33°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 34°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 43°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 55°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 67°F | 61°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 76°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 76°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 71°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 56°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 42°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 33°F | 38°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 Ironside
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Pest pressure is a function of climate, not effort. Ironside's baseline tells you how much vigilance is normal. A bad pest year in low-pressure region = a normal year in high-pressure region.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | High | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
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 Ironside
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: 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 20 | Aug 4 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 22 | Jul 21 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 19 | Aug 4 | ✓ 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 6 | Sep 1 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 1 | May 4 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Jul 27 | May 4 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 19 | May 4 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 10 | May 4 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 22 | Apr 27 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 27 | Apr 27 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 9 | May 4 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Ironside
For new gardeners: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Ironside's 0.0 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 9 mph Summer: 7 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.3/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (881 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Ironside
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: A single rain barrel under a downspout catches 50 gallons in a 0.5" storm. Ironside's 33" annual rainfall means even modest harvesting systems quickly amortize their cost in water savings.
Annual Collection
8,672 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
8 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,000 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
May, Jun, 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 17.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 8,672 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- In your dry climate, every drop counts — consider a larger cistern system
- Position collection tanks in shade to reduce evaporation and algae growth
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Ironside
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Ironside.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 13 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 4 | — | Jul 21 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Sep 7 – Nov 2 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 25 | — | — | Aug 24 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 13 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 5 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 19 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | May 4 | — | Jul 21 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Aug 31 – Oct 5 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 25 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 25 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jun 1 – Jun 22 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 13 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 4 | — | Jul 21 | Oct 5 – Nov 16 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 13 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 4 | — | Jul 21 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 13 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 25 | — | — | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 12 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Nov 17 – Mar 2 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 25 | — | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Oct 5 – Dec 14 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 16 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 13 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Sep 14 – Oct 19 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 13 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Sep 28 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 25 | — | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Aug 17 – Nov 2 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 25 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Sep 14 – Nov 16 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 16 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 13 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 21 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 24 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Aug 17 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 4 | — | Jul 21 | Aug 17 – Sep 28 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 13 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 19 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 13 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 19 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 4 | — | Jul 21 | Jun 1 – Jun 22 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 4 | — | Jul 21 | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 4 | — | Jul 21 | Aug 17 – Sep 28 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Aug 17 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 25 | — | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 13 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Sep 28 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 13 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 13 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 19 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Sep 21 – Nov 16 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 25 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 4 | — | Jul 21 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 21 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 13 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 25 | — | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 13 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Ironside
27 fruits matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Ironside.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | Sep 7 – Dec 21 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 12 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | Sep 7 – Dec 21 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Ironside
35 herbs matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Ironside.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 21 | Aug 10 – Oct 26 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 9 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 21 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 21 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 21 | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 21 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 21 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 21 | Aug 24 – Oct 26 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 21 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 21 | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 9 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 21 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 13 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 21 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 25 | — | Sep 28 – Dec 7 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Ironside
53 flowers matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Ironside.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 30 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 26 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Sep 15 – Oct 13 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 20 | — | May 18 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 16 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | May 18 | Aug 18 | Jul 20 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 9 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 9 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 30 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 16 | — | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | May 18 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 12 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Apr 13 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 16 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 16 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 30 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 20 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Jul 7 – Jul 28 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Jul 14 – Aug 4 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 20 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 30 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 16 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 30 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Sep 14 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 16 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 30 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 16 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 30 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Dec 7 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 9 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 9 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 18 | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 23 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 9 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 30 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Aug 4 – Aug 25 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 9 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 23 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Mar 9 | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 9 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 16 | — | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 21 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 16 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 20 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Nov 9 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 9 | — | May 18 | Aug 4 | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 23 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 16 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 26 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 13 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Nov 2 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Apr 6 | — | May 18 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Mar 9 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 30 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 16 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 9 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 16 | — | May 25 | — | Sep 14 – Dec 7 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 9 | Apr 27 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 27 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 9 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 18 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Aug 4 – Sep 1 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Mar 9 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 30 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 20 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 2 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Ironside
ZIP Codes in Ironside
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 Malheur County.
Your Malheur County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Malheur 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