Rainier, OR — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June gardening checklist
Each item below is timed to Columbia County, Oregon's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
-
Start basil, peppers, and pole beans indoors
You're about 18 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
Collect basil, carrots, and cucumber at their peak
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
Coming up in July — start thinking about
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Rainier gardens in a wet, humid climate (52" annually). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive in spring and fall. The biggest challenges are fungal disease and humidity-loving pests in summer — leaf spot, blight, squash bugs, vine borers. Drip irrigation (not overhead), wide plant spacing for air circulation, and disease-resistant varieties make the difference.
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 (18.5 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
8b (15°F to 20°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 14
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 29
📅 Growing Season
198 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 52.2" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 4.1 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
18.5 wk/yr trend worsening
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Rainier
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: 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. Rainier's 52" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 6.5 in | 19 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.8 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 4.9 in | 14 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.2 in | 14 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| May | 2.9 in | 11 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 1.7 in | 6 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Jul | 0.7 in | 3 days | 3.6 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0.8 in | 3 days | 3.5 in | Critical |
| Sep | 1.9 in | 4 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Oct | 3.9 in | 10 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Nov | 7.6 in | 16 days | — | Low |
| Dec | 7.7 in | 19 days | — | None |
Annual total: 46.6 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Rainier Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 10 | Nov 20 | 194 days |
| Cautious | Apr 22 | Nov 7 | 199 days |
| Average year | Apr 14 | Oct 29 | 198 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 7 | Oct 21 | 197 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 20 | Oct 10 | 204 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±51 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 (0.4 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Columbia County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Columbia 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 Columbia County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Columbia 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 Columbia County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Columbia County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Columbia 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 Columbia County OR" or "garden center Columbia 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 Columbia County OR" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Columbia 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 Rainier
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). Rainier's latitude determines which varieties fit your beds.
Longest Day
15.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.5 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.5 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 8.8 hr | 2.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.1 hr | 3.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 5.5 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.7 hr | 7.6 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.5 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.2 hr | 10.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 14 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 4.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.2 hr | 2.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.5 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 Rainier
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Cold soil = stunted starts. A bean seed planted in 55°F soil rots before it germinates. Same seed in 65°F soil sprouts in 5 days. Rainier's soil temperature pattern shows you the difference month to month.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
10 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 44°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 44°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 52°F | 53°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 60°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 72°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 80°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 88°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 89°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 85°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 73°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 61°F | 65°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 50°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Rainier
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: In Rainier's climate, pest pressure shapes which crops are easy and which are heartbreak. Tomatoes are easy in dry mountain air, hard in humid coast — same plant, completely different gardening experience.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Rainier
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: 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 (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 19 | Sep 3 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 18 | Aug 20 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 18 | Aug 20 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 14 | Aug 20 | ✓ 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 8 | Oct 8 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 5 | Mar 31 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 28 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 3 | Mar 24 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 16 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 19 | Mar 24 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 27 | Mar 24 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 5 | Mar 24 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Rainier
For new gardeners: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Rainier's 4.1 mph average is one piece of the watering math: rainfall + irrigation must exceed evaporation + transpiration, and wind boosts both losses.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 9 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 (455 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Rainier
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Rainier gets 52" of rain a year — a couple of well-placed rain barrels can cover most summer watering. In dry climates the math's even better: every captured gallon is one you don't buy.
Annual Collection
23,225 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 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
Jul, Aug
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 46.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 23,225 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Rainier
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Rainier.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Sep 1 – Nov 10 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 20 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Sep 1 – Oct 13 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Sep 1 – Nov 10 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Apr 28 – May 19 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 20 | Sep 1 – Nov 3 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 20 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 17 | Dec 17 – Jun 3 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Dec 29 – Jan 12 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Sep 1 – Nov 10 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 13 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 15 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Sep 1 – Nov 10 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Aug 25 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jul 14 – Sep 29 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 13 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 13 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Apr 21 – May 19 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 20 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 20 | Apr 28 – May 19 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 20 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 20 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Aug 25 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Dec 29 – Jan 12 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 20 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 20 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Rainier
27 fruits matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Rainier.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Nov 17 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Jan 19 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Rainier
39 herbs matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Rainier.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jul 7 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 11 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 13 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 14 – Dec 1 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Aug 25 – Dec 1 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Rainier
54 flowers matched to Zone 8b with planting dates calibrated for Rainier.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 3 | Mar 31 | Mar 31 | — | May 26 – Oct 27 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 1 | Oct 29 – Nov 19 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Sep 10 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 17 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 11 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 24 | Mar 24 | Sep 3 | May 26 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 3 | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 9 – Nov 10 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 17 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Nov 17 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 17 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 24 | Mar 24 | Aug 20 | May 12 – Oct 6 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Aug 20 | Oct 29 – Feb 18 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Mar 31 | — | Jun 2 – Nov 10 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 17 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Nov 10 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 17 | Mar 24 | Mar 24 | — | Jun 2 – Nov 3 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 1 | Sep 3 – Sep 24 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 1 | Sep 10 – Oct 8 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Dec 8 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 17 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Nov 24 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 17 | Feb 24 | Mar 3 | — | Apr 21 – Jun 30 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Nov 10 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 7 | — | May 26 – Jun 23 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 17 | Oct 8 – Nov 12 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 3 | Mar 31 | Mar 31 | — | Jun 9 – Nov 24 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 3 | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 9 – Nov 10 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Dec 8 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 10 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 1 | Sep 24 – Oct 15 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 10 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 20 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 17 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Nov 17 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 7 | — | May 26 – Jun 30 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | — | — | Aug 20 | Oct 29 – Feb 18 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 17 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 6 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 17 | — | Mar 3 | — | Apr 28 – Jun 9 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Mar 31 | — | May 26 – Oct 13 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Mar 31 | — | May 26 – Nov 10 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 3 | — | Mar 24 | Aug 20 | May 19 – Sep 8 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 14 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 17 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Nov 3 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Mar 31 | — | May 19 – Oct 27 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Sep 17 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 10 | — | Apr 7 | — | Jun 16 – Nov 17 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 17 | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 9 – Nov 10 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 17 | — | Apr 14 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Aug 20 | Jun 2 – Oct 6 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 24 | Mar 31 | Mar 31 | — | Jun 23 – Nov 10 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 3 | Mar 3 | Mar 24 | Sep 3 | May 5 – Sep 8 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Nov 5 – Jan 14 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 1 | Sep 17 – Oct 15 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 3 | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 9 – Nov 10 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 17 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Nov 10 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | Mar 31 | — | Jun 9 – Nov 10 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Rainier
ZIP Codes in Rainier
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 Columbia County.
Your Columbia County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Columbia County (Zone 8b). 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