Sherman County, OR — Planting Guide
Your June game plan for Sherman County, Oregon
Your garden in Sherman County, Oregon is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this June.
-
Indoor seed-starting week for basil, peppers, and pole beans
A seed-starting mix and a sunny window (or a grow light) are all you need. Keep soil warm — around 70°F — for fast germination.
-
It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
Get ahead of July
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Sherman County is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 14 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 186 days.
At an elevation of 862 ft, Sherman County receives approximately 15 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 89°F with winter lows around 27°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 30 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 38 days year to year — ranging from March 25 in warm years to May 2 in cold years. Sherman County scores 64/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 14
🍂 First Frost
October 17
📅 Growing Season
186 days
⛰️ Elevation
862 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
15 in
Monthly Watering Calendar for Sherman County
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Sherman County gets 15" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.2 in | 16 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.6 in | 14 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.5 in | 14 days | 2.8 in | High |
| Apr | 1.2 in | 11 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| May | 0.8 in | 10 days | 3.5 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.5 in | 7 days | 3.8 in | Critical |
| Jul | 0.2 in | 2 days | 4.1 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0.3 in | 2 days | 4 in | Critical |
| Sep | 0.5 in | 5 days | 3.8 in | Critical |
| Oct | 1.3 in | 12 days | 3 in | High |
| Nov | 2.4 in | 15 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.4 in | 19 days | — | None |
Annual total: 14.9 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.
Sherman County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 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 2 | Nov 2 | 184 days |
| Cautious | Apr 19 | Oct 25 | 189 days |
| Average year | Apr 14 | Oct 17 | 186 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 7 | Oct 11 | 187 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 25 | Sep 29 | 188 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±38 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit shorter (0.5 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Sherman County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Sherman 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 Sherman County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Sherman 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 Sherman County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Sherman County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Sherman 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 Sherman County OR" or "garden center Sherman 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 Sherman County OR" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Sherman 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 Sherman County
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: Onions are a great example of why day length matters. They "bulb up" only when daylight hits a specific number of hours — plant the wrong variety (short-day in the north, long-day in the south) and you'll get tiny bulbs no matter how well you grow them. Sherman County's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.
Longest Day
15.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.5 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.9 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 | 8.9 hr | 2.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.2 hr | 3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 4.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 5.5 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.7 hr | 7.5 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.5 hr | 8.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.1 hr | 10.9 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.9 hr | 9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 4.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.3 hr | 2.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.5 hr | 1.9 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Sherman County
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Sherman County's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
7 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 | 32°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 32°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 40°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 52°F | 49°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 62°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 73°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 79°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 83°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 73°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 64°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 50°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 38°F | 45°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 Sherman County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: The most successful gardeners in high-pressure regions don't spray more — they design around the problem. Crop rotation, companion planting, and resistant varieties beat reactive spraying.
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 | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Sherman County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
What this means for you: Bare soil is wasted soil — it loses nutrients to rain, dries out, compacts, and gets taken over by weeds. Cover crops (clovers, ryegrass, vetch, peas) are the "between seasons" trick that makes soil better every year. In Sherman County, you can fit a cover crop into the gaps.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 26 | Aug 22 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 14 | Aug 22 | ✓ 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 1 | Sep 19 | — | 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 9 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 25 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 22 | Mar 24 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 23 | Mar 31 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 11 | Mar 24 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 19 | Mar 24 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 22 | Mar 31 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Sherman County
Why this matters: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Sherman County's 7.4 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: 11 mph Summer: 7 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 11 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
Low
Relatively flat terrain (343 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Sherman County
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: Rainwater scales linearly with roof area. A 2,000 sq ft roof in Sherman County captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 15" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.
Annual Collection
7,426 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 2,250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, Feb, 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 14.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 7,426 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
Soil & Growing Conditions in Sherman County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 5.7–6.3 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (15 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
186-day frost-free season
Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 22-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
Recommended for Your Garden
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Sherman County
112 vegetables that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Sherman County.
Show all 112 vegetables with planting 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 8 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 8 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | 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 8 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | 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 8 | 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 8 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | 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 8 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | 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 8 | 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 8 | Apr 28 – May 19 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 8 | Sep 1 – Nov 3 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 8 | 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 8 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Dec 5 – Apr 17 | 90–240 |
| 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 8 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | Jul 14 – Sep 29 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | 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 8 | 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 8 | Apr 21 – May 19 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 8 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | 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 8 | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 8 | 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 8 | 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 8 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 8 | Apr 28 – May 19 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 8 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 8 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | 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 8 | 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 8 | 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 8 | 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 8 | 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 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 8 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | 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 Sherman County
31 fruits that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Sherman County.
Show all 31 fruits with planting 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 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| 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 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| 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 – Dec 15 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Sherman County
36 herbs that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Sherman County.
Show all 36 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 8 | 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 8 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 8 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 8 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 8 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 8 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 8 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 8 | 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 8 | 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 |
| 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 8 | 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 8 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| 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 Sherman County
53 flowers that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Sherman County.
Show all 53 flowers with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 3 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 9 – Sep 29 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Oct 10 – Oct 31 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Sep 5 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Aug 22 | Jun 16 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 3 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Oct 13 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Nov 3 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | Aug 22 | Jun 2 – Sep 15 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 17 | — | Aug 22 | May 26 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 13 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Nov 3 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Oct 13 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Aug 8 – Aug 29 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Aug 15 – Sep 5 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Nov 3 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Nov 3 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 17 | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | — | May 12 – Aug 11 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 7 – Nov 3 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Nov 17 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 3 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Oct 13 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Oct 27 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 3 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Nov 3 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Sep 5 – Sep 26 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 3 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 17 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 17 | — | Aug 8 | May 26 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 10 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 10 | — | Mar 24 | — | May 19 – Aug 11 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 3 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 9 – Sep 15 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 9 – Oct 13 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 3 | — | Apr 14 | Aug 8 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 17 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 22 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 2 – Sep 29 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Sep 19 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 3 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Nov 3 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 17 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Oct 13 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Aug 11 – Nov 3 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 14 | Aug 22 | Jun 23 – Sep 15 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 13 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 14 | Sep 5 | May 26 – Aug 18 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Mar 10 | — | Aug 22 | May 19 – Aug 11 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Aug 29 – Sep 19 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 3 | — | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Oct 13 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Nov 3 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Oct 13 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Sherman County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Sherman County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Sherman County, OR?
Sherman County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Sherman County, OR?
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Sherman County falls around April 14. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 25 and May 2 — a 38-day window of variability. Use May 2 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Sherman County, OR?
The median first fall frost in Sherman County arrives around October 17. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 29; in mild years as late as November 2. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Sherman County?
Sherman County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 186 days. This is enough time for most warm-season crops including tomatoes, peppers, and squash with proper timing.
What is the soil like in Sherman County for gardening?
Sherman County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 5.7–6.3 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Sherman County?
Sherman County has commercial agriculture that includes Wheat, Hay, Apples, Potatoes. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Sherman County a good location for home gardening?
Sherman County scores 64/100 (Good) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Your Sherman County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Sherman 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