Cameron County, PA — Planting Guide
Cameron County is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 17 and the first fall frost is October 9, giving you a growing season of approximately 145 days.
At an elevation of 440 ft, Cameron County receives approximately 47.8 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 83°F with winter lows around 14°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 34 days year to year — ranging from April 28 in warm years to June 1 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 3.15 days per decade. Cameron County scores 61/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
5a (-20°F to -15°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 17
🍂 First Frost
October 9
📅 Growing Season
145 days
⛰️ Elevation
440 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
47.8 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.2 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.5 in | 12 days | — | None |
| Apr | 4.1 in | 11 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| May | 4.9 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.2 in | 10 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Jul | 4.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.5 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.9 in | 9 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.5 in | 7 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.5 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 4 in | 11 days | — | None |
Annual total: 47.6 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.
Cameron County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
4.9-6.3
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 1 | Oct 26 | 147 days |
| Cautious | May 23 | Oct 16 | 146 days |
| Average year | May 17 | Oct 9 | 145 days |
| Optimistic | May 8 | Oct 1 | 146 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 28 | Sep 15 | 140 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±34 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 3.2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Cameron County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Cameron 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 Cameron County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Cameron County Penn State Extension Extension Office
Phone: 814-865-4028
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 Cameron County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Cameron County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Cameron 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 Cameron County PA" or "garden center Cameron 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 Cameron County PA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Cameron County Gardeners" or "Pennsylvania 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
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
15 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.7 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 | 9.3 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 4.2 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 6.2 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.3 hr | 7.7 hr | Long day |
| June | 15 hr | 8.7 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.7 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.6 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9 hr | 3.1 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 22°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 23°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 34°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 45°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 60°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 69°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 76°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 79°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 70°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 56°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 43°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 32°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Cameron County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Slugs | Low | Apr, May, Jun |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Cameron County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 20 | Aug 7 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 19 | Aug 7 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 17 | Jul 31 | ✓ 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 28 | Sep 18 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 16 | Apr 26 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 23 | Apr 26 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 23 | Apr 26 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 8 | Apr 26 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 16 | May 3 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 15 | Apr 26 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 10 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.4/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (797 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
23,723 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 750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Mar, May, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Nov
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 47.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 23,723 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Nov)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Cameron County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 4.9–6.3 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 1.5/10
Cameron County has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.
Season Tips
145-day frost-free season
Start warm-season crops indoors and focus on short-season varieties. Cold frames extend your season by 3–4 weeks in fall.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
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 Cameron County
106 vegetables that grow well in Zone 5a with planting dates for Cameron County.
Show all 106 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 30 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 31 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Sep 6 – Nov 1 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 30 – Oct 4 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 23 – Oct 18 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 30 – Oct 4 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | May 31 – Jun 21 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 19 – Aug 16 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 3 | — | Oct 4 – Oct 18 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 31 | Oct 4 – Nov 15 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 9 – Nov 15 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Sep 13 – Oct 18 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 30 – Sep 27 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 16 – Nov 1 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Aug 23 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 16 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 3 | — | Aug 16 – Sep 27 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 19 – Aug 16 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 9 – Oct 18 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 30 – Oct 18 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 3 | — | May 31 – Jun 21 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 3 | — | Aug 16 – Sep 27 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 16 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 29 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 30 – Sep 27 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 23 – Oct 18 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 31 | Sep 20 – Nov 15 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 30 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 3 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 30 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Cameron County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 5a with planting dates for Cameron County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 7 | Sep 6 – Nov 22 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 7 | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 7 | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 7 | Aug 30 – Oct 11 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 7 | Sep 6 – Nov 22 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Cameron County
37 herbs that grow well in Zone 5a with planting dates for Cameron County.
Show all 37 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Aug 9 – Oct 25 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 29 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 24 | Aug 23 – Nov 8 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 24 | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 24 | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 24 | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Aug 23 – Oct 25 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 24 | Sep 27 – Nov 8 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Mar 29 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 24 | Aug 23 – Nov 8 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 24 | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 24 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 24 | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | May 24 | Aug 23 – Nov 8 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 24 | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 24 | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 24 | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 24 | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 24 | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 24 | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 24 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 24 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 24 | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 29 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 24 | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 24 | Sep 27 – Nov 8 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 24 | Aug 23 – Nov 8 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Cameron County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Cameron County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Cameron County, PA?
Cameron County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. 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 Cameron County, PA?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Cameron County falls around May 17. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 28 and June 1 — a 34-day window of variability. Use June 1 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Cameron County, PA?
The median first fall frost in Cameron County arrives around October 9. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 15; in mild years as late as October 26. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Cameron County?
Cameron County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 145 days. Focus on short-season varieties and start warm-season crops indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 3.15 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Cameron County for gardening?
Cameron County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 4.9–6.3 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Cameron County?
Cameron County has commercial agriculture that includes Corn, Dairy, Hay, Sweet Corn. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Cameron County a good location for home gardening?
Cameron County scores 61/100 (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.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Cameron County gardeners in Zone 5a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.
