Philadelphia County, PA — Planting Guide
May to-do list for Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
May rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania.
-
Move alpine strawberries, aronia, and blackberries from tray to bed
Your last frost (April 16) has passed. These warm-season crops can handle outdoor soil now.
-
Get cucumber, kale, and lettuce seeds going inside
Label every cell. You will absolutely forget which is which otherwise.
-
Start harvesting lettuce, radish, and arugula
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
To set up a strong June, finish these tasks
- Starting indoors: basil, peppers, and pole beans
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Philadelphia County is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is April 16 and the first fall frost is October 24, giving you a growing season of approximately 191 days.
At an elevation of 996 ft, Philadelphia County receives approximately 48.2 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 93°F with winter lows around 28°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 30 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 42 days year to year — ranging from March 30 in warm years to May 11 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 2.22 days per decade. Philadelphia County scores 64/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
7b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 16
🍂 First Frost
October 24
📅 Growing Season
191 days
⛰️ Elevation
996 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
48.2 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 | 3.9 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.7 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.8 in | 9 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Apr | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| May | 4.5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 3.9 in | 11 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jul | 4.5 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.5 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.6 in | 9 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 4.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 3.3 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.8 in | 10 days | — | None |
Annual total: 48.3 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.
Philadelphia County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data from 2 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 11 | Nov 4 | 177 days |
| Cautious | Apr 26 | Oct 31 | 188 days |
| Average year | Apr 16 | Oct 24 | 191 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 13 | Oct 18 | 188 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 30 | Oct 8 | 192 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±42 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 2.2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Philadelphia County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Philadelphia County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia County PA" or "garden center Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia County PA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Philadelphia 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
14.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.2 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 | 9.5 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 6.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.8 hr | 7.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.6 hr | 8.7 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.7 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.2 hr | 3.3 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 Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 39°F | 46°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 40°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 45°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 58°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 68°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 76°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 84°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 86°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 79°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 70°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 53°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 44°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Philadelphia 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
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 |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
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 Philadelphia County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 29 | Aug 22 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 27 | Aug 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 25 | Aug 15 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 16 | Aug 29 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | May 17 | Oct 10 | — | 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 20 | Apr 2 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 24 | Mar 26 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 13 | Apr 2 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 9 | Mar 26 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 10 | Mar 26 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 30 | Apr 2 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 22 | Apr 2 | — | 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: 12 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 13 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
6.7/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (287 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
24,072 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 250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Sep, 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 48.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 24,072 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Sep, Nov)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Philadelphia County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 5.2–6.7 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 1.5/10
Philadelphia County has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.
Season Tips
191-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 24-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 Philadelphia County
113 vegetables that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Philadelphia County.
Show all 113 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 30 | Sep 3 – Nov 12 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 30 | Sep 3 – Oct 15 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Sep 3 – Nov 12 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 – May 21 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 2 | — | Sep 3 – Nov 5 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 30 | Sep 3 – Nov 12 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 9 – Oct 15 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Aug 13 – Sep 17 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Sep 3 – Nov 12 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 30 – Aug 27 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Oct 1 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Aug 13 – Oct 15 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 30 – Oct 15 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 2 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 2 | — | Apr 30 – May 21 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 2 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 30 – Aug 27 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 30 | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 2 | — | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Philadelphia County
31 fruits that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Philadelphia County.
Show all 31 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 7 | Aug 6 – Nov 19 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 7 | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 7 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 7 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 7 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 7 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 7 | Aug 6 – Dec 17 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Philadelphia County
39 herbs that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Philadelphia County.
Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 23 | Aug 27 – Dec 3 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Dec 3 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 16 – Dec 3 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 23 | Aug 27 – Dec 3 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Philadelphia County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Philadelphia County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Philadelphia County, PA?
Philadelphia County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. 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 Philadelphia County, PA?
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Philadelphia County falls around April 16. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 30 and May 11 — a 42-day window of variability. Use May 11 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Philadelphia County, PA?
The median first fall frost in Philadelphia County arrives around October 24. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 8; in mild years as late as November 4. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Philadelphia County?
Philadelphia County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 191 days. This is enough time for most warm-season crops including tomatoes, peppers, and squash with proper timing. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 2.22 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Philadelphia County for gardening?
Philadelphia County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 5.2–6.7 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Philadelphia County?
Philadelphia County has commercial agriculture that includes Dairy, Hay, Corn, Apples, 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 Philadelphia County a good location for home gardening?
Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Philadelphia County (Zone 7b). 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