Marcus Hook, PA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June game plan for Delaware County, Pennsylvania
June rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Delaware County, Pennsylvania.
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Fire up the seed-starting tray: basil, peppers, and pole beans
Your window is short. These crops want several weeks of indoor growth before they go outside.
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Collect basil, carrots, and cucumber at their peak
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
July prep starts now
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Marcus Hook gardens in a wet, humid climate (47" annually). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive in spring and fall. The biggest challenges are fungal disease and humidity-loving pests in summer — leaf spot, blight, squash bugs, vine borers. Drip irrigation (not overhead), wide plant spacing for air circulation, and disease-resistant varieties make the difference.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Drought pressure is moderate (11.3 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7b (5°F to 10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 16
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 24
📅 Growing Season
191 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 46.9" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 8.7 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
11.3 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Marcus Hook
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Marcus Hook gets 47" 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 | 2.9 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.3 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.1 in | 10 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 3.6 in | 10 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.3 in | 10 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 3.2 in | 10 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 4.2 in | 11 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.6 in | 9 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3.7 in | 8 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.6 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.5 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 38.4 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Marcus Hook Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5-6.2
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
Delaware County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Delaware 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 Delaware County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Delaware 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 Delaware County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Delaware County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Delaware 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 Delaware County PA" or "garden center Delaware 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 Delaware County PA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Delaware 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 in Marcus Hook
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: You can't change the sun. Picking the right day-length-matched varieties for Marcus Hook matters more than any other "fix" you make — and the seed packet tells you (look for "long-day," "short-day," "day-neutral").
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 | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.2 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 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 | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.7 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.2 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 in Marcus Hook
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Marcus Hook's soil temperature curve also tells you when your compost is working and when it's napping.
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 | 38°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 36°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 44°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 57°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 66°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 75°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 86°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 86°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 82°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 69°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 53°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 41°F | 50°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 Marcus Hook
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: 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
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 | Moderate | 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
- 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
- Watch for powdery mildew, downy mildew, blight — common in your climate
Cover Crops for Marcus Hook
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: Why not just leave bare soil? Weed seeds, erosion, nutrient leaching, and crust formation. A cover crop solves all of these for the cost of seeds and one mowing.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 21 | Aug 22 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 25 | Aug 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 16 | Aug 29 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 17 | 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 | Apr 28 | Oct 3 | — | 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 15 | Apr 2 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 30 | Apr 2 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 10 | Apr 2 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 31 | Mar 26 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 16 | Apr 2 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 30 | Mar 26 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 18 | Apr 2 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Marcus Hook
Why it matters: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Marcus Hook's 8.7 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: 8 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.8/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (351 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Marcus Hook
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: The first inch of rain washes the roof clean — a first-flush diverter sends it to waste before the barrel fills. Worth the extra $20 for cleaner garden water. Marcus Hook gets 47" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
19,138 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 1,000 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, Jul, Aug, Sep
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Nov, Dec
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 38.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 19,138 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Nov, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Marcus Hook
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Marcus Hook.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | 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 | Aug 15 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 15 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | 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 | Aug 15 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | 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 | Aug 15 | 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 | — | Aug 15 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | 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 | Aug 15 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | 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 | Aug 15 | 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 | Aug 15 | Apr 30 – May 21 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 15 | Sep 3 – Nov 5 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 15 | 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 | Aug 15 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 12 | Dec 12 – Apr 24 | 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 | Aug 15 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 23 | — | — | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | Jul 16 – Oct 1 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | 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 | Aug 15 | 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 | Aug 15 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 15 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | 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 | Aug 15 | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 15 | 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 | Aug 15 | 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 | Aug 15 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 15 | Apr 30 – May 21 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 15 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 15 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | 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 | Aug 15 | 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 | Aug 15 | 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 | Aug 15 | 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 |
| 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 | Aug 15 | 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 | — | Aug 15 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 15 | 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 Marcus Hook
31 fruits matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Marcus Hook.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | 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 Marcus Hook
36 herbs matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Marcus Hook.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 15 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 15 | 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 | Aug 15 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 15 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 15 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 15 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 15 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 15 | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 15 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Aug 15 | 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 |
| 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 | Aug 15 | 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 | Aug 15 | 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 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Marcus Hook
53 flowers matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Marcus Hook.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 5 | Apr 16 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 15 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Oct 17 – Nov 7 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Sep 12 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Aug 29 | Jun 18 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 29 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Nov 12 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Aug 29 | Jun 4 – Oct 1 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 29 | May 28 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Nov 12 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 22 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Aug 15 – Sep 5 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Aug 22 – Sep 12 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Nov 19 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Nov 12 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 19 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | — | May 7 – Jul 30 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 9 – Nov 12 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Nov 26 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 29 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 16 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Nov 12 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 5 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Nov 5 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Sep 12 – Oct 3 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 22 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 19 | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 29 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 23 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 15 | May 28 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 15 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 12 | — | Mar 19 | — | May 14 – Jul 23 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 5 | Apr 16 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 1 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 29 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 | Aug 15 | Jun 4 – Aug 27 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 19 | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 22 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 24 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 15 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Sep 19 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Nov 5 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 19 | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 29 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 | — | Aug 13 – Nov 5 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 5 | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Aug 29 | Jun 18 – Sep 24 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 16 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 29 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 5 | Mar 19 | Apr 16 | Sep 12 | May 28 – Sep 3 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Nov 7 – Jan 30 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 19 | Sep 5 – Sep 26 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 29 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Nov 12 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 29 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Marcus Hook
ZIP Codes in Marcus Hook
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Delaware County.
Your Delaware County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Delaware 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