Nemo, SD — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June planting checklist for Lawrence County, South Dakota
Here's what deserves your attention in Lawrence County, South Dakota this month. Everything below is tailored to Zone 5a and timed around your local frost dates.
-
Time to transplant alpine strawberries, aronia, and blackberries
Your last frost (May 11) has passed. These warm-season crops can handle outdoor soil now.
-
Start basil, cucumber, and kale indoors
You're about 13 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
Bring in the carrots, lettuce, and radish
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
July prep starts now
- Starting indoors: peppers, pole beans, and tomatoes
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Nemo has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 5a). The last spring frost typically lands around May 11 and the first fall frost arrives around October 2 — a 144-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
Soils trend Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Nemo averages 29.4 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
5a (-20°F to -15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 11
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 2
📅 Growing Season
144 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 27.7" annual
💨 Wind
Breezy 10.3 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
29.4 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Nemo
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: Watering by the calendar wastes water. Watering by the soil moisture (or by a free rain gauge) cuts your water use 30%+ and produces healthier roots. Nemo's 28" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.5 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.4 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.8 in | 9 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.1 in | 6 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 1.7 in | 5 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Jul | 1.9 in | 5 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Aug | 2.2 in | 6 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Sep | 2.1 in | 5 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Oct | 1.9 in | 6 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Nov | 1.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.5 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 23.8 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.
Nemo Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.3
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) | May 23 | Oct 15 | 145 days |
| Cautious | May 15 | Oct 5 | 143 days |
| Average year | May 11 | Oct 2 | 144 days |
| Optimistic | May 7 | Sep 22 | 138 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 28 | Sep 11 | 136 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±25 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 1.3 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Lawrence County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Lawrence 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 Lawrence County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Lawrence County South Dakota State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 605-688-4792
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 Lawrence County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Lawrence County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Lawrence 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 Lawrence County SD" or "garden center Lawrence 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 Lawrence County SD" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Lawrence County Gardeners" or "South Dakota 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 Nemo
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: Lettuce and cilantro "bolt" (go to seed) when days lengthen. Knowing your day-length curve helps you time spring plantings to harvest before the bolting trigger hits. Nemo's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
Longest Day
15.3 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.7 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
11.2 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 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.2 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.6 hr | 9.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.3 hr | 10.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 15 hr | 11.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.8 hr | 10.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.4 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.7 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Nemo
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Nemo'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 Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
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 | 13°F | 22°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 16°F | 22°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 27°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 42°F | 40°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 55°F | 48°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 64°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 70°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 71°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 66°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 51°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 35°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 23°F | 30°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 Nemo
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
For new gardeners: 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 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Colorado potato beetle | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Nemo
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: Cover crops are the experienced gardener's secret weapon. Nemo's climate determines which species thrive: clover and vetch in mild winters, cereal rye and Austrian peas in cold ones.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 13 | Jul 31 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 11 | Aug 7 | ✓ 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 26 | Sep 18 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (5 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daikon radish | Aug 18 | Apr 27 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 17 | Apr 20 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 29 | Apr 27 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 8 | Apr 20 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 27 | Apr 20 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Nemo
The practical takeaway: A 10 mph wind doesn't feel like much, but it triples leaf transpiration vs. still air. Nemo's 10.3 mph average means most days are gentle on plants, but consider how a 20+ mph spring gust would affect a flat of seedlings hardened off too quickly.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 15 mph Summer: 12 mph
Fall: 13 mph Winter: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.4/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (234 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Nemo
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: 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. Nemo gets 28" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
11,861 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
7 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Mar, Apr, May, Aug
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 23.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 11,861 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 Nemo
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Nemo.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 24 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Aug 31 – Oct 26 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 18 | — | — | Aug 17 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 24 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 18 | — | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 18 | — | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | May 25 – Jun 15 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 24 | Sep 28 – Oct 12 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 24 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 18 | — | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Nov 20 – Feb 5 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 18 | — | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 25 | — | Sep 28 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 9 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Sep 7 – Oct 12 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 21 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 18 | — | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Aug 10 – Oct 26 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 18 | — | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 24 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 24 | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 12 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 24 | May 25 – Jun 15 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 24 | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 24 | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 18 | — | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 21 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 25 | — | Sep 14 – Nov 9 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 18 | — | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 24 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 24 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 18 | — | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Nemo
27 fruits matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Nemo.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 16 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 5 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 16 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Nemo
34 herbs matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Nemo.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 24 | Aug 3 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 2 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 24 | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 24 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 24 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 24 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 24 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 24 | Aug 17 – Oct 19 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 24 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 24 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 2 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 24 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 24 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 18 | — | Sep 21 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Nemo
51 flowers matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Nemo.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 5 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Sep 25 – Oct 23 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 13 | — | May 11 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 9 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 2 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 9 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 9 | — | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Apr 6 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 9 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 9 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 9 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Jul 3 – Jul 24 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Jul 10 – Jul 31 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 2 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 9 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 31 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 9 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 9 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 9 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 16 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 23 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 2 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 18 | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 2 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 2 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Jul 31 – Aug 28 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 2 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 26 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 16 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 19 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Mar 2 | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 26 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 2 | — | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 9 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 30 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 5 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 2 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 16 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 9 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 26 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 6 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 12 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Mar 2 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 9 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 9 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 9 | — | May 25 | — | Sep 21 – Nov 23 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 20 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 11 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | May 11 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Jul 24 – Aug 14 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 23 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 19 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Nemo
ZIP Codes in Nemo
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 Lawrence County.
Your Lawrence County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lawrence County (Zone 5a). 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