Ocoee, TN — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
What to do in July
Your Polk County, Tennessee garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for July and why each task matters now.
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Basket week: basil, carrots, and cucumber
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
August will be here before you know it — start on
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Ocoee gardens in a wet, humid climate (58" 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.
Ocoee averages 21.1 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend improving). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7b (5°F to 10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 19
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 19
📅 Growing Season
183 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 58.0" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 4.9 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
21.1 wk/yr trend improving
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Ocoee
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: 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. Ocoee's 58" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.1 in | 9 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Apr | 3.7 in | 8 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.9 in | 7 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4 in | 11 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.7 in | 12 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.6 in | 7 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Nov | 2.9 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 43.5 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.
Ocoee Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.5
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 5 | Nov 1 | 180 days |
| Cautious | Apr 26 | Oct 22 | 179 days |
| Average year | Apr 19 | Oct 19 | 183 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 10 | Oct 16 | 189 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 4 | Oct 6 | 185 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±31 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 2.1 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Polk County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Polk 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 Polk County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Polk County University of Tennessee Extension Extension Office
Phone: 865-974-7114
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 Polk County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Polk County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Polk 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 Polk County TN" or "garden center Polk 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 Polk County TN" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Polk County Gardeners" or "Tennessee 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 Ocoee
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: Photoperiod-sensitive crops will fail spectacularly if planted at the wrong latitude. Sweet onions in Michigan? Tiny. Spanish onions in Florida? Tiny. Match variety to Ocoee's daylight pattern and you'll see the difference.
Longest Day
14.4 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.6 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.5 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: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.9 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.7 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.8 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.4 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.1 hr | 8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.1 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.6 hr | 4.6 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Ocoee
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Soil heats slower than air in spring and cools slower in fall. That's why "warm" April air doesn't mean "plant tomatoes" — soil still trails by weeks. Ocoee's monthly soil curve makes the lag visible.
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 | 37°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 40°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 45°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 58°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 69°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 79°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 83°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 85°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 80°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 68°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 53°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 45°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 Ocoee
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: High pest pressure means weekly inspection. Low pest pressure means monthly. The score tells you which routine to set up before you have a problem.
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
- 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 Ocoee
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: Bare soil is wasted soil — it loses nutrients to rain, dries out, compacts, and gets taken over by weeds. Cover crops (clovers, ryegrass, vetch, peas) are the "between seasons" trick that makes soil better every year. In Ocoee, you can fit a cover crop into the gaps.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 23 | Aug 24 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 29 | Aug 24 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 24 | Aug 24 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 25 | Aug 17 | ✓ 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 20 | Sep 21 | — | 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 12 | Mar 29 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 9 | Apr 5 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 28 | Mar 29 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 3 | Mar 29 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 21 | Mar 29 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 11 | Apr 5 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 11 | Apr 5 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Ocoee
Why it matters: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Ocoee averages 4.9 mph — fine for most days. But every region has its windy days, and the first time a row of unstaked peppers leans over after a storm is a lesson you only need once.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 8 mph Summer: 6 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 8 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Low wind — no windbreak needed for most crops.
Windbreak Benefit
2.9/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (235 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Ocoee
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Ocoee's 58" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
21,680 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Mar, May, Jun, Jul
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Sep, Oct, 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 43.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 21,680 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Sep, Oct, Nov)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Ocoee
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Ocoee.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | May 3 | — | Sep 6 – Nov 15 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 10 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | May 3 | — | Sep 6 – Oct 18 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 10 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Sep 6 – Nov 15 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | May 3 – May 24 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 10 | Sep 6 – Nov 8 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 10 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 7 | Dec 7 – Apr 19 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 3 | — | Sep 6 – Nov 15 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 18 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Sep 6 – Nov 15 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Aug 30 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jul 19 – Oct 4 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | May 24 – Aug 2 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 16 – Oct 18 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 18 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Apr 26 – May 24 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 10 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 10 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 10 | May 3 – May 24 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 10 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 10 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Aug 30 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 3 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 18 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 10 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 10 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Ocoee
31 fruits matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Ocoee.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 22 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Dec 20 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Ocoee
36 herbs matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Ocoee.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 10 | Jul 12 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 10 | Jun 7 – Jul 26 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 10 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 10 | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 10 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 10 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 10 | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 10 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 10 | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 10 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Dec 6 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 10 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 30 – Dec 6 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Ocoee
53 flowers matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Ocoee.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Oct 18 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Oct 12 – Nov 2 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Sep 7 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Apr 19 | Aug 24 | Jun 21 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Nov 1 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Nov 15 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Apr 19 | Aug 24 | Jun 7 – Oct 4 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 22 | — | Aug 24 | May 31 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 21 – Nov 1 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Nov 15 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Aug 10 – Aug 31 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Aug 17 – Sep 7 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 29 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Nov 22 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Nov 15 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 10 – Aug 2 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 15 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 15 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 1 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Nov 29 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Nov 15 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 8 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Nov 8 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Sep 7 – Sep 28 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 25 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 22 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Nov 1 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 22 | — | Aug 10 | May 31 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 18 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 15 | — | Mar 22 | — | May 17 – Jul 26 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 8 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Oct 4 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Nov 1 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 8 | — | Apr 12 | Aug 10 | Jun 7 – Aug 30 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 22 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 25 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 15 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 27 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 18 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Sep 14 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Nov 8 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 22 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Nov 1 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 8 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 8 | Mar 22 | Apr 12 | Aug 24 | Jun 21 – Sep 27 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 12 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Apr 19 | Sep 7 | May 31 – Sep 6 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Nov 2 – Jan 25 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Aug 31 – Sep 21 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Nov 1 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 15 | Apr 12 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Nov 15 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Nov 1 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Ocoee
ZIP Codes in Ocoee
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 Polk County.
Your Polk County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Polk 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