Orleans County, VT — Planting Guide
Your May planting checklist for Orleans County, Vermont
May rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Orleans County, Vermont.
-
Transplant kale, lettuce, and angelica outside
Pinch off the lowest leaves on each seedling before you plant — it reduces water loss while the roots catch up.
-
Seed basil, carrots, and cucumber outdoors
Your soil is 55°F — warm enough for these to germinate without babying.
-
Collect cress and microgreens at their peak
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
To set up a strong June, finish these tasks
- Transplants going out: basil, cucumber, and peppers
- Starting indoors: cucumber, kale, and lettuce
- First harvests: lettuce, radish, and arugula
Orleans County is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 13 and the first fall frost is October 4, giving you a growing season of approximately 144 days.
At an elevation of 48 ft, Orleans County receives approximately 49.5 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 83°F with winter lows around 8°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 23 days year to year — ranging from May 2 in warm years to May 26 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 1.76 days per decade. Orleans County scores 68/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 13
🍂 First Frost
October 4
📅 Growing Season
144 days
⛰️ Elevation
48 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
49.5 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.1 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.4 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.9 in | 10 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| May | 4.7 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.2 in | 12 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Jul | 5.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.3 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.7 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4 in | 10 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Nov | 3.3 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.7 in | 11 days | — | None |
Annual total: 49.7 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.
Orleans County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.5
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 26 | Oct 16 | 143 days |
| Cautious | May 18 | Oct 9 | 144 days |
| Average year | May 13 | Oct 4 | 144 days |
| Optimistic | May 8 | Sep 29 | 144 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 2 | Sep 18 | 139 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±23 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 1.8 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Orleans County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Orleans 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 Orleans County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Orleans County University of Vermont Extension Extension Office
Phone: 802-656-2990
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 Orleans County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Orleans County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Orleans 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 Orleans County VT" or "garden center Orleans 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 Orleans County VT" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Orleans County Gardeners" or "Vermont Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
15.4 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.6 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.6 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 | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.2 hr | 4.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 6.5 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.6 hr | 7.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.4 hr | 8.6 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.1 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.9 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.5 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.3 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.6 hr | 3.1 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from 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 | 16°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 16°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 27°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 40°F | 39°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 55°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 64°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 74°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 73°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 67°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 53°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 36°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 23°F | 32°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 Orleans County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Colorado potato beetle | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Orleans County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 20 | Aug 2 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 18 | Aug 2 | ✓ 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 | Jun 4 | Sep 13 | — | 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 19 | Apr 22 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 11 | Apr 22 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 8 | Apr 29 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 7 | Apr 29 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 6 | Apr 29 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.2/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (562 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
24,770 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 500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Mar, May, Jul, 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 49.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 24,770 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
Soil & Growing Conditions in Orleans County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 5.2–6.5 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 1.5/10
Orleans County has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.
Season Tips
144-day frost-free season
Start warm-season crops indoors and focus on short-season varieties. Cold frames extend your season by 3–4 weeks in fall.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 24-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
Recommended for Your Garden
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Orleans County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Orleans County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | May 27 – Jun 17 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 22 – Aug 19 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 6 | — | Oct 7 – Sep 30 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 27 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 27 | Sep 30 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 16 – Oct 21 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Sep 30 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | May 20 – Jun 17 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 6 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 30 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 22 – Aug 19 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Oct 21 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 6 | — | Jun 3 – Jun 24 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 6 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 30 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 18 | May 20 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 27 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Sep 30 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 27 | Sep 16 – Oct 21 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 6 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Orleans County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Orleans County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Nov 4 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 10 | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 10 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 10 | Sep 2 – Oct 14 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Nov 4 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Orleans County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Orleans County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 18 | May 20 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 20 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jul 1 – Aug 19 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 20 | Sep 23 – Oct 14 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 20 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 20 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 20 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 20 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 20 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 20 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 18 | May 20 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 20 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 20 | Sep 23 – Oct 14 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 20 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Orleans County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Orleans County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Orleans County, VT?
Orleans County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Orleans County, VT?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Orleans County falls around May 13. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between May 2 and May 26 — a 23-day window of variability. Use May 26 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Orleans County, VT?
The median first fall frost in Orleans County arrives around October 4. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 18; in mild years as late as October 16. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Orleans County?
Orleans County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 144 days. Focus on short-season varieties and start warm-season crops indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 1.76 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Orleans County for gardening?
Orleans County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 5.2–6.5 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Orleans County?
Orleans County has commercial agriculture that includes Hay, Dairy, Corn, Maple Syrup, Apples. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Orleans County a good location for home gardening?
Orleans County scores 68/100 (Good) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Your Orleans County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Orleans County (Zone 4b). 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