Castleton, VT — 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
If you only do a handful of things in the garden this July, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.
-
Get peppers, pole beans, and tomatoes seeds going inside
These need a head start before your last frost (May 9). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Harvest basil, carrots, and cucumber as they ripen
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
-
Direct-sow carrots, kale, and lettuce for cool weather
Fall crops get sweeter with a light frost. Don't be afraid of cool nights.
Before August arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: alliums, crocus, and daffodils
Castleton gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (37" annual rainfall, most of it October to April). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive almost year-round. The challenge is summer heat: long-season warm-weather crops (full-size tomatoes, peppers, melons) need every bit of summer sun, so prioritize short-season varieties, use dark mulches to warm the soil, and reserve your warmest microclimates (south-facing walls, near pavement) for the tender stuff.
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 (12.4 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
5a (-20°F to -15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 9
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 7
📅 Growing Season
151 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 36.8" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 5.1 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
12.4 wk/yr trend worsening
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Castleton
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: In humid climates, watering is usually about timing (morning, not evening, to prevent disease) more than volume. In dry climates, it's about depth (water deep, less often) more than frequency. Castleton's 37" annual tells you which side you're on.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.1 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.4 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.6 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.7 in | 9 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.9 in | 12 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.1 in | 10 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Jul | 4 in | 10 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.5 in | 10 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3.8 in | 9 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Oct | 3 in | 9 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.3 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 41.8 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.
Castleton Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.1-6.3
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 20 | Oct 20 | 153 days |
| Cautious | May 14 | Oct 12 | 151 days |
| Average year | May 9 | Oct 7 | 151 days |
| Optimistic | May 4 | Oct 4 | 153 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 27 | Sep 24 | 150 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.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Rutland County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Rutland 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 Rutland County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Rutland 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 Rutland County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Rutland County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Rutland 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 Rutland County VT" or "garden center Rutland 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 Rutland County VT" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Rutland 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 in Castleton
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: Plants use day length as their seasonal clock. Some crops flower when days lengthen (most flowers), some when days shorten (chrysanthemums, soybeans). Castleton's curve is the timing layer beneath everything you grow.
Longest Day
15.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.8 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.8 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 | 9.1 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 4.2 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 6.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.5 hr | 7.7 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.2 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.9 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.8 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.5 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.4 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.8 hr | 3 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Castleton
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Air temperature lies. Your air can be 70°F in April but the soil 4 inches down is still 50°F — too cold for tomatoes or peppers to root properly. Castleton's soil temperature curve tells you the real planting window. A $5 soil thermometer pays for itself in one season.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
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 | 15°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 15°F | 24°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 27°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 42°F | 39°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 56°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 66°F | 59°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 72°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 73°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 67°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 51°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 39°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 24°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 Castleton
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: Pest score isn't pass/fail. It's a planning input. Higher scores mean: more compost (resilient plants), wider spacing (air circulation), resistant varieties (built-in defense), and inspection (catch issues at egg stage).
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 | Moderate | 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 Castleton
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: In Castleton, cover crops also crowd out weeds. The denser the cover, the less weed pressure next season. Pays for itself in saved weeding time.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 15 | Aug 5 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 9 | Aug 5 | ✓ 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 24 | Sep 23 | — | 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 10 | Apr 18 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 14 | Apr 25 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 31 | Apr 18 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 10 | Apr 25 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 3 | Apr 25 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Castleton
Why it matters: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Castleton's 5.1 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.
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: 13 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 (572 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Castleton
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Castleton, that's your 37" times your roof.
Annual Collection
20,833 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
May, Jun, Jul, Sep
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Oct
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 41.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 20,833 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Oct)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Castleton
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Castleton.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 29 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 16 | — | — | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 16 | — | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 16 | — | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | May 23 – Jun 13 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 29 | Sep 26 – Oct 10 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 29 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 16 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 28 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Nov 25 – Feb 10 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 16 | — | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 23 | — | Sep 26 – Nov 7 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 28 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 7 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 10 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 19 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 16 | — | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Aug 8 – Oct 24 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 16 | — | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | May 16 – Jun 13 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 29 | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 28 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 29 | May 23 – Jun 13 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 29 | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 29 | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 21 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 16 | — | — | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 19 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 23 | — | Sep 12 – Nov 7 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 16 | — | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 29 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 29 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 16 | — | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Castleton
27 fruits matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Castleton.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 14 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 3 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 14 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Castleton
34 herbs matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Castleton.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 29 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 21 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 31 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Aug 15 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 29 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Aug 15 – Oct 17 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 21 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 31 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 21 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 16 | — | Sep 19 – Oct 31 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Castleton
51 flowers matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Castleton.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 21 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 3 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Sep 30 – Oct 28 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 11 | — | May 9 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 7 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 28 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 23 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 7 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 7 | — | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Apr 4 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 7 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 7 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Jul 8 – Jul 29 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Jul 15 – Aug 5 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 31 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 7 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 29 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 7 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 14 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 21 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 28 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 17 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 16 | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 31 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 28 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Aug 5 – Sep 2 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 28 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 24 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 14 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 17 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 11 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 28 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 24 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 28 | — | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 28 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 3 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 17 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 28 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 14 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 24 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 4 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 10 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 28 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 7 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 7 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 7 | — | May 23 | — | Sep 19 – Nov 21 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 28 | Apr 25 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 18 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | May 9 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | May 9 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Jul 29 – Aug 19 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 21 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 17 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Castleton
ZIP Codes in Castleton
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 Rutland County.
Your Rutland County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Rutland 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