Guildhall, VT — Planting Guide for June
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June in the garden — Essex County, Vermont
Your garden in Essex County, Vermont is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this June.
-
Time to transplant basil, cucumber, and peppers
Harden off for 7 days — a little more sun each day — before planting. That's the difference between a seedling that thrives and one that stalls.
-
Scatter cucumber, green beans, and peppers into prepared beds
These tolerate cool soil, so you're not gambling by sowing now.
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Fire up the seed-starting tray: cucumber, kale, and lettuce
These need a head start before your last frost (May 18). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Pick lettuce, radish, and arugula
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
July prep starts now
- Starting indoors: basil, pole beans, and thai basil
- First harvests: carrots, green beans, and kale
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Guildhall sits in Zone 4b — a short, intense growing season. Your last spring frost lands around May 18 and the first fall frost arrives by September 30, giving you roughly 135 frost-free days. Start warm-season crops indoors weeks before the calendar tells you to, prioritize cold-hardy varieties, and use row covers, cold frames, or low tunnels to stretch fall harvests deep into autumn. Brassicas, root crops, and short-season tomatoes are your reliable winners.
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 (12.7 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
4b (-25°F to -20°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 18
🍂 Avg. First Frost
September 30
📅 Growing Season
135 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 28.6" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 3.8 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
12.7 wk/yr trend worsening
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Guildhall
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: A drip irrigation system pays for itself in 1-2 seasons in any climate. Guildhall's 29" annual rainfall determines whether you'll run it weekly (dry zones) or maybe just during summer dry spells (wet zones).
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.8 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.3 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.6 in | 12 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.1 in | 10 days | — | None |
| May | 4.1 in | 11 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Jun | 3.1 in | 11 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 3.7 in | 11 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.6 in | 10 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.4 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Nov | 2.7 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.1 in | 10 days | — | None |
Annual total: 39.4 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Guildhall Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5-6.4
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) | Jun 2 | Oct 17 | 137 days |
| Cautious | May 25 | Oct 5 | 133 days |
| Average year | May 18 | Sep 30 | 135 days |
| Optimistic | May 11 | Sep 20 | 132 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 6 | Sep 14 | 131 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±27 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 2.5 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Essex County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Essex 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 Essex County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Essex 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 Essex County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Essex County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Essex 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 Essex County VT" or "garden center Essex 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 Essex County VT" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Essex 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 Guildhall
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: Onions are a great example of why day length matters. They "bulb up" only when daylight hits a specific number of hours — plant the wrong variety (short-day in the north, long-day in the south) and you'll get tiny bulbs no matter how well you grow them. Guildhall's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.
Longest Day
15.4 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.6 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 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.2 hr | 4.2 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 6.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.6 hr | 7.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.4 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.1 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.9 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.3 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.6 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 Guildhall
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Guildhall's soil temperature curve also tells you when your compost is working and when it's napping.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jul through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
5 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 | 8°F | 17°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 7°F | 15°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 21°F | 24°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 35°F | 34°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 53°F | 45°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 60°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 68°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 71°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 62°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 48°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Nov | 31°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 18°F | 25°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 Guildhall
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Pest and disease pressure is the X-factor most beginners under-plan for. Guildhall's climate determines whether you can mostly "plant and see" or whether you need a pest-management routine from the first seedling.
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 4 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Flea beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Moderate | May, Jun, 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
Cover Crops for Guildhall
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: Cover crops protect microbial life through winter and summer. Bare soil bakes; covered soil stays cooler, moister, and biologically active. The difference shows up in next year's crops.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 19 | Jul 29 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 19 | 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 | Jun 7 | Sep 16 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (3 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oats | Sep 3 | May 4 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 8 | Apr 27 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 11 | Apr 27 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Guildhall
Quick context: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Guildhall averages 3.8 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: 11 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.3/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (735 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Guildhall
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Guildhall, that's your 29" times your roof.
Annual Collection
19,636 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,000 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Mar, May, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, 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 39.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 19,636 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Nov)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Guildhall
95 vegetables matched to Zone 4b with planting dates calibrated for Guildhall.
Show all 95 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 6 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 5 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 16 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Sep 7 – Oct 26 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 11 | — | Jul 8 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Sep 7 – Oct 12 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | Jun 1 | — | — | Aug 31 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 6 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Sep 7 – Oct 12 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 11 | — | Jul 8 | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Aug 31 – Oct 5 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 16 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 5 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jun 1 | — | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jun 1 – Jun 22 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 6 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 24 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 11 | — | Jul 8 | Oct 12 – Oct 5 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 6 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 11 | — | Jul 8 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 6 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 5 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jun 1 | — | — | Aug 17 – Sep 28 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 16 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Nov 18 – Jan 13 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Jun 1 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Oct 5 – Oct 26 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 6 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Sep 21 – Oct 26 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 6 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Sep 7 – Oct 5 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jun 1 | — | — | Aug 31 – Oct 5 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jun 1 | — | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 6 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | Jul 8 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Aug 17 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 11 | — | Jul 8 | Aug 24 – Oct 5 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 6 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 24 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 2 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 16 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 16 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 26 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 6 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Sep 7 – Oct 26 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 11 | — | Jul 8 | Jun 8 – Jun 29 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 11 | — | Jul 8 | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 11 | — | Jul 8 | Aug 24 – Oct 5 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 16 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Aug 17 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 16 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jun 1 | — | — | Aug 24 – Oct 19 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 6 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Sep 7 – Oct 5 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 6 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 6 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 26 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Sep 21 – Oct 26 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jun 1 | — | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 16 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 19 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 16 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 19 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 11 | — | Jul 8 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 8 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 6 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jun 1 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Apr 6 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Guildhall
22 fruits matched to Zone 4b with planting dates calibrated for Guildhall.
Show all 22 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 15 | — | Sep 14 – Nov 9 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 15 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 15 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 19 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 15 | — | Sep 7 – Oct 19 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 15 | — | Sep 14 – Nov 9 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Guildhall
30 herbs matched to Zone 4b with planting dates calibrated for Guildhall.
Show all 30 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | Jul 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | Jul 8 | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | Jul 8 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | Jul 8 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | Jul 8 | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | Jul 8 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | Jul 8 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | Jul 8 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 40–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | Jul 8 | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | Jul 8 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | Jul 8 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 23 | May 25 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 25 | — | Sep 28 – Oct 19 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Guildhall
49 flowers matched to Zone 4b with planting dates calibrated for Guildhall.
Show all 49 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 30 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Sep 23 – Oct 21 | 28–42 |
| Astilbe | Mar 9 | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 2 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 9 | May 18 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 9 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 9 | — | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 18 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Apr 13 | Jun 1 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 9 | Jun 1 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 9 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 20 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 20 | Jun 1 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 9 | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 16 | Apr 27 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 9 | Jun 1 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 9 | Jun 1 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 23 | Jun 1 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 16 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 2 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 2 | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Jul 22 – Aug 12 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 2 | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 26 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 16 | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 19 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 26 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 9 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 9 | Jun 1 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Apr 6 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 20 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 12 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 2 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 16 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 9 | Jun 1 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 13 | Jun 1 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Mar 2 | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 9 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 16 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 9 | — | Jun 1 | — | Oct 5 – Nov 30 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 9 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 27 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Jul 15 – Aug 5 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Mar 2 | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 9 | May 18 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 20 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 19 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Guildhall
ZIP Codes in Guildhall
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 Essex County.
Your Essex County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Essex 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