Goochland County, VA — Planting Guide
What to do in May
If you only do a handful of things in the garden this May, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.
-
Indoor seed-starting week for basil, cucumber, and kale
A seed-starting mix and a sunny window (or a grow light) are all you need. Keep soil warm — around 70°F — for fast germination.
-
Bring in the carrots, lettuce, and radish
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
Coming up in June — start thinking about
- Starting indoors: peppers, eggplant, and hot peppers
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Goochland County is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 9 and the first fall frost is November 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 206 days.
At an elevation of 277 ft, Goochland County receives approximately 44.8 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 89°F with winter lows around 29°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 28 days year to year — ranging from March 25 in warm years to April 22 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 1.27 days per decade. Goochland County scores 71/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
7a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 9
🍂 First Frost
November 1
📅 Growing Season
206 days
⛰️ Elevation
277 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
44.8 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 | 3.4 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.7 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4 in | 11 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Apr | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.5 in | 9 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 4.6 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.9 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.6 in | 7 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Nov | 3.2 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.3 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 44.9 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.
Goochland County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.7
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) | Apr 22 | Nov 14 | 206 days |
| Cautious | Apr 14 | Nov 5 | 205 days |
| Average year | Apr 9 | Nov 1 | 206 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 3 | Oct 25 | 205 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 25 | Oct 15 | 204 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±28 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 1.3 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Goochland County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Goochland 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 Goochland County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Goochland County Virginia Cooperative Extension (Virginia Tech / Virginia State) Extension Office
Phone: 540-231-5299
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 Goochland County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Goochland County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Goochland 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 Goochland County VA" or "garden center Goochland 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 Goochland County VA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Goochland County Gardeners" or "Virginia 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
14.6 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.4 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 | 9.7 hr | 4.6 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.6 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.4 hr | 7.7 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.9 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.4 hr | 4.4 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 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 | 36°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 39°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 45°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 56°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 67°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 79°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 86°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 88°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 80°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 67°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 54°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 43°F | 51°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 Goochland 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
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 | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Low | 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 Goochland County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 21 | Aug 23 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 11 | Aug 23 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 13 | Aug 23 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 14 | Aug 30 | ✓ 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 | Apr 23 | Oct 4 | — | 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 20 | Mar 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 27 | Mar 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 5 | Mar 19 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 14 | Mar 19 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 25 | Mar 26 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 2 | Mar 26 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 29 | Mar 19 | — | 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: 10 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.7/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (554 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
22,378 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, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Oct, 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 44.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 22,378 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Oct, Nov, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Goochland County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 5.3–6.7 · 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
Goochland County has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.
Season Tips
206-day frost-free season
Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.
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 Goochland County
113 vegetables that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Goochland County.
Show all 113 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 23 | Aug 27 – Nov 5 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 26 | — | May 21 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 23 | Aug 27 – Oct 8 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 26 | — | May 28 – Jul 2 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 27 – Nov 5 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 – May 14 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 26 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 29 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 26 | — | May 21 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 5 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 23 | Aug 27 – Nov 5 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 5 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Oct 8 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 27 – Nov 5 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Aug 20 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Sep 24 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 6 – Oct 8 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 – May 14 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 26 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 5 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 26 | — | Apr 23 – May 14 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 26 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 26 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Aug 20 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 23 | Aug 13 – Oct 8 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 26 | — | May 7 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Goochland County
31 fruits that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Goochland County.
Show all 31 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 30 | Jul 30 – Nov 12 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 30 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 30 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 30 | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 30 | Jul 30 – Dec 10 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Goochland County
39 herbs that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Goochland County.
Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Jul 2 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | May 28 – Jul 16 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 16 | Aug 20 – Nov 26 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 16 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 16 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Nov 26 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 16 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 16 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 16 | Jul 9 – Nov 26 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 16 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 16 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 16 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 16 | Aug 20 – Nov 26 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Goochland County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Goochland County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Goochland County, VA?
Goochland County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. 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 Goochland County, VA?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Goochland County falls around April 9. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 25 and April 22 — a 28-day window of variability. Use April 22 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Goochland County, VA?
The median first fall frost in Goochland County arrives around November 1. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 15; in mild years as late as November 14. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Goochland County?
Goochland County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 206 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 1.27 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Goochland County for gardening?
Goochland County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 5.3–6.7 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Goochland County?
Goochland County has commercial agriculture that includes Corn, Soybeans, Poultry. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Goochland County a good location for home gardening?
Goochland County scores 71/100 (Good) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. This is an above-average location for home gardening with relatively predictable growing conditions.
Your Goochland County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Goochland County (Zone 7a). 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