Lee County, VA — Planting Guide
Your May game plan for Lee County, Virginia
Your Lee County, Virginia garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for May and why each task matters now.
-
Move alpine strawberries, aronia, and blackberries into the garden
Plant tomatoes deep — bury the stem up to the first true leaves to grow extra roots. Everything else goes in at the same depth it grew in the tray.
-
Get cucumber, kale, and lettuce seeds going inside
These need a head start before your last frost (April 14). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Collect lettuce, radish, and arugula at their peak
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
To set up a strong June, finish these tasks
- Starting indoors: basil, peppers, and pole beans
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Lee County is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 14 and the first fall frost is October 23, giving you a growing season of approximately 192 days.
At an elevation of 2,513 ft, Lee County receives approximately 52.4 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 90°F with winter lows around 21°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 33 days year to year — ranging from March 29 in warm years to May 2 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 0.68 days per decade. Lee County scores 56/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
7a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 14
🍂 First Frost
October 23
📅 Growing Season
192 days
⛰️ Elevation
2,513 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
52.4 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 | 3.9 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4.3 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| May | 4.4 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.9 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 6.1 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.4 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.2 in | 7 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.4 in | 7 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4.1 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 4 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 52.4 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.
Lee County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.9
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 2 | Nov 3 | 185 days |
| Cautious | Apr 22 | Oct 29 | 190 days |
| Average year | Apr 14 | Oct 23 | 192 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 8 | Oct 18 | 193 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 29 | Oct 10 | 195 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±33 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit shorter (0.7 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Lee County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Lee 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 Lee County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Lee 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 Lee County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Lee County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Lee 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 Lee County VA" or "garden center Lee 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 Lee County VA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Lee 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
14.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.5 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.3 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 | 9.8 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.5 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.3 hr | 8.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 10 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.5 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
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 | 25°F | 35°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 28°F | 33°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 33°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 48°F | 46°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 59°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 70°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 78°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 76°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 72°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 59°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 45°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 32°F | 39°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 Lee County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Low | 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 Lee County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 16 | Aug 14 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 17 | Aug 21 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 14 | Aug 21 | ✓ 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 30 | Sep 25 | — | 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 15 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 12 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 13 | Mar 31 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 14 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 8 | Mar 31 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 30 | Mar 31 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 2 | Mar 24 | — | 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: 8 mph Summer: 7 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 9 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
2.6/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (235 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
26,116 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 250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Feb, May, Jun, Jul
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Oct, 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 52.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 26,116 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Your area gets ample rainfall — even small barrels make a big difference
- Consider a rain garden to handle overflow during heavy rainfall months
Soil & Growing Conditions in Lee County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 5.3–6.9 · Somewhat Poorly Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (52.4 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
192-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 Lee County
113 vegetables that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Lee County.
Show all 113 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 28 | Sep 1 – Nov 10 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 28 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 31 | — | May 26 – Jun 23 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 28 | Sep 1 – Oct 13 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Sep 1 – Nov 10 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Apr 28 – May 19 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 31 | — | Sep 1 – Nov 3 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 31 | — | May 26 – Jun 23 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 28 | Sep 1 – Nov 10 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 7 – Oct 13 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Aug 11 – Sep 15 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Sep 1 – Nov 10 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 28 – Aug 25 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Sep 29 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Aug 11 – Oct 13 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 28 – Oct 13 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 – May 19 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 31 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 31 | — | Apr 28 – May 19 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 31 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 31 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 28 – Aug 25 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 28 | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 31 | — | May 12 – Jun 16 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Lee County
31 fruits that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Lee County.
Show all 31 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 5 | Aug 4 – Nov 17 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 5 | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 5 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 5 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 5 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 5 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 5 | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 5 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 5 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 5 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 5 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 5 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 5 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 5 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 5 | Aug 4 – Dec 15 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Lee County
39 herbs that grow well in Zone 7a with planting dates for Lee County.
Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jul 7 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 21 | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 21 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 21 | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 21 | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 21 | Aug 25 – Dec 1 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 21 | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 21 | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 21 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 21 | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 21 | Jul 21 – Dec 1 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 21 | Jun 23 – Aug 11 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 21 | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 21 | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 21 | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 21 | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 21 | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 21 | Jul 14 – Dec 1 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 21 | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 21 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 21 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 21 | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 21 | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 21 | Aug 25 – Dec 1 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 21 | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Lee County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Lee County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Lee County, VA?
Lee 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 Lee County, VA?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Lee County falls around April 14. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 29 and May 2 — a 33-day window of variability. Use May 2 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Lee County, VA?
The median first fall frost in Lee County arrives around October 23. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 10; in mild years as late as November 3. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Lee County?
Lee County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 192 days. This is enough time for most warm-season crops including tomatoes, peppers, and squash with proper timing. Climate records show the growing season is trending shorter by about 0.68 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Lee County for gardening?
Lee County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 5.3–6.9 and Somewhat Poorly Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Lee County?
Lee County has commercial agriculture that includes Corn, Poultry, Hay, Soybeans. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Lee County a good location for home gardening?
Lee County scores 56/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Your Lee County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Lee 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