Bee, VA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Top priorities for Bee, VA gardeners in June
June is a pivotal month for Bee, VA gardens. Focus on these tasks first and you'll set up the rest of the season for success.
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Start basil, peppers, and pole beans indoors
Label every cell. You will absolutely forget which is which otherwise.
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Collect basil, carrots, and cucumber at their peak
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
Looking ahead to July
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Bee has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 7a). The last spring frost typically lands around April 15 and the first fall frost arrives around October 19 — a 187-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
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 (15.2 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 15
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 19
📅 Growing Season
187 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 43.2" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
15.2 wk/yr trend improving
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Bee
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: 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. Bee's 43" annual tells you which side you're on.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.6 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.4 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.8 in | 8 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| May | 3.8 in | 8 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Jun | 4 in | 12 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jul | 5.3 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.6 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.2 in | 7 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.9 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 50 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.
Bee Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.6-7.1
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 4 | Nov 2 | 182 days |
| Cautious | Apr 24 | Oct 25 | 184 days |
| Average year | Apr 15 | Oct 19 | 187 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 10 | Oct 16 | 189 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 30 | Oct 8 | 192 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±35 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Dickenson County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Dickenson 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 Dickenson County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Dickenson 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 Dickenson County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Dickenson County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Dickenson 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 Dickenson County VA" or "garden center Dickenson 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 Dickenson County VA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Dickenson 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 in Bee
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: Photoperiod-sensitive crops will fail spectacularly if planted at the wrong latitude. Sweet onions in Michigan? Tiny. Spanish onions in Florida? Tiny. Match variety to Bee's daylight pattern and you'll see the difference.
Longest Day
14.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.5 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.4 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 | 5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.5 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.3 hr | 7.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 10 hr | 5.2 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 in Bee
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Cold soil = stunted starts. A bean seed planted in 55°F soil rots before it germinates. Same seed in 65°F soil sprouts in 5 days. Bee's soil temperature pattern shows you the difference month to month.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
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 | 31°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 31°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 37°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 50°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 61°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 70°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 80°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 83°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 73°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 61°F | 65°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 46°F | 55°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 36°F | 44°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 Bee
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: High pest pressure means weekly inspection. Low pest pressure means monthly. The score tells you which routine to set up before you have a problem.
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 | High | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | 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
- Watch for powdery mildew, damping off, gray mold — common in your climate
Cover Crops for Bee
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: 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 (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 20 | Aug 24 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 24 | Aug 17 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 17 | Aug 17 | ✓ 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 26 | Sep 21 | — | 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 27 | Apr 1 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 19 | Apr 1 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 1 | Apr 1 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 31 | Apr 1 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 6 | Mar 25 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 25 | Mar 25 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 27 | Mar 25 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Bee
For new gardeners: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Bee's 0.0 mph average is one piece of the watering math: rainfall + irrigation must exceed evaporation + transpiration, and wind boosts both losses.
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: 9 mph Winter: 10 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
Low
Relatively flat terrain (314 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Bee
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: Rainwater scales linearly with roof area. A 2,000 sq ft roof in Bee captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 43" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.
Annual Collection
24,920 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, Mar, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Sep, Oct, 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 50.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 24,920 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Sep, Oct, Nov)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Bee
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Bee.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Sep 2 – Nov 11 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 29 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 10 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 14 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 10 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 10 – Jul 29 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Sep 2 – Nov 11 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Apr 29 – May 20 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 10 | Sep 2 – Nov 4 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 10 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 7 | Dec 7 – Apr 19 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Sep 2 – Nov 11 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 14 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Sep 2 – Nov 11 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Aug 26 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jul 15 – Sep 30 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 14 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 14 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Apr 22 – May 20 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 10 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | May 20 – Jun 17 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 10 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 10 | Apr 29 – May 20 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 10 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 10 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 10 – Aug 5 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Aug 26 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 29 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 10 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 22 | — | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Bee
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Bee.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 18 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 6 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Dec 16 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Bee
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Bee.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 10 | Jul 8 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 10 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 10 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 10 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 10 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 10 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 10 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 10 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 10 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 22 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 10 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 15 – Dec 2 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 11 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | Aug 10 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 22 | — | Aug 26 – Dec 2 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Bee
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Bee.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 4 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | — | Jun 10 – Sep 30 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Oct 12 – Nov 2 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Sep 7 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 11 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 4 | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Aug 24 | Jun 17 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 4 | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 24 – Oct 14 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Nov 4 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 11 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 4 | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Aug 24 | Jun 3 – Sep 16 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 18 | — | Aug 24 | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | — | Jun 17 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Nov 4 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | — | Jun 24 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Aug 10 – Aug 31 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Aug 17 – Sep 7 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Nov 4 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 11 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Nov 4 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | — | May 13 – Aug 12 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 8 – Nov 4 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 25 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Nov 18 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 4 | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 24 – Oct 14 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | — | Jun 24 – Oct 28 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 4 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Nov 4 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Sep 7 – Sep 28 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 4 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 21 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 18 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 21 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 22 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 18 | — | Aug 10 | May 27 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 11 | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 21 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 11 | — | Mar 25 | — | May 20 – Aug 12 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 18 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 4 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | — | Jun 10 – Sep 16 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | — | Jun 10 – Oct 14 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 4 | — | Apr 15 | Aug 10 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 22 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 18 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Oct 21 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 11 | Apr 22 | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 23 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | — | Jun 3 – Sep 30 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Sep 21 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 4 | — | Apr 22 | — | Jul 1 – Nov 4 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 18 | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 24 – Oct 14 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 11 | — | Apr 22 | — | Aug 12 – Nov 4 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Apr 15 | Aug 24 | Jun 24 – Sep 16 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | — | Jul 8 – Oct 14 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 4 | Mar 18 | Apr 15 | Sep 7 | May 27 – Aug 19 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Mar 11 | — | Aug 24 | May 20 – Aug 12 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 14 | Aug 31 – Sep 21 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 4 | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 24 – Oct 14 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | — | Jun 24 – Nov 4 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | — | Jun 24 – Oct 14 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Bee
ZIP Codes in Bee
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 Dickenson County.
Your Dickenson County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Dickenson 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