Broad Run, VA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Broad Run gardens in a dry climate (only 4" annual precipitation). Watering strategy matters more here than in most of the country — drip irrigation, deep mulching, and morning watering aren't optional, they're table stakes. The flip side: pest and disease pressure are far lower than in humid regions, and your soil temperatures climb fast in spring so you can plant heat-lovers earlier than the zone map suggests.
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 (16.0 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 21
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 18
📅 Growing Season
180 days
🌧️ Climate
Arid 4.3" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 6.8 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
16.0 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Broad Run
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: 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. Broad Run's 4" annual tells you which side you're on.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.1 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.8 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4.1 in | 6 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| May | 4.3 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.6 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.4 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.3 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.9 in | 7 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.2 in | 6 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.7 in | 10 days | — | None |
Annual total: 49.5 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.
Broad Run Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.7
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) | May 14 | Nov 2 | 172 days |
| Cautious | Apr 28 | Oct 24 | 179 days |
| Average year | Apr 21 | Oct 18 | 180 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 14 | Oct 14 | 183 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 4 | Oct 6 | 185 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±39 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 4.5 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Fauquier County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Fauquier 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 Fauquier County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Fauquier 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 Fauquier County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Fauquier County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Fauquier 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 Fauquier County VA" or "garden center Fauquier 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 Fauquier County VA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Fauquier 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 Broad Run
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: Day length triggers flowering in many crops. Some need short days (sweet potatoes), some long (most flowers), and some are day-neutral (most modern tomatoes). Broad Run's latitude determines which varieties fit your beds.
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.5 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 | 9.6 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 8.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 hr | 4.6 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Broad Run
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Broad Run, an aggressive mulch program shifts your effective soil temperature curve toward optimal for most crops.
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 | 38°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 38°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 45°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 58°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 69°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 79°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 86°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 85°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 81°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 69°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 56°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 43°F | 52°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 Broad Run
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Broad Run's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.
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 | Moderate | 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 Broad Run
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 fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 23 | Aug 23 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 29 | Aug 9 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 26 | Aug 23 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 25 | Aug 23 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | May 12 | Sep 27 | — | 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 26 | Mar 31 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 10 | Mar 31 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 21 | Apr 7 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 11 | Apr 7 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 16 | Apr 7 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 17 | Mar 31 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 11 | Mar 31 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Broad Run
Why this matters: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Broad Run's 6.8 mph background level is a baseline you should know before placing the tallest crops (sunflowers, pole beans, sweet corn).
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: 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 (375 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Broad Run
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Broad Run's 4" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.
Annual Collection
24,670 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
Mar, May, Jun, Jul
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 49.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 24,670 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
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Broad Run
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Broad Run.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | May 5 | — | Sep 8 – Nov 17 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | May 5 | — | Sep 8 – Oct 20 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 16 – Aug 4 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Sep 8 – Nov 17 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | May 5 – May 26 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 9 | Sep 8 – Nov 10 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Dec 6 – Apr 18 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 5 | — | Sep 8 – Nov 17 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 20 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Sep 8 – Nov 17 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 1 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | May 26 – Aug 4 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 20 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 20 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Apr 28 – May 26 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 9 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 9 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 17 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 9 | May 5 – May 26 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 9 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 1 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 5 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 20 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 7 | — | Aug 9 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 28 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Broad Run
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Broad Run.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 12 | — | Aug 11 – Nov 24 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 12 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 12 | — | Aug 11 – Dec 22 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Broad Run
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Broad Run.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 9 | Jul 14 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 13 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 9 | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 9 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 9 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 9 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 9 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 9 | Jul 28 – Sep 29 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 9 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 9 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 13 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 9 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Dec 8 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 17 | Apr 7 | Apr 14 | Aug 9 | May 26 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Sep 1 – Dec 8 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Broad Run
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Broad Run.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 6 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Oct 11 – Nov 1 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 23 | Sep 6 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Aug 23 | Jun 23 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Nov 10 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 10 | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Aug 23 | Jun 9 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 23 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Oct 20 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Nov 10 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Aug 9 – Aug 30 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Aug 16 – Sep 6 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Nov 10 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Nov 10 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 24 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | — | May 19 – Aug 18 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 17 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 14 – Nov 10 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 3 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Nov 24 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Nov 3 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 10 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Nov 10 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Sep 6 – Sep 27 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 10 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 27 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 24 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 27 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 24 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 2 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 17 | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 27 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 17 | — | Mar 31 | — | May 26 – Aug 18 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 20 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | Aug 9 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 24 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 17 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 29 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Oct 6 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 23 | Sep 20 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 10 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Nov 10 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 24 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 17 | — | Apr 28 | — | Aug 18 – Nov 10 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 10 | Mar 24 | Apr 21 | Aug 23 | Jun 30 – Sep 22 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 31 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 10 | Mar 24 | Apr 21 | Sep 6 | Jun 2 – Aug 25 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Mar 17 | — | Aug 23 | May 26 – Aug 18 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Aug 30 – Sep 20 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Nov 10 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Broad Run
ZIP Codes in Broad Run
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 Fauquier County.
Your Fauquier County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Fauquier 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