Cascade, VA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June planting checklist for Cascade, VA
Your Cascade, VA garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for June and why each task matters now.
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Fire up the seed-starting tray: basil, peppers, and pole beans
Starting these indoors now means sturdy transplants ready the moment your soil warms up.
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Bring in the basil, carrots, and cucumber
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
Cascade gardens in a wet, humid climate (48" annually). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive in spring and fall. The biggest challenges are fungal disease and humidity-loving pests in summer — leaf spot, blight, squash bugs, vine borers. Drip irrigation (not overhead), wide plant spacing for air circulation, and disease-resistant varieties make the difference.
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.
Cascade averages 21.4 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7b (5°F to 10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 13
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 29
📅 Growing Season
199 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 47.6" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 5.3 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
21.4 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Cascade
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: Watering math is simple: 1 inch of rainfall delivers ~600 gallons to a 1,000 sq ft garden. Cascade's 48" annual rainfall covers some months entirely; others need a few hours of drip irrigation per week. The calendar tells you which is which.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.3 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.8 in | 10 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Apr | 3.4 in | 7 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 4 in | 11 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jul | 4 in | 13 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.6 in | 9 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2.9 in | 8 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.9 in | 7 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.7 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3 in | 10 days | — | None |
Annual total: 40.8 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.
Cascade Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.8
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 1 | Nov 9 | 192 days |
| Cautious | Apr 19 | Nov 2 | 197 days |
| Average year | Apr 13 | Oct 29 | 199 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 5 | Oct 22 | 200 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 20 | Oct 16 | 210 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±42 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 2.5 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Pittsylvania County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Pittsylvania 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 Pittsylvania County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Pittsylvania 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 Pittsylvania County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Pittsylvania County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Pittsylvania 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 Pittsylvania County VA" or "garden center Pittsylvania 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 Pittsylvania County VA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Pittsylvania 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 Cascade
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 Cascade'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
8.5 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 | 9.7 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.5 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.3 hr | 8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 10 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.5 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 Cascade
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Soil temperature is a leading indicator. A black plastic mulch can warm soil 5-10°F faster than bare ground — meaningful in Cascade's spring if you're trying to plant tomatoes earlier.
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 | 37°F | 46°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 41°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 45°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 58°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 68°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 79°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 85°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 86°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 80°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 70°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 54°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 43°F | 53°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 Cascade
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Cascade'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 | High | 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 Cascade
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: In Cascade, cover crops also crowd out weeds. The denser the cover, the less weed pressure next season. Pays for itself in saved weeding time.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 15 | Aug 27 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 15 | Sep 3 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 23 | Sep 3 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 14 | Aug 20 | ✓ 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 13 | Oct 8 | — | 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 22 | Mar 30 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 26 | Mar 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 5 | Mar 30 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 7 | Mar 30 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 1 | Mar 30 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 29 | Mar 23 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 21 | Mar 23 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Cascade
Why this matters: Wind dries soil, knocks over young transplants, and disrupts pollination for bees and butterflies. Cascade averages 5.3 mph — above 10 mph means windbreaks (shrubs, fences, taller crops to windward), staked tomatoes from day one, and an extra round of watering during dry windy spells. Lower wind = lower water bills and fewer broken stems.
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
4.8/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (405 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Cascade
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Cascade gets 48" of rain a year — a couple of well-placed rain barrels can cover most summer watering. In dry climates the math's even better: every captured gallon is one you don't buy.
Annual Collection
20,334 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Feb, Mar, Jun, Jul
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 40.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 20,334 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 Cascade
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Cascade.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 20 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 12 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 20 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Apr 27 – May 18 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 20 | Aug 31 – Nov 2 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 20 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 17 | Dec 17 – Apr 29 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 12 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 24 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 12 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 20 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 20 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 20 | Apr 27 – May 18 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 20 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 20 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 24 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 20 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 20 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Cascade
31 fruits matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Cascade.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Dec 14 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Cascade
36 herbs matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Cascade.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 20 | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 20 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 20 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 20 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 20 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 20 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 20 | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 20 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 20 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 20 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Nov 30 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 20 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 30 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Cascade
53 flowers matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Cascade.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 12 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 24 | Oct 22 – Nov 12 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Sep 17 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Sep 3 | Jun 15 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Nov 9 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Sep 3 | Jun 1 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 16 | — | Sep 3 | May 25 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Nov 9 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 24 | Aug 20 – Sep 10 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 24 | Aug 27 – Sep 17 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Nov 16 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | — | May 4 – Jul 27 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Nov 9 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Nov 23 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Nov 9 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 24 | Sep 17 – Oct 8 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 19 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 16 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 26 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 16 | — | Aug 20 | May 25 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 12 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 9 | — | Mar 16 | — | May 11 – Jul 20 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 26 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 2 | — | Apr 6 | Aug 20 | Jun 1 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 16 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 21 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 12 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Sep 24 – Oct 22 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Nov 2 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 16 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Sep 3 | Jun 15 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Sep 17 | May 25 – Aug 31 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Nov 12 – Feb 4 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 24 | Sep 10 – Oct 1 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 26 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Cascade
ZIP Codes in Cascade
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 Pittsylvania County.
Your Pittsylvania County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Pittsylvania County (Zone 7b). 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