Diggs, VA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Diggs gardens in a long-season climate (Zone 8a, 208 frost-free days). Spring arrives early and fall lingers, so most of the work is matching the right crop to the right window — heat-lovers go in the ground as soon as the soil warms, and cool-season crops shift to fall and even winter rather than spring. Succession planting is your friend; you can plant the same crop three or four times in a season.
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 (13.4 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 9
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 3
📅 Growing Season
208 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 23.7" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.4 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
13.4 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Diggs
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: 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. Diggs's 24" annual tells you which side you're on.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.3 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.5 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.9 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.2 in | 7 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.8 in | 8 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Jun | 3.7 in | 11 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 5.3 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.6 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.8 in | 8 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.1 in | 7 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.9 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 45.9 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Diggs Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.8
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) | Apr 21 | Nov 18 | 211 days |
| Cautious | Apr 16 | Nov 6 | 204 days |
| Average year | Apr 9 | Nov 3 | 208 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 1 | Oct 28 | 210 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 22 | Oct 18 | 210 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±30 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 shorter here (about 1.1 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Mathews County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Mathews 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 Mathews County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Mathews 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 Mathews County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Mathews County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Mathews 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 Mathews County VA" or "garden center Mathews 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 Mathews County VA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Mathews 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 Diggs
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: Lettuce and cilantro "bolt" (go to seed) when days lengthen. Knowing your day-length curve helps you time spring plantings to harvest before the bolting trigger hits. Diggs's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
Longest Day
14.6 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.7 hr | 4.6 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 9 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.6 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.3 hr | 7.7 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.9 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.4 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 Diggs
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Soil heats slower than air in spring and cools slower in fall. That's why "warm" April air doesn't mean "plant tomatoes" — soil still trails by weeks. Diggs's monthly soil curve makes the lag visible.
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 | 38°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 48°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 56°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 68°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 77°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 87°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 87°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 82°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 70°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 54°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 45°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Diggs
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Diggs'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 | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
- Watch for powdery mildew, downy mildew, blight — common in your climate
Cover Crops for Diggs
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: Why not just leave bare soil? Weed seeds, erosion, nutrient leaching, and crust formation. A cover crop solves all of these for the cost of seeds and one mowing.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 10 | Sep 1 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 16 | Sep 8 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 12 | Sep 1 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 14 | Sep 1 | ✓ 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 1 | Oct 13 | — | 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 | Sep 5 | Mar 26 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 5 | Mar 26 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 8 | Mar 19 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 15 | Mar 19 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 4 | Mar 26 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 27 | Mar 19 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 2 | Mar 19 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Diggs
Quick context: A 10 mph wind doesn't feel like much, but it triples leaf transpiration vs. still air. Diggs's 7.4 mph average means most days are gentle on plants, but consider how a 20+ mph spring gust would affect a flat of seedlings hardened off too quickly.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 10 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.4/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (567 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Diggs
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: The first inch of rain washes the roof clean — a first-flush diverter sends it to waste before the barrel fills. Worth the extra $20 for cleaner garden water. Diggs gets 24" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
22,876 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, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, 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 45.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 22,876 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Apr, Oct, Nov)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Diggs
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Diggs.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Aug 27 – Nov 5 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 26 | — | Aug 25 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 16 | — | — | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 8 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 26 | — | Aug 25 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Aug 27 – Nov 5 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 16 | — | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 16 | — | — | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Apr 23 – May 14 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 26 | — | Aug 25 | Aug 27 – Oct 29 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 26 | — | Aug 25 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 16 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 5 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Dec 22 – Jun 8 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Dec 24 – Jan 7 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 16 | — | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Aug 27 – Nov 5 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 5 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 8 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Aug 27 – Nov 5 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Aug 20 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 16 | — | — | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jul 9 – Sep 24 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 16 | — | — | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 8 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Apr 16 – May 14 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 26 | — | Aug 25 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 5 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 26 | — | Aug 25 | Apr 23 – May 14 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 26 | — | Aug 25 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 26 | — | Aug 25 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 16 | — | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Aug 20 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 23 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 8 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 16 | — | — | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Dec 24 – Jan 7 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 26 | — | Aug 25 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | Aug 25 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 16 | — | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Diggs
27 fruits matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Diggs.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 30 – Nov 12 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 30 – Jan 14 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Diggs
39 herbs matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Diggs.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jul 2 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 28 – Jul 16 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 8 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 9 – Nov 26 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 20 – Nov 26 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Diggs
54 flowers matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Diggs.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Oct 15 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Oct 27 – Nov 17 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 12 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 26 | Mar 26 | Sep 8 | May 28 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 29 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Nov 5 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 12 | — | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 26 | Mar 26 | Aug 25 | May 14 – Sep 24 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Nov 17 – Feb 23 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jun 25 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Nov 5 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Mar 26 | — | Jun 4 – Oct 22 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Sep 8 – Sep 29 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Sep 8 – Oct 6 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Nov 19 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 12 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Nov 5 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | — | Apr 23 – Jul 9 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Nov 5 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jun 25 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Oct 20 – Nov 17 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 19 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Nov 26 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 29 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Nov 19 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 22 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Sep 29 – Oct 20 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 22 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 12 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Nov 5 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jul 2 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 12 | — | Aug 25 | May 21 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 5 | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 8 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 12 | — | Mar 5 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Jun 25 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 26 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Oct 1 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Oct 29 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 | Aug 25 | May 21 – Aug 27 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 12 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 22 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | May 21 – Oct 15 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Sep 22 – Oct 27 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 5 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 18 – Nov 5 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 12 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 29 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 12 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 22 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 29 | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Aug 25 | Jun 4 – Sep 24 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 29 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Mar 26 | Sep 8 | May 7 – Aug 27 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 1 | Nov 10 – Feb 2 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 29 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Nov 5 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 2 | — | Jun 11 – Oct 29 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Diggs
ZIP Codes in Diggs
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 Mathews County.
Your Mathews County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Mathews County (Zone 8a). 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