Fort Eustis, VA — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
July in Newport News City, Virginia — your action list
July is a pivotal month for Newport News City, Virginia gardens. Focus on these tasks first and you'll set up the rest of the season for success.
-
Harvest basil, cucumber, and green beans as they ripen
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
August prep starts now
- First harvests: basil, peppers, and thai basil
Fort Eustis gardens in a dry climate (only 6" 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 (12.9 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 22
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 17
📅 Growing Season
240 days
🌧️ Climate
Arid 5.7" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.4 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
12.9 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Fort Eustis
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
What this means for you: Over-watering kills more plants than under-watering. Fort Eustis's 6" annual rainfall changes the gardening playbook — humid-region gardeners often water by the calendar when they should water by the soil moisture.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.3 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.5 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.8 in | 9 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Apr | 3.3 in | 6 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| May | 3 in | 9 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 4 in | 11 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jul | 4 in | 11 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Aug | 4.7 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.1 in | 8 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.8 in | 6 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.2 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 41.7 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.
Fort Eustis Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.3-7.1
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 9 | Dec 4 | 239 days |
| Cautious | Mar 28 | Nov 27 | 244 days |
| Average year | Mar 22 | Nov 17 | 240 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 12 | Nov 11 | 244 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 3 | Nov 3 | 245 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±36 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 1.5 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Newport News City offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Newport News City
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 Newport News City's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Newport News City 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 Newport News City
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Newport News City
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Newport News City'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 Newport News City VA" or "garden center Newport News City" 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 Newport News City VA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Newport News City 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 Fort Eustis
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this 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. Fort Eustis's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
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 | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.5 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.3 hr | 7.9 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 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 Fort Eustis
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Fort Eustis's soil temperature curve also tells you when your compost is working and when it's napping.
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 | 47°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 39°F | 46°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 45°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 57°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 67°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 79°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 84°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 89°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 80°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 70°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 55°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 42°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 Fort Eustis
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: Pest pressure is a function of climate, not effort. Fort Eustis's baseline tells you how much vigilance is normal. A bad pest year in low-pressure region = a normal year in high-pressure region.
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 | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Fort Eustis
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: Cover crops are the experienced gardener's secret weapon. Fort Eustis's climate determines which species thrive: clover and vetch in mild winters, cereal rye and Austrian peas in cold ones.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 2 | Sep 8 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 31 | Sep 8 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 25 | Sep 22 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 24 | Sep 22 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Apr 14 | Oct 20 | — | 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 11 | Mar 1 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 6 | Mar 1 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 24 | Mar 8 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 26 | Mar 8 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 16 | Mar 1 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 17 | Mar 1 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 27 | Mar 1 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Fort Eustis
Why this matters: Wind dries soil, knocks over young transplants, and disrupts pollination for bees and butterflies. Fort Eustis averages 7.4 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: 9 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 12 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
Low
Relatively flat terrain (302 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Fort Eustis
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Fort Eustis's 6" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.
Annual Collection
20,783 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
Mar, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
May, Oct, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 41.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 20,783 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (May, Oct, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Fort Eustis
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Fort Eustis.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 18 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 8 | — | Sep 8 | May 3 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 29 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 8 | — | Sep 8 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 17 – Jul 5 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 18 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 29 | — | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 29 | — | — | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Apr 5 – Apr 26 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jun 21 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 8 | — | Sep 8 | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 8 | — | Sep 8 | May 3 – May 31 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 29 | — | — | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 18 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Jan 5 – Jun 22 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Dec 6 – Dec 20 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 29 | — | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 18 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 18 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Sep 20 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 18 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 10 – Jun 7 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 29 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Jun 21 – Sep 6 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Apr 26 – Jul 5 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 29 | — | — | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 20 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jun 28 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Mar 29 – Apr 26 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Sep 8 | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Apr 26 – May 24 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jun 28 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 3 – May 31 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 8 | — | Sep 8 | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jun 21 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 18 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 8 | — | Sep 8 | Apr 5 – Apr 26 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 8 | — | Sep 8 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 8 | — | Sep 8 | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 31 – Jul 26 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 29 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jul 26 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 5 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 29 | — | — | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Dec 6 – Dec 20 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 8 | — | Sep 8 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Sep 8 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 29 | — | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Jul 12 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 22 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Fort Eustis
27 fruits matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Fort Eustis.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 25 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 12 | — | Jul 12 – Dec 27 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Fort Eustis
39 herbs matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Fort Eustis.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Sep 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Sep 8 | Jun 14 – Aug 30 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Aug 2 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Sep 8 | May 10 – Jun 28 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Sep 8 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Aug 2 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Sep 8 | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Sep 8 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Sep 8 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Sep 8 | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Sep 8 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Sep 8 | May 17 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Jul 19 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 21 – Sep 20 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Sep 8 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 21 – Nov 8 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Sep 8 | Apr 26 – Jun 28 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 29 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Aug 2 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 29 | — | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Fort Eustis
54 flowers matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Fort Eustis.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Sep 27 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 13 | Nov 10 – Dec 1 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Oct 6 – Nov 3 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Jul 19 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Sep 22 | May 10 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 11 | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Oct 18 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 8 | Mar 8 | Sep 8 | Apr 26 – Sep 6 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Dec 1 – Mar 9 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 17 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 22 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 24 – Oct 18 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 22 | Mar 8 | Mar 8 | — | May 17 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 20 | Sep 22 – Oct 13 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 13 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 1 | Mar 22 | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Nov 1 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Oct 18 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 25 | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | — | Apr 5 – Jun 21 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Oct 18 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 22 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 6 | Nov 3 – Dec 1 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 1 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Nov 8 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 11 | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Oct 11 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 22 | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Nov 1 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 18 | — | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 20 | Oct 13 – Nov 3 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 18 | — | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Oct 4 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Oct 18 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Mar 22 | — | May 10 – Jun 14 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Feb 22 | — | Sep 8 | May 3 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 18 | — | Mar 29 | — | Jun 7 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Sep 20 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 25 | — | Feb 15 | — | Apr 12 – Jun 7 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 22 | — | May 10 – Jun 7 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 8 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 10 – Oct 11 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 11 | — | Mar 8 | Sep 8 | May 3 – Aug 9 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Mar 22 | — | May 17 – Jun 14 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 3 – Sep 27 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Oct 6 – Nov 10 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 18 | — | Mar 22 | — | May 31 – Oct 18 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 25 | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 25 | — | Mar 22 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 11 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 8 | May 17 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | Jun 7 – Oct 11 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 8 | Feb 15 | Mar 8 | Sep 22 | Apr 19 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Nov 24 – Feb 16 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 20 | Oct 6 – Nov 3 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 11 | — | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 25 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 | — | May 24 – Oct 18 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 22 | Mar 15 | Mar 15 | — | May 24 – Oct 11 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Fort Eustis
ZIP Codes in Fort Eustis
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 Newport News City.
Your Newport News City Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Newport News City (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