Ivanhoe, VA — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your July game plan for Wythe County, Virginia
Your Wythe County, Virginia garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for July and why each task matters now.
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Begin indoor sowing: begonias, geraniums, and hostas
A seed-starting mix and a sunny window (or a grow light) are all you need. Keep soil warm — around 70°F — for fast germination.
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Start harvesting basil, carrots, and cucumber
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
A few tasks this July that'll pay off in August
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Ivanhoe has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 7a). The last spring frost typically lands around April 24 and the first fall frost arrives around October 18 — a 177-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Drought pressure is moderate (18.7 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 24
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 18
📅 Growing Season
177 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 41.5" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
18.7 wk/yr trend improving
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Ivanhoe
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: In Ivanhoe, the watering question isn't "how often" — it's "is the soil moist 4 inches down?" Stick a finger in. Dry? Water. Damp? Wait. The 41" annual rainfall is just the starting context.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.9 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.7 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Mar | 5.7 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| May | 4.4 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.2 in | 10 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Jul | 5.1 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.2 in | 8 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Oct | 3 in | 6 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 4.7 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 52.2 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.
Ivanhoe Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.3-7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 13 | Oct 28 | 168 days |
| Cautious | May 1 | Oct 22 | 174 days |
| Average year | Apr 24 | Oct 18 | 177 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 15 | Oct 14 | 182 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 8 | Oct 2 | 177 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±35 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 4.1 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Wythe County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Wythe 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 Wythe County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Wythe 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 Wythe County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Wythe County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Wythe 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 Wythe County VA" or "garden center Wythe 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 Wythe County VA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Wythe 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 Ivanhoe
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: The longest day at Ivanhoe's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.
Longest Day
14.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.5 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.1 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 | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.5 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.3 hr | 7.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.5 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Ivanhoe
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Ivanhoe, an aggressive mulch program shifts your effective soil temperature curve toward optimal for most crops.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
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 | 30°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 31°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 42°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 52°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 64°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 73°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 81°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 84°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 77°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 62°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 50°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 40°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Ivanhoe
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Ivanhoe sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | High | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Ivanhoe
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: The "chop and drop" approach to cover crops: cut them down right before flowering, let them lay on the surface as mulch, plant your vegetables through the mulch. Less work, healthier soil.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 26 | Aug 16 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 30 | Aug 16 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 30 | Aug 9 | ✓ 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 15 | Sep 27 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 11 | Apr 10 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 20 | Apr 10 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 28 | Apr 3 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 26 | Apr 3 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 19 | Apr 10 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 12 | Apr 10 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 15 | Apr 10 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Ivanhoe
The practical takeaway: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Ivanhoe averages 0.0 mph — fine for most days. But every region has its windy days, and the first time a row of unstaked peppers leans over after a storm is a lesson you only need once.
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: 7 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
Low
Relatively flat terrain (357 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Ivanhoe
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Ivanhoe gets 41" 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
26,016 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 250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Mar, Jul, Aug, Dec
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Apr, Oct
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 52.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 26,016 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Your area gets ample rainfall — even small barrels make a big difference
- Consider a rain garden to handle overflow during heavy rainfall months
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Ivanhoe
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Ivanhoe.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | May 8 | — | Sep 11 – Nov 20 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 31 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | May 8 | — | Sep 11 – Oct 23 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Sep 11 – Nov 20 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | May 8 – May 29 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 9 | Sep 11 – Nov 13 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Dec 6 – Apr 18 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 8 | — | Sep 11 – Nov 20 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 21 – Sep 25 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Sep 11 – Nov 20 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 4 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jul 24 – Oct 9 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | May 29 – Aug 7 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 23 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 23 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | May 1 – May 29 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 9 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 9 | May 8 – May 29 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 9 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 9 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 4 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 8 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 23 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 9 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Ivanhoe
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Ivanhoe.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 15 | — | Aug 14 – Nov 27 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 15 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 15 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 15 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 15 | — | Aug 14 – Dec 25 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Ivanhoe
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Ivanhoe.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 24 – Dec 11 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 9 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 1 | — | Sep 4 – Dec 11 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Ivanhoe
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Ivanhoe.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Oct 11 – Nov 1 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 23 | Sep 6 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 20 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Apr 24 | Aug 23 | Jun 26 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Nov 13 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 20 | — | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Apr 24 | Aug 23 | Jun 12 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 23 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Nov 13 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Aug 9 – Aug 30 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Aug 16 – Sep 6 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Nov 13 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 20 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Nov 13 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | — | May 22 – Aug 21 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 20 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 17 – Nov 13 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Nov 27 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Nov 6 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 13 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Nov 13 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Sep 6 – Sep 27 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 13 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 30 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 27 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 30 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 20 | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 30 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 20 | — | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Aug 21 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 23 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 27 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 30 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 20 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 2 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 9 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 23 | Sep 20 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 13 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Nov 13 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 27 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 20 | — | May 1 | — | Aug 21 – Nov 13 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 13 | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | Aug 23 | Jul 3 – Sep 25 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 3 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | Sep 6 | Jun 5 – Aug 28 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 23 | May 29 – Aug 21 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Aug 30 – Sep 20 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Nov 13 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Ivanhoe
ZIP Codes in Ivanhoe
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 Wythe County.
Your Wythe County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Wythe County (Zone 7a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log