Lancaster, VA — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Lancaster gardens in a wet, humid climate (48" annually). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive in spring and fall. The biggest challenges are fungal disease and humidity-loving pests in summer — leaf spot, blight, squash bugs, vine borers. Drip irrigation (not overhead), wide plant spacing for air circulation, and disease-resistant varieties make the difference.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
🌡️ USDA Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 4
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 6
📅 Growing Season
216 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 47.8" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
0.0 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Lancaster
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Mulch reduces watering needs 30-50% by cutting evaporation. Lancaster's 48" annual rainfall might be enough for vegetables in some months and not in others — a 2-3" mulch layer evens the swing.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.1 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.2 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 5.2 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.5 in | 6 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.8 in | 8 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.4 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.5 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.3 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.6 in | 8 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3 in | 7 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.8 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 4.3 in | 10 days | — | None |
Annual total: 48.7 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.
Lancaster Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.9
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 18 | Dec 9 | 235 days |
| Cautious | Apr 9 | Nov 18 | 223 days |
| Average year | Apr 4 | Nov 6 | 216 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 26 | Nov 3 | 222 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 18 | Oct 22 | 218 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 2.6 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Lancaster County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Lancaster 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 Lancaster County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Lancaster 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 Lancaster County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Lancaster County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Lancaster 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 Lancaster County VA" or "garden center Lancaster 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 Lancaster County VA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Lancaster 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 Lancaster
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: Plants use day length as their seasonal clock. Some crops flower when days lengthen (most flowers), some when days shorten (chrysanthemums, soybeans). Lancaster's curve is the timing layer beneath everything you grow.
Longest Day
14.6 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.9 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 | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 8.9 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.6 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.4 hr | 7.7 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.9 hr | 5.4 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 Lancaster
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Most root crops germinate well at 50-60°F. Most fruit-bearing crops want 65-75°F. Lancaster's monthly soil curve maps these windows to actual months.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 38°F | 46°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 39°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 47°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 56°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 67°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 78°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 84°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 85°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 80°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 68°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 55°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 45°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Lancaster
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: In Lancaster's climate, pest pressure shapes which crops are easy and which are heartbreak. Tomatoes are easy in dry mountain air, hard in humid coast — same plant, completely different gardening experience.
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 | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Low | 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 Lancaster
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: Cover crops fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 8 | Sep 11 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 13 | Aug 28 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 10 | Aug 28 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 9 | Sep 4 | ✓ 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 27 | Oct 16 | — | 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 10 | Mar 14 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 28 | Mar 14 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 20 | Mar 21 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 14 | Mar 21 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 11 | Mar 21 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 9 | Mar 14 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 11 | Mar 21 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Lancaster
For new gardeners: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Lancaster's 0.0 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.3/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (359 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Lancaster
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: Captured rainwater is better for plants than tap water (no chlorine), works during water restrictions, and reduces stormwater runoff. Lancaster's 48" annual rainfall is a meaningful pool — most homes could capture 10,000+ gallons a year with a decent system.
Annual Collection
24,272 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, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, Sep, 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 48.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 24,272 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Apr, Sep, Oct)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Lancaster
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Lancaster.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 31 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 9 – Jul 11 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 21 | — | Aug 28 | May 16 – Jun 13 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 11 | — | — | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Jun 6 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 3 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 21 | — | Aug 28 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Jun 6 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 30 – Jul 18 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 31 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Jun 6 – Jul 18 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 11 | — | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 11 | — | — | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Apr 18 – May 9 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 21 | — | Aug 28 | Aug 22 – Oct 24 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 21 | — | Aug 28 | May 16 – Jun 13 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 11 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 31 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 25 | Dec 25 – Jun 11 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Dec 19 – Jan 2 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 11 | — | — | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 31 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 31 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 3 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 31 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 23 – Jun 20 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 30 – Jul 25 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 11 | — | — | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 9 – Jun 13 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Jul 4 – Sep 19 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 11 | — | — | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 15 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Apr 11 – May 9 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Aug 28 | May 23 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 9 – Jun 6 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 9 – Jul 11 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 16 – Jun 13 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 21 | — | Aug 28 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 30 – Jul 25 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 31 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 21 | — | Aug 28 | Apr 18 – May 9 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 21 | — | Aug 28 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 21 | — | Aug 28 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 30 – Jul 25 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 11 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 9 – Jul 11 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 18 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 11 | — | — | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 9 – Jun 13 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Dec 19 – Jan 2 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 21 | — | Aug 28 | May 2 – Jun 6 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Apr 4 | Aug 28 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 15 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 11 | — | — | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Lancaster
27 fruits matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Lancaster.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Nov 7 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 25 – Jan 9 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Lancaster
39 herbs matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Lancaster.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Aug 28 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Aug 28 | Jun 27 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Aug 28 | May 23 – Jul 11 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Aug 28 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Aug 28 | May 30 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Aug 28 | May 9 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Aug 28 | May 9 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Aug 28 | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Aug 28 | May 9 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Aug 28 | May 30 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 3 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Aug 28 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jul 4 – Nov 21 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | Aug 28 | May 9 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 11 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 21 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Lancaster
54 flowers matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Lancaster.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Oct 10 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 2 | Oct 30 – Nov 20 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 11 | Sep 25 – Oct 23 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 7 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 21 | Mar 21 | Sep 11 | May 23 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 24 | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 31 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 7 | — | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Jun 20 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 21 | Mar 21 | Aug 28 | May 9 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 11 | Nov 20 – Feb 26 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Mar 28 | — | May 30 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 7 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Jun 20 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 6 – Oct 31 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 7 | Mar 21 | Mar 21 | — | May 30 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 9 | Sep 11 – Oct 2 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 2 | Sep 11 – Oct 9 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Nov 14 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 7 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 7 | Feb 21 | Feb 28 | — | Apr 18 – Jul 4 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 7 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 7 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Jun 20 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 25 | Oct 23 – Nov 20 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 14 | Mar 28 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Nov 21 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 24 | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Oct 24 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Nov 14 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 31 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 9 | Oct 2 – Oct 23 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 31 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 17 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 7 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 31 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Jun 27 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 7 | — | Aug 28 | May 16 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 31 | — | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 3 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 7 | — | Feb 28 | — | Apr 25 – Jun 20 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 7 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | May 23 – Jun 20 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Mar 28 | — | May 23 – Oct 24 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 24 | — | Mar 21 | Aug 28 | May 16 – Aug 22 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 4 | — | May 30 – Jun 27 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 7 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 7 | Apr 4 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Mar 28 | — | May 16 – Oct 10 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 11 | Sep 25 – Oct 30 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 31 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 – Oct 31 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 7 | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 7 | — | Apr 4 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 24 | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Aug 28 | May 30 – Sep 19 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 14 | Mar 28 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 20 – Oct 24 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 21 | Feb 28 | Mar 21 | Sep 11 | May 2 – Aug 22 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 4 | Nov 13 – Feb 5 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 9 | Sep 25 – Oct 23 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 24 | — | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 7 | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | — | Jun 6 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 7 | Mar 28 | Mar 28 | — | Jun 6 – Oct 24 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Lancaster
ZIP Codes in Lancaster
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 Lancaster County.
Your Lancaster County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lancaster 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