Ruby, VA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June planting checklist for Ruby, VA
June rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Ruby, VA.
-
Get peppers, astilbe, and begonias seeds going inside
Bottom-water once the first true leaves appear — it keeps stems dry and knocks back damping-off.
-
Start harvesting basil, carrots, and cucumber
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
Coming up in July — start thinking about
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Ruby gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (31" annual rainfall, most of it October to April). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive almost year-round. The challenge is summer heat: long-season warm-weather crops (full-size tomatoes, peppers, melons) need every bit of summer sun, so prioritize short-season varieties, use dark mulches to warm the soil, and reserve your warmest microclimates (south-facing walls, near pavement) for the tender stuff.
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 (16.0 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 3
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 4
📅 Growing Season
215 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 30.8" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.3 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
16.0 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Ruby
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: Over-watering kills more plants than under-watering. Ruby's 31" 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 | 3.8 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.7 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.3 in | 7 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.5 in | 8 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 4.9 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.3 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 3.9 in | 12 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.8 in | 8 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Oct | 2.9 in | 6 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.4 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 47 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.
Ruby 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) | May 7 | Nov 26 | 203 days |
| Cautious | Apr 12 | Nov 13 | 215 days |
| Average year | Apr 3 | Nov 4 | 215 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 26 | Oct 19 | 207 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 17 | Oct 7 | 204 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±51 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 2.3 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Stafford County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Stafford 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 Stafford County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Stafford 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 Stafford County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Stafford County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Stafford 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 Stafford County VA" or "garden center Stafford 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 Stafford County VA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Stafford 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 Ruby
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: You can't change the sun. Picking the right day-length-matched varieties for Ruby matters more than any other "fix" you make — and the seed packet tells you (look for "long-day," "short-day," "day-neutral").
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.8 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 | 9.6 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.4 hr | 7.7 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.9 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 hr | 4.2 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Ruby
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Ruby's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 37°F | 46°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 39°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 46°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 56°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 67°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 80°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 86°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 85°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 81°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 68°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 55°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 42°F | 52°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 Ruby
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 Ruby 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
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 Ruby
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: In Ruby, cover crops also crowd out weeds. The denser the cover, the less weed pressure next season. Pays for itself in saved weeding time.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 13 | Sep 2 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 15 | Sep 9 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 14 | Sep 9 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 4 | Sep 2 | ✓ 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 25 | Oct 21 | — | 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 3 | Mar 13 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 25 | Mar 13 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 22 | Mar 13 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 10 | Mar 13 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 8 | Mar 13 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 31 | Mar 20 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 4 | Mar 13 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Ruby
Why it matters: Wind dries soil, knocks over young transplants, and disrupts pollination for bees and butterflies. Ruby averages 7.3 mph — above 10 mph means windbreaks (shrubs, fences, taller crops to windward), staked tomatoes from day one, and an extra round of watering during dry windy spells. Lower wind = lower water bills and fewer broken stems.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.1/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (262 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Ruby
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: Rainwater scales linearly with roof area. A 2,000 sq ft roof in Ruby captures ~1,200 gallons per 1" of rain — given 31" annual rainfall, that's thousands of gallons a year if you have storage to hold it.
Annual Collection
23,424 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Feb, Mar, Jun, Jul
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, 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 47.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 23,424 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Apr, Oct, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Ruby
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Ruby.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 30 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 26 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 2 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 26 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 30 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Jun 5 – Jul 17 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Apr 17 – May 8 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 26 | Aug 21 – Oct 23 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 26 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 30 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 23 | Dec 23 – May 5 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 30 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 30 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 2 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 30 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Jul 3 – Sep 18 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 8 – Jul 17 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 26 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 8 – Jun 5 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 15 – Jun 12 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 26 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 30 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 26 | Apr 17 – May 8 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 26 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 26 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 29 – Jul 24 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 17 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 26 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 14 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 10 | — | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 24 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Ruby
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Ruby.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Nov 6 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 24 – Dec 4 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Ruby
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Ruby.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 26 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 26 | Jun 26 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 25 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 26 | May 22 – Jul 10 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 26 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 26 | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 26 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 26 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 26 | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 26 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 26 | May 29 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 25 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 26 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jul 3 – Nov 20 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Mar 27 | Aug 26 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | — | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 14 – Nov 20 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Ruby
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Ruby.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 20 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Sep 18 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 30 | Oct 28 – Nov 18 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Sep 23 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Sep 9 | Jun 5 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 23 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 30 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 23 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 3 | Sep 9 | May 22 – Sep 4 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 6 | — | Sep 9 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 5 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 30 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 23 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 30 | Aug 26 – Sep 16 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 30 | Sep 2 – Sep 23 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 23 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 6 | Feb 27 | Mar 13 | — | May 1 – Jul 31 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 30 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 23 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 13 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Nov 6 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 23 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 2 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 16 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 23 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 30 | Sep 23 – Oct 14 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 23 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 6 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 6 | — | Aug 26 | May 15 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 30 | — | Apr 17 | — | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 30 | — | Mar 13 | — | May 8 – Jul 31 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 6 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 20 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Sep 4 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Oct 2 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 23 | — | Apr 3 | Aug 26 | May 29 – Aug 7 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 10 | — | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 6 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 30 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Sep 11 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | May 22 – Sep 18 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 9 | Oct 7 – Nov 4 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 23 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 23 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 6 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 30 | — | Apr 10 | — | Jul 31 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 23 | Mar 6 | Apr 3 | Sep 9 | Jun 12 – Sep 4 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 13 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 2 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 20 | Mar 6 | Apr 3 | Sep 23 | May 15 – Aug 7 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Feb 27 | — | Sep 9 | May 8 – Jul 31 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 30 | Sep 16 – Oct 7 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 23 | — | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 30 | Apr 3 | Apr 10 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 2 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Ruby
ZIP Codes in Ruby
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 Stafford County.
Your Stafford County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Stafford 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