White Post, VA — Planting Guide for August
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
August in Clarke County, Virginia — your action list
A quick August briefing for Clarke County, Virginia gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
-
Harvest basil, cucumber, and green beans as they ripen
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
-
Start your fall crops: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Count back from your first frost (October 18) — these need to mature before the cold arrives.
September will be here before you know it — start on
- First harvests: basil, peppers, and thai basil
- Fall sowing: alliums, crocus, and daffodils
White Post 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 (15.3 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 40.5" annual
💨 Wind
Calm 5.8 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
15.3 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for White Post
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: In humid climates, watering is usually about timing (morning, not evening, to prevent disease) more than volume. In dry climates, it's about depth (water deep, less often) more than frequency. White Post's 41" annual tells you which side you're on.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.3 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.6 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.5 in | 8 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.5 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.4 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.1 in | 8 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.7 in | 7 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.8 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 4.1 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 52.4 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.
White Post 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 14 | Oct 31 | 170 days |
| Cautious | Apr 29 | Oct 24 | 178 days |
| Average year | Apr 24 | Oct 18 | 177 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 16 | Oct 15 | 182 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 6 | Oct 6 | 183 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±38 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit longer (0.4 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Clarke County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Clarke 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 Clarke County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Clarke 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 Clarke County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Clarke County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Clarke 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 Clarke County VA" or "garden center Clarke 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 Clarke County VA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Clarke 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 White Post
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: A 14-hour day in June produces dramatically more photosynthesis than a 10-hour day in November. White Post's seasonal swing determines which crops can pack growth into spring vs. limp through fall.
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.5 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.5 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 7.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in White Post
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In White Post, 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
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 30°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 32°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 38°F | 41°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 49°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 63°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 72°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 81°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 83°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 75°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 64°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 48°F | 56°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 36°F | 45°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 White Post
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: Pest pressure is a function of climate, not effort. White Post's baseline tells you how much vigilance is normal. A bad pest year in low-pressure region = a normal year in high-pressure region.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | 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 White Post
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: Cover crops do four things at once: fix nitrogen (legumes), suppress weeds (any), prevent erosion, and add organic matter when chopped down. White Post's seasonal pattern determines which species fit which gap.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 29 | Aug 16 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 2 | Aug 9 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 30 | Aug 16 | ✓ 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 22 | Oct 4 | — | 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 15 | Apr 10 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 8 | Apr 3 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 4 | Apr 3 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 7 | Apr 3 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 3 | Apr 10 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 14 | Apr 3 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 26 | Apr 3 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in White Post
The practical takeaway: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. White Post's 5.8 mph average is one piece of the watering math: rainfall + irrigation must exceed evaporation + transpiration, and wind boosts both losses.
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: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.7/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (266 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in White Post
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. White Post 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
26,116 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
Feb, Mar, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, Oct, Nov
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 52.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 26,116 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 White Post
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for White Post.
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 White Post
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for White Post.
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 White Post
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for White Post.
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 White Post
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for White Post.
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 White Post
ZIP Codes in White Post
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 Clarke County.
Your Clarke County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Clarke 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