Windsor, VA — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your July gardening checklist
Each item below is timed to Isle of Wight County, Virginia's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
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Basket week: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
Looking ahead to August
- First harvests: basil, peppers, and thai basil
Windsor gardens in a wet, humid climate (52" 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.
Drought pressure is moderate (13.6 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
March 25
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 12
📅 Growing Season
232 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 52.3" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.2 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
13.6 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Windsor
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Windsor gets 52" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3.5 in | 10 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 3.2 in | 7 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.5 in | 9 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 3.3 in | 10 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 4.7 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.1 in | 11 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.8 in | 6 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 41.1 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.
Windsor Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.6-6.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 9 | Nov 29 | 234 days |
| Cautious | Apr 1 | Nov 17 | 230 days |
| Average year | Mar 25 | Nov 12 | 232 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 19 | Nov 5 | 231 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 9 | Nov 1 | 237 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±31 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
Isle of Wight County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Isle of Wight 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 Isle of Wight County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Isle of Wight 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 Isle of Wight County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Isle of Wight County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Isle of Wight 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 Isle of Wight County VA" or "garden center Isle of Wight 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 Isle of Wight County VA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Isle of Wight 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 Windsor
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: Photoperiod-sensitive crops will fail spectacularly if planted at the wrong latitude. Sweet onions in Michigan? Tiny. Spanish onions in Florida? Tiny. Match variety to Windsor's daylight pattern and you'll see the difference.
Longest Day
14.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.5 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.5 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.7 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.5 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.3 hr | 8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 10 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.5 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Windsor
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Windsor'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 | 39°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 37°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 45°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 58°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 69°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 77°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 88°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 88°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 82°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 70°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 57°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 43°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 Windsor
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Windsor's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
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 | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Windsor
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: Cover crops do four things at once: fix nitrogen (legumes), suppress weeds (any), prevent erosion, and add organic matter when chopped down. Windsor's seasonal pattern determines which species fit which gap.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 1 | Sep 3 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 27 | Sep 10 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 1 | Sep 17 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 27 | Sep 3 | ✓ 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 23 | Oct 22 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 11 | Mar 4 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 19 | Mar 11 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 27 | Mar 11 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 20 | Mar 11 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 9 | Mar 4 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 12 | Mar 11 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 5 | Mar 4 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Windsor
Why it matters: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Windsor's 7.2 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: 12 mph Summer: 7 mph
Fall: 7 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
Moderate
Some terrain variation (434 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Windsor
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: The first inch of rain washes the roof clean — a first-flush diverter sends it to waste before the barrel fills. Worth the extra $20 for cleaner garden water. Windsor gets 52" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
20,484 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
Jan, Mar, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Oct, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 41.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 20,484 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Oct, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Windsor
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Windsor.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 11 | — | Sep 3 | May 6 – Jun 3 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 1 | — | — | Jul 1 – Aug 19 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 27 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 11 | — | Sep 3 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 27 – Jul 8 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 20 – Jul 8 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 27 – Jul 8 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 20 – Jun 17 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 1 | — | — | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 1 | — | — | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Apr 8 – Apr 29 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | May 27 – Jun 24 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 11 | — | Sep 3 | Aug 12 – Oct 14 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 11 | — | Sep 3 | May 6 – Jun 3 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 1 | — | — | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 21 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 20 – Jun 17 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Oct 1 | Dec 31 – Jun 17 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Dec 9 – Dec 23 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 1 | — | — | May 27 – Jul 22 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 8 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 21 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 17 – Sep 23 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 13 – Jun 10 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 1 | — | — | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 13 – Jun 17 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Jun 24 – Sep 9 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Apr 29 – Jul 8 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 1 | — | — | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 23 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Apr 1 – Apr 29 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Sep 3 | May 13 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Apr 29 – May 27 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 6 – Jun 3 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 11 | — | Sep 3 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | May 27 – Jun 24 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 21 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 11 | — | Sep 3 | Apr 8 – Apr 29 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Jun 10 – Jul 22 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 11 | — | Sep 3 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 11 | — | Sep 3 | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 20 – Jun 17 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 29 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 1 | — | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | May 27 – Jul 29 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 8 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 1 | — | — | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Dec 9 – Dec 23 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 11 | — | Sep 3 | Apr 22 – May 27 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 25 | Sep 3 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 1 | — | — | May 27 – Jul 22 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 25 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | May 27 – Jul 22 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Windsor
27 fruits matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Windsor.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 28 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 15 – Dec 30 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Windsor
39 herbs matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Windsor.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Sep 3 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Sep 3 | Jun 17 – Sep 2 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Sep 3 | May 13 – Jul 1 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Sep 3 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Sep 3 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Sep 3 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Sep 3 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Sep 3 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Sep 3 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | May 27 – Jul 22 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Sep 3 | May 20 – Jul 29 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 23 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Sep 3 | May 20 – Jul 22 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 24 – Nov 11 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 1 | — | May 27 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Mar 18 | Sep 3 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 4 | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | — | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 1 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 11 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Windsor
54 flowers matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Windsor.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 11 | Mar 18 | Mar 18 | — | May 13 – Sep 30 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Oct 8 | Nov 5 – Nov 26 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 17 | Oct 1 – Oct 29 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Jan 28 | — | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Feb 11 | Mar 11 | Sep 17 | May 13 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 14 | — | Mar 18 | — | May 27 – Oct 14 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Jan 28 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Oct 21 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Jan 28 | — | Mar 25 | — | May 13 – Jun 10 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Feb 11 | Mar 11 | Sep 3 | Apr 29 – Sep 9 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Sep 17 | Nov 26 – Mar 4 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Mar 18 | — | May 20 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Jan 28 | Mar 25 | Mar 25 | — | May 13 – Jun 10 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Jan 28 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 27 – Oct 21 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Feb 25 | Mar 11 | Mar 11 | — | May 20 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Oct 15 | Sep 17 – Oct 8 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Oct 8 | Sep 17 – Oct 15 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 4 | Mar 25 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Nov 4 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Jan 28 | — | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Oct 21 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Jan 28 | Feb 11 | Feb 18 | — | Apr 8 – Jun 24 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Jan 28 | Mar 25 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Oct 21 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Jan 28 | Mar 25 | Mar 25 | — | May 13 – Jun 10 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Oct 1 | Oct 29 – Nov 26 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 18 | — | May 27 – Nov 11 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 14 | — | Mar 18 | — | May 27 – Oct 14 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Mar 25 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Nov 4 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 21 | — | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Oct 15 | Oct 8 – Oct 29 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 21 | — | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Oct 7 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Jan 28 | — | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Oct 21 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Mar 25 | — | May 13 – Jun 17 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Feb 25 | — | Sep 3 | May 6 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Jan 21 | — | Apr 1 | — | Jun 10 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Sep 23 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Jan 28 | — | Feb 18 | — | Apr 15 – Jun 10 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Jan 28 | Mar 25 | Mar 25 | — | May 13 – Jun 10 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 11 | Mar 18 | Mar 18 | — | May 13 – Sep 16 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Mar 18 | — | May 13 – Oct 14 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 14 | — | Mar 11 | Sep 3 | May 6 – Aug 12 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Mar 25 | — | May 20 – Jun 17 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Jan 28 | — | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Jan 28 | Mar 25 | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Mar 18 | — | May 6 – Sep 30 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 17 | Oct 1 – Nov 5 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 21 | — | Mar 25 | — | Jun 3 – Oct 21 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Jan 28 | — | Mar 18 | — | May 27 – Oct 14 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Jan 28 | — | Mar 25 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 14 | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Sep 3 | May 20 – Sep 9 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 4 | Mar 18 | Mar 18 | — | Jun 10 – Oct 14 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 11 | Feb 18 | Mar 11 | Sep 17 | Apr 22 – Aug 12 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 10 | Nov 19 – Feb 11 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Oct 15 | Oct 1 – Oct 29 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 14 | — | Mar 18 | — | May 27 – Oct 14 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Jan 28 | Mar 18 | Mar 25 | — | May 27 – Oct 21 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Feb 25 | Mar 18 | Mar 18 | — | May 27 – Oct 14 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Windsor
ZIP Codes in Windsor
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 Isle of Wight County.
Your Isle of Wight County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Isle of Wight 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