Prince George County, VA — Planting Guide
Your May planting checklist for Prince George County, Virginia
Your Prince George County, Virginia garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for May and why each task matters now.
-
Indoor seed-starting week for basil, kale, and lettuce
These need a head start before your last frost (April 2). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Bring in the carrots, kale, and lettuce
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
June will be here before you know it — start on
- Starting indoors: peppers, eggplant, and hot peppers
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Prince George County is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is April 2 and the first fall frost is November 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 215 days.
At an elevation of 724 ft, Prince George County receives approximately 43.7 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 90°F with winter lows around 28°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 35 days year to year — ranging from March 12 in warm years to April 16 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 1.24 days per decade. Prince George County scores 63/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
7b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 2
🍂 First Frost
November 3
📅 Growing Season
215 days
⛰️ Elevation
724 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
43.7 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.3 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.7 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 4.5 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.7 in | 7 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.7 in | 8 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 4.2 in | 10 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Jul | 4.2 in | 11 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Aug | 4 in | 12 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.1 in | 7 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.8 in | 7 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.3 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 43.6 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.
Prince George County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.3-7.1
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 16 | Nov 16 | 214 days |
| Cautious | Apr 9 | Nov 10 | 215 days |
| Average year | Apr 2 | Nov 3 | 215 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 24 | Oct 29 | 219 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 12 | Oct 22 | 224 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±35 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 1.2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Prince George County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Prince George 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 Prince George County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Prince George 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 Prince George County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Prince George County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Prince George 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 Prince George County VA" or "garden center Prince George 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 Prince George County VA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Prince George 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
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
14.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.5 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.9 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.7 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 8.9 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.5 hr | 8.6 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.3 hr | 8.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 10 hr | 5.6 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 Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
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 | 47°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 40°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 47°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 59°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 69°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 79°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 85°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 86°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 80°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 69°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 56°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 43°F | 51°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 Prince George County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
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 | 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 Prince George County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 8 | Sep 8 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 7 | Aug 25 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 6 | Sep 8 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 7 | Sep 8 | ✓ 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 13 | Oct 13 | — | 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 29 | Mar 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 6 | Mar 12 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 16 | Mar 19 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 20 | Mar 12 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 22 | Mar 19 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 27 | Mar 12 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 8 | Mar 12 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 10 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.2/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (483 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
21,730 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
Mar, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Sep, 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 43.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 21,730 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Sep, Oct, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Prince George County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 5.3–7.1 · Somewhat Poorly Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (43.7 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
215-day frost-free season
Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 24-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
Recommended for Your Garden
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Prince George County
113 vegetables that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Prince George County.
Show all 113 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 16 | Aug 20 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 19 | — | May 14 – Jun 11 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 9 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 16 | Aug 20 – Oct 1 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jun 25 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 28 – Jul 16 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 20 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 – May 7 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 19 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 22 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 19 | — | May 14 – Jun 11 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 29 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 16 | Aug 20 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 29 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 25 – Oct 1 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 20 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Aug 13 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 9 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Jul 2 – Sep 17 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Oct 1 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 – May 7 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 19 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 29 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 19 | — | Apr 16 – May 7 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 19 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 19 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 9 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Aug 13 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 16 | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 19 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Apr 2 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Prince George County
31 fruits that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Prince George County.
Show all 31 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Nov 5 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Dec 3 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Prince George County
39 herbs that grow well in Zone 7b with planting dates for Prince George County.
Show all 39 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 9 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 9 | Aug 13 – Nov 19 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 9 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 9 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Nov 19 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 9 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 9 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 9 | Jul 2 – Nov 19 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 9 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 9 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 26 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 9 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 9 | Aug 13 – Nov 19 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Prince George County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Prince George County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Prince George County, VA?
Prince George County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Prince George County, VA?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Prince George County falls around April 2. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 12 and April 16 — a 35-day window of variability. Use April 16 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Prince George County, VA?
The median first fall frost in Prince George County arrives around November 3. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 22; in mild years as late as November 16. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Prince George County?
Prince George County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 215 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 1.24 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Prince George County for gardening?
Prince George County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 5.3–7.1 and Somewhat Poorly Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Prince George County?
Prince George County has commercial agriculture that includes Soybeans, Corn, Poultry, Tobacco. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Prince George County a good location for home gardening?
Prince George County scores 63/100 (Good) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Your Prince George County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Prince George County (Zone 7b). 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