Benge, WA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June planting checklist for Adams County, Washington
Your Adams County, Washington garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for June and why each task matters now.
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Start basil, cucumber, and kale under lights
Bottom-water once the first true leaves appear — it keeps stems dry and knocks back damping-off.
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Harvest carrots, lettuce, and radish as they ripen
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
Get ahead of July
- Starting indoors: peppers, astilbe, and begonias
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Benge has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 7a). The last spring frost typically lands around May 7 and the first fall frost arrives around October 3 — a 149-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.
Benge averages 28.5 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7a (0°F to 5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 7
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 3
📅 Growing Season
149 days
🌧️ Climate
Unknown 0.0" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
28.5 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Benge
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Watering by the calendar wastes water. Watering by the soil moisture (or by a free rain gauge) cuts your water use 30%+ and produces healthier roots. Benge's 0" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.7 in | 17 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.7 in | 15 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.5 in | 16 days | 2.8 in | High |
| Apr | 1.4 in | 11 days | 2.9 in | High |
| May | 0.8 in | 10 days | 3.5 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.6 in | 7 days | 3.7 in | Critical |
| Jul | 0.3 in | 3 days | 4 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0.4 in | 3 days | 3.9 in | Critical |
| Sep | 0.6 in | 4 days | 3.7 in | Critical |
| Oct | 1.6 in | 11 days | 2.7 in | High |
| Nov | 2.5 in | 14 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3 in | 17 days | — | None |
Annual total: 17.1 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.
Benge Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.4
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 29 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 22 | Oct 25 | 156 days |
| Cautious | May 12 | Oct 12 | 153 days |
| Average year | May 7 | Oct 3 | 149 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 27 | Sep 26 | 152 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 14 | Sep 19 | 158 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.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Adams County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Adams 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 Adams County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Adams County Washington State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 509-335-2811
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 Adams County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Adams County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Adams 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 Adams County WA" or "garden center Adams 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 Adams County WA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Adams County Gardeners" or "Washington 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 Benge
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: Onions are a great example of why day length matters. They "bulb up" only when daylight hits a specific number of hours — plant the wrong variety (short-day in the north, long-day in the south) and you'll get tiny bulbs no matter how well you grow them. Benge's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.
Longest Day
15.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
11.1 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 | 8.7 hr | 2.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 10 hr | 3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.4 hr | 5.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.9 hr | 7.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.7 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.3 hr | 11.1 hr | Long day |
| August | 14 hr | 9.3 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.6 hr | 4.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.1 hr | 2.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.3 hr | 1.9 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Benge
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Lettuce germinates at 35°F. Beans want 60°F. Tomatoes 65°F+. Soil temp, not air temp, is what plants feel. Benge's monthly curve tells you when each crop actually has the conditions to take off.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
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 | 27°F | 33°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 25°F | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 32°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 47°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 55°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 67°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 77°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 78°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 68°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 59°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 43°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 33°F | 39°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 Benge
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Benge sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | High | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Benge
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: Bare soil is wasted soil — it loses nutrients to rain, dries out, compacts, and gets taken over by weeds. Cover crops (clovers, ryegrass, vetch, peas) are the "between seasons" trick that makes soil better every year. In Benge, you can fit a cover crop into the gaps.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 15 | Aug 1 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 18 | Aug 8 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 9 | Jul 25 | ✓ 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 21 | Sep 12 | — | 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 8 | Apr 16 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 4 | Apr 16 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 9 | Apr 16 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 12 | Apr 16 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 22 | Apr 23 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 24 | Apr 23 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 14 | Apr 23 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Benge
Why this matters: Wind dries soil, knocks over young transplants, and disrupts pollination for bees and butterflies. Benge averages 0.0 mph — above 10 mph means windbreaks (shrubs, fences, taller crops to windward), staked tomatoes from day one, and an extra round of watering during dry windy spells. Lower wind = lower water bills and fewer broken stems.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 12 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 (737 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Benge
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: Most gardens use 0.5-1 gallon per square foot per week in summer. Benge's 0" annual rainfall is enough to cover most needs if you can capture it. Rain barrels under downspouts are the simplest entry point.
Annual Collection
8,522 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
8 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, Feb, Nov, Dec
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
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 17.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 8,522 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- In your dry climate, every drop counts — consider a larger cistern system
- Position collection tanks in shade to reduce evaporation and algae growth
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Benge
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Benge.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 9 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 17 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | May 21 | — | Sep 24 – Dec 3 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 25 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Aug 27 – Oct 22 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 14 | — | — | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 9 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Sep 24 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 8 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | May 21 | — | Sep 24 – Nov 5 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 25 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Aug 20 – Sep 24 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Sep 24 – Dec 3 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 17 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 14 | — | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 14 | — | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | May 21 – Jun 11 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 9 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 25 | Sep 24 – Nov 26 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 9 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 25 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 9 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 17 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 14 | — | — | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 5 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Nov 21 – Apr 3 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 14 | — | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 21 | — | Sep 24 – Dec 3 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 5 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Nov 5 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 9 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Sep 3 – Oct 8 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Sep 24 – Dec 3 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Apr 9 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Sep 17 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 14 | — | — | Aug 13 – Sep 17 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Aug 6 – Oct 22 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 14 | — | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Sep 3 – Nov 5 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Nov 5 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 13 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Apr 9 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 25 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 13 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Aug 6 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 25 | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 9 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 5 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 9 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 8 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 25 | May 21 – Jun 11 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 25 | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 25 | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Aug 6 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 14 | — | — | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 9 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Sep 17 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 9 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 9 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 8 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 21 | — | Sep 10 – Nov 5 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 14 | — | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 25 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 9 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 14 | — | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 9 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Benge
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Benge.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Dec 10 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 28 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 1 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Jan 7 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Benge
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Benge.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 25 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 25 | Jul 30 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 29 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 25 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 25 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 25 | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 25 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 25 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 25 | Aug 13 – Oct 15 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 25 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 25 | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 29 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 25 | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Dec 24 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 25 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 14 | — | Sep 17 – Dec 24 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Benge
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Benge.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 22 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Sep 26 – Oct 17 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 8 | Aug 22 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 5 | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | May 7 | Aug 8 | Jul 9 – Oct 8 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 26 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Nov 5 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Nov 26 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 5 | — | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 26 | Apr 2 | May 7 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Oct 8 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 8 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Apr 9 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Nov 5 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 12 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Nov 26 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 9 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Nov 5 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Jul 25 – Aug 15 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Aug 1 – Aug 22 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 9 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Nov 26 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 5 | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Nov 26 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 4 – Sep 3 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 5 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 30 – Nov 26 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 12 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 19 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Dec 10 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 26 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Nov 5 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Nov 19 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 26 | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Nov 26 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Aug 22 – Sep 12 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 26 | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Nov 12 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 12 | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Nov 12 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 9 | — | Jul 25 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Mar 5 | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Nov 12 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 5 | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Sep 3 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 12 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 26 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 8 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 9 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Nov 5 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 26 | — | May 7 | Jul 25 | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 12 | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Nov 12 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 5 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 15 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 9 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 22 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 8 | Sep 5 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 26 | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Nov 26 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 12 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Nov 5 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 5 | — | May 14 | — | Sep 3 – Nov 26 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 26 | Apr 9 | May 7 | Aug 8 | Jul 16 – Oct 8 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 16 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Nov 5 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | May 7 | Aug 22 | Jun 18 – Sep 10 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 8 | Jun 11 – Sep 3 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Aug 15 – Sep 5 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 26 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Nov 5 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 5 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Nov 26 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 9 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Nov 5 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Benge
ZIP Codes in Benge
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 Adams County.
Your Adams County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Adams 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