Chelan, WA — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
What to do in July
Each item below is timed to Chelan County, Washington's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
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Fire up the seed-starting tray: begonias, geraniums, and hostas
You're about 15 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
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Pick basil, carrots, and cucumber
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
Before August arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Chelan has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 7a). The last spring frost typically lands around April 24 and the first fall frost arrives around October 20 — a 179-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.
Chelan averages 30.2 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
April 24
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 20
📅 Growing Season
179 days
🌧️ Climate
Unknown 0.0" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
30.2 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Chelan
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: Plants need different amounts of water at different growth stages — heavy at flowering and fruit-set, lighter at establishment. Chelan's 0" annual rainfall is your starting math; the timing tells you when natural rain will cover you and when you need to step in.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.1 in | 16 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.5 in | 15 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.2 in | 17 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| Apr | 1.2 in | 14 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| May | 0.9 in | 8 days | 3.4 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.6 in | 6 days | 3.7 in | Critical |
| Jul | 0.2 in | 3 days | 4.1 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0.3 in | 2 days | 4 in | Critical |
| Sep | 0.5 in | 4 days | 3.8 in | Critical |
| Oct | 1.2 in | 11 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| Nov | 1.9 in | 17 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.5 in | 18 days | — | None |
Annual total: 14.1 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.
Chelan Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 19 | Nov 5 | 170 days |
| Cautious | May 4 | Oct 26 | 175 days |
| Average year | Apr 24 | Oct 20 | 179 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 13 | Oct 10 | 180 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 24 | Sep 28 | 188 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±55 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 shorter here (about 3.4 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Chelan County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Chelan 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 Chelan County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Chelan 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 Chelan County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Chelan County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Chelan 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 Chelan County WA" or "garden center Chelan 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 Chelan County WA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Chelan 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 Chelan
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: Day length triggers flowering in many crops. Some need short days (sweet potatoes), some long (most flowers), and some are day-neutral (most modern tomatoes). Chelan's latitude determines which varieties fit your beds.
Longest Day
15.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
11.2 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 | 8.6 hr | 2.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 10 hr | 2.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.4 hr | 5.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.9 hr | 7.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.8 hr | 9 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.4 hr | 11.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 14.1 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.6 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 9 hr | 2.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.2 hr | 1.8 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Chelan
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Air temperature lies. Your air can be 70°F in April but the soil 4 inches down is still 50°F — too cold for tomatoes or peppers to root properly. Chelan's soil temperature curve tells you the real planting window. A $5 soil thermometer pays for itself in one season.
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 | 21°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 21°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 28°F | 34°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 43°F | 42°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 54°F | 49°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 65°F | 58°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 72°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 73°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 65°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 54°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 38°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 29°F | 36°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 Chelan
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Pest score isn't pass/fail. It's a planning input. Higher scores mean: more compost (resilient plants), wider spacing (air circulation), resistant varieties (built-in defense), and inspection (catch issues at egg stage).
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 | Moderate | 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 Chelan
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: In Chelan, cover crops also crowd out weeds. The denser the cover, the less weed pressure next season. Pays for itself in saved weeding time.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 6 | Aug 18 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 26 | Aug 11 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 27 | Aug 18 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | May 22 | Sep 29 | — | 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 22 | Apr 10 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 19 | Apr 10 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 30 | Apr 3 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 5 | Apr 10 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 17 | Apr 3 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 18 | Apr 10 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 28 | Apr 10 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Chelan
For new gardeners: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Chelan's 0.0 mph average is one piece of the watering math: rainfall + irrigation must exceed evaporation + transpiration, and wind boosts both losses.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 13 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.6/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (928 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Chelan
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: Even in arid regions, rainwater harvesting works — you just need bigger storage and patience. In wet regions like Chelan (0" annually), you're mostly limited by how much water you can store between storms.
Annual Collection
7,027 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 2,000 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 14.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 7,027 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 Chelan
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Chelan.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | May 8 | — | Sep 11 – Nov 20 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 31 – Sep 18 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | May 8 | — | Sep 11 – Oct 23 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Aug 7 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Sep 11 – Nov 20 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 26 – Aug 7 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | May 8 – May 29 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 11 | Sep 11 – Nov 13 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Dec 8 – Apr 20 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 8 | — | Sep 11 – Nov 20 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 21 – Sep 25 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Sep 11 – Nov 20 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 4 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 10 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jul 24 – Oct 9 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Aug 7 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 23 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 23 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | May 1 – May 29 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 20 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 11 | May 8 – May 29 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 11 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 4 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 8 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 23 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 1 | — | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 10 | — | Aug 11 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 1 | — | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Chelan
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Chelan.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 15 | — | Aug 14 – Nov 27 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 15 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 15 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 15 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 15 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 15 | — | Aug 14 – Dec 25 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Chelan
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Chelan.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jul 17 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 12 – Jul 31 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 31 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 24 – Dec 11 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 17 | Aug 11 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 1 | — | Sep 4 – Dec 11 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Chelan
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Chelan.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 9 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Oct 13 – Nov 3 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Sep 8 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 20 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Apr 24 | Aug 25 | Jun 26 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Nov 13 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 20 | — | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 13 | Mar 20 | Apr 24 | Aug 25 | Jun 12 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 25 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 26 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Nov 13 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Aug 11 – Sep 1 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Aug 18 – Sep 8 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 27 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Nov 13 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 20 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Nov 13 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 27 | Mar 20 | Apr 3 | — | May 22 – Aug 21 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 20 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 17 – Nov 13 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 6 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Nov 27 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Nov 6 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 13 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Nov 13 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Sep 8 – Sep 29 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 13 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 30 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 27 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 30 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 27 | — | Aug 11 | Jun 5 – Aug 14 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 20 | — | May 8 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 30 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 20 | — | Apr 3 | — | May 29 – Aug 21 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 27 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 13 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 19 – Oct 23 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 | Aug 11 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 27 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 30 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 20 | May 1 | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Oct 2 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jun 12 – Oct 9 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 13 | — | May 1 | — | Jul 10 – Nov 13 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 27 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 20 | — | May 1 | — | Aug 21 – Nov 13 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 13 | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | Aug 25 | Jul 3 – Sep 25 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 3 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 17 – Oct 23 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 13 | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | Sep 8 | Jun 5 – Aug 28 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Mar 20 | — | Aug 25 | May 29 – Aug 21 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 15 | Sep 1 – Sep 22 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 13 | — | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 20 | Apr 24 | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Nov 13 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 27 | Apr 24 | Apr 24 | — | Jul 3 – Oct 23 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Chelan
ZIP Codes in Chelan
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 Chelan County.
Your Chelan County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Chelan 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