Dixie, WA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Dixie, WA gardeners: here's your June plan
A quick June briefing for Dixie, WA gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
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Sow basil, peppers, and pole beans in trays indoors
You're about 17 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
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Basket week: basil, carrots, and cucumber
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
Looking ahead to July
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Dixie gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (35" annual rainfall, most of it October to April). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive almost year-round. The challenge is summer heat: long-season warm-weather crops (full-size tomatoes, peppers, melons) need every bit of summer sun, so prioritize short-season varieties, use dark mulches to warm the soil, and reserve your warmest microclimates (south-facing walls, near pavement) for the tender stuff.
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.
Dixie 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
April 20
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 15
📅 Growing Season
178 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 34.9" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.9 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
28.5 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Dixie
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Dixie gets 35" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.9 in | 17 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.7 in | 12 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.3 in | 15 days | 2 in | High |
| Apr | 1.7 in | 13 days | 2.6 in | High |
| May | 1.5 in | 10 days | 2.8 in | High |
| Jun | 1 in | 6 days | 3.3 in | Critical |
| Jul | 0.4 in | 3 days | 3.9 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0.5 in | 2 days | 3.8 in | Critical |
| Sep | 0.9 in | 5 days | 3.4 in | Critical |
| Oct | 2.2 in | 10 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Nov | 3.7 in | 18 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.8 in | 17 days | — | None |
Annual total: 23.6 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.
Dixie Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.4
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 14 | Nov 7 | 177 days |
| Cautious | May 5 | Oct 25 | 173 days |
| Average year | Apr 20 | Oct 15 | 178 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 3 | Oct 7 | 187 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 19 | Sep 22 | 187 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±56 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 4.1 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Walla Walla County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Walla Walla 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 Walla Walla County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Walla Walla 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 Walla Walla County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Walla Walla County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Walla Walla 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 Walla Walla County WA" or "garden center Walla Walla 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 Walla Walla County WA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Walla Walla 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 Dixie
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: Plants use day length as their seasonal clock. Some crops flower when days lengthen (most flowers), some when days shorten (chrysanthemums, soybeans). Dixie's curve is the timing layer beneath everything you grow.
Longest Day
15.6 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.6 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 | 8.8 hr | 2.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.1 hr | 3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 4.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 5.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.8 hr | 7.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.6 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.2 hr | 10.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 14 hr | 9.6 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.6 hr | 4.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.2 hr | 2.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.4 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 Dixie
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. Dixie's typical curve helps you plan — but a $5 soil thermometer in the bed beats any average.
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 | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 24°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 31°F | 34°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 43°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 57°F | 52°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 67°F | 59°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 74°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 75°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 67°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 56°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 41°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 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 Dixie
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: The most successful gardeners in high-pressure regions don't spray more — they design around the problem. Crop rotation, companion planting, and resistant varieties beat reactive spraying.
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 | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | 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 Dixie
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: Cover crops are the experienced gardener's secret weapon. Dixie's climate determines which species thrive: clover and vetch in mild winters, cereal rye and Austrian peas in cold ones.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 29 | Aug 13 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 26 | Aug 6 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 23 | Aug 13 | ✓ 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 5 | Sep 24 | — | 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 21 | Apr 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 10 | Mar 30 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 6 | Apr 6 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 20 | Mar 30 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 10 | Apr 6 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 12 | Apr 6 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 16 | Apr 6 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Dixie
Quick context: Wind dries soil, knocks over young transplants, and disrupts pollination for bees and butterflies. Dixie averages 7.9 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: 9 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (540 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Dixie
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Dixie's 35" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
11,762 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
7 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
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 23.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 11,762 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jul, Aug, Sep)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Dixie
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Dixie.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | May 4 | — | Sep 7 – Nov 16 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 6 | — | Aug 6 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | May 4 | — | Sep 7 – Oct 19 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 6 | — | Aug 6 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Sep 7 – Nov 16 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | May 4 – May 25 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 6 | — | Aug 6 | Sep 7 – Nov 9 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 6 | — | Aug 6 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 16 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Dec 3 – Apr 15 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 4 | — | Sep 7 – Nov 16 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 16 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Sep 7 – Nov 16 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Aug 31 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 19 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 19 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Aug 6 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 6 | — | Aug 6 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 16 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 6 | — | Aug 6 | May 4 – May 25 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 6 | — | Aug 6 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 6 | — | Aug 6 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Aug 31 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 19 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 6 | — | Aug 6 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 27 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Dixie
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Dixie.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 23 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Dec 21 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Dixie
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Dixie.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Aug 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Aug 6 | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Aug 6 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Aug 6 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Aug 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Aug 6 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Aug 6 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Aug 6 | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Aug 6 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Aug 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Aug 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Dec 7 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | Aug 6 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Aug 31 – Dec 7 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Dixie
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Dixie.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 5 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 10 | Oct 8 – Oct 29 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 20 | Sep 3 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Aug 20 | Jun 22 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Nov 9 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 9 | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Aug 20 | Jun 8 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 20 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 23 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Nov 9 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 10 | Aug 6 – Aug 27 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 10 | Aug 13 – Sep 3 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Nov 9 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 23 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 | — | May 18 – Aug 17 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 16 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 – Nov 9 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 23 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 2 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Nov 23 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Nov 2 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 9 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 10 | Sep 3 – Sep 24 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 9 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 23 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 6 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 16 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 16 | — | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Aug 17 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 23 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 19 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | Aug 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 23 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 16 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 28 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 5 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 20 | Sep 17 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 9 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Nov 9 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 23 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 9 | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Aug 20 | Jun 29 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Sep 3 | Jun 1 – Aug 24 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Mar 16 | — | Aug 20 | May 25 – Aug 17 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 10 | Aug 27 – Sep 17 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 19 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Dixie
ZIP Codes in Dixie
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 Walla Walla County.
Your Walla Walla County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Walla Walla 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