Eltopia, WA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June in Franklin County, Washington — your action list
If you only do a handful of things in the garden this June, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.
-
Time to start basil, peppers, and pole beans inside
Give them 6–8 weeks indoors before the last frost and you'll transplant into warm soil with seedlings that are already leaping.
-
Basket week: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
July prep starts now
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Eltopia gardens in a dry climate (only 7" annual precipitation). Watering strategy matters more here than in most of the country — drip irrigation, deep mulching, and morning watering aren't optional, they're table stakes. The flip side: pest and disease pressure are far lower than in humid regions, and your soil temperatures climb fast in spring so you can plant heat-lovers earlier than the zone map suggests.
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.
Eltopia averages 30.4 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 13
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 23
📅 Growing Season
193 days
🌧️ Climate
Arid 7.3" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 6.4 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
30.4 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Eltopia
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this 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. Eltopia's 7" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.5 in | 18 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.8 in | 16 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.4 in | 17 days | 2.9 in | High |
| Apr | 1.2 in | 14 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| May | 1 in | 8 days | 3.3 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.6 in | 6 days | 3.7 in | Critical |
| Jul | 0.2 in | 2 days | 4.1 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0.3 in | 3 days | 4 in | Critical |
| Sep | 0.6 in | 5 days | 3.7 in | Critical |
| Oct | 1.2 in | 10 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| Nov | 2.2 in | 19 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.7 in | 16 days | — | None |
Annual total: 15.7 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.
Eltopia Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.6-6.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 10 | Nov 7 | 181 days |
| Cautious | Apr 23 | Oct 28 | 188 days |
| Average year | Apr 13 | Oct 23 | 193 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 1 | Oct 13 | 195 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 19 | Oct 1 | 196 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±52 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 3.5 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Franklin County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Franklin 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 Franklin County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Franklin 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 Franklin County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Franklin County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Franklin 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 Franklin County WA" or "garden center Franklin 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 Franklin County WA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Franklin 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 Eltopia
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: Day length is the trigger that tells lettuce, spinach, and cilantro to bolt. In Eltopia, knowing when that day-length threshold arrives helps you plant a final round in time to harvest before it bolts.
Longest Day
15.6 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.7 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 | 2.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.1 hr | 3.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 4.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 5.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.8 hr | 7.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.6 hr | 8.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.3 hr | 10.7 hr | Long day |
| August | 14 hr | 9.8 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.6 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.1 hr | 2.2 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 Eltopia
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Eltopia, an aggressive mulch program shifts your effective soil temperature curve toward optimal for most crops.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 36°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 36°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 41°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 54°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 66°F | 61°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 74°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 82°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 82°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 76°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 65°F | 68°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 51°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 42°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Eltopia
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Eltopia's pest score is your early-warning system: high score means commit to disease-resistant varieties and accept some crop loss to bugs.
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 | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Eltopia
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
What this means for you: Cover crops fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 22 | Aug 14 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 21 | Aug 21 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 21 | Aug 21 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 14 | Aug 21 | ✓ 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 2 | Sep 25 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 29 | Mar 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 16 | Mar 30 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 1 | Mar 30 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 11 | Mar 23 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 10 | Mar 30 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 18 | Mar 30 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 24 | Mar 23 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Eltopia
Why it matters: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Eltopia's 6.4 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: 11 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 12 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 (931 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Eltopia
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Eltopia gets 7" of rain a year — a couple of well-placed rain barrels can cover most summer watering. In dry climates the math's even better: every captured gallon is one you don't buy.
Annual Collection
7,824 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
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 15.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 7,824 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 Eltopia
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Eltopia.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 14 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 12 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 14 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Apr 27 – May 18 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 14 | Aug 31 – Nov 2 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 14 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 11 | Dec 11 – Apr 23 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 12 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 24 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | May 18 – Jul 27 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 12 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 14 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 14 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 14 | Apr 27 – May 18 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 14 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 14 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 24 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 14 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Eltopia
31 fruits matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Eltopia.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Dec 14 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Eltopia
36 herbs matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Eltopia.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 14 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 14 | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 14 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 14 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 14 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 14 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 14 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 14 | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 14 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 14 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 14 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Nov 30 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | Aug 14 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 30 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Eltopia
53 flowers matched to Zone 7a with planting dates calibrated for Eltopia.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Sep 28 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 18 | Oct 16 – Nov 6 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 28 | Sep 11 – Oct 9 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Aug 28 | Jun 15 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Aug 28 | Jun 1 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 16 | — | Aug 28 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 18 | Aug 14 – Sep 4 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 18 | Aug 21 – Sep 11 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Nov 2 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 16 | Mar 9 | Mar 23 | — | May 11 – Aug 10 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 6 – Nov 2 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Nov 16 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 18 | Sep 11 – Oct 2 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 19 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 16 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 19 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 16 | — | Aug 14 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 9 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 19 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 9 | — | Mar 23 | — | May 18 – Aug 10 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 12 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | Aug 14 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 16 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 21 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 1 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 28 | Sep 25 – Oct 23 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 2 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Nov 2 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 16 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 9 | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Aug 28 | Jun 22 – Sep 14 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Sep 11 | May 25 – Aug 17 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | Mar 9 | — | Aug 28 | May 18 – Aug 10 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 18 | Sep 4 – Sep 25 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 12 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Eltopia
ZIP Codes in Eltopia
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 Franklin County.
Your Franklin County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Franklin 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