Unity, WI — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
July in Marathon County, Wisconsin — your action list
July is a pivotal month for Marathon County, Wisconsin gardens. Focus on these tasks first and you'll set up the rest of the season for success.
-
Get basil, peppers, and pole beans seeds going inside
Give them 6–8 weeks indoors before the last frost and you'll transplant into warm soil with seedlings that are already leaping.
-
Pick basil, carrots, and cucumber
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
-
Sow carrots, kale, and lettuce for an autumn harvest
A row cover ready in the garage extends your harvest by weeks once the nights turn cold.
To set up a strong August, finish these tasks
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: alliums, crocus, and daffodils
Unity gardens in a dry climate (only 5" 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.
Drought pressure is moderate (16.3 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
4b (-25°F to -20°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 11
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 2
📅 Growing Season
144 days
🌧️ Climate
Arid 4.8" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 8.6 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
16.3 wk/yr trend improving
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Unity
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Unity gets 5" 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 | 1.7 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.7 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Apr | 4.3 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| May | 5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.5 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.8 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.6 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.1 in | 7 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3 in | 8 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.4 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.9 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 40 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.
Unity Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6-7.3
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 21 | Oct 15 | 147 days |
| Cautious | May 16 | Oct 7 | 144 days |
| Average year | May 11 | Oct 2 | 144 days |
| Optimistic | May 3 | Sep 28 | 148 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 25 | Sep 20 | 148 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±26 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 1.3 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Marathon County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Marathon 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 Marathon County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Marathon County University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension Extension Office
Phone: 608-263-7779
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 Marathon County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Marathon County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Marathon 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 Marathon County WI" or "garden center Marathon 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 Marathon County WI" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Marathon County Gardeners" or "Wisconsin 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 Unity
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: Lettuce and cilantro "bolt" (go to seed) when days lengthen. Knowing your day-length curve helps you time spring plantings to harvest before the bolting trigger hits. Unity's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
Longest Day
15.4 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.6 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.2 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 6.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.6 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.4 hr | 9.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.1 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.9 hr | 9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.3 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.6 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Unity
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Cold soil = stunted starts. A bean seed planted in 55°F soil rots before it germinates. Same seed in 65°F soil sprouts in 5 days. Unity's soil temperature pattern shows you the difference month to month.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
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 | 14°F | 25°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 17°F | 22°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 25°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 42°F | 41°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 55°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 63°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 73°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 74°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 64°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 52°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 35°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 21°F | 32°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 Unity
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Unity'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
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Colorado potato beetle | Low | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
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 Unity
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: Why not just leave bare soil? Weed seeds, erosion, nutrient leaching, and crust formation. A cover crop solves all of these for the cost of seeds and one mowing.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 21 | Jul 24 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 15 | Aug 7 | ✓ 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 | Jun 5 | Sep 18 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (5 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daikon radish | Aug 23 | Apr 20 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 27 | Apr 20 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 18 | Apr 27 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 10 | Apr 20 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 9 | Apr 20 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Unity
What this means for you: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Unity's 8.6 mph background level is a baseline you should know before placing the tallest crops (sunflowers, pole beans, sweet corn).
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.8/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (260 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Unity
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Unity gets 5" 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
19,936 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 40.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 19,936 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Unity
95 vegetables matched to Zone 4b with planting dates calibrated for Unity.
Show all 95 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 4 | — | Jul 10 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Aug 31 – Oct 5 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 25 | — | — | Aug 24 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 5 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 4 | — | Jul 10 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 25 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | May 25 – Jun 15 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 4 | — | Jul 10 | Oct 5 – Sep 28 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 4 | — | Jul 10 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 25 | — | — | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Nov 20 – Jan 15 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 25 | — | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 25 | — | Sep 28 – Oct 19 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Sep 14 – Oct 19 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Sep 28 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 25 | — | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 25 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 10 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 4 | — | Jul 10 | Aug 17 – Sep 28 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 19 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 19 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 4 | — | Jul 10 | Jun 1 – Jun 22 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 4 | — | Jul 10 | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 4 | — | Jul 10 | Aug 17 – Sep 28 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 16 | May 18 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 25 | — | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Sep 28 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 19 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 25 | — | Sep 14 – Oct 19 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 25 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 4 | — | Jul 10 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 10 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 25 | — | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Unity
22 fruits matched to Zone 4b with planting dates calibrated for Unity.
Show all 22 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | Sep 7 – Nov 2 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 12 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | Sep 7 – Nov 2 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Unity
30 herbs matched to Zone 4b with planting dates calibrated for Unity.
Show all 30 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 10 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 16 | May 18 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 10 | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 10 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 10 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 10 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 10 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 10 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 40–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 10 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 10 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 10 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 16 | May 18 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 18 | — | Sep 21 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Unity
49 flowers matched to Zone 4b with planting dates calibrated for Unity.
Show all 49 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Sep 25 – Oct 23 | 28–42 |
| Astilbe | Mar 2 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 23 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 2 | May 11 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 2 | — | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Apr 6 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 2 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 13 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 2 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | May 4 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 2 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 2 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 16 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 9 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 23 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 18 | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 23 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Jul 24 – Aug 14 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 23 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 19 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 9 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 12 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 19 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 2 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 2 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 30 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 5 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 23 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 9 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 2 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 26 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 6 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 23 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 2 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 9 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 2 | — | May 25 | — | Sep 28 – Nov 23 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 2 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 20 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 21 | Jul 17 – Aug 7 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 23 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 2 | May 11 | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Unity
ZIP Codes in Unity
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 Marathon County.
Your Marathon County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Marathon County (Zone 4b). 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