Northeast/MA Crop Farming Planting Schedule
The date when you start will determine what you can plant. Enjoy!
*Starred crops can grow well in as low as 4 1/2hrs of sunlight.
| Cold frame crops early spring start |
Planted in spring (April-May) |
Planted in Summer (May -July) |
Planted in fall (August -October) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
*Can be planted in lower-light gardens that have over 4hrs of sunlight.
Backyard Fruit – Berries
| Berries (Order by March 1st for full selection) |
# of Plants Recommended for a family of 4 |
|---|---|
| Blueberries (lowbush) | 10-20 |
| Blueberries (highbush) | 6-12 |
| Raspberry (yellow and Red) | 10-25 |
| Raspberry (Black) | 10-25 |
| Blackberry | 5-10 |
| Strawberry | 25-50 |
| Asparagus | 25-50 |
| Rhubharb | 3-6 |
Perrenial Herbs
Most of these perennial herbs will likely come back next year. However some, like rosemary, are particularly sensitive to cold and may need to be brought indoors or protected under a cover for the winter.
- *Chives
- Lavender
- *Lemon Balm
- Marjorum
- *Mint ^
- *Oregano ^
- Rosemary
- Tarragon
- *Thyme
- Sage
^Spreading herbs like these will be planted in separate containers.
Fruit trees
(Order by March 1st for full selection)
Fruit trees take 2-5 years to bear fruit, depending on the type of tree. A time investment, but well worth the wait.
| Tree | # Trees Recommended for a Family of 4 | Spaced Needed per Tree |
|---|---|---|
| Apples | 2-3 | 8-12 ft circle |
| Pears | 2 | 8-12 ft circle |
| Cherry | 1-3 | 5-8 ft circle |
| Apricot | 1-2 | 8-12 ft circle |
| Peach | 2-3 | 8-12 ft circle |
Fruit Trees in Containers?
Dwarfing Fruit trees can do well in containers.
They will not perform as well as in the ground, but they will produce and bear fruit for many years to come. Let us know if you would like to grow fruit in containers due to high lead in your soil or lack of growing space.