a close up shot of tomatoes

North Carolina, Tennessee, and parts of the Pacific Northwest are located in Hardiness Zone 7. The growing season here is longer than in colder regions, typically from early March to late November.

Planting Dates

Zone 7’s longer growing season allows for a variety of vegetables to be planted both indoors and directly outdoors. Below are the best planting times for different crops:

VegetablePlanting IndoorsTransplant OutdoorsDirect Sow OutdoorsHarvest Period
BroccoliMid-FebruaryEarly AprilEarly MarchJune – August
CabbageMid-FebruaryEarly AprilEarly MarchJune – August
RadishesN/AN/AEarly MarchApril – May
CarrotsN/AN/AEarly MarchJune – August
KaleMid-FebruaryEarly AprilEarly MarchJune – August
TomatoesLate FebruaryEarly AprilEarly MarchJune – September

Here are a graphic color planting calendar showing the time to plant for both spring and fall crops in zone 7:

Irrigation Tips for Warmer Climates

In the warmer climate of Zone 7, proper watering is essential to keep your garden healthy. Using a simple oscillating sprinkler can help ensure even water distribution without the need for complex drip irrigation systems. Here are a few practical watering tips:

  • Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and ensure the water reaches plant roots.
  • Avoid watering in the evening as it may encourage fungal growth.
  • Focus on deep watering once or twice a week rather than frequent shallow watering.
  • Consider using mulch to retain moisture and prevent water loss during hot summer days.
Garden Sprinkler

The Eden Oscillating Sprinkler is an affordable option at $17.94, offering a simple solution to your garden’s irrigation needs. Check the latest price on Amazon.

The Importance of Good Soil

Before starting your garden, it’s important to evaluate the quality of your soil. The ideal soil mix is rich in minerals and organic matter. In my garden, I use a combination of hot composting for kitchen scraps and cold composting for garden waste to keep the soil full of nutrients year-round.

If composting at home isn’t possible, you can purchase compost from garden centers or explore community composting programs. Learn more about community composting here.

Hot Composting

Hot composting accelerates the breakdown of organic matter, even in warm climates like Zone 7. One hot composter for cold climates is the Exaco Aerobin 400 Insulated Compost Bin. This 113-gallon composter is insulated to retain heat and does not require turning thanks to its patented “lung” system. It also has a built-in reservoir that collects compost tea, which can be diluted and used as fertilizer.

Aerobin Compost Bin

The Exaco Aerobin 400 is available for $343.79. Check the latest price on Amazon.

Using Mulch

Mulch helps protect the soil by regulating temperature and retaining moisture. Organic mulch like straw or compost insulates the soil and keeps roots warmer, which is especially important in the spring and fall. Mulching also helps control weeds, giving your vegetables a better chance to thrive without competition.

Homemade Mulch

Common Pests and Solutions

In Zone 7, longer growing seasons also mean more chances for pests. Here’s a quick guide to some common pests and how to handle them:

  • Aphids: Spray with water or use insecticidal soap to manage these sap-sucking insects.
  • Japanese Beetles: Hand-pick or use traps early in the season to control their population.
  • Tomato Hornworms: Remove them by hand or introduce beneficial insects like parasitic wasps.
  • Slugs and Snails: Use physical barriers like crushed eggshells or copper tape around plants to keep them away.

States that Fall in Under Zone 7

The next hardiness zone is 8

BeeJay
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