You are south and west of me but probably a somewhat similar climate, but probably a little longer season. I start in April in cups, put them in the ground in third week of may. should show flowers late July early august. Take them in early October. I can get them pretty big if they get at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight. Obviously plenty of water and nutes. Make sure you give them enough nitrogen in June or they will yellow at the bottom and the growth will stunt. Don't over do it. The plants will let you know. I use a 30-10-10 in June then a more even mix later. Some may disagree with that but it works for me. Deer will eat them when they are less than 18" high, your plot sizes are fine I would put 2-3 plants in a 3x5 ft plot, make sure you can turn the soil at least 36" down add good black store bought soil if you dont have good indigenous stuff. Good luck