When to Plant Fennel (herb) in Morton County, ND
Herb fennel is grown for its aromatic leaves, stalks, and seeds rather than a bulb. It has a strong anise flavor and its flowers attract beneficial insects.
Morton County, North Dakota is in USDA Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 14 and the first fall frost is September 23, giving you a growing season of approximately 132 days.
At an elevation of 752 feet, Morton County receives approximately 33 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 80°F, so choose short-season varieties of Fennel (herb) to ensure they mature before fall.
Morton County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Fennel (herb) Planting Timeline — Morton County, ND
Fennel (herb) Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 2 | Apr 2 – Apr 16 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 7 | May 7 – May 21 |
| Direct Sow | May 7 | May 7 – May 28 |
| Fall Sowing | July 1 | Jul 1 – Jul 15 |
| Harvest | July 9 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
60–90 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 4a
Growing Season
132 days
Growing Tips for Morton County
Direct sow in spring or fall. Unlike Florence fennel, herb fennel does not form a bulb. Harvest fronds as needed and seeds when they turn brown. Self-sows readily.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Fennel (herb) in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Fennel (herb) in Morton County, ND?
Morton County is in Zone 4a with an average last frost of May 14. Plan your Fennel (herb) planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Morton County, ND?
Morton County, North Dakota is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 14 and first fall frost is September 23.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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