When to Plant Lovage in Sauk County, WI
Lovage is a large perennial herb with a celery-like flavor that can grow 4-6 feet tall. All parts are edible including the leaves, stems, seeds, and roots.
Sauk County, Wisconsin is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 3 and the first fall frost is October 7, giving you a growing season of approximately 157 days.
At an elevation of 1,002 feet, Sauk County receives approximately 30.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 81°F, so choose short-season varieties of Lovage to ensure they mature before fall.
Sauk County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6-6.7
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
Lovage Planting Timeline — Sauk County, WI
Lovage Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 10 | May 10 – May 24 |
| Harvest | July 19 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
70–90 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 4b
Growing Season
157 days
Growing Tips for Sauk County
Start seeds indoors or direct sow in spring. One plant is usually enough for a family. Harvest outer stems and leaves as needed. Divide clumps every 3-4 years.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Lovage in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lovage in Sauk County, WI?
Sauk County is in Zone 4b with an average last frost of May 3. Plan your Lovage planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Sauk County, WI?
Sauk County, Wisconsin is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 3 and first fall frost is October 7.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Sauk County gardeners in Zone 4b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.