Nome Census Area, AK — Planting Guide
Nome Census Area is in USDA Zone 1b. The average last spring frost is June 3 and the first fall frost is September 2, giving you a growing season of approximately 91 days.
At an elevation of 2,593 ft, Nome Census Area receives approximately 39.9 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 61°F with winter lows around 3°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 15 days year to year — ranging from May 27 in warm years to June 12 in cold years. Nome Census Area scores 74/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
1b (-55°F to -50°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
June 3
🍂 First Frost
September 2
📅 Growing Season
91 days
⛰️ Elevation
2,593 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
39.9 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.8 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.4 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Apr | 1.4 in | 5 days | — | None |
| May | 1.8 in | 6 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Jun | 3.2 in | 8 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 5.2 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 6.1 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 6.5 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.8 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Nov | 3.2 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 40 in. Gardens typically need ~1 inch of water per week during the growing season. Months marked "None" for extra water are outside the active growing season for your zone — most gardens are dormant and don't need irrigation during those months.
Nome Census Area Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 2 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Jun 12 | Sep 30 | 110 days |
| Cautious | Jun 9 | Sep 14 | 97 days |
| Average year | Jun 3 | Sep 2 | 91 days |
| Optimistic | May 31 | Aug 26 | 87 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 27 | Aug 18 | 83 days |
Moderately predictable (±15 day range). The "Cautious" dates in the table below are a safe bet.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit shorter (0.5 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Nome Census Area offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Nome Census Area
Free expert help is closer than you think. Your county's cooperative extension office connects you with trained gardeners, soil testing labs, and local programs — all specific to Nome Census Area's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Nome Census Area University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Extension Office
Phone: 907-474-5211
Visit Extension Office Website →
Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.
Master Gardener Program
Free gardening help from trained volunteers
Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.
Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.
Soil Testing
Available through your extension office
Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.
Services Available in Nome Census Area
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Nome Census Area
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Nome Census Area's soil and climate that big-box stores can't. Plants from local growers are typically hardier because they're already acclimated to your zone.
How to Find Them
Search for "nurseries near Nome Census Area AK" or "garden center Nome Census Area" on Google Maps. Also check with your extension office — they often maintain lists of reputable local nurseries and plant sales.
Community gardens & gardening groups
Community gardens are a great way to learn from experienced gardeners in your area, especially if you're limited on space. Search "community garden Nome Census Area AK" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Nome Census Area Gardeners" or "Alaska Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
20.6 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
3.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 4.7 hr | 1.4 hr | Short day |
| February | 8 hr | 2.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.2 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 14.7 hr | 6.7 hr | Long day |
| May | 18.1 hr | 7.9 hr | Long day |
| June | 20.6 hr | 9.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 19.4 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| August | 16.1 hr | 7.3 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.6 hr | 5.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 9.2 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 5.8 hr | 1.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 3.4 hr | 0.9 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jul through Aug.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
4 months
Short season — insulate pile or use indoor vermicomposting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | -0°F | 10°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 0°F | 8°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 10°F | 14°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 29°F | 26°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 43°F | 39°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jun | 54°F | 48°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 61°F | 53°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 61°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 52°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 38°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 24°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 9°F | 18°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Nome Census Area
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 3 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Slugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: N. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.7/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (775 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
19,936 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Mar, Apr, May
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 40.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 19,936 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Mar, Apr, May)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Nome Census Area
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 5–6.7 · Poorly Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 1.5/10
Nome Census Area has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.
Season Tips
91-day frost-free season
A short season means indoor starts are critical for warm-season crops. Prioritise cold-hardy, fast-maturing varieties and use row covers to extend autumn harvests.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
Recommended for Your Garden
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Nome Census Area
3 vegetables that grow well in Zone 1b with planting dates for Nome Census Area.
Show all 3 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cabbage | Apr 22 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 60–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 22 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 7–21 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 22 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 70–110 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Nome Census Area
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Nome Census Area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Nome Census Area, AK?
Nome Census Area is in USDA Hardiness Zone 1b. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Nome Census Area, AK?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Nome Census Area falls around June 3. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between May 27 and June 12 — a 15-day window of variability. Use June 12 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Nome Census Area, AK?
The median first fall frost in Nome Census Area arrives around September 2. In cold years it can arrive as early as August 18; in mild years as late as September 30. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Nome Census Area?
Nome Census Area has a frost-free growing season of approximately 91 days. Focus on short-season varieties and start warm-season crops indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost.
What is the soil like in Nome Census Area for gardening?
Nome Census Area has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 5–6.7 and Poorly Drained drainage. The native soil conditions make raised beds a particularly good investment here — they let you control drainage and fertility independent of the ground soil.
What is grown commercially in Nome Census Area?
Nome Census Area has commercial agriculture that includes Hay, Cattle, Potatoes. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Nome Census Area a good location for home gardening?
Nome Census Area scores 74/100 (Good) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. This is an above-average location for home gardening with relatively predictable growing conditions.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Nome Census Area gardeners in Zone 1b 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.
