Yakutat City and Borough, AK — Planting Guide
Yakutat City and Borough is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is May 20 and the first fall frost is September 25, giving you a growing season of approximately 128 days.
At an elevation of 246 ft, Yakutat City and Borough receives approximately 40.9 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 66°F with winter lows around 9°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 26 days year to year — ranging from May 6 in warm years to June 1 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 8.27 days per decade. Yakutat City and Borough scores 59/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
6b (-5°F to 0°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 20
🍂 First Frost
September 25
📅 Growing Season
128 days
⛰️ Elevation
246 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
40.9 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 | 2.2 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.6 in | 4 days | 2.7 in | High |
| Apr | 1.3 in | 5 days | 3 in | High |
| May | 2 in | 5 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Jun | 2.7 in | 7 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Jul | 5.1 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 6.8 in | 14 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 7.5 in | 15 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 3.1 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.2 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 40.8 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.
Yakutat City and Borough Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 1 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 1 | Oct 4 | 125 days |
| Cautious | May 27 | Sep 26 | 122 days |
| Average year | May 20 | Sep 25 | 128 days |
| Optimistic | May 15 | Sep 14 | 122 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 6 | Sep 7 | 124 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±26 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 8.3 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Yakutat City and Borough presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Yakutat City and Borough
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 Yakutat City and Borough's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Yakutat City and Borough 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 Yakutat City and Borough
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Yakutat City and Borough
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Yakutat City and Borough'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 Yakutat City and Borough AK" or "garden center Yakutat City and Borough" 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 Yakutat City and Borough AK" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Yakutat City and Borough Gardeners" or "Alaska Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
18.3 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
5.7 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.9 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 | 6.5 hr | 2 hr | Short day |
| February | 8.8 hr | 3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.4 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| April | 14.2 hr | 6.1 hr | Long day |
| May | 16.7 hr | 7.7 hr | Long day |
| June | 18.3 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 17.6 hr | 8.9 hr | Long day |
| August | 15.3 hr | 7 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.5 hr | 5.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 9.8 hr | 3.3 hr | Short day |
| November | 7.2 hr | 1.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 5.7 hr | 1.4 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 May through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 30°F | 35°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 31°F | 33°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 38°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 49°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 62°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 69°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 78°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 81°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 74°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 58°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 47°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 33°F | 43°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 Yakutat City and Borough
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 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
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
Cover Crops for Yakutat City and Borough
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 1 | Apr 29 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Jul 29 | May 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 8 | May 6 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 5 | Apr 29 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 17 | Apr 29 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 3 | May 6 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 5 | May 6 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 26 | Jul 24 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 25 | Jul 31 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 21 | Jul 17 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Jun 1 | Aug 28 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 7 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: N. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.3/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (353 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
20,334 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 40.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 20,334 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 Yakutat City and Borough
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 5.2–6.3 · Somewhat Poorly Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 1.5/10
Yakutat City and Borough has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.
Season Tips
128-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 Yakutat City and Borough
108 vegetables that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Yakutat City and Borough.
Show all 108 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Sep 9 – Nov 4 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jun 3 – Jun 24 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 22 – Aug 19 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 6 | — | Oct 7 – Nov 18 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 27 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Oct 14 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 3 | Oct 7 – Dec 16 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Nov 18 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 16 – Oct 21 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Sep 30 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Aug 19 – Nov 4 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 16 – Nov 18 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Nov 18 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Aug 26 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 6 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 30 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 22 – Aug 19 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Oct 21 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 6 | — | Jun 3 – Jun 24 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 6 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 30 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 27 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Sep 30 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 3 | Sep 23 – Nov 18 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 6 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 20 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 15 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Yakutat City and Borough
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Yakutat City and Borough.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Dec 23 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 10 | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 10 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 10 | Sep 2 – Oct 14 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Dec 23 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Yakutat City and Borough
38 herbs that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Yakutat City and Borough.
Show all 38 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Oct 28 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 27 | Aug 26 – Nov 11 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 27 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 27 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 27 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 26 – Oct 28 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 27 | Sep 30 – Dec 9 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 27 | Aug 26 – Nov 11 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 27 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 27 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 27 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | May 27 | Aug 26 – Dec 9 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 27 | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 27 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 27 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 27 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 27 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 27 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 27 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 27 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 27 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 15 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 27 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 27 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 27 | Sep 30 – Dec 9 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 27 | Aug 26 – Nov 11 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Yakutat City and Borough
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Yakutat City and Borough.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Yakutat City and Borough, AK?
Yakutat City and Borough is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. 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 Yakutat City and Borough, AK?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Yakutat City and Borough falls around May 20. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between May 6 and June 1 — a 26-day window of variability. Use June 1 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Yakutat City and Borough, AK?
The median first fall frost in Yakutat City and Borough arrives around September 25. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 7; in mild years as late as October 4. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Yakutat City and Borough?
Yakutat City and Borough has a frost-free growing season of approximately 128 days. Focus on short-season varieties and start warm-season crops indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 8.27 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Yakutat City and Borough for gardening?
Yakutat City and Borough has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 5.2–6.3 and Somewhat 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 Yakutat City and Borough?
Yakutat City and Borough has commercial agriculture that includes Hay, Potatoes, Cattle. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Yakutat City and Borough a good location for home gardening?
Yakutat City and Borough scores 59/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Yakutat City and Borough gardeners in Zone 6b 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.
