Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area, AK — Planting Guide
May to-do list for Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area, Alaska
Each item below is timed to Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area, Alaska's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
-
Plant out kale, lettuce, and bok choy
Frost risk is low now in Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area, Alaska. If you've been covering beds overnight, you can stop.
-
Outdoor sowing time: kale, lettuce, and radish
Succession planting is the secret here. Put in a row now, another in 2 weeks, a third in 4.
June will be here before you know it — start on
- Transplants going out: amaranth, cranberries, and haskaps
- Direct-sowing: amaranth, snap peas, and sunflower
- First harvests: radish, cress, and microgreens
- Fall sowing: kale, lettuce, and radish
Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area is in USDA Zone 2a. The average last spring frost is May 29 and the first fall frost is August 26, giving you a growing season of approximately 89 days.
At an elevation of 2,163 ft, Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area receives approximately 55.8 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 69°F with winter lows around -25°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 27 days year to year — ranging from May 16 in warm years to June 12 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 0.58 days per decade. Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area scores 61/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
2a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 29
🍂 First Frost
August 26
📅 Growing Season
89 days
⛰️ Elevation
2,163 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
55.8 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 | 2.8 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.2 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.4 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Apr | 1.8 in | 5 days | — | None |
| May | 2.4 in | 6 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Jun | 3.7 in | 7 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 6.8 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 7.8 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 9.3 in | 15 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 8.2 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Nov | 4.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 4.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 55.8 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5-6.5
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 12 | Sep 4 | 84 days |
| Cautious | May 31 | Aug 29 | 90 days |
| Average year | May 29 | Aug 26 | 89 days |
| Optimistic | May 21 | Aug 18 | 89 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 16 | Aug 12 | 88 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±27 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit shorter (0.6 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Yukon-Koyukuk 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 Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Yukon-Koyukuk 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 Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Yukon-Koyukuk 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 Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area AK" or "garden center Yukon-Koyukuk 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 Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area AK" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area 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.
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
21.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
2.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.8 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 | 4.1 hr | 1.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 7.8 hr | 2.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.2 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 14.9 hr | 6.6 hr | Long day |
| May | 18.5 hr | 8.6 hr | Long day |
| June | 21.7 hr | 10.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 20.1 hr | 10.1 hr | Long day |
| August | 16.4 hr | 7.4 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.7 hr | 5 hr | Neutral |
| October | 9.1 hr | 3.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 5.3 hr | 1.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 2.3 hr | 0.6 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 | 1°F | 10°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 0°F | 8°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 14°F | 16°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 29°F | 27°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 43°F | 39°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jun | 53°F | 48°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 61°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 61°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 53°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 42°F | 41°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Nov | 25°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 12°F | 20°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 Yukon-Koyukuk 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 4 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Flea beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| 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: 8 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 12 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
High
Hilly terrain with 1,066 ft of elevation range — cold air pools in low spots. Avoid planting frost-sensitive crops in valleys.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
27,810 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 1,250 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
Feb, 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 55.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 27,810 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Your area gets ample rainfall — even small barrels make a big difference
- Consider a rain garden to handle overflow during heavy rainfall months
Soil & Growing Conditions in Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 5–6.5 · 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
Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.
Season Tips
89-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.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 24-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
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 Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area
38 vegetables that grow well in Zone 2a with planting dates for Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area.
Show all 38 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amaranth | Mar 27 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Sep 18 – Nov 6 | 90–120 |
| Beets | — | May 22 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 28 – Oct 23 | 90–130 |
| Cabbage | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 60–100 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 55–100 |
| Celery | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 80–120 |
| Chard | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 50–60 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 50–70 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 55–75 |
| Cress | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jun 12 – Jul 3 | 14–21 |
| Daikon | — | May 22 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 75–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 50–70 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 35–50 |
| Lentils | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 21 – Oct 2 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 30–60 |
| Mache | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 40–60 |
| Microgreens | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 7–21 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 55–75 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 22 | — | Sep 4 – Oct 16 | 100–130 |
| Peas | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 55–70 |
| Purslane | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 40–60 |
| Radish | — | May 22 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 10 | 22–35 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 22 | — | Aug 14 – Sep 18 | 80–100 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 70–110 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 27 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 50–65 |
| Spinach | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 35–50 |
| Sunflower | Mar 27 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 28 – Oct 16 | 70–100 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 35–50 |
| Turnip | — | May 22 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 40–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area
4 fruits that grow well in Zone 2a with planting dates for Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area.
Show all 4 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 730–1095 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area
3 herbs that grow well in Zone 2a with planting dates for Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area.
Monthly Planting Guide for Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area, AK?
Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area is in USDA Hardiness Zone 2a. 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 Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area, AK?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area falls around May 29. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between May 16 and June 12 — a 27-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 Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area, AK?
The median first fall frost in Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area arrives around August 26. In cold years it can arrive as early as August 12; in mild years as late as September 4. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area?
Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area has a frost-free growing season of approximately 89 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 shorter by about 0.58 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area for gardening?
Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 5–6.5 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 Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area?
Yukon-Koyukuk 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 Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area a good location for home gardening?
Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area scores 61/100 (Good) 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.
Your Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area (Zone 2a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log