Butte County, CA — Planting Guide
Your May gardening checklist
Your garden in Butte County, California is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this May.
-
Get alpine strawberries, artichoke, and asparagus in the ground
Frost risk is low now in Butte County, California. If you've been covering beds overnight, you can stop.
-
Start cucumber, kale, and lettuce indoors
A seed-starting mix and a sunny window (or a grow light) are all you need. Keep soil warm — around 70°F — for fast germination.
-
Pick lettuce, radish, and arugula
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
Coming up in June — start thinking about
- Starting indoors: basil, peppers, and pole beans
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Butte County is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is April 20 and the first fall frost is November 10, giving you a growing season of approximately 204 days.
At an elevation of 144 ft, Butte County receives approximately 44.8 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 90°F with winter lows around 52°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 102 days year to year — ranging from February 12 in warm years to May 24 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 1.59 days per decade. Butte County scores 59/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 20
🍂 First Frost
November 10
📅 Growing Season
204 days
⛰️ Elevation
144 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
44.8 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 | 9.7 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 9.9 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 6.9 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3 in | 4 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| May | 1.1 in | 2 days | 3.2 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.2 in | 0 days | 4.1 in | Critical |
| Jul | 0 in | 0 days | 4.3 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0 in | 0 days | 4.3 in | Critical |
| Sep | 0.4 in | 0 days | 3.9 in | Critical |
| Oct | 2.1 in | 2 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Nov | 3.7 in | 5 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Dec | 7.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 44.8 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.
Butte County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-7.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 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) | May 24 | Dec 14 | 204 days |
| Cautious | May 9 | Nov 26 | 201 days |
| Average year | Apr 20 | Nov 10 | 204 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 26 | Oct 11 | 199 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 12 | Sep 21 | 221 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±102 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 1.6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Butte County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Butte County
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 Butte County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Butte County University of California Cooperative Extension Extension Office
Phone: 530-750-1200
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 Butte County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Butte County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Butte County'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 Butte County CA" or "garden center Butte County" 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 Butte County CA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Butte County Gardeners" or "California 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
14.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
13.3 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 | 9.5 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 9.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 11.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.8 hr | 13.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 12.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 11.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 10.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 8.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.2 hr | 5 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 Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
12 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 52°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 53°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 59°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 65°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 75°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 84°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 95°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 93°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 87°F | 88°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 80°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 65°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 57°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Butte County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Whiteflies | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Spider mites | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Fire ants | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Thrips | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Leaf miners | Low | Mar, Apr, May, Jun |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Butte County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 23 | Sep 8 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 25 | Sep 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 24 | Sep 8 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 26 | Sep 1 | ✓ 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 | May 1 | Oct 20 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (4 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 5 | Apr 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 4 | Apr 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 20 | Apr 6 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 16 | Apr 6 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
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: 11 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 7 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (764 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
22,328 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 2,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, Feb, Mar, Dec
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
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 44.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 22,328 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jun, Jul, Aug)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Butte County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.8–7.7 · Excessively Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 7.5/10
High drought stress. Consistent irrigation is essential — consider drip systems, heavy mulch, and drought-tolerant varieties.
Season Tips
204-day frost-free season
Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.
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
Reduce heat stress and sun scorch in hot climates with UV-stabilized shade cloth.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Butte County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Butte County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | May 4 | Sep 7 – Nov 16 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 4 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | May 4 | Sep 7 – Oct 19 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 – May 25 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 30 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 2 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 30 | — | May 25 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Dec 28 – Feb 22 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 4 | Sep 7 – Nov 16 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 6 – Oct 12 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 31 – Nov 9 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 27 – Aug 24 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 10 – Oct 12 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 30 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 30 | — | Apr 27 – May 18 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 30 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 30 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 9 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 27 – Aug 24 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 4 | Aug 24 – Oct 19 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Dec 28 – Feb 22 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 30 | — | May 11 – Jun 15 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Oct 26 – Feb 22 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Butte County
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Butte County.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 4 | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 4 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 4 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 4 | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 4 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | May 4 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 4 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 4 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 4 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 4 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 4 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | May 4 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 4 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 4 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 4 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 4 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | May 4 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 4 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 4 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 4 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 4 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 4 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 4 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 4 | Aug 3 – Mar 1 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Butte County
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Butte County.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 9 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 27 | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 27 | Aug 31 – Dec 7 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Mar 9 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 27 | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 27 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 27 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 27 | Jul 27 – Dec 28 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 27 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Mar 9 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Mar 9 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jul 13 – Oct 12 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 27 | Jul 20 – Dec 7 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 27 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 27 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Mar 9 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 9 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 27 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 27 | Aug 31 – Dec 7 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 27 | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Butte County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Butte County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Butte County, CA?
Butte County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. 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 Butte County, CA?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Butte County falls around April 20. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 12 and May 24 — a 102-day window of variability. Use May 24 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Butte County, CA?
The median first fall frost in Butte County arrives around November 10. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 21; in mild years as late as December 14. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Butte County?
Butte County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 204 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 1.59 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Butte County for gardening?
Butte County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.8–7.7 and Excessively Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Butte County?
Butte County has commercial agriculture that includes Grapes, Almonds, Dairy. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Butte County a good location for home gardening?
Butte County 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.
Your Butte County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Butte County (Zone 9b). 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