Clearwater County, ID — Planting Guide
Clearwater County is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 17 and the first fall frost is September 28, giving you a growing season of approximately 134 days.
At an elevation of 7,800 ft, Clearwater County receives approximately 19 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 87°F with winter lows around 10°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 27 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 51 days year to year — ranging from April 20 in warm years to June 10 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 16.19 days per decade. Clearwater County scores 28/100 (Challenging) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
5b (-15°F to -10°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 17
🍂 First Frost
September 28
📅 Growing Season
134 days
⛰️ Elevation
7,800 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
19 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 | 1.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.2 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.1 in | 6 days | 2.2 in | High |
| May | 2.2 in | 7 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Jun | 1.3 in | 4 days | 3 in | High |
| Jul | 1.8 in | 5 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Aug | 2 in | 6 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Sep | 1.5 in | 5 days | 2.8 in | High |
| Oct | 1.8 in | 6 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Nov | 1.3 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 19 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.
Clearwater County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.5-8.1
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 27 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) | Jun 10 | Oct 29 | 141 days |
| Cautious | May 27 | Oct 11 | 137 days |
| Average year | May 17 | Sep 28 | 134 days |
| Optimistic | May 8 | Sep 19 | 134 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 20 | Sep 4 | 137 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±51 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 16.2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Clearwater County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Clearwater 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 Clearwater County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Clearwater County University of Idaho Extension Extension Office
Phone: 208-885-6681
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 Clearwater County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Clearwater County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Clearwater 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 Clearwater County ID" or "garden center Clearwater 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 Clearwater County ID" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Clearwater County Gardeners" or "Idaho 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
15.6 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
11.5 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 | 8.8 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.1 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.8 hr | 8.9 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.6 hr | 11.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.3 hr | 10.9 hr | Long day |
| August | 14 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.6 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.1 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.4 hr | 4.5 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 rarely reaches 60°F — use black plastic mulch to warm soil.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
2 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 | -2°F | 7°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 1°F | 7°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 6°F | 11°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 22°F | 18°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 34°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jun | 44°F | 39°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jul | 54°F | 45°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 54°F | 49°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 46°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Oct | 34°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 18°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 4°F | 12°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 Clearwater County
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
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Clearwater County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Jul 21 | May 3 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 10 | Apr 26 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 19 | May 3 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 28 | May 3 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 22 | Apr 26 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 8 | May 3 | — | 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 28 | Jul 20 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 23 | Jul 27 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 19 | Aug 3 | ✓ 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 28 | Sep 14 | — | 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: 15 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 13 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.7/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
High
Hilly terrain with 2,501 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
9,469 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
8 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
Apr, May, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Nov, Dec
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 19.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 9,469 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- In your dry climate, every drop counts — consider a larger cistern system
- Position collection tanks in shade to reduce evaporation and algae growth
Soil & Growing Conditions in Clearwater County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.5–8.1 · Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
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
134-day frost-free season
Start warm-season crops indoors and focus on short-season varieties. Cold frames extend your season by 3–4 weeks in fall.
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 Clearwater County
106 vegetables that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for Clearwater County.
Show all 106 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 30 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 31 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Sep 6 – Nov 1 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 30 – Oct 4 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 23 – Oct 18 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 30 – Oct 4 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | May 31 – Jun 21 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 19 – Aug 16 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 3 | — | Oct 4 – Oct 18 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 24 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 31 | Oct 4 – Nov 15 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 9 – Nov 15 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Sep 13 – Oct 18 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 30 – Sep 27 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 24 | — | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 16 – Nov 1 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 21 – Aug 30 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Aug 23 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 16 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 3 | — | Aug 16 – Sep 27 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 19 – Aug 16 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 8 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 9 – Oct 18 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 30 – Oct 18 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 3 | — | May 31 – Jun 21 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 3 | — | Aug 16 – Sep 27 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Aug 16 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 29 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 24 | — | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 30 – Sep 27 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 23 – Oct 18 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 31 | Sep 20 – Nov 15 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 24 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 30 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 3 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 17 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 24 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Aug 30 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 22 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 12 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Clearwater County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for Clearwater County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 7 | Sep 6 – Nov 22 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 7 | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 7 | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 7 | Aug 30 – Oct 11 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 7 | Sep 6 – Nov 22 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Clearwater County
37 herbs that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for Clearwater County.
Show all 37 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Aug 9 – Oct 25 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 29 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 24 | Aug 23 – Nov 8 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 24 | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 24 | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 24 | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Aug 23 – Oct 25 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 24 | Sep 27 – Nov 8 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Mar 29 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 24 | Aug 23 – Nov 8 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 24 | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 24 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 24 | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | May 24 | Aug 23 – Nov 8 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 24 | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 24 | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 24 | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 24 | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 24 | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 24 | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 24 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 24 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 12 | May 3 | May 10 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 24 | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 29 | May 24 | May 31 | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 24 | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 24 | Sep 27 – Nov 8 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 24 | Aug 23 – Nov 8 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Clearwater County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Clearwater County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Clearwater County, ID?
Clearwater County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. 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 Clearwater County, ID?
Based on 27 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Clearwater County falls around May 17. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 20 and June 10 — a 51-day window of variability. Use June 10 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Clearwater County, ID?
The median first fall frost in Clearwater County arrives around September 28. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 4; in mild years as late as October 29. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Clearwater County?
Clearwater County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 134 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 16.19 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Clearwater County for gardening?
Clearwater County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.5–8.1 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Clearwater County?
Clearwater County has commercial agriculture that includes Potatoes, Cattle, Hay, Wheat, Barley. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Clearwater County a good location for home gardening?
Clearwater County scores 28/100 (Challenging) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Gardening here benefits from close attention to frost timing and season extension due to the challenging microclimate factors.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Clearwater County gardeners in Zone 5b 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.
