Lemhi County, ID — Planting Guide
This month in Lemhi County, Idaho
May rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Lemhi County, Idaho.
-
Plant carrots, kale, and lettuce from seed, right in the garden
Mark the row. Birds and stray feet both have opinions about unmarked beds.
To set up a strong June, finish these tasks
- Transplants going out: basil, cucumber, and kale
- Direct-sowing: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- First harvests: radish, cress, and microgreens
Lemhi County is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is June 9 and the first fall frost is September 14, giving you a growing season of approximately 97 days.
At an elevation of 6,743 ft, Lemhi County receives approximately 12.6 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 84°F with winter lows around 1°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 51 days year to year — ranging from May 5 in warm years to June 25 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 0.54 days per decade. Lemhi County scores 41/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
5b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
June 9
🍂 First Frost
September 14
📅 Growing Season
97 days
⛰️ Elevation
6,743 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
12.6 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 | 0.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.9 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Apr | 1.3 in | 6 days | 3 in | High |
| May | 1.4 in | 8 days | 2.9 in | High |
| Jun | 0.8 in | 5 days | 3.5 in | Critical |
| Jul | 1.3 in | 6 days | 3 in | High |
| Aug | 1.3 in | 7 days | 3 in | High |
| Sep | 1.2 in | 6 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| Oct | 1 in | 6 days | 3.3 in | Critical |
| Nov | 1 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 12.8 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.
Lemhi County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.2-8.2
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) | Jun 25 | Oct 6 | 103 days |
| Cautious | Jun 19 | Sep 25 | 98 days |
| Average year | Jun 9 | Sep 14 | 97 days |
| Optimistic | May 14 | Aug 30 | 108 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 5 | Aug 15 | 102 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.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit longer (0.5 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Lemhi County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Lemhi 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 Lemhi County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Lemhi 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 Lemhi County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Lemhi County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Lemhi 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 Lemhi County ID" or "garden center Lemhi 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 Lemhi County ID" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Lemhi 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.
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
15.4 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.6 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.7 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 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.2 hr | 6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.6 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.4 hr | 10.7 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.1 hr | 10.4 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.9 hr | 9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.3 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.6 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil 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 | -8°F | 4°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | -2°F | 4°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 5°F | 8°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 20°F | 18°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 33°F | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jun | 43°F | 40°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jul | 54°F | 46°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 53°F | 49°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 47°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Oct | 31°F | 35°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 18°F | 24°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 2°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 Lemhi 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 |
| Cabbage worms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Colorado potato beetle | Low | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
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 Lemhi County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Jun 15 | Jul 13 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | May 15 | Jul 6 | ✓ 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 | Jul 8 | Aug 31 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (5 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daikon radish | Aug 2 | May 26 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jun 24 | May 26 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 16 | May 26 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 5 | May 19 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 23 | May 26 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 14 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 14 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 1,125 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
6,379 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 2,000 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
Jan, Feb, Jun, 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 12.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 6,379 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 Lemhi County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.2–8.2 · Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 5.5/10
Moderate drought pressure. Drip irrigation and mulching are highly recommended to maintain soil moisture through summer.
Season Tips
97-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 Lemhi County
106 vegetables that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for Lemhi County.
Show all 106 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | May 5 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 15 – Oct 20 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 22 – Nov 10 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Sep 29 – Nov 24 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 25 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Jun 16 | — | Sep 15 – Nov 3 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Sep 8 – Nov 3 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | May 5 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 22 – Oct 27 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 15 – Nov 10 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | May 26 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Sep 22 – Oct 27 | 100–120 |
| Celery | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Sep 1 – Oct 27 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Chard | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Sep 1 – Oct 13 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 4 – Sep 1 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 15 – Oct 20 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Cress | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jun 23 – Jul 14 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | May 5 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 11 – Sep 8 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 26 | — | Oct 27 – Nov 10 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | May 5 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | May 5 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 15 – Oct 20 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jun 16 | — | Sep 1 – Oct 13 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 31 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 1 – Nov 3 | 65–85 |
| Endive | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 4 – Sep 1 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 25 – Oct 6 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 25 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 23 | Oct 27 – Dec 8 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 31 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 1 – Dec 8 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | May 5 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Oct 6 – Nov 10 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | May 5 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 28 – Aug 25 | 45–60 |
| Kale | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jun 16 | — | Sep 15 – Oct 20 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Sep 8 – Nov 24 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Sep 1 – Oct 13 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Mache | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 40–60 |
| Melon | May 5 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 1 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 14 – Aug 11 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 18 – Sep 15 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 50–65 |
| Onion | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Sep 8 – Oct 27 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 26 | — | Sep 8 – Oct 20 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | May 5 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 11 – Sep 8 | 45–60 |
| Peas | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 31 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 1 – Nov 10 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | May 5 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 22 – Nov 10 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 11 – Sep 15 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 26 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 14 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 25 – Oct 6 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 26 | — | Sep 8 – Oct 20 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 4 – Sep 1 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Sep 8 – Oct 27 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jun 16 | — | Sep 8 – Nov 3 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | May 5 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | May 5 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 11 – Oct 13 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | May 5 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 15 – Nov 10 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 23 | Oct 13 – Dec 8 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 1 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 22 – Nov 10 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 26 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | May 5 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 1 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jun 16 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Sep 22 – Nov 10 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Apr 14 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 18 – Sep 29 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | May 5 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Lemhi County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for Lemhi County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 30 | Sep 29 – Dec 15 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 30 | Sep 8 – Oct 13 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 30 | Sep 8 – Nov 3 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 30 | Sep 22 – Nov 3 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 30 | Sep 29 – Dec 15 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Lemhi County
37 herbs that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for Lemhi County.
Show all 37 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Sep 1 – Nov 17 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 18 – Oct 20 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Jun 16 | Sep 15 – Dec 1 | 90–120 |
| Borage | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Jun 16 | Aug 18 – Oct 20 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Aug 4 – Oct 13 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Jun 16 | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Jun 16 | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Sep 15 – Nov 17 | 100–120 |
| Dill | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Jun 16 | Oct 20 – Dec 1 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Aug 4 – Oct 13 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Jun 16 | Sep 15 – Dec 1 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Jun 16 | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Jun 16 | Sep 1 – Oct 27 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Jun 16 | Aug 25 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Jun 16 | Sep 15 – Dec 1 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Jun 16 | Aug 18 – Oct 6 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Jun 16 | Aug 25 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Jun 16 | Aug 25 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Jun 16 | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Jun 16 | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Jun 16 | Aug 25 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Jun 16 | Sep 1 – Oct 27 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Jun 16 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | May 5 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Jun 16 | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Apr 21 | Jun 16 | Jun 23 | Aug 18 – Oct 20 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Jun 16 | Aug 25 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Jun 16 | Oct 20 – Dec 1 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Jun 16 | Sep 15 – Dec 1 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Lemhi County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Lemhi County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Lemhi County, ID?
Lemhi 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 Lemhi County, ID?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Lemhi County falls around June 9. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between May 5 and June 25 — a 51-day window of variability. Use June 25 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Lemhi County, ID?
The median first fall frost in Lemhi County arrives around September 14. In cold years it can arrive as early as August 15; in mild years as late as October 6. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Lemhi County?
Lemhi County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 97 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 0.54 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Lemhi County for gardening?
Lemhi County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.2–8.2 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Lemhi County?
Lemhi County has commercial agriculture that includes Potatoes, Hay, Wheat. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Lemhi County a good location for home gardening?
Lemhi County scores 41/100 (Moderate) 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.
Your Lemhi County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Lemhi County (Zone 5b). 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