Howard County, IA — Planting Guide
June in the garden — Howard County, Iowa
Welcome to June in Zone 4b. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
-
Transplant alpine strawberries, aronia, and blueberries outside
Water the tray well an hour before you transplant. Roots slide out cleanly and settle in faster.
-
Indoor seed-starting week for basil, cucumber, and kale
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 carrots, kale, and lettuce
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
Looking ahead to July
- Starting indoors: peppers, pole beans, and tomatoes
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Howard County is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 4 and the first fall frost is October 5, giving you a growing season of approximately 154 days.
At an elevation of 1,297 ft, Howard County receives approximately 39.7 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 83°F with winter lows around 2°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 24 days year to year — ranging from April 21 in warm years to May 16 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 0.55 days per decade. Howard County scores 74/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4b (-25°F to -20°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 4
🍂 First Frost
October 5
📅 Growing Season
154 days
⛰️ Elevation
1,297 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
39.7 in
Monthly Watering Calendar for Howard County
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Mulch reduces watering needs 30-50% by cutting evaporation. Howard County's 40" annual rainfall might be enough for vegetables in some months and not in others — a 2-3" mulch layer evens the swing.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.8 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.7 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| May | 4.8 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.4 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.3 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4 in | 8 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.5 in | 8 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.6 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 39.6 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.
Howard County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-7.3
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 16 | Oct 16 | 153 days |
| Cautious | May 12 | Oct 9 | 150 days |
| Average year | May 4 | Oct 5 | 154 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 28 | Sep 28 | 153 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 21 | Sep 20 | 152 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±24 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
Howard County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Howard 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 Howard County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Howard County Iowa State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 515-294-6675
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 Howard County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Howard County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Howard 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 Howard County IA" or "garden center Howard 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 Howard County IA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Howard County Gardeners" or "Iowa 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 in Howard County
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: You can't change the sun. Picking the right day-length-matched varieties for Howard County matters more than any other "fix" you make — and the seed packet tells you (look for "long-day," "short-day," "day-neutral").
Longest Day
15.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.8 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.6 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 | 9.1 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.5 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.2 hr | 9.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.9 hr | 9.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.8 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.4 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.8 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Howard County
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Soil heats slower than air in spring and cools slower in fall. That's why "warm" April air doesn't mean "plant tomatoes" — soil still trails by weeks. Howard County's monthly soil curve makes the lag visible.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 14°F | 24°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 15°F | 22°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 25°F | 27°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 40°F | 38°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 54°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 62°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 71°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 72°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 64°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 52°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 35°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 23°F | 29°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 Howard County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: High pest pressure means weekly inspection. Low pest pressure means monthly. The score tells you which routine to set up before you have a problem.
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 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Low | 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
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Howard County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: A fall-planted cover crop in Howard County is the closest thing to free soil amendment. Plant cereal rye or hairy vetch after harvest; chop it down before it flowers in spring; the soil it leaves behind out-grows any store-bought compost.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 13 | Aug 10 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 7 | 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 27 | Sep 14 | — | 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 27 | Apr 20 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 20 | Apr 13 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 9 | Apr 13 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 1 | Apr 20 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 4 | Apr 13 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Howard County
What this means for you: Light wind is good (strengthens stems, aids pollination); strong wind is bad (snaps stems, dries leaves, scatters seeds). Howard County averages 9.9 mph. If you garden near coast, ridge, or open plains, you're likely above that — plan for it.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 13 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. 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
Low
Relatively flat terrain (154 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Howard County
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Howard County's 40" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.
Annual Collection
19,736 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 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Nov
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 39.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 19,736 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Nov)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Howard County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 6.1–7.3 · Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (39.7 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
154-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.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 22-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 Howard County
95 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Howard County.
Show all 95 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 18 | — | — | Aug 17 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 18 | — | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | May 18 – Jun 8 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 | Sep 28 – Sep 21 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 18 | — | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Nov 23 – Jan 18 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 18 | — | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 18 | — | Sep 21 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Sep 7 – Oct 12 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 21 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 18 | — | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 18 | — | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jul 13 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 12 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 | May 25 – Jun 15 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 18 | — | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 21 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 18 | — | Sep 7 – Oct 12 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 18 | — | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 13 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 18 | — | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Howard County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Howard County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 26 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 5 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 26 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Howard County
30 herbs that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Howard County.
Show all 30 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jul 13 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jul 13 | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jul 13 | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jul 13 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jul 13 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jul 13 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jul 13 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jul 13 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 40–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jul 13 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jul 13 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | Jul 13 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 11 | — | Sep 14 – Oct 5 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Howard County
49 flowers that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Howard County.
Show all 49 flowers with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Sep 28 – Oct 26 | 28–42 |
| Astilbe | Feb 23 | — | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 16 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 23 | May 4 | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 26 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 23 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | May 4 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 7 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Mar 30 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 23 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 26 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 26 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 23 | — | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 23 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 23 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 9 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 2 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 16 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 11 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 16 | — | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Jul 27 – Aug 17 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 16 | — | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 12 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 2 | — | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 6 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 12 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 23 | — | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 23 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 23 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 28 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 16 | — | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 2 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 23 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 19 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 30 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 16 | — | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 26 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 2 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 23 | — | May 18 | — | Sep 21 – Nov 16 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 23 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 13 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 16 | Apr 27 | May 4 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 4 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 24 | Jul 20 – Aug 10 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 16 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 23 | May 4 | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 60–70 |