Odebolt, IA — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
This month in Sac County, Iowa
Your Sac County, Iowa garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for July and why each task matters now.
-
Fire up the seed-starting tray: peppers, begonias, and eggplant
These need a head start before your last frost (April 25). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Collect basil, carrots, and cucumber at their peak
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
-
Plant your fall garden: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Mid-season soil is hot. Sow a bit deeper than the packet suggests to find cooler, damper ground.
A few tasks this July that'll pay off in August
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: alliums, crocus, and daffodils
Odebolt gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (32" annual rainfall, most of it October to April). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive almost year-round. The challenge is summer heat: long-season warm-weather crops (full-size tomatoes, peppers, melons) need every bit of summer sun, so prioritize short-season varieties, use dark mulches to warm the soil, and reserve your warmest microclimates (south-facing walls, near pavement) for the tender stuff.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Odebolt averages 22.1 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
5a (-20°F to -15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 25
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 8
📅 Growing Season
166 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 31.9" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
22.1 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Odebolt
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
What this means for you: In humid climates, watering is usually about timing (morning, not evening, to prevent disease) more than volume. In dry climates, it's about depth (water deep, less often) more than frequency. Odebolt's 32" annual tells you which side you're on.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.3 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.1 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.4 in | 10 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.6 in | 11 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 3.4 in | 9 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 3.4 in | 10 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.2 in | 7 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2.7 in | 8 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Oct | 2.6 in | 7 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Nov | 2.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.8 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 31.5 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.
Odebolt Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.9-6.7
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 10 | Oct 21 | 164 days |
| Cautious | May 1 | Oct 13 | 165 days |
| Average year | Apr 25 | Oct 8 | 166 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 21 | Oct 3 | 165 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 13 | Sep 21 | 161 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±27 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 1.8 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Sac County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Sac 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 Sac County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Sac 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 Sac County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Sac County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Sac 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 Sac County IA" or "garden center Sac 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 Sac County IA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Sac 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 Odebolt
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Lettuce and cilantro "bolt" (go to seed) when days lengthen. Knowing your day-length curve helps you time spring plantings to harvest before the bolting trigger hits. Odebolt's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
Longest Day
15.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10 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 | 9.2 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 4.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.4 hr | 8.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.1 hr | 9.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.8 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.5 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.9 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 Odebolt
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Compost piles need 130-160°F internal temp to actively break down. Below 50°F ambient, microbial activity slows dramatically. Odebolt's soil temperature curve also tells you when your compost is working and when it's napping.
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 | 22°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 17°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 25°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 42°F | 39°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 54°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 63°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 72°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 73°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 65°F | 65°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 53°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 39°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 23°F | 33°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 Odebolt
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Odebolt's pest score is your early-warning system: high score means commit to disease-resistant varieties and accept some crop loss to bugs.
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 | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Moderate | 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 Odebolt
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: Cover crops fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 2 | Aug 13 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Mar 25 | Jul 30 | ✓ 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 8 | Sep 10 | — | 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 11 | Apr 11 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 15 | Apr 11 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 4 | Apr 4 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 15 | Apr 11 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 3 | Apr 4 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Odebolt
The practical takeaway: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Odebolt's 0.0 mph average is one piece of the watering math: rainfall + irrigation must exceed evaporation + transpiration, and wind boosts both losses.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 13 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.8/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (200 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Odebolt
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Odebolt's 32" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
15,699 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 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, 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 31.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 15,699 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Odebolt
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Odebolt.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 11 | — | Jul 30 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 11 | — | Jul 30 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Aug 8 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | May 9 – May 30 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 11 | — | Jul 30 | Sep 12 – Sep 26 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 11 | — | Jul 30 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 14 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Nov 26 – Feb 11 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 9 | — | Sep 12 – Oct 24 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 14 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 24 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | May 30 – Aug 8 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | May 2 – May 30 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Jul 30 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 11 | — | Jul 30 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 14 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 11 | — | Jul 30 | May 9 – May 30 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 11 | — | Jul 30 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 11 | — | Jul 30 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 2 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 11 | — | Jul 30 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | Jul 30 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 2 | — | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Odebolt
27 fruits matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Odebolt.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 31 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 31 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Odebolt
34 herbs matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Odebolt.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Jul 30 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Jul 30 | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Jul 30 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Jul 30 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Jul 30 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Jul 30 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Jul 30 | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Jul 30 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 2 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | Apr 18 | Jul 30 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 2 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 17 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Odebolt
51 flowers matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Odebolt.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 7 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 19 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Oct 1 – Oct 29 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 28 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 21 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 14 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 9 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 24 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 21 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 14 | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Mar 21 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 21 | May 2 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 24 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Jul 9 – Jul 30 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Jul 16 – Aug 6 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 17 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 21 | — | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 21 | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | — | May 30 – Aug 15 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 28 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Nov 7 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 14 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 17 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 14 | — | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Aug 6 – Sep 3 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 14 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 28 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 3 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 28 | — | — | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 14 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 10 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 14 | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 14 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 3 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 14 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 28 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 21 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 14 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 24 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 21 | — | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 21 | — | May 9 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 4 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 7 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 14 | Mar 21 | Apr 25 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Jul 30 – Aug 20 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 7 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 21 | Apr 25 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 3 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Odebolt
ZIP Codes in Odebolt
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Sac County.
Your Sac County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Sac County (Zone 5a). 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