Sac County, IA — Planting Guide
Sac County is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 25 and the first fall frost is October 8, giving you a growing season of approximately 166 days.
At an elevation of 1,221 ft, Sac County receives approximately 31.4 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 80°F with winter lows around 1°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 27 days year to year — ranging from April 13 in warm years to May 10 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 1.77 days per decade. Sac County scores 62/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4b (-25°F to -20°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 25
🍂 First Frost
October 8
📅 Growing Season
166 days
⛰️ Elevation
1,221 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
31.4 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 | 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.
Sac County 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
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
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 Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from 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 Sac 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 | 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 Sac 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 | 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
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 Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
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
Soil & Growing Conditions in Sac County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 5.9–6.7 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
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
166-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 Sac County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Sac County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 16 | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Aug 8 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 27 – Aug 8 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 16 | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | May 9 – May 30 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 18 | — | Sep 19 – Sep 12 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 18 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 9 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 9 | Sep 12 – Oct 3 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | Aug 15 – Sep 12 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | May 30 – Aug 8 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | May 2 – May 30 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 18 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 7 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 18 | — | May 16 – Jun 6 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 18 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | Aug 15 – Sep 12 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 9 | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 18 | — | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Sac County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Sac County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 23 | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 23 | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 23 | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 23 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 23 | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 23 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 23 | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 23 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 23 | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Sac County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Sac County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 2 | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 2 | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 2 | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 2 | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 2 | Sep 5 – Sep 26 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| 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 |
| 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 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | 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 14 | Apr 18 | Apr 18 | May 30 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 2 | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 16 | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 2 | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 2 | Sep 5 – Sep 26 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 2 | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Sac County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Sac County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Sac County, IA?
Sac County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. 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 Sac County, IA?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Sac County falls around April 25. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 13 and May 10 — a 27-day window of variability. Use May 10 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Sac County, IA?
The median first fall frost in Sac County arrives around October 8. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 21; in mild years as late as October 21. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Sac County?
Sac County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 166 days. This is enough time for most warm-season crops including tomatoes, peppers, and squash with proper timing. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 1.77 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Sac County for gardening?
Sac County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 5.9–6.7 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Sac County?
Sac County has commercial agriculture that includes Soybeans, Corn, Hay, Hogs, Oats. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Sac County a good location for home gardening?
Sac County scores 62/100 (Good) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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