Mitchell County, KS — Planting Guide
Mitchell County is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 16 and the first fall frost is October 18, giving you a growing season of approximately 185 days.
At an elevation of 627 ft, Mitchell County receives approximately 34.3 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 84°F with winter lows around 16°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 23 days year to year — ranging from April 7 in warm years to April 30 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 0.54 days per decade. Mitchell County scores 72/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
5b (-15°F to -10°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 16
🍂 First Frost
October 18
📅 Growing Season
185 days
⛰️ Elevation
627 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
34.3 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 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.5 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.6 in | 6 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.6 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 5.9 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.5 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 3.6 in | 6 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3.6 in | 6 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2 in | 4 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Nov | 1.3 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.8 in | 4 days | — | None |
Annual total: 34.4 in. Gardens typically need ~1 inch of water per week during the growing season. Months marked "None" for extra water are outside the active growing season for your zone — most gardens are dormant and don't need irrigation during those months.
Mitchell County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-7.1
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) | Apr 30 | Oct 31 | 184 days |
| Cautious | Apr 22 | Oct 25 | 186 days |
| Average year | Apr 16 | Oct 18 | 185 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 12 | Oct 12 | 183 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 7 | Oct 6 | 182 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±23 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
Mitchell County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Mitchell 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 Mitchell County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Mitchell County Kansas State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 785-532-5820
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 Mitchell County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Mitchell County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Mitchell 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 Mitchell County KS" or "garden center Mitchell 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 Mitchell County KS" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Mitchell County Gardeners" or "Kansas 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
14.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.5 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.5 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.8 hr | 10.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 10.4 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.2 hr | 5.1 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
Jun
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 | 25°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 23°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 34°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 46°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 58°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 71°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 78°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 77°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 73°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 57°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 45°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 29°F | 39°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 Mitchell County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Mitchell County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 21 | Apr 2 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 20 | Mar 26 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 11 | Mar 26 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 8 | Mar 26 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 15 | Apr 2 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 11 | Mar 26 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 24 | Aug 9 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 18 | Aug 16 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 16 | Aug 23 | ✓ 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 | Apr 27 | Sep 20 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 17 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.4/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (383 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
17,144 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 1,000 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
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 34.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 17,144 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Mitchell County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.7–7.1 · 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
185-day frost-free season
Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.
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 Mitchell County
106 vegetables that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for Mitchell County.
Show all 106 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 – May 21 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 2 | — | Sep 3 – Sep 17 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 2 | — | May 28 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 5 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 30 | Sep 3 – Oct 15 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 5 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 9 – Oct 15 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Aug 13 – Sep 17 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 30 – Aug 27 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Oct 1 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 2 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 5 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 2 | — | Apr 30 – May 21 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 2 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 2 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 30 – Aug 27 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 30 | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 2 | — | May 14 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Mitchell County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for Mitchell County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 7 | Aug 6 – Oct 22 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 7 | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 7 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 7 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 7 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 7 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 7 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 7 | Aug 6 – Oct 22 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Mitchell County
37 herbs that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for Mitchell County.
Show all 37 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 9 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Apr 23 | Aug 27 – Oct 8 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 23 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 23 | Aug 27 – Oct 8 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Apr 23 | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Mitchell County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Mitchell County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Mitchell County, KS?
Mitchell 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 Mitchell County, KS?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Mitchell County falls around April 16. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 7 and April 30 — a 23-day window of variability. Use April 30 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Mitchell County, KS?
The median first fall frost in Mitchell County arrives around October 18. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 6; in mild years as late as October 31. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Mitchell County?
Mitchell County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 185 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 0.54 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Mitchell County for gardening?
Mitchell County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.7–7.1 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Mitchell County?
Mitchell County has commercial agriculture that includes Corn, Wheat, Soybeans. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Mitchell County a good location for home gardening?
Mitchell County scores 72/100 (Good) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. This is an above-average location for home gardening with relatively predictable growing conditions.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Mitchell County gardeners in Zone 5b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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