Thompson, MB — Planting Guide
Thompson is in USDA Zone 3b. The average last spring frost is May 25 and the first fall frost is September 29, giving you a growing season of approximately 127 days.
At an elevation of 728 ft, Thompson receives approximately 11.2 in of rainfall annually. The predominant soil type is Black Chernozem.
🌡️ Zone
3b (-35°F to -30°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 25
🍂 First Frost
September 29
📅 Growing Season
127 days
⛰️ Elevation
728 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
11.2 in
Monthly Watering Calendar for Thompson
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: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Thompson gets 11" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 0.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 0.9 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 1.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
| May | 1.1 in | 11 days | 3.2 in | Critical |
| Jun | 1.4 in | 9 days | 2.9 in | High |
| Jul | 1.3 in | 9 days | 3 in | High |
| Aug | 1.1 in | 9 days | 3.2 in | Critical |
| Sep | 1.1 in | 6 days | 3.2 in | Critical |
| Oct | 0.9 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Nov | 0.7 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.6 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 11.3 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.
Thompson Soil Profile
Soil Type
Black Chernozem
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Gardening Difficulty Score
Thompson is a very forgiving place to garden. Most plants thrive here with minimal effort.
Local Gardening Help in Thompson
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 Thompson's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Thompson Extension Office
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 Thompson
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Thompson
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Thompson'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 Thompson MB" or "garden center Thompson" 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 Thompson MB" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Thompson Gardeners" or "Manitoba 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 Thompson
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Day length triggers flowering in many crops. Some need short days (sweet potatoes), some long (most flowers), and some are day-neutral (most modern tomatoes). Thompson's latitude determines which varieties fit your beds.
Longest Day
17.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
6.8 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.7 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 7.4 hr | 3 hr | Short day |
| February | 9.3 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.4 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.9 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 16 hr | 9.6 hr | Long day |
| June | 17.2 hr | 10.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 16.7 hr | 10.7 hr | Long day |
| August | 14.8 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.4 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.1 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| November | 7.9 hr | 3.1 hr | Short day |
| December | 6.8 hr | 2.6 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Thompson
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. Thompson'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 Jul through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
4 months
Short season — insulate pile or use indoor vermicomposting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 6°F | 15°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 9°F | 15°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 20°F | 20°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 34°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 47°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jun | 60°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 67°F | 61°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 66°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 61°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 46°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Nov | 29°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 13°F | 25°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 Thompson
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
For new gardeners: Pest score isn't pass/fail. It's a planning input. Higher scores mean: more compost (resilient plants), wider spacing (air circulation), resistant varieties (built-in defense), and inspection (catch issues at egg stage).
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 4 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Flea beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | 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 Thompson
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
For new gardeners: Cover crops are the experienced gardener's secret weapon. Thompson's climate determines which species thrive: clover and vetch in mild winters, cereal rye and Austrian peas in cold ones.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Jun 4 | Jul 28 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 24 | Jul 21 | ✓ 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 | Jun 19 | Sep 1 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (3 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oats | Aug 21 | May 11 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 24 | May 4 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 20 | May 11 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Thompson
Why this matters: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Thompson's 8.6 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
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 (104 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Thompson
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Thompson gets 11" of rain a year — a couple of well-placed rain barrels can cover most summer watering. In dry climates the math's even better: every captured gallon is one you don't buy.
Annual Collection
5,631 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
8 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,250 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, Mar, Oct, Nov, 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 11.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 5,631 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- In your dry climate, every drop counts — consider a larger cistern system
- Position collection tanks in shade to reduce evaporation and algae growth
Soil & Growing Conditions in Thompson
Soil Type
Black Chernozem
Amend with compost each season to maintain fertility and structure.
Watering Needs
With 11.2 inches annually, regular irrigation is essential. Drip systems and heavy mulching conserve water.
Season Tips
127-day frost-free season
A short season means indoor starts are critical for warm-season crops. Prioritise cold-hardy, fast-maturing varieties and use row covers to extend autumn harvests.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 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 Thompson
86 vegetables that grow well in Zone 3b with planting dates for Thompson.
Show all 86 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 13 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Sep 7 – Oct 12 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 23 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Sep 14 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 18 | — | Jul 7 | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Sep 14 – Sep 28 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | Jun 8 | — | — | Sep 7 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 13 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Sep 14 – Oct 19 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 18 | — | Jul 7 | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Sep 7 – Sep 28 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Aug 17 – Sep 28 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Aug 17 – Sep 28 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jun 8 | — | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jun 8 – Jun 29 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 13 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Aug 3 – Aug 31 | 45–60 |
| Cucumber | Apr 13 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 18 | — | Jul 7 | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 13 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Sep 7 – Oct 12 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jun 8 | — | — | Aug 24 – Oct 5 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 75–100 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Nov 17 – Dec 22 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Jun 8 | — | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 8 | — | Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 13 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Sep 28 – Oct 19 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 13 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Sep 14 – Oct 12 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jun 8 | — | — | Sep 7 – Oct 12 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Aug 17 – Sep 28 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jun 8 | — | — | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 40–60 |
| Microgreens | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 7–21 |
| Mizuna | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 18 | — | Jul 7 | Aug 31 – Sep 21 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 13 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Aug 3 – Aug 31 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 9 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 23 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 23 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 19 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 13 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Sep 14 – Oct 19 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 40–60 |
| Radish | — | May 18 | — | Jul 7 | Jun 15 – Jul 6 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 22 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 18 | — | Jul 7 | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 18 | — | Jul 7 | Aug 31 – Sep 21 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 23 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 60–80 |
| Shiso | Mar 30 | Jun 1 | Jun 15 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 23 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jun 8 | — | — | Aug 31 – Oct 12 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 13 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Sep 14 – Oct 12 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 13 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 13 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Sep 7 – Oct 19 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 8 | — | Sep 28 – Oct 12 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jun 8 | — | — | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 35–50 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 23 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 19 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 18 | — | Jul 7 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 25 | Jul 7 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 40–60 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jun 8 | — | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Apr 13 | Jun 8 | Jun 15 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Thompson
15 fruits that grow well in Zone 3b with planting dates for Thompson.
Show all 15 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 22 | — | Sep 21 – Oct 26 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 22 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 22 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 22 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 22 | — | Sep 21 – Oct 26 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Thompson
20 herbs that grow well in Zone 3b with planting dates for Thompson.
Show all 20 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | Jul 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | Jul 7 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | Jul 7 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | Jul 7 | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | Jul 7 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | Jul 7 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | Jul 7 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 40–60 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 5 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | Jul 7 | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 60–80 |
| Sorrel | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | Jul 7 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 40–60 |
| Valerian | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Oct 5 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Thompson
49 flowers that grow well in Zone 3b with planting dates for Thompson.
Show all 49 flowers with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 30 | Jun 8 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Sep 29 – Oct 27 | 28–42 |
| Astilbe | Mar 16 | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 30 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 9 | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 16 | May 25 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 16 | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Apr 13 | Jun 15 | Jun 15 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 16 | Jun 8 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 16 | Jun 1 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 27 | Jun 1 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 27 | Jun 8 | Jun 8 | — | Sep 14 – Nov 2 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 16 | — | Jun 8 | — | Sep 14 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 16 | Jun 8 | Jun 8 | — | Sep 7 – Nov 2 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 16 | Jun 8 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 30 | Jun 8 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 9 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 9 | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Jun 8 | Jun 8 | — | Sep 14 – Nov 2 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 2 | — | Jun 8 | — | Sep 14 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Jul 14 – Aug 4 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 2 | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 19 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 23 | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 12 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Jun 8 | — | Aug 3 – Aug 31 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 20 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Jun 8 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 26 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 16 | — | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 16 | Jun 8 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Apr 13 | Jun 8 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 27 | Jun 8 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 2 | — | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Jun 8 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 23 | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 16 | Jun 8 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 26 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 13 | Jun 15 | Jun 15 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Mar 2 | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 2 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 16 | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 16 | — | Jun 8 | — | Oct 12 – Nov 23 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 9 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | May 4 | Jun 8 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 30 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 28 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 18 | Jul 7 – Jul 28 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Mar 9 | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 16 | May 25 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 31 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 27 | Jun 8 | Jun 8 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 19 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Thompson
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Thompson.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Thompson, MB?
Thompson is in USDA Hardiness Zone 3b. 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 Thompson, MB?
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Thompson falls around May 25. Plan transplants and direct-sow dates relative to this date.
When is the first fall frost in Thompson, MB?
The median first fall frost in Thompson arrives around September 29. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
Is Thompson a good location for home gardening?
Thompson scores 82/100 (Excellent) 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.
Your Thompson Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Thompson (Zone 3b). 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