Sidney, MI — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your July game plan for Montcalm County, Michigan
Welcome to July in Zone 5b. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
-
Get peppers, astilbe, and begonias seeds going inside
These need a head start before your last frost (May 4). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Pick basil, carrots, and cucumber
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
Coming up in August — start thinking about
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Sidney gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (37" 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.
Drought pressure is moderate (12.6 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
5b (-15°F to -10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 4
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 10
📅 Growing Season
159 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 37.1" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
12.6 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Sidney
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Over-watering kills more plants than under-watering. Sidney's 37" annual rainfall changes the gardening playbook — humid-region gardeners often water by the calendar when they should water by the soil moisture.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.6 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.6 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.9 in | 9 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.6 in | 12 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 4.6 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.8 in | 8 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.2 in | 10 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3 in | 9 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3 in | 7 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.7 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 34 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.
Sidney Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.2
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 22 | Oct 30 | 161 days |
| Cautious | May 14 | Oct 18 | 157 days |
| Average year | May 4 | Oct 10 | 159 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 28 | Oct 2 | 157 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 19 | Sep 26 | 160 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±33 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Montcalm County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Montcalm 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 Montcalm County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Montcalm County Michigan State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 517-355-0240
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 Montcalm County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Montcalm County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Montcalm 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 Montcalm County MI" or "garden center Montcalm 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 Montcalm County MI" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Montcalm County Gardeners" or "Michigan 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 Sidney
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: 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. Sidney's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
Longest Day
15.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.8 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.5 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 | 9.1 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.5 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.2 hr | 9.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.9 hr | 9.3 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.8 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.5 hr | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.8 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Sidney
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Sidney, an aggressive mulch program shifts your effective soil temperature curve toward optimal for most crops.
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 | 23°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 23°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 32°F | 34°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 42°F | 42°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 56°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 69°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 76°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 75°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 69°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 58°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 42°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 27°F | 38°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 Sidney
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: The most successful gardeners in high-pressure regions don't spray more — they design around the problem. Crop rotation, companion planting, and resistant varieties beat reactive spraying.
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 Sidney
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: A fall-planted cover crop in Sidney is the closest thing to free soil amendment. Plant cereal rye or hairy vetch after harvest; chop it down before it flowers in spring; the soil it leaves behind out-grows any store-bought compost.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 8 | Aug 15 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 7 | Aug 1 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 7 | Aug 1 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | May 27 | Sep 19 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
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 9 | Apr 13 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 29 | Apr 13 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 2 | Apr 13 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 27 | Apr 13 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 14 | Apr 20 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 1 | Apr 20 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Sidney
For new gardeners: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Sidney's 0.0 mph background level is a baseline you should know before placing the tallest crops (sunflowers, pole beans, sweet corn).
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 13 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 13 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 (206 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Sidney
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Sidney, that's your 37" times your roof.
Annual Collection
16,945 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, 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 34.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 16,945 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 Sidney
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Sidney.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 1 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Aug 24 – Oct 19 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 11 | — | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 1 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 11 | — | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 11 | — | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | May 18 – Jun 8 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 1 | Sep 21 – Oct 5 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 1 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 11 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Nov 28 – Feb 13 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 11 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 18 | — | Sep 21 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 2 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 5 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 14 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 11 | — | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Aug 3 – Oct 19 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 11 | — | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 1 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 1 | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 5 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 1 | May 18 – Jun 8 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 1 | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 1 | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 11 | — | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 14 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 18 | — | Sep 7 – Nov 2 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 11 | — | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 1 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | May 4 | Aug 1 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 11 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Sidney
27 fruits matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Sidney.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 9 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 28 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 9 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Sidney
34 herbs matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Sidney.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 1 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 1 | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 26 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 1 | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 1 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 1 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 1 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 1 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 1 | Aug 10 – Oct 12 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 1 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 1 | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 26 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 1 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 30 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 1 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 11 | — | Sep 14 – Oct 26 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Sidney
51 flowers matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Sidney.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 5 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Oct 3 – Oct 24 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 6 | — | May 4 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 2 | — | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 23 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 9 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 2 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | May 4 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 2 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 9 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 6 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Jul 11 – Aug 1 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Jul 18 – Aug 8 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 2 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 2 | — | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 31 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 9 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Nov 9 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 23 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 11 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 2 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 23 | — | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 23 | — | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 26 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 9 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 19 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 6 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 23 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 26 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 23 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 7 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 23 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 5 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 19 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 23 | — | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 9 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 26 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 30 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 5 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 23 | — | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 9 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 2 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 2 | — | May 18 | — | Sep 14 – Nov 23 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 23 | Apr 20 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 13 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | May 4 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 4 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Aug 1 – Aug 22 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 16 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 9 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 6 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 19 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Sidney
ZIP Codes in Sidney
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 Montcalm County.
Your Montcalm County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Montcalm County (Zone 5b). 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