Hubbard County, MN — Planting Guide
This month in Hubbard County, Minnesota
If you only do a handful of things in the garden this May, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.
-
Set out kale, lettuce, and angelica seedlings
Harden off for 7 days — a little more sun each day — before planting. That's the difference between a seedling that thrives and one that stalls.
-
Direct-sow carrots, cucumber, and green beans
Your soil is 51°F — warm enough for these to germinate without babying.
-
Start harvesting cress and microgreens
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
A few tasks this May that'll pay off in June
- Transplants going out: cucumber, peppers, and pole beans
- Starting indoors: cucumber, kale, and lettuce
- First harvests: lettuce, radish, and arugula
Hubbard County is in USDA Zone 3b. The average last spring frost is May 12 and the first fall frost is September 27, giving you a growing season of approximately 138 days.
At an elevation of 733 ft, Hubbard County receives approximately 32.8 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 79°F with winter lows around -2°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 26 days year to year — ranging from April 26 in warm years to May 22 in cold years. Hubbard County scores 71/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
3b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 12
🍂 First Frost
September 27
📅 Growing Season
138 days
⛰️ Elevation
733 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
32.8 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 | 1.1 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.3 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3 in | 9 days | — | None |
| May | 3.8 in | 11 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.2 in | 10 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Jul | 3.9 in | 7 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.6 in | 9 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3.2 in | 8 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.2 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Nov | 2.3 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.7 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 32.7 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.
Hubbard County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.8
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 9 | 140 days |
| Cautious | May 16 | Oct 3 | 140 days |
| Average year | May 12 | Sep 27 | 138 days |
| Optimistic | May 7 | Sep 19 | 135 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 26 | Sep 11 | 138 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±26 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 shorter (0.4 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Hubbard County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Hubbard 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 Hubbard County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Hubbard County University of Minnesota Extension Extension Office
Phone: 612-625-8173
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 Hubbard County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Hubbard County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Hubbard 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 Hubbard County MN" or "garden center Hubbard 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 Hubbard County MN" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Hubbard County Gardeners" or "Minnesota 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
15.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.9 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 | 8.7 hr | 3.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10 hr | 4.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.4 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.9 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.7 hr | 9.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.3 hr | 9.9 hr | Long day |
| August | 14 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.6 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.1 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.3 hr | 3.2 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
5 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 | 6°F | 16°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 9°F | 17°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 20°F | 22°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 35°F | 33°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 51°F | 47°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 63°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 70°F | 61°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 70°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 62°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 45°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Nov | 32°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 16°F | 26°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 Hubbard 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 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 | Moderate | 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 Hubbard 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 23 | Jul 26 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 15 | Aug 2 | ✓ 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 12 | Sep 13 | — | 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 31 | Apr 21 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 25 | Apr 28 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 23 | Apr 21 | — | 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: 11 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 14 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.2/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (193 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
16,297 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
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 32.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 16,297 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 Hubbard County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 5.7–6.8 · 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
138-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.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 24-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 Hubbard County
87 vegetables that grow well in Zone 3b with planting dates for Hubbard County.
Show all 87 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 10 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Sep 1 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Sep 1 – Sep 15 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Aug 11 – Sep 15 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Sep 1 – Oct 6 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 5 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Aug 25 – Sep 15 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 7 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 26 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | May 26 – Jun 16 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 45–60 |
| Cucumber | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 5 | — | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 26 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 7 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 75–100 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 26 | Sep 29 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Sep 15 – Oct 6 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Sep 1 – Sep 29 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Aug 11 – Sep 15 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 26 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Microgreens | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 7–21 |
| Mizuna | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Aug 11 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 5 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 8 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 24 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 10 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 10 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Sep 1 – Oct 6 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Radish | — | May 5 | — | Jun 2 – Jun 23 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 5 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 8 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 7 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 10 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 60–80 |
| Shiso | Mar 17 | May 19 | Jun 2 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 10 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 29 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Sep 1 – Sep 29 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Aug 25 – Oct 6 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 26 | Sep 15 – Sep 29 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 10 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Aug 11 – Sep 29 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 26 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 35–50 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 10 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 5 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Hubbard County
15 fruits that grow well in Zone 3b with planting dates for Hubbard County.
Show all 15 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 9 | Sep 8 – Oct 13 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 9 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 9 | Sep 8 – Oct 13 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Hubbard County
22 herbs that grow well in Zone 3b with planting dates for Hubbard County.
Show all 22 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 19 | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 19 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 19 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 19 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 19 | Sep 22 | 120–180 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 19 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 19 | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 19 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 19 | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 19 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 19 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 60–80 |
| Sorrel | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 40–60 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 19 | Sep 22 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 19 | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Hubbard County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Hubbard County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Hubbard County, MN?
Hubbard County 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 Hubbard County, MN?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Hubbard County falls around May 12. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 26 and May 22 — a 26-day window of variability. Use May 22 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Hubbard County, MN?
The median first fall frost in Hubbard County arrives around September 27. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 11; in mild years as late as October 9. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Hubbard County?
Hubbard County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 138 days. Focus on short-season varieties and start warm-season crops indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost.
What is the soil like in Hubbard County for gardening?
Hubbard County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 5.7–6.8 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Hubbard County?
Hubbard County has commercial agriculture that includes Corn, Soybeans, Hay. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Hubbard County a good location for home gardening?
Hubbard County scores 71/100 (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.
Your Hubbard County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Hubbard County (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