Beaverhead County, MT — Planting Guide
Beaverhead County is in USDA Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is June 10 and the first fall frost is September 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 94 days.
At an elevation of 7,645 ft, Beaverhead County receives approximately 15.7 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 80°F with winter lows around 5°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 38 days year to year — ranging from May 15 in warm years to June 22 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 6.88 days per decade. Beaverhead County scores 30/100 (Challenging) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4a (-30°F to -25°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
June 10
🍂 First Frost
September 12
📅 Growing Season
94 days
⛰️ Elevation
7,645 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
15.7 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 | 1.2 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.3 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 1.8 in | 8 days | 2.5 in | High |
| May | 1.9 in | 7 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Jun | 1.1 in | 4 days | 3.2 in | Critical |
| Jul | 1.3 in | 6 days | 3 in | High |
| Aug | 1.6 in | 7 days | 2.7 in | High |
| Sep | 1.3 in | 5 days | 3 in | High |
| Oct | 1.3 in | 5 days | 3 in | High |
| Nov | 1 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 15.8 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.
Beaverhead County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-7.8
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) | Jun 22 | Sep 28 | 98 days |
| Cautious | Jun 17 | Sep 19 | 94 days |
| Average year | Jun 10 | Sep 12 | 94 days |
| Optimistic | May 31 | Sep 6 | 98 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 15 | Aug 23 | 100 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±38 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 6.9 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Beaverhead County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Beaverhead 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 Beaverhead County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Beaverhead County Montana State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 406-994-3402
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 Beaverhead County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Beaverhead County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Beaverhead 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 Beaverhead County MT" or "garden center Beaverhead 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 Beaverhead County MT" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Beaverhead County Gardeners" or "Montana 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.
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
15.4 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.6 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
11.3 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 | 8.9 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.2 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.7 hr | 9 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.4 hr | 11.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.1 hr | 10.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.9 hr | 9.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.3 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.6 hr | 4.5 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 rarely reaches 60°F — use black plastic mulch to warm soil.
Best Month to Compost
Apr
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
0 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 | -7°F | -1°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | -5°F | 1°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 2°F | 6°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 19°F | 17°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 31°F | 26°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jun | 41°F | 35°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jul | 49°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Aug | 50°F | 46°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Sep | 42°F | 40°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Oct | 28°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 12°F | 20°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 0°F | 7°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 Beaverhead County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Colorado potato beetle | Low | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Beaverhead 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 | Jun 20 | Jul 11 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | May 10 | Jul 18 | ✓ 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 26 | Aug 29 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (5 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daikon radish | Jul 22 | May 20 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jun 29 | May 27 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 9 | May 20 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 23 | May 27 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 11 | May 27 | — | 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: 16 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 13 mph Winter: 17 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
8.9/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
High
Hilly terrain with 2,318 ft of elevation range — cold air pools in low spots. Avoid planting frost-sensitive crops in valleys.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
7,874 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 2,000 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Mar, Apr, May, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, 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 15.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 7,874 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 Beaverhead County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.8–7.8 · Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
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
94-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.
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 Beaverhead County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Beaverhead County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 29 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 23 – Oct 28 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Apr 8 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 30 – Nov 18 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Aug 26 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 30 – Nov 4 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | Jun 24 | — | Sep 23 – Nov 11 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Nov 4 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 29 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 30 – Nov 4 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 23 – Oct 28 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 2 – Oct 28 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 2 – Oct 14 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Apr 8 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 23 – Oct 28 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jun 24 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jun 24 – Jul 15 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 29 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Aug 19 – Sep 16 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Jun 3 | — | Nov 4 – Oct 28 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 29 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Aug 26 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 29 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 23 – Oct 28 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jun 24 | — | Sep 9 – Oct 21 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 26 – Oct 7 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Apr 8 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 2 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Jun 24 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 24 | Oct 28 – Nov 18 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 29 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Oct 14 – Nov 18 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 29 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 30 – Oct 28 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 29 – Aug 26 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jun 24 | — | Sep 23 – Oct 28 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Nov 4 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 2 – Oct 14 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jun 24 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 29 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 9 – Oct 28 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Oct 28 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 22 – Aug 19 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Jun 3 | — | Sep 16 – Oct 28 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 29 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Aug 19 – Sep 16 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 25 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 2 – Nov 11 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Apr 8 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Apr 8 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 9 – Nov 18 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 29 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 30 – Nov 18 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jun 3 | — | Jul 1 – Jul 22 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 26 – Oct 7 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Jun 3 | — | Sep 16 – Oct 28 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Apr 8 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Oct 28 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Apr 15 | Jun 17 | Jul 1 | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Apr 8 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jun 24 | — | Sep 16 – Nov 11 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 29 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 30 – Oct 28 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 29 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Aug 19 – Oct 21 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 29 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 23 – Nov 18 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 24 | Oct 14 – Nov 18 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Apr 8 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 9 – Oct 28 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jun 24 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Apr 8 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 2 – Nov 11 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Apr 8 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 2 – Nov 11 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Jun 3 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 29 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Sep 9 – Oct 28 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jun 24 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Apr 29 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Beaverhead County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Beaverhead County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jul 8 | Oct 7 – Dec 2 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jul 8 | Sep 16 – Oct 21 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jul 8 | Sep 16 – Nov 11 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jul 8 | Sep 30 – Nov 11 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jul 8 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jul 8 | Oct 7 – Dec 2 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Beaverhead County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Beaverhead County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Oct 28 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Apr 15 | Jun 17 | Jul 1 | Aug 26 – Oct 28 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Jun 17 | Sep 16 – Nov 11 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Jun 17 | Aug 19 – Oct 21 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Jun 17 | Aug 19 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Jun 17 | Aug 19 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Jun 17 | Oct 21 – Nov 11 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Jun 17 | Aug 19 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Jun 17 | Sep 2 – Oct 28 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Jun 17 | Aug 26 – Oct 28 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Jun 17 | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | Jun 17 | Aug 26 – Oct 28 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Jun 17 | Aug 19 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Jun 17 | Aug 19 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Jun 17 | Aug 26 – Oct 28 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Jun 17 | Sep 2 – Oct 28 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Jun 17 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Jun 17 | Aug 19 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Apr 15 | Jun 17 | Jul 1 | Aug 26 – Oct 28 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Jun 17 | Aug 26 – Oct 28 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Jun 17 | Oct 21 – Nov 11 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Jun 17 | Sep 16 – Nov 11 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Beaverhead County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Beaverhead County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Beaverhead County, MT?
Beaverhead County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4a. 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 Beaverhead County, MT?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Beaverhead County falls around June 10. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between May 15 and June 22 — a 38-day window of variability. Use June 22 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Beaverhead County, MT?
The median first fall frost in Beaverhead County arrives around September 12. In cold years it can arrive as early as August 23; in mild years as late as September 28. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Beaverhead County?
Beaverhead County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 94 days. Focus on short-season varieties and start warm-season crops indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 6.88 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Beaverhead County for gardening?
Beaverhead County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.8–7.8 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Beaverhead County?
Beaverhead County has commercial agriculture that includes Cattle, Hay, Wheat. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Beaverhead County a good location for home gardening?
Beaverhead County scores 30/100 (Challenging) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Gardening here benefits from close attention to frost timing and season extension due to the challenging microclimate factors.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Beaverhead County gardeners in Zone 4a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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