Daniels County, MT — Planting Guide
What to do in August
Your Daniels County, Montana garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for August and why each task matters now.
-
Fire up the seed-starting tray: peppers, begonias, and geraniums
Label every cell. You will absolutely forget which is which otherwise.
-
Start harvesting carrots, cucumber, and green beans
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
-
Get alliums, crocus, and daffodils in for a late-season harvest
Your first frost is about 5 weeks away — plenty of time for these to mature.
Get ahead of September
- First harvests: cucumber, green beans, and kale
Daniels County is in USDA Zone 3b. The average last spring frost is May 20 and the first fall frost is September 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 119 days.
At an elevation of 6,023 ft, Daniels County receives approximately 15.5 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 78°F with winter lows around -4°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 30 days year to year — ranging from May 10 in warm years to June 9 in cold years. Daniels County scores 44/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
3b (-35°F to -30°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 20
🍂 First Frost
September 16
📅 Growing Season
119 days
⛰️ Elevation
6,023 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
15.5 in
Monthly Watering Calendar for Daniels County
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Daniels County gets 16" 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 | 1 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.8 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Apr | 1.7 in | 7 days | — | None |
| May | 1.9 in | 8 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Jun | 1.1 in | 4 days | 3.2 in | Critical |
| Jul | 1.2 in | 5 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| Aug | 1.6 in | 6 days | 2.7 in | High |
| Sep | 1.3 in | 5 days | 3 in | High |
| Oct | 1.3 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Nov | 1.1 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.9 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 15.4 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.
Daniels County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.8
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 9 | Sep 28 | 111 days |
| Cautious | May 28 | Sep 20 | 115 days |
| Average year | May 20 | Sep 16 | 119 days |
| Optimistic | May 14 | Sep 8 | 117 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 10 | Aug 25 | 107 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±30 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Daniels County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Daniels 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 Daniels County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Daniels 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 Daniels County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Daniels County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Daniels 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 Daniels County MT" or "garden center Daniels 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 Daniels County MT" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Daniels 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 in Daniels County
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: 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. Daniels County's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
Longest Day
15.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
11.2 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 | 8.5 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 9.9 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.5 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 15 hr | 9.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.9 hr | 11.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.6 hr | 11.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 14.2 hr | 9.5 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.5 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| November | 8.9 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.1 hr | 4.2 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Daniels County
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Cold soil = stunted starts. A bean seed planted in 55°F soil rots before it germinates. Same seed in 65°F soil sprouts in 5 days. Daniels County's soil temperature pattern shows you the difference month to month.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil rarely reaches 60°F — use black plastic mulch to warm soil.
Best Month to Compost
Aug
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
1 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 | -12°F | -1°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | -11°F | -3°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 4°F | 4°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 19°F | 15°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 33°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jun | 45°F | 36°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jul | 50°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Aug | 52°F | 45°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 44°F | 40°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Oct | 28°F | 33°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 14°F | 21°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | -1°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 Daniels County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: Pollinators are the good bugs. Pest pressure is the bad bugs. Daniels County's climate makes both more abundant in warm humid regions, and rarer in cold dry ones — plan habitat to encourage the good while managing the bad.
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 | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Low | 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 Daniels County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
What this means for you: Cover crops protect microbial life through winter and summer. Bare soil bakes; covered soil stays cooler, moister, and biologically active. The difference shows up in next year's crops.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 25 | Jul 15 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 20 | Jul 8 | ✓ 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 20 | Sep 2 | — | 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 3 | Apr 29 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 15 | Apr 29 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 23 | May 6 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Daniels County
Why this matters: Wind dries soil, knocks over young transplants, and disrupts pollination for bees and butterflies. Daniels County averages 10.6 mph — above 10 mph means windbreaks (shrubs, fences, taller crops to windward), staked tomatoes from day one, and an extra round of watering during dry windy spells. Lower wind = lower water bills and fewer broken stems.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 14 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 14 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.5/10
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 1,421 ft of elevation range — cold air pools in low spots. Avoid planting frost-sensitive crops in valleys.
Rainwater Harvesting in Daniels County
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: Even in arid regions, rainwater harvesting works — you just need bigger storage and patience. In wet regions like Daniels County (16" annually), you're mostly limited by how much water you can store between storms.
Annual Collection
7,675 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, 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 15.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 7,675 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 Daniels County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.3–7.8 · 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
119-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 Daniels County
86 vegetables that grow well in Zone 3b with planting dates for Daniels County.
Show all 86 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Sep 9 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 13 | — | Jun 24 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Sep 9 – Sep 23 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | Jun 3 | — | — | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Sep 9 – Oct 14 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 13 | — | Jun 24 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Sep 2 – Sep 23 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jun 3 | — | — | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jun 3 – Jun 24 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Jul 29 – Aug 26 | 45–60 |
| Cucumber | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 13 | — | Jun 24 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jun 3 | — | — | Aug 19 – Sep 30 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 75–100 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 5 | Nov 4 – Dec 9 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Jun 3 | — | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 3 | — | Oct 7 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Sep 23 – Oct 14 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Sep 9 – Oct 7 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jun 3 | — | — | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jun 3 | — | — | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Microgreens | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 7–21 |
| Mizuna | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 13 | — | Jun 24 | Aug 26 – Sep 16 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Jul 29 – Aug 26 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 4 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Sep 9 – Oct 14 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Radish | — | May 13 | — | Jun 24 | Jun 10 – Jul 1 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 13 | — | Jun 24 | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 13 | — | Jun 24 | Aug 26 – Sep 16 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 60–80 |
| Shiso | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 10 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jun 3 | — | — | Aug 26 – Oct 7 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Sep 9 – Oct 7 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 14 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 3 | — | Sep 23 – Oct 7 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jun 3 | — | — | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 35–50 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 14 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 13 | — | Jun 24 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jun 3 | — | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Daniels County
15 fruits that grow well in Zone 3b with planting dates for Daniels County.
Show all 15 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | Sep 16 – Oct 21 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 17 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | Sep 16 – Oct 21 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Daniels County
20 herbs that grow well in Zone 3b with planting dates for Daniels County.
Show all 20 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jun 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jun 24 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jun 24 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jun 24 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jun 24 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jun 24 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jun 24 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jun 24 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 60–80 |
| Sorrel | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jun 24 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 27 | — | Sep 30 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Daniels County
49 flowers that grow well in Zone 3b with planting dates for Daniels County.
Show all 49 flowers with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 25 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 5 | Sep 16 – Oct 14 | 28–42 |
| Astilbe | Mar 11 | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 14 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 25 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 4 | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 11 | May 20 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 28 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 11 | — | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Apr 1 | May 13 | May 20 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Apr 8 | Jun 10 | Jun 10 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 11 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 28 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 22 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 5 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 5 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | — | Sep 9 – Oct 28 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 11 | — | Jun 3 | — | Sep 9 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 11 | May 6 | May 20 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 11 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 28 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 11 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 25 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 12 – Nov 4 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 4 | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | — | Sep 9 – Oct 28 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 25 | — | Jun 3 | — | Sep 9 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 5 | Jul 1 – Jul 22 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 25 | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 14 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 18 | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Aug 26 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 15 | — | — | Jun 24 – Aug 5 | 60–90 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 11 | — | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 11 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 25 | — | May 20 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Jun 3 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 9 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 18 | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 11 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 8 | Jun 10 | Jun 10 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 25 | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 28 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 11 | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 11 | — | Jun 3 | — | Oct 7 – Nov 18 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 4 | — | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 29 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 20 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 20 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 5 | Jun 24 – Jul 15 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Mar 4 | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 11 | May 20 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 3 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 14 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Daniels County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Daniels County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Daniels County, MT?
Daniels 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 Daniels County, MT?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Daniels County falls around May 20. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between May 10 and June 9 — a 30-day window of variability. Use June 9 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Daniels County, MT?
The median first fall frost in Daniels County arrives around September 16. In cold years it can arrive as early as August 25; 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 Daniels County?
Daniels County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 119 days. Focus on short-season varieties and start warm-season crops indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost.
What is the soil like in Daniels County for gardening?
Daniels County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.3–7.8 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Daniels County?
Daniels County has commercial agriculture that includes Wheat, Cattle, Hay. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Daniels County a good location for home gardening?
Daniels County scores 44/100 (Moderate) 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.
Your Daniels County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Daniels 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