Glacier County, MT — Planting Guide
Your May planting checklist for Glacier County, Montana
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.
-
Time to transplant kale, lettuce, and angelica
Plant tomatoes deep — bury the stem up to the first true leaves to grow extra roots. Everything else goes in at the same depth it grew in the tray.
-
Sow basil, carrots, and kale where they'll grow
Your soil is 30°F — warm enough for these to germinate without babying.
-
Pick microgreens
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
Before June arrives, get these ready
- Transplants going out: basil, cucumber, and peppers
- Direct-sowing: cucumber, green beans, and peppers
- First harvests: lettuce, radish, and arugula
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Glacier County is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 22 and the first fall frost is September 18, giving you a growing season of approximately 119 days.
At an elevation of 8,147 ft, Glacier County receives approximately 13.3 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 80°F with winter lows around 6°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 31 days year to year — ranging from May 11 in warm years to June 11 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 3.41 days per decade. Glacier County scores 25/100 (Challenging) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 22
🍂 First Frost
September 18
📅 Growing Season
119 days
⛰️ Elevation
8,147 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
13.3 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 | 0.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.8 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Apr | 1.3 in | 8 days | 3 in | High |
| May | 1.6 in | 8 days | 2.7 in | High |
| Jun | 1 in | 4 days | 3.3 in | Critical |
| Jul | 1.3 in | 5 days | 3 in | High |
| Aug | 1.4 in | 7 days | 2.9 in | High |
| Sep | 1.1 in | 6 days | 3.2 in | Critical |
| Oct | 1.3 in | 5 days | 3 in | High |
| Nov | 1 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.7 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 13.3 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Glacier County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-8.1
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 11 | Sep 25 | 106 days |
| Cautious | May 31 | Sep 20 | 112 days |
| Average year | May 22 | Sep 18 | 119 days |
| Optimistic | May 15 | Sep 11 | 119 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 11 | Sep 2 | 114 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±31 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 3.4 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Glacier County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Glacier 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 Glacier County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Glacier 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 Glacier County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Glacier County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Glacier 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 Glacier County MT" or "garden center Glacier 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 Glacier County MT" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Glacier 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
15.9 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 | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.4 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 15 hr | 8.9 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.9 hr | 11.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.6 hr | 10.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 14.2 hr | 9.7 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.5 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| November | 8.9 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.1 hr | 4.3 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 | -12°F | -2°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | -9°F | -3°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | -1°F | 3°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 15°F | 14°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 30°F | 26°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jun | 41°F | 33°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jul | 48°F | 39°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Aug | 48°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Sep | 41°F | 39°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Oct | 29°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 13°F | 19°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | -4°F | 5°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 Glacier 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 | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Colorado potato beetle | Low | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Low | 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 Glacier 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 27 | Jul 24 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 25 | Jul 17 | ✓ 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 18 | Aug 21 | — | 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 21 | May 8 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 11 | May 1 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 10 | May 8 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 10 | May 1 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 25 | May 1 | — | 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: 14 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 14 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
High
Hilly terrain with 1,406 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
6,628 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
Apr, May, 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 13.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 6,628 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 Glacier County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.3–8.1 · Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 7.5/10
High drought stress. Consistent irrigation is essential — consider drip systems, heavy mulch, and drought-tolerant varieties.
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 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 Glacier County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Glacier County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 4 – Oct 9 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 20 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Oct 30 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 15 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Sep 11 – Oct 16 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | Jun 5 | — | Sep 4 – Oct 23 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Oct 16 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 15 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Sep 4 – Oct 9 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 20 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 4 – Oct 9 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jun 5 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jun 5 – Jun 26 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Jul 31 – Aug 28 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 15 | — | Oct 16 – Oct 9 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 15 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 4 – Oct 9 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jun 5 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 2 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 20 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Jun 5 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 5 | Oct 9 – Oct 30 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 25 – Oct 30 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Oct 9 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jun 5 | — | Sep 4 – Oct 9 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jun 5 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 21 – Oct 9 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Aug 21 – Oct 9 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 15 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 9 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Jul 31 – Aug 28 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 6 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 20 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 20 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 21 – Oct 30 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Oct 30 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 15 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 3 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 15 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 15 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 9 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 20 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 14 – Sep 18 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Aug 21 – Oct 9 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 12 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 20 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jun 5 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 23 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Oct 9 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 4 – Oct 30 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 5 | Sep 25 – Oct 30 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 20 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 21 – Oct 9 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jun 5 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 20 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 20 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 15 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 21 – Oct 9 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jun 5 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Glacier County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Glacier County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 19 | Sep 18 – Nov 13 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 19 | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 19 | Aug 28 – Oct 23 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 19 | Sep 11 – Oct 23 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 19 | Sep 18 – Nov 13 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Glacier County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Glacier County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 15 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 15 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 12 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 29 | Aug 28 – Oct 23 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 15 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 29 | Oct 2 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 29 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 29 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 29 | Jul 31 – Sep 18 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 29 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 29 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 29 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 10 | May 15 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 12 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 29 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 29 | Oct 2 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 29 | Aug 28 – Oct 23 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Glacier County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Glacier County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Glacier County, MT?
Glacier County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. 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 Glacier County, MT?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Glacier County falls around May 22. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between May 11 and June 11 — a 31-day window of variability. Use June 11 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Glacier County, MT?
The median first fall frost in Glacier County arrives around September 18. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 2; in mild years as late as September 25. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Glacier County?
Glacier 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. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 3.41 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Glacier County for gardening?
Glacier County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.3–8.1 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Glacier County?
Glacier 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 Glacier County a good location for home gardening?
Glacier County scores 25/100 (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.
Your Glacier County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Glacier County (Zone 4b). 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