Judith Basin County, MT — Planting Guide
Judith Basin County, Montana gardeners: here's your May plan
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.
-
Transplant kale, lettuce, and angelica outside
Pick a cloudy afternoon or evening to plant. Less transplant shock, and your seedlings will barely blink.
-
Put basil, carrots, and kale seeds straight in the ground
Mark the row. Birds and stray feet both have opinions about unmarked beds.
-
Harvest microgreens as they ripen
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
June prep starts now
- 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
Judith Basin County is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 23 and the first fall frost is September 19, giving you a growing season of approximately 119 days.
At an elevation of 6,308 ft, Judith Basin County receives approximately 17.7 in of rainfall annually. 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 9 in warm years to June 9 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 1.17 days per decade. Judith Basin County scores 40/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 23
🍂 First Frost
September 19
📅 Growing Season
119 days
⛰️ Elevation
6,308 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
17.7 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 | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.9 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.4 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Apr | 1.9 in | 8 days | 2.4 in | High |
| May | 2.2 in | 6 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Jun | 1.3 in | 4 days | 3 in | High |
| Jul | 1.7 in | 5 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Aug | 1.9 in | 6 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Sep | 1.4 in | 6 days | 2.9 in | High |
| Oct | 1.7 in | 6 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Nov | 1.1 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.1 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 17.8 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.
Judith Basin County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.5-8.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Jun 9 | Oct 3 | 116 days |
| Cautious | May 29 | Sep 23 | 117 days |
| Average year | May 23 | Sep 19 | 119 days |
| Optimistic | May 16 | Sep 13 | 120 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 9 | Sep 8 | 122 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 shorter here (about 1.2 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Judith Basin County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Judith Basin 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 Judith Basin County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Judith Basin 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 Judith Basin County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Judith Basin County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Judith Basin 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 Judith Basin County MT" or "garden center Judith Basin 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 Judith Basin County MT" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Judith Basin 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
15.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.9 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 | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.4 hr | 7.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.9 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.7 hr | 10.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.3 hr | 10.9 hr | Long day |
| August | 14 hr | 9.8 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.6 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.1 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.3 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
Jul
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
2 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 | -4°F | 5°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | -4°F | 4°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 6°F | 9°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 23°F | 21°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 36°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jun | 46°F | 40°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jul | 55°F | 47°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 55°F | 49°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 46°F | 46°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Oct | 35°F | 37°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 17°F | 24°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 4°F | 12°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 Judith Basin 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 | Low | 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 Judith Basin 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 2 | Jul 11 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 26 | Jul 25 | ✓ 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 11 | Sep 5 | — | 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 27 | May 9 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jun 24 | May 2 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 5 | May 2 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 14 | May 9 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 24 | May 9 | — | 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: 15 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.8/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
High
Hilly terrain with 1,091 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
8,871 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 1,000 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
Feb
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 17.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 8,871 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 Judith Basin County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.5–8.2 · 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
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 Judith Basin County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Judith Basin County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 11 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Sep 5 – Oct 10 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 21 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Sep 12 – Oct 31 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Sep 12 – Oct 17 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 11 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Sep 12 – Oct 17 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Sep 5 – Oct 10 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 21 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Sep 5 – Oct 10 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jun 6 – Jun 27 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 11 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 1 – Aug 29 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 16 | — | Oct 17 – Oct 10 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 11 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 11 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Sep 5 – Oct 10 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 3 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 21 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 6 | Oct 10 – Oct 31 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 11 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Sep 26 – Oct 31 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 11 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Sep 12 – Oct 10 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 10 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 11 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | May 30 – Jun 27 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 16 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 10 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 11 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 1 – Aug 29 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 7 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 15 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 21 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 21 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 22 – Oct 31 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 11 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Sep 12 – Oct 31 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 16 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 4 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 16 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 10 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 21 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 28 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 21 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 11 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Sep 12 – Oct 10 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 11 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 11 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Sep 5 – Oct 31 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 6 | Sep 26 – Oct 31 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 21 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 21 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 15 – Oct 24 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 21 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 15 – Oct 24 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 16 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 23 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 11 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Apr 11 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Judith Basin County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Judith Basin County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 20 | Sep 19 – Nov 14 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 20 | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 20 | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 20 | Sep 12 – Oct 24 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 20 | Sep 19 – Nov 14 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Judith Basin County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Judith Basin County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 28 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 30 | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 30 | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 30 | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 30 | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 30 | Oct 3 – Oct 24 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 30 | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 30 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 30 | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 30 | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 30 | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 30 | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 30 | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 30 | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 30 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 30 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 30 | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 28 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 30 | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 30 | Oct 3 – Oct 24 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 30 | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Judith Basin County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Judith Basin County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Judith Basin County, MT?
Judith Basin 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 Judith Basin County, MT?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Judith Basin County falls around May 23. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between May 9 and June 9 — a 31-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 Judith Basin County, MT?
The median first fall frost in Judith Basin County arrives around September 19. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 8; in mild years as late as October 3. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Judith Basin County?
Judith Basin 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 shorter by about 1.17 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Judith Basin County for gardening?
Judith Basin County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.5–8.2 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Judith Basin County?
Judith Basin County has commercial agriculture that includes Hay, Cattle, Wheat, Sugar Beets, Barley. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Judith Basin County a good location for home gardening?
Judith Basin County scores 40/100 (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 Judith Basin County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Judith Basin 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