Lewis and Clark County, MT — Planting Guide
This month in Lewis and Clark County, Montana
Your garden in Lewis and Clark County, Montana is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this May.
-
Set out kale, lettuce, and angelica seedlings
Water the tray well an hour before you transplant. Roots slide out cleanly and settle in faster.
-
Put carrots, kale, and lettuce seeds straight in the ground
Your soil is 33°F — warm enough for these to germinate without babying.
To set up a strong June, finish these tasks
- Transplants going out: basil, cucumber, and peppers
- Direct-sowing: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- First harvests: radish, cress, and microgreens
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Lewis and Clark County is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 29 and the first fall frost is September 18, giving you a growing season of approximately 112 days.
At an elevation of 7,064 ft, Lewis and Clark County receives approximately 22.2 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 40 days year to year — ranging from May 10 in warm years to June 19 in cold years. Lewis and Clark County scores 47/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 29
🍂 First Frost
September 18
📅 Growing Season
112 days
⛰️ Elevation
7,064 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
22.2 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 | 1.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.5 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.3 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.3 in | 8 days | 2 in | High |
| May | 2.6 in | 6 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Jun | 1.5 in | 4 days | 2.8 in | High |
| Jul | 1.9 in | 6 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Aug | 2.3 in | 7 days | 2 in | High |
| Sep | 1.8 in | 5 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Oct | 1.7 in | 5 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Nov | 1.4 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.2 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 22.1 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.
Lewis and Clark County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.5-8.1
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 19 | Oct 3 | 106 days |
| Cautious | Jun 5 | Sep 22 | 109 days |
| Average year | May 29 | Sep 18 | 112 days |
| Optimistic | May 18 | Sep 9 | 114 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 10 | Aug 30 | 112 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±40 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Lewis and Clark County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Lewis and Clark 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 Lewis and Clark County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Lewis and Clark 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 Lewis and Clark County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Lewis and Clark County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Lewis and Clark 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 Lewis and Clark County MT" or "garden center Lewis and Clark 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 Lewis and Clark County MT" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Lewis and Clark 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
11.7 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 | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.4 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.9 hr | 9.7 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.7 hr | 11.7 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.3 hr | 10.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 14 hr | 9.7 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.6 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.1 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.3 hr | 4.4 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 | -7°F | 2°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | -4°F | 2°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 6°F | 8°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 19°F | 19°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 33°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jun | 43°F | 37°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jul | 50°F | 45°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 51°F | 48°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 44°F | 42°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Oct | 29°F | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 14°F | 21°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | -1°F | 11°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 Lewis and Clark 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 | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Moderate | 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 Lewis and Clark 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 31 | Jul 17 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 30 | Jul 24 | ✓ 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 | Aug 28 | — | 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 23 | May 8 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jun 29 | May 8 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 22 | May 15 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 26 | May 8 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 17 | May 8 | — | 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: 13 mph Winter: 16 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 2,644 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
11,014 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
7 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Mar, Apr, May, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jun, 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 22.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 11,014 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jun, Nov, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Lewis and Clark County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.5–8.1 · Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
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
112-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 Lewis and Clark County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Lewis and Clark County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 17 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Sep 11 – Oct 16 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 27 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Sep 18 – Nov 6 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 22 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Sep 18 – Oct 23 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | Jun 12 | — | Sep 11 – Oct 30 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 28 – Oct 23 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 17 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Sep 18 – Oct 23 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 22 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Sep 11 – Oct 16 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 21 – Oct 2 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 27 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Sep 11 – Oct 16 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jun 12 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jun 12 – Jul 3 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 17 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 7 – Sep 4 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 22 | — | Oct 23 – Oct 16 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 17 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 22 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 17 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Sep 11 – Oct 16 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jun 12 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 9 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 27 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 21 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Jun 12 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 12 | Oct 16 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 17 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Oct 2 – Nov 6 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 17 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Sep 18 – Oct 16 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jun 12 | — | Sep 11 – Oct 16 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 28 – Oct 23 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 21 – Oct 2 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jun 12 | — | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 17 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 28 – Oct 16 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 28 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 22 | — | Sep 4 – Oct 16 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 17 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 7 – Sep 4 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 13 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 21 – Oct 30 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 27 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 27 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 28 – Nov 6 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 17 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Sep 18 – Nov 6 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 22 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 10 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 22 | — | Aug 14 – Sep 18 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 22 | — | Sep 4 – Oct 16 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 27 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 21 – Sep 25 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 28 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 19 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 27 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jun 12 | — | Sep 4 – Oct 30 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 17 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Sep 18 – Oct 16 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 17 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 17 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Sep 11 – Nov 6 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 12 | Oct 2 – Nov 6 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 27 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 28 – Oct 16 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jun 12 | — | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 27 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 21 – Oct 30 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 27 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 21 – Oct 30 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 22 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 17 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 28 – Oct 16 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jun 12 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Apr 17 | Jun 12 | Jun 19 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Lewis and Clark County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Lewis and Clark County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 26 | Sep 25 – Nov 20 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 26 | Sep 4 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 26 | Sep 4 – Oct 30 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 26 | Sep 18 – Oct 30 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 26 | Sep 25 – Nov 20 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Lewis and Clark County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Lewis and Clark County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 22 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 22 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 19 | Aug 14 – Oct 16 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 30 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 22 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Jun 5 | Oct 9 – Oct 30 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 22 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 17 | May 22 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 19 | Aug 14 – Oct 16 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Jun 5 | Oct 9 – Oct 30 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 30 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Lewis and Clark County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Lewis and Clark County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Lewis and Clark County, MT?
Lewis and Clark 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 Lewis and Clark County, MT?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Lewis and Clark County falls around May 29. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between May 10 and June 19 — a 40-day window of variability. Use June 19 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Lewis and Clark County, MT?
The median first fall frost in Lewis and Clark County arrives around September 18. In cold years it can arrive as early as August 30; 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 Lewis and Clark County?
Lewis and Clark County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 112 days. Focus on short-season varieties and start warm-season crops indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost.
What is the soil like in Lewis and Clark County for gardening?
Lewis and Clark County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.5–8.1 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Lewis and Clark County?
Lewis and Clark County has commercial agriculture that includes Hay, Cattle, Wheat, Barley. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Lewis and Clark County a good location for home gardening?
Lewis and Clark County scores 47/100 (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 Lewis and Clark County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Lewis and Clark 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