McCone County, MT — Planting Guide
McCone County is in USDA Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 14 and the first fall frost is September 22, giving you a growing season of approximately 131 days.
At an elevation of 5,568 ft, McCone County receives approximately 22 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 82°F with winter lows around 9°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 28 days year to year — ranging from April 30 in warm years to May 29 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 2.15 days per decade. McCone County scores 38/100 (Challenging) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4a (-30°F to -25°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 14
🍂 First Frost
September 22
📅 Growing Season
131 days
⛰️ Elevation
5,568 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
22 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 | 1.7 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.1 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.6 in | 6 days | 1.7 in | High |
| May | 2.7 in | 7 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Jun | 1.4 in | 5 days | 2.9 in | High |
| Jul | 1.9 in | 6 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Aug | 2.3 in | 6 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 | 1.5 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.1 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 21.8 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.
McCone County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-8.2
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) | May 29 | Oct 9 | 133 days |
| Cautious | May 19 | Sep 30 | 134 days |
| Average year | May 14 | Sep 22 | 131 days |
| Optimistic | May 10 | Sep 18 | 131 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 30 | Sep 10 | 133 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±28 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 2.2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
McCone County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in McCone 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 McCone County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
McCone 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 McCone County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in McCone County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to McCone 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 McCone County MT" or "garden center McCone 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 McCone County MT" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "McCone 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.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
15.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
11.9 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 | 8.6 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.4 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.9 hr | 9.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.8 hr | 11.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.4 hr | 11.3 hr | Long day |
| August | 14.1 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.6 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 9 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.2 hr | 4.6 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 | -1°F | 8°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | -2°F | 6°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 10°F | 14°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 27°F | 22°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 39°F | 34°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jun | 47°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jul | 56°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 58°F | 52°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 49°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Oct | 35°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 21°F | 27°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 4°F | 16°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 McCone 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 | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for McCone 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 16 | Jul 14 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 18 | Jul 28 | ✓ 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 12 | Sep 8 | — | 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 | Aug 11 | Apr 30 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 10 | Apr 30 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 20 | Apr 23 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 26 | Apr 30 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 25 | Apr 30 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 16 mph Summer: 12 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
7.2/10
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 2,896 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
10,865 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
Feb, Jun, 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 21.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 10,865 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Jun, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in McCone County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.7–8.2 · Moderately 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
131-day frost-free season
Start warm-season crops indoors and focus on short-season varieties. Cold frames extend your season by 3–4 weeks in fall.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
Recommended for Your Garden
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in McCone County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for McCone County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 27 – Oct 1 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Sep 3 – Oct 22 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 28 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Sep 3 – Oct 8 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Aug 13 – Oct 8 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Sep 3 – Oct 8 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Aug 27 – Oct 1 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 27 – Oct 1 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | May 28 – Jun 18 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Jul 23 – Aug 20 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 7 | — | Oct 8 – Oct 1 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 27 – Oct 1 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 28 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 24 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 28 | Oct 1 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Sep 17 – Oct 22 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Sep 3 – Oct 1 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 1 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Aug 13 – Oct 8 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 7 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 1 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Jul 23 – Aug 20 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 26 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 6 – Oct 15 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 13 – Oct 22 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Sep 3 – Oct 22 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 7 | — | Jun 4 – Jun 25 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 7 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 1 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 19 | May 21 | Jun 4 | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 28 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Sep 3 – Oct 1 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 27 – Oct 22 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 28 | Sep 17 – Oct 22 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 6 – Oct 15 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 6 – Oct 15 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 7 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in McCone County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for McCone County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 11 | Sep 10 – Nov 5 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 11 | Aug 20 – Sep 24 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 11 | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 11 | Sep 3 – Oct 15 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 11 | Sep 10 – Nov 5 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in McCone County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for McCone County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 19 | May 21 | Jun 4 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 21 | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 21 | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 21 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 21 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 21 | Sep 24 – Oct 15 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 21 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 21 | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 21 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 21 | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 21 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 21 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 21 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 21 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 21 | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 21 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 21 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 19 | May 21 | Jun 4 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 21 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 21 | Sep 24 – Oct 15 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 21 | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for McCone County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in McCone County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is McCone County, MT?
McCone County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4a. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in McCone County, MT?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in McCone County falls around May 14. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 30 and May 29 — a 28-day window of variability. Use May 29 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in McCone County, MT?
The median first fall frost in McCone County arrives around September 22. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 10; in mild years as late as October 9. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in McCone County?
McCone County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 131 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 2.15 days per decade.
What is the soil like in McCone County for gardening?
McCone County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.7–8.2 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in McCone County?
McCone County has commercial agriculture that includes Cattle, Hay, 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 McCone County a good location for home gardening?
McCone County scores 38/100 (Challenging) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Gardening here benefits from close attention to frost timing and season extension due to the challenging microclimate factors.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help McCone County gardeners in Zone 4a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.
