Forsyth, MT — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
July in the garden — Rosebud County, Montana
Your Rosebud County, Montana garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for July and why each task matters now.
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Fire up the seed-starting tray: basil, peppers, and pole beans
These need a head start before your last frost (May 11). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
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It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
-
Start your fall crops: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Keep young seedlings shaded and moist in summer heat. A row of taller crops works as natural shade.
August will be here before you know it — start on
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: alliums, crocus, and daffodils
Forsyth gardens in a dry climate (only 10" annual precipitation). Watering strategy matters more here than in most of the country — drip irrigation, deep mulching, and morning watering aren't optional, they're table stakes. The flip side: pest and disease pressure are far lower than in humid regions, and your soil temperatures climb fast in spring so you can plant heat-lovers earlier than the zone map suggests.
Soils trend Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Forsyth averages 26.8 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend improving). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
4b (-25°F to -20°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 11
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 3
📅 Growing Season
145 days
🌧️ Climate
Semi Arid 10.5" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
26.8 wk/yr trend improving
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Forsyth
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: A drip irrigation system pays for itself in 1-2 seasons in any climate. Forsyth's 10" annual rainfall determines whether you'll run it weekly (dry zones) or maybe just during summer dry spells (wet zones).
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.5 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.2 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.4 in | 8 days | 1.9 in | High |
| May | 2.9 in | 7 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 1.7 in | 5 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Jul | 2 in | 6 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Aug | 2.1 in | 6 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Sep | 1.7 in | 5 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Oct | 1.8 in | 5 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Nov | 1.7 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.3 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 22.7 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.
Forsyth Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.4-7.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 23 | Oct 14 | 144 days |
| Cautious | May 17 | Oct 6 | 142 days |
| Average year | May 11 | Oct 3 | 145 days |
| Optimistic | May 5 | Sep 26 | 144 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 28 | Sep 16 | 141 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±25 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 1.5 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Rosebud County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Rosebud 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 Rosebud County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Rosebud 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 Rosebud County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Rosebud County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Rosebud 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 Rosebud County MT" or "garden center Rosebud 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 Rosebud County MT" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Rosebud 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 in Forsyth
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: A 14-hour day in June produces dramatically more photosynthesis than a 10-hour day in November. Forsyth's seasonal swing determines which crops can pack growth into spring vs. limp through fall.
Longest Day
15.6 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
11.5 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 | 8.8 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.1 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.8 hr | 9.6 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.6 hr | 11.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.2 hr | 10.7 hr | Long day |
| August | 14 hr | 9.8 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.6 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.2 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.4 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Forsyth
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Soil heats slower than air in spring and cools slower in fall. That's why "warm" April air doesn't mean "plant tomatoes" — soil still trails by weeks. Forsyth's monthly soil curve makes the lag visible.
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 | -6°F | 3°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | -2°F | 4°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 8°F | 10°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 22°F | 21°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 37°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jun | 47°F | 41°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jul | 54°F | 47°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 53°F | 48°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 45°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Oct | 32°F | 35°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 19°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 Forsyth
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Forsyth sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.
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 | 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 Forsyth
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: Cover crops fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 17 | Aug 8 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 11 | Aug 8 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Jun 6 | Sep 19 | — | 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 27 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 27 | Apr 27 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 5 | Apr 27 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 3 | Apr 27 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 2 | Apr 20 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Forsyth
Why this matters: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Forsyth averages 0.0 mph — fine for most days. But every region has its windy days, and the first time a row of unstaked peppers leans over after a storm is a lesson you only need once.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 15 mph Summer: 10 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
7.4/10
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 2,473 ft of elevation range — cold air pools in low spots. Avoid planting frost-sensitive crops in valleys.
Rainwater Harvesting in Forsyth
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: A 1,000 sq ft roof captures about 600 gallons from a single 1" rainfall. Forsyth gets 10" of rain a year — a couple of well-placed rain barrels can cover most summer watering. In dry climates the math's even better: every captured gallon is one you don't buy.
Annual Collection
11,313 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
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 22.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 11,313 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Forsyth
95 vegetables matched to Zone 4b with planting dates calibrated for Forsyth.
Show all 95 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 4 | — | Jul 11 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Aug 31 – Oct 5 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 25 | — | — | Aug 24 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 5 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 4 | — | Jul 11 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 25 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | May 25 – Jun 15 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 4 | — | Jul 11 | Oct 5 – Sep 28 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 4 | — | Jul 11 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 25 | — | — | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Nov 21 – Jan 16 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 25 | — | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 25 | — | Sep 28 – Oct 19 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Sep 14 – Oct 19 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Sep 28 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 25 | — | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 25 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 11 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 4 | — | Jul 11 | Aug 17 – Sep 28 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 23 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 19 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 19 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 4 | — | Jul 11 | Jun 1 – Jun 22 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 4 | — | Jul 11 | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 4 | — | Jul 11 | Aug 17 – Sep 28 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 16 | May 18 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 25 | — | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Sep 28 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 19 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 25 | — | Sep 14 – Oct 19 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 25 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 9 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 4 | — | Jul 11 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 11 | Jul 11 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 25 | — | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Mar 30 | May 25 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Forsyth
22 fruits matched to Zone 4b with planting dates calibrated for Forsyth.
Show all 22 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | Sep 7 – Nov 2 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 8 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 12 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 8 | — | Sep 7 – Nov 2 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Forsyth
30 herbs matched to Zone 4b with planting dates calibrated for Forsyth.
Show all 30 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 11 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 16 | May 18 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 11 | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 11 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 11 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 11 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 11 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 11 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 40–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 11 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 11 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | Jul 11 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 16 | May 18 | Jun 1 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 18 | — | Sep 21 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Forsyth
49 flowers matched to Zone 4b with planting dates calibrated for Forsyth.
Show all 49 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Sep 26 – Oct 24 | 28–42 |
| Astilbe | Mar 2 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 23 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 2 | May 11 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 2 | — | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Apr 6 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 2 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 13 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 2 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 9 | Apr 20 | May 4 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 2 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 2 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 16 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 9 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 23 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 18 | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 23 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Jul 25 – Aug 15 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 23 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 19 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 9 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 12 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 19 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 2 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 2 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 30 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 5 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 23 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 9 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 2 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 26 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 6 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 23 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 2 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 9 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 2 | — | May 25 | — | Sep 28 – Nov 23 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 2 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 20 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Jul 18 – Aug 8 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 23 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 2 | May 11 | May 25 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Forsyth
ZIP Codes in Forsyth
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Rosebud County.
Your Rosebud County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Rosebud 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