Toole County, MT — Planting Guide
Your May planting checklist for Toole County, Montana
Here's what deserves your attention in Toole County, Montana this month. Everything below is tailored to Zone 4a and timed around your local frost dates.
-
Move kale, lettuce, and angelica into the garden
Pick a cloudy afternoon or evening to plant. Less transplant shock, and your seedlings will barely blink.
-
Direct-sow basil, carrots, and kale
Sow every 2 weeks for a continuous harvest. A single big planting means a single big glut.
-
Harvest microgreens as they ripen
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
To set up a strong June, finish these tasks
- 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
Toole County is in USDA Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 24 and the first fall frost is September 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 116 days.
At an elevation of 7,194 ft, Toole County receives approximately 23.3 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 83°F with winter lows around 7°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 33 days year to year — ranging from May 12 in warm years to June 14 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 3.61 days per decade. Toole County scores 35/100 (Challenging) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 24
🍂 First Frost
September 17
📅 Growing Season
116 days
⛰️ Elevation
7,194 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
23.3 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.9 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.9 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.3 in | 8 days | 2 in | High |
| May | 2.4 in | 6 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Jun | 1.5 in | 5 days | 2.8 in | High |
| Jul | 2.2 in | 5 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Aug | 2.3 in | 6 days | 2 in | High |
| Sep | 2.2 in | 6 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Oct | 2 in | 6 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Nov | 1.8 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.4 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 23.3 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Toole County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-8.2
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 14 | Sep 27 | 105 days |
| Cautious | Jun 1 | Sep 20 | 111 days |
| Average year | May 24 | Sep 17 | 116 days |
| Optimistic | May 18 | Sep 9 | 114 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 12 | Aug 27 | 107 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±33 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 3.6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Toole County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Toole 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 Toole County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Toole 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 Toole County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Toole County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Toole 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 Toole County MT" or "garden center Toole 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 Toole County MT" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Toole County Gardeners" or "Montana Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
15.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
11.1 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 8.5 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 9.9 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.4 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 15 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.9 hr | 11.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.5 hr | 10.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 14.2 hr | 9.9 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.5 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 8.9 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.1 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 | -6°F | 2°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | -6°F | 1°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 3°F | 6°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 18°F | 18°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 30°F | 27°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jun | 41°F | 38°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jul | 51°F | 43°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 50°F | 46°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 45°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Oct | 30°F | 33°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 16°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 Toole 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 | 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 Toole 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 29 | Jul 23 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 25 | Jul 9 | ✓ 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 27 | — | 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 9 | May 10 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 11 | May 10 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 4 | May 3 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 21 | May 3 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 13 | May 10 | — | 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: 12 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 1,287 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
11,612 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
Apr, May, Jul, 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 23.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 11,612 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 Toole County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.8–8.2 · 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
116-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 Toole County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Toole County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 12 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Sep 6 – Oct 11 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 22 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Sep 13 – Nov 1 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 7 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Sep 13 – Oct 18 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | Jun 7 | — | Sep 6 – Oct 25 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 23 – Oct 18 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 12 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Sep 13 – Oct 18 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Sep 6 – Oct 11 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 16 – Sep 27 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Aug 16 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 22 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Sep 6 – Oct 11 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jun 7 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jun 7 – Jun 28 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 12 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Aug 2 – Aug 30 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 17 | — | Oct 18 – Oct 11 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 12 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 12 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Sep 6 – Oct 11 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jun 7 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 4 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Aug 16 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 22 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Aug 16 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Jun 7 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 7 | Oct 11 – Nov 1 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 12 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Sep 27 – Nov 1 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 12 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Sep 13 – Oct 11 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jun 7 | — | Sep 6 – Oct 11 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 23 – Oct 18 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 16 – Sep 27 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jun 7 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 12 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 17 | — | Aug 30 – Oct 11 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 12 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Aug 2 – Aug 30 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 8 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Aug 16 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 22 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 22 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Aug 23 – Nov 1 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 12 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Sep 13 – Nov 1 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 17 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 5 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 17 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 17 | — | Aug 30 – Oct 11 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Aug 16 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 22 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 29 | May 31 | Jun 14 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 22 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jun 7 | — | Aug 30 – Oct 25 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 12 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Sep 13 – Oct 11 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 12 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 12 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Sep 6 – Nov 1 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 7 | Sep 27 – Nov 1 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 22 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jun 7 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 22 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Aug 16 – Oct 25 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 22 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Aug 16 – Oct 25 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 17 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 12 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jun 7 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Apr 12 | Jun 7 | Jun 14 | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Toole County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Toole County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 21 | Sep 20 – Nov 15 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 21 | Aug 30 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 21 | Aug 30 – Oct 25 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 21 | Sep 13 – Oct 25 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 21 | Sep 20 – Nov 15 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Toole County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Toole County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 29 | May 31 | Jun 14 | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 31 | Aug 30 – Oct 25 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 31 | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 31 | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 31 | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 31 | Oct 4 – Oct 25 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 31 | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 31 | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 31 | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 31 | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 31 | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 31 | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 31 | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 31 | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 31 | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 31 | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 12 | May 17 | May 17 | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 31 | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 29 | May 31 | Jun 14 | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 31 | Aug 9 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 31 | Oct 4 – Oct 25 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 31 | Aug 30 – Oct 25 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Toole County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Toole County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Toole County, MT?
Toole 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 Toole County, MT?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Toole County falls around May 24. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between May 12 and June 14 — a 33-day window of variability. Use June 14 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Toole County, MT?
The median first fall frost in Toole County arrives around September 17. In cold years it can arrive as early as August 27; in mild years as late as September 27. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Toole County?
Toole County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 116 days. Focus on short-season varieties and start warm-season crops indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 3.61 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Toole County for gardening?
Toole County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.8–8.2 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Toole County?
Toole County has commercial agriculture that includes Cattle, Hay, Wheat, Sugar Beets. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Toole County a good location for home gardening?
Toole County scores 35/100 (Challenging) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Gardening here benefits from close attention to frost timing and season extension due to the challenging microclimate factors.
Your Toole County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Toole County (Zone 4a). 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