Wheatland County, MT — Planting Guide
May to-do list for Wheatland County, Montana
Your Wheatland County, Montana garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for May and why each task matters now.
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Harden off and plant kale, lettuce, and angelica
Pinch off the lowest leaves on each seedling before you plant — it reduces water loss while the roots catch up.
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Outdoor sowing time: basil, carrots, and kale
Your soil is 29°F — warm enough for these to germinate without babying.
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Start harvesting microgreens
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
June prep starts now
- Transplants going out: basil, cucumber, and peppers
- Direct-sowing: cucumber, green beans, and peppers
- Starting indoors: cucumber, kale, and lettuce
- First harvests: lettuce, radish, and arugula
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Wheatland County is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 19 and the first fall frost is September 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 125 days.
At an elevation of 7,916 ft, Wheatland County receives approximately 19.2 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 82°F with winter lows around 4°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 24 days year to year — ranging from May 5 in warm years to May 30 in cold years. Wheatland County scores 44/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 19
🍂 First Frost
September 21
📅 Growing Season
125 days
⛰️ Elevation
7,916 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
19.2 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 | 1.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.3 in | 8 days | 2 in | High |
| May | 2 in | 8 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Jun | 1.2 in | 5 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| Jul | 1.9 in | 5 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Aug | 1.8 in | 6 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Sep | 1.6 in | 5 days | 2.7 in | High |
| Oct | 1.9 in | 6 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Nov | 1.5 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.1 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 19.3 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.
Wheatland County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.6-7.8
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 30 | Oct 10 | 133 days |
| Cautious | May 23 | Sep 28 | 128 days |
| Average year | May 19 | Sep 21 | 125 days |
| Optimistic | May 12 | Sep 16 | 127 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 5 | Sep 10 | 128 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±24 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit longer (0.4 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Wheatland County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Wheatland 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 Wheatland County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Wheatland 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 Wheatland County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Wheatland County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Wheatland 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 Wheatland County MT" or "garden center Wheatland 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 Wheatland County MT" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Wheatland 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
15.6 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.4 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
11.2 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 | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.1 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.8 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.6 hr | 11 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.3 hr | 11.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 14 hr | 9.9 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.6 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.1 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.4 hr | 4.8 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
Apr
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
0 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 | -9°F | -2°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | -9°F | -2°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 2°F | 4°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 19°F | 16°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 29°F | 27°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jun | 40°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jul | 50°F | 41°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Aug | 48°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Sep | 42°F | 39°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Oct | 30°F | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 14°F | 18°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | -2°F | 6°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 Wheatland 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 | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Wheatland 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 26 | Jul 13 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 19 | Jul 27 | ✓ 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 17 | Sep 7 | — | 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 28 | May 5 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 12 | Apr 28 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 16 | May 5 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 1 | May 5 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 15 | Apr 28 | — | 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: 10 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
7/10
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 1,388 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
9,619 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
8 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,000 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jul, Oct
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 19.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 9,619 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- In your dry climate, every drop counts — consider a larger cistern system
- Position collection tanks in shade to reduce evaporation and algae growth
Soil & Growing Conditions in Wheatland County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.6–7.8 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
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
125-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 Wheatland County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Wheatland County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 7 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Sep 1 – Oct 6 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 17 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Sep 8 – Oct 27 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Sep 8 – Oct 13 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | Jun 2 | — | Sep 1 – Oct 20 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 7 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Sep 8 – Oct 13 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 12 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Sep 1 – Oct 6 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 14 – Aug 11 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 17 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Sep 1 – Oct 6 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jun 2 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jun 2 – Jun 23 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 7 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Jul 28 – Aug 25 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 12 | — | Oct 13 – Oct 6 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 7 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 7 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Sep 1 – Oct 6 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jun 2 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 29 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 14 – Aug 11 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 17 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Jun 2 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 2 | Oct 6 – Oct 27 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 7 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Sep 22 – Oct 27 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 7 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Sep 8 – Oct 6 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 7 – Aug 4 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jun 2 | — | Sep 1 – Oct 6 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jun 2 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 7 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Aug 18 – Oct 6 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 12 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Aug 18 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 12 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 6 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 7 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Jul 28 – Aug 25 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 3 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Aug 11 – Oct 20 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 17 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 17 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 7 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Sep 8 – Oct 27 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 12 | — | Jun 9 – Jun 30 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 12 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 12 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 6 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 14 – Aug 11 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 17 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Aug 11 – Sep 15 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Aug 18 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 24 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 17 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jun 2 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 20 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 7 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Sep 8 – Oct 6 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 7 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Jul 28 – Sep 29 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 7 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Sep 1 – Oct 27 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 2 | Sep 22 – Oct 27 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 17 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Aug 18 – Oct 6 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jun 2 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 17 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Aug 11 – Oct 20 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 17 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Aug 11 – Oct 20 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 12 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 19 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 7 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Aug 18 – Oct 6 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jun 2 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Apr 7 | Jun 2 | Jun 9 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Wheatland County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Wheatland County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 16 | Sep 15 – Nov 10 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 16 | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 16 | Aug 25 – Oct 20 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 16 | Sep 8 – Oct 20 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 16 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 16 | Sep 15 – Nov 10 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Wheatland County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Wheatland County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 12 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 24 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 26 | Aug 25 – Oct 20 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 12 | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 12 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 26 | Jul 28 – Sep 29 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 12 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 26 | Jul 28 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 12 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 26 | Jul 28 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 12 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 26 | Sep 29 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 26 | Jul 28 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 26 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 26 | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 26 | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 26 | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 26 | Jul 28 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 26 | Jul 28 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 26 | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 26 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 26 | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 7 | May 12 | May 12 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 26 | Jul 28 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 24 | May 26 | Jun 9 | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 26 | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 26 | Sep 29 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 26 | Aug 25 – Oct 20 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Wheatland County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Wheatland County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Wheatland County, MT?
Wheatland 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 Wheatland County, MT?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Wheatland County falls around May 19. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between May 5 and May 30 — a 24-day window of variability. Use May 30 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Wheatland County, MT?
The median first fall frost in Wheatland County arrives around September 21. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 10; in mild years as late as October 10. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Wheatland County?
Wheatland County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 125 days. Focus on short-season varieties and start warm-season crops indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost.
What is the soil like in Wheatland County for gardening?
Wheatland County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.6–7.8 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Wheatland County?
Wheatland County has commercial agriculture that includes Cattle, Hay, Wheat, Barley, 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 Wheatland County a good location for home gardening?
Wheatland County scores 44/100 (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 Wheatland County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Wheatland 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