Grant County, NE — Planting Guide
Grant County is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 13 and the first fall frost is October 5, giving you a growing season of approximately 145 days.
At an elevation of 689 ft, Grant County receives approximately 24.2 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 80°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 24 days year to year — ranging from April 27 in warm years to May 21 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 2.78 days per decade. Grant County scores 52/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4b (-25°F to -20°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 13
🍂 First Frost
October 5
📅 Growing Season
145 days
⛰️ Elevation
689 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
24.2 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 | 1.5 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.2 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.7 in | 8 days | 1.6 in | High |
| May | 2.8 in | 8 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 1.6 in | 5 days | 2.7 in | High |
| Jul | 1.9 in | 5 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Aug | 2.3 in | 7 days | 2 in | High |
| Sep | 2.1 in | 6 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Oct | 2.5 in | 5 days | 1.8 in | High |
| Nov | 1.7 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.6 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 24.2 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.
Grant County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.5
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 21 | Oct 14 | 146 days |
| Cautious | May 14 | Oct 8 | 147 days |
| Average year | May 13 | Oct 5 | 145 days |
| Optimistic | May 8 | Sep 28 | 143 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 27 | Sep 18 | 144 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.
Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 2.8 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Grant County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Grant 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 Grant County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Grant County University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension Extension Office
Phone: 402-472-2966
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 Grant County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Grant County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Grant 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 Grant County NE" or "garden center Grant 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 Grant County NE" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Grant County Gardeners" or "Nebraska 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 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.9 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 | 9.3 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.4 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 15 hr | 9.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.8 hr | 10.9 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 9.7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.6 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9 hr | 5.1 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 warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 13°F | 24°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 15°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 27°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 42°F | 40°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 54°F | 52°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 64°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 71°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 73°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 67°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 55°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 37°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 24°F | 32°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 Grant 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 Grant 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 19 | Aug 3 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 14 | 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 | May 30 | 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 | Aug 12 | Apr 29 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 28 | Apr 22 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 8 | Apr 22 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 3 | Apr 22 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 28 | Apr 29 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 15 mph Summer: 12 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S 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
Low
Relatively flat terrain (151 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
12,061 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, Oct
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 24.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 12,061 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
Soil & Growing Conditions in Grant County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.2–7.5 · Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 7.5/10
High drought stress. Consistent irrigation is essential — consider drip systems, heavy mulch, and drought-tolerant varieties.
Season Tips
145-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 Grant County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Grant County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | May 27 – Jun 17 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 22 – Aug 19 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 6 | — | Oct 7 – Sep 30 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 27 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 27 | Sep 30 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 16 – Oct 21 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Sep 30 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | May 20 – Jun 17 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 6 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 30 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 22 – Aug 19 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 25 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Oct 21 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 6 | — | Jun 3 – Jun 24 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 6 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 30 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 18 | May 20 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 27 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Sep 30 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 27 | Sep 16 – Oct 21 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 11 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 6 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Apr 1 | May 27 | Jun 3 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Grant County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Grant County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Nov 4 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 10 | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 10 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 10 | Sep 2 – Oct 14 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Nov 4 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Grant County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Grant County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 18 | May 20 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 20 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jul 1 – Aug 19 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 20 | Sep 23 – Oct 14 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 20 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 20 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 20 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 20 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 20 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 20 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 1 | May 6 | May 6 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 18 | May 20 | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 20 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 20 | Sep 23 – Oct 14 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 20 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Grant County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Grant County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Grant County, NE?
Grant 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 Grant County, NE?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Grant County falls around May 13. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 27 and May 21 — a 24-day window of variability. Use May 21 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Grant County, NE?
The median first fall frost in Grant County arrives around October 5. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 18; in mild years as late as October 14. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Grant County?
Grant County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 145 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 shorter by about 2.78 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Grant County for gardening?
Grant County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.2–7.5 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Grant County?
Grant County has commercial agriculture that includes Corn, Wheat, Soybeans. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Grant County a good location for home gardening?
Grant County scores 52/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Grant County gardeners in Zone 4b 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.
