Brainard, NE — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Top priorities for Butler County, Nebraska gardeners in July
A quick July briefing for Butler County, Nebraska gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
-
Time to start peppers, begonias, and eggplant inside
Starting these indoors now means sturdy transplants ready the moment your soil warms up.
-
Start harvesting basil, carrots, and cucumber
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
Coming up in August — start thinking about
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Brainard gardens in a dry climate (only 12" 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.
Brainard averages 25.2 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
5b (-15°F to -10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 23
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 10
📅 Growing Season
170 days
🌧️ Climate
Semi Arid 11.5" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 9.7 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
25.2 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Brainard
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Brainard gets 12" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 0.5 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.8 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.2 in | 7 days | 2.1 in | High |
| May | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 2.3 in | 7 days | 2 in | High |
| Aug | 2.2 in | 7 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Sep | 2.2 in | 5 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Oct | 1.3 in | 5 days | 3 in | High |
| Nov | 0.7 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.6 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 21 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.
Brainard Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.5-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 11 | Oct 24 | 166 days |
| Cautious | Apr 30 | Oct 16 | 169 days |
| Average year | Apr 23 | Oct 10 | 170 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 17 | Oct 6 | 172 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 12 | Sep 28 | 169 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±29 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 shorter (0.5 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Butler County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Butler 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 Butler County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Butler 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 Butler County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Butler County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Butler 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 Butler County NE" or "garden center Butler 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 Butler County NE" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Butler 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 in Brainard
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: Photoperiod-sensitive crops will fail spectacularly if planted at the wrong latitude. Sweet onions in Michigan? Tiny. Spanish onions in Florida? Tiny. Match variety to Brainard's daylight pattern and you'll see the difference.
Longest Day
15 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.6 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 | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.3 hr | 8.9 hr | Long day |
| June | 15 hr | 10.6 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.7 hr | 10.4 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 9.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.6 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9 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 in Brainard
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Brainard's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
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 | 23°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 24°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 32°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 45°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 60°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 69°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 75°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 76°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 72°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 57°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 43°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 31°F | 37°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 Brainard
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Brainard's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.
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 |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
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 Brainard
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: Bare soil is wasted soil — it loses nutrients to rain, dries out, compacts, and gets taken over by weeds. Cover crops (clovers, ryegrass, vetch, peas) are the "between seasons" trick that makes soil better every year. In Brainard, you can fit a cover crop into the gaps.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 6 | Aug 8 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 29 | Aug 15 | ✓ 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 10 | Sep 19 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Jul 29 | Apr 9 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 18 | Apr 2 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 19 | Apr 2 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 9 | Apr 2 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 18 | Apr 9 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 12 | Apr 2 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Brainard
The practical takeaway: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Brainard's 9.7 mph background level is a baseline you should know before placing the tallest crops (sunflowers, pole beans, sweet corn).
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 16 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 13 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
9/10
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 (370 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Brainard
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: The first inch of rain washes the roof clean — a first-flush diverter sends it to waste before the barrel fills. Worth the extra $20 for cleaner garden water. Brainard gets 12" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
10,466 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 2,250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Nov, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 21.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 10,466 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Nov)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Brainard
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Brainard.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 1 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Aug 13 – Oct 8 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 1 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | May 7 – May 28 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 1 | Sep 10 – Sep 24 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 1 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 12 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Nov 28 – Feb 13 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 7 | — | Sep 10 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 12 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 20 – Sep 24 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 3 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 1 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 1 | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 12 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 24 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 1 | May 7 – May 28 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 1 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 1 | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 5 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 3 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 7 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 22 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 1 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 1 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Brainard
27 fruits matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Brainard.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 29 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 29 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Brainard
34 herbs matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Brainard.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 1 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 1 | Jul 16 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 5 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 1 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 1 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 1 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 1 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 1 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 1 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 1 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 5 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 1 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 1 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 1 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 5 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Sep 3 – Oct 15 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Brainard
51 flowers matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Brainard.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 5 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 24 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Oct 3 – Oct 24 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 26 | — | Apr 23 | — | May 28 – Jun 25 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 19 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 12 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | May 7 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 29 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 19 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 11 – Sep 10 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 8 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 19 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 29 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Jul 11 – Aug 1 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Jul 18 – Aug 8 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 26 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 22 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 19 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 19 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Aug 20 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 19 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 29 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 19 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 29 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 12 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 1 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 22 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 12 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 12 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 15 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 26 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 8 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 26 | — | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 12 | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 15 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 12 | — | Apr 16 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 19 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 12 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 24 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 26 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 8 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 26 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 19 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 15 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Sep 24 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 12 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 29 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 19 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 19 | — | May 7 | — | Sep 3 – Nov 12 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 12 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 2 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 5 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 29 | Aug 1 – Aug 22 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 5 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 26 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 8 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Brainard
ZIP Codes in Brainard
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 Butler County.
Your Butler County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Butler County (Zone 5b). 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