Mitchell, NE — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your July game plan for Scotts Bluff County, Nebraska
Your Scotts Bluff County, Nebraska garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for July and why each task matters now.
-
Indoor seed-starting week for basil, peppers, and pole beans
These need a head start before your last frost (May 13). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Bring in the basil, carrots, and cucumber
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
-
Kick off the fall garden with carrots, kale, and lettuce
Mid-season soil is hot. Sow a bit deeper than the packet suggests to find cooler, damper ground.
Coming up in August — start thinking about
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: alliums, crocus, and daffodils
Mitchell gardens in a dry climate (only 15" 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.
Mitchell averages 32.2 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend improving). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
5a (-20°F to -15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 13
🍂 Avg. First Frost
September 25
📅 Growing Season
135 days
🌧️ Climate
Semi Arid 14.7" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 9.4 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
32.2 wk/yr trend improving
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Mitchell
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: A drip irrigation system pays for itself in 1-2 seasons in any climate. Mitchell's 15" annual rainfall determines whether you'll run it weekly (dry zones) or maybe just during summer dry spells (wet zones).
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.1 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.9 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3 in | 7 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.1 in | 7 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Jun | 2.2 in | 5 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Jul | 3.3 in | 5 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.9 in | 6 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Sep | 2.6 in | 5 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Oct | 2.9 in | 5 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.7 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 32.3 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.
Mitchell Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.5
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) | Jun 8 | Oct 9 | 123 days |
| Cautious | May 21 | Oct 4 | 136 days |
| Average year | May 13 | Sep 25 | 135 days |
| Optimistic | May 8 | Sep 16 | 131 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 28 | Sep 2 | 127 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±40 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 1.9 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Scotts Bluff County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Scotts Bluff 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 Scotts Bluff County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Scotts Bluff 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 Scotts Bluff County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Scotts Bluff County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Scotts Bluff 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 Scotts Bluff County NE" or "garden center Scotts Bluff 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 Scotts Bluff County NE" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Scotts Bluff 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 Mitchell
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: Lettuce and cilantro "bolt" (go to seed) when days lengthen. Knowing your day-length curve helps you time spring plantings to harvest before the bolting trigger hits. Mitchell's daylight ranges shape the planting calendar.
Longest Day
15 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.2 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 | 9.3 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.4 hr | 8.7 hr | Long day |
| June | 15 hr | 10.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.8 hr | 10.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 9.3 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.6 hr | 5.5 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 in Mitchell
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Mitchell, an aggressive mulch program shifts your effective soil temperature curve toward optimal for most crops.
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 | 16°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 25°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 39°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 56°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 64°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 75°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 76°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 66°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 53°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 36°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 21°F | 31°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 Mitchell
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Mitchell'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 |
| Cabbage worms | Low | 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 Mitchell
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: Cover crops are the experienced gardener's secret weapon. Mitchell's climate determines which species thrive: clover and vetch in mild winters, cereal rye and Austrian peas in cold ones.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 24 | Jul 17 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 13 | Jul 31 | ✓ 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 24 | Sep 4 | — | 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 14 | Apr 29 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 17 | Apr 22 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 12 | Apr 22 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 17 | Apr 29 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 1 | Apr 29 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Mitchell
The practical takeaway: Pollinators avoid windy days. Mitchell's 9.4 mph average wind isn't enough to stop bees and butterflies — but plant fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) in protected microclimates and you'll see noticeably better fruit set.
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: 13 mph Winter: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.7/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (248 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Mitchell
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
For new gardeners: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Mitchell's 15" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.
Annual Collection
16,098 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,250 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, 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 32.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 16,098 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Nov, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Mitchell
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Mitchell.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 8 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Sep 2 – Oct 28 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 20 | — | — | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 8 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 17 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 20 | — | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 20 | — | — | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | May 27 – Jun 17 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 8 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 17 | Sep 30 – Oct 14 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 8 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 8 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 20 | — | — | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 4 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 14 | Nov 13 – Jan 29 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 20 | — | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 27 | — | Sep 30 – Nov 11 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 4 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 11 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 8 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Sep 9 – Oct 14 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 8 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Sep 23 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 20 | — | — | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Aug 12 – Oct 28 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jun 17 – Aug 26 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 20 | — | — | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 8 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | May 20 – Jun 17 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 17 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 19 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 17 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 8 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 4 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 8 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 14 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 17 | May 27 – Jun 17 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 17 | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 17 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 20 | — | — | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 8 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Sep 23 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 8 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 8 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 27 | — | Sep 16 – Nov 11 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 20 | — | — | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 17 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 13 | Jul 17 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 8 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 20 | — | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 18 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 8 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Mitchell
27 fruits matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Mitchell.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | Sep 2 – Nov 18 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 7 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | Sep 2 – Nov 18 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Mitchell
34 herbs matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Mitchell.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 17 | Aug 5 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 20 | — | Aug 19 – Nov 4 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 17 | Jul 1 – Aug 19 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 17 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 20 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 17 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 20 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 17 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 20 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 17 | Aug 19 – Oct 21 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 17 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 8 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 17 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 20 | — | Aug 19 – Nov 4 | 90–120 |
| 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 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 70–90 |
| 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 8 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 17 | 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 8 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 17 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 20 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 20 | — | Sep 23 – Nov 4 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Mitchell
51 flowers matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Mitchell.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 20 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 7 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 14 | Sep 18 – Oct 16 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 15 | — | May 13 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 11 | — | May 27 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 14 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 4 | — | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 21 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 27 | — | Aug 12 – Nov 11 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 11 | — | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Apr 1 | Apr 22 | May 13 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 23 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Apr 8 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 28 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 11 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 11 | May 20 | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 11 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 15 | May 20 | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 21 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 14 | Jun 26 – Jul 17 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 14 | Jul 3 – Jul 24 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 15 | May 20 | May 20 | — | Aug 12 – Nov 4 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 11 | — | May 27 | — | Aug 19 – Nov 11 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 11 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | — | Jun 17 – Sep 2 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 11 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Aug 19 – Nov 11 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 11 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 18 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 25 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 4 | — | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 21 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 20 | May 20 | — | Aug 12 – Nov 4 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 4 | — | May 27 | — | Aug 19 – Nov 11 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 14 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 4 | — | May 27 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 28 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 18 | — | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 21 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 15 | — | — | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Mar 4 | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 28 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 4 | — | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 11 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Apr 1 | May 20 | May 20 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 7 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 15 | May 20 | May 20 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 21 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 4 | — | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 18 | — | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 21 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 11 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 28 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 8 | May 27 | May 27 | — | Jul 15 – Oct 14 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Mar 4 | — | May 27 | — | Aug 12 – Nov 11 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 11 | — | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 21 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 11 | — | May 27 | — | Sep 23 – Nov 25 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 4 | Apr 29 | May 13 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 22 | May 20 | May 20 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 13 | — | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Apr 1 | Apr 8 | May 13 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 14 | Jul 17 – Aug 7 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 25 | — | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Oct 21 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 27 | — | Aug 5 – Nov 11 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 15 | May 20 | May 20 | — | Jul 29 – Oct 21 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Mitchell
ZIP Codes in Mitchell
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 Scotts Bluff County.
Your Scotts Bluff County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Scotts Bluff County (Zone 5a). 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