Valley County, NE — Planting Guide
Valley County is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 9 and the first fall frost is October 5, giving you a growing season of approximately 149 days.
At an elevation of 982 ft, Valley County receives approximately 21.7 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 82°F with winter lows around 8°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 26 days year to year — ranging from April 21 in warm years to May 17 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 2.04 days per decade. Valley County scores 58/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4b (-25°F to -20°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 9
🍂 First Frost
October 5
📅 Growing Season
149 days
⛰️ Elevation
982 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
21.7 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 | 0.6 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.8 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.5 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Apr | 1.9 in | 7 days | 2.4 in | High |
| May | 3.6 in | 11 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 3.8 in | 8 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Jul | 2.6 in | 8 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Aug | 2.2 in | 7 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Sep | 2.1 in | 6 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Oct | 1.2 in | 5 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| Nov | 0.8 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.6 in | 4 days | — | None |
Annual total: 21.7 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.
Valley County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-7.8
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 17 | Oct 14 | 150 days |
| Cautious | May 14 | Oct 8 | 147 days |
| Average year | May 9 | Oct 5 | 149 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 28 | Sep 28 | 153 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 21 | Sep 21 | 153 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±26 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 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Valley County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Valley 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 Valley County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Valley 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 Valley County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Valley County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Valley 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 Valley County NE" or "garden center Valley 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 Valley County NE" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Valley 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
10.5 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 | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.3 hr | 9.3 hr | Long day |
| June | 15 hr | 10.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.7 hr | 10.1 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 9.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 7.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.6 hr | 5.8 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 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
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 | 16°F | 25°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 18°F | 24°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 29°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 40°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 57°F | 52°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 67°F | 59°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 73°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 73°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 67°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 51°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 39°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 25°F | 33°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 Valley County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Colorado potato beetle | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Moderate | 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 Valley 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 10 | Jul 27 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 9 | Aug 10 | ✓ 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 5 | Sep 21 | — | 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 22 | Apr 18 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 30 | Apr 18 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 27 | Apr 25 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 9 | Apr 18 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 13 | Apr 25 | — | 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: 17 mph Summer: 13 mph
Fall: 14 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
9.5/10
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 (332 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
10,815 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
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
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 21.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 10,815 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
Soil & Growing Conditions in Valley County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.7–7.8 · Excessively Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (21.7 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
149-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 Valley County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Valley County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 29 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 23 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | May 23 – Jun 13 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 2 | — | Oct 3 – Sep 26 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 23 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 23 | Sep 26 – Oct 17 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | Sep 12 – Oct 17 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 29 – Sep 26 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | May 16 – Jun 13 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 2 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 21 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 30 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 29 – Oct 17 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 2 | — | May 30 – Jun 20 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 2 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 2 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 30 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 30 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 29 – Sep 26 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 23 | Sep 12 – Oct 17 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 2 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 9 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Mar 28 | May 23 | May 30 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Valley County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Valley County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 6 | Sep 5 – Oct 31 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 6 | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 6 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 6 | Aug 29 – Oct 10 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 6 | Sep 5 – Oct 31 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Valley County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Valley County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 30 | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 16 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | Jun 27 – Aug 15 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 16 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 16 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 16 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 16 | Sep 19 – Oct 10 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 16 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 16 | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 16 | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 16 | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 16 | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 16 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 16 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 16 | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 16 | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 16 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 2 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 16 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 30 | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 16 | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 16 | Sep 19 – Oct 10 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 16 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Valley County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Valley County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Valley County, NE?
Valley 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 Valley County, NE?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Valley County falls around May 9. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 21 and May 17 — a 26-day window of variability. Use May 17 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Valley County, NE?
The median first fall frost in Valley County arrives around October 5. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 21; 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 Valley County?
Valley County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 149 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 2.04 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Valley County for gardening?
Valley County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.7–7.8 and Excessively Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Valley County?
Valley County has commercial agriculture that includes Corn, Soybeans, Wheat, Cattle, Hay. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Valley County a good location for home gardening?
Valley County scores 58/100 (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
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