Lander County, NV — Planting Guide
Top priorities for Lander County, Nevada gardeners in May
A quick May briefing for Lander County, Nevada gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
-
Set out kale, lettuce, and angelica seedlings
Pick a cloudy afternoon or evening to plant. Less transplant shock, and your seedlings will barely blink.
-
Direct-sow carrots, kale, and lettuce
Thin ruthlessly once seedlings are up. Crowded roots mean smaller crops from every plant.
Coming up in June — start thinking about
- Transplants going out: basil, cucumber, and peppers
- Direct-sowing: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- First harvests: radish, cress, and microgreens
Lander County is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is May 27 and the first fall frost is September 22, giving you a growing season of approximately 118 days.
At an elevation of 6,987 ft, Lander County receives approximately 9.4 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 91°F with winter lows around 14°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
Based on 30 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 42 days year to year — ranging from May 6 in warm years to June 17 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 1.23 days per decade. Lander County scores 24/100 (Challenging) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
6b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 27
🍂 First Frost
September 22
📅 Growing Season
118 days
⛰️ Elevation
6,987 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
9.4 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 | 2 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.5 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Mar | 0.4 in | 1 days | — | None |
| Apr | 0.3 in | 1 days | 4 in | Critical |
| May | 0.2 in | 0 days | 4.1 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.4 in | 1 days | 3.9 in | Critical |
| Jul | 1.8 in | 7 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Aug | 1.9 in | 8 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Sep | 1.3 in | 4 days | 3 in | High |
| Oct | 0.9 in | 3 days | 3.4 in | Critical |
| Nov | 0.6 in | 1 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.6 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 9.5 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.
Lander County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
6.8-8.4
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 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 17 | Oct 8 | 113 days |
| Cautious | Jun 6 | Sep 30 | 116 days |
| Average year | May 27 | Sep 22 | 118 days |
| Optimistic | May 19 | Sep 13 | 117 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 6 | Sep 4 | 121 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±42 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 1.2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Lander County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Lander 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 Lander County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Lander County University of Nevada Cooperative Extension Extension Office
Phone: 775-784-7070
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 Lander County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Lander County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Lander 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 Lander County NV" or "garden center Lander 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 Lander County NV" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Lander County Gardeners" or "Nevada Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
14.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
13 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 | 9.5 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 7.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 9.1 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 11.2 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 11.5 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.8 hr | 13 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.6 hr | 10.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 10 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 9.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 8.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.7 hr | 7.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.2 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil rarely reaches 60°F — use black plastic mulch to warm soil.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
4 months
Short season — insulate pile or use indoor vermicomposting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1°F | 10°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 3°F | 11°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 9°F | 14°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 24°F | 24°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 39°F | 33°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jun | 51°F | 42°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 58°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 58°F | 53°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 51°F | 48°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 37°F | 41°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 24°F | 27°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 9°F | 19°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 Lander 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 6 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 | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Slugs | Low | Apr, May, Jun |
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 Lander County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Jun 7 | Jul 14 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Jun 3 | Jul 28 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 26 | Jul 14 | ✓ 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 20 | Sep 1 | — | 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 16 | May 13 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 7 | May 13 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jun 30 | May 13 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 12 | May 13 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 21 | May 13 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 20 | May 6 | — | 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: 12 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 13 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
6.5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (740 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
4,734 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
8 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Oct, 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 9.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 4,734 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- In your dry climate, every drop counts — consider a larger cistern system
- Position collection tanks in shade to reduce evaporation and algae growth
Soil & Growing Conditions in Lander County
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 6.8–8.4 · Excessively Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 9.5/10
Very high drought stress. Irrigation is critical for garden success. Focus on water-efficient techniques and drought-adapted crops.
Season Tips
118-day frost-free season
A short season means indoor starts are critical for warm-season crops. Prioritise cold-hardy, fast-maturing varieties and use row covers to extend autumn harvests.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 24-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
Recommended for Your Garden
Retain moisture and nutrients in sandy soils with expanded vermiculite.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Lander County
108 vegetables that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Lander County.
Show all 108 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Oct 28 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 10 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Sep 16 – Nov 11 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Jun 3 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Oct 14 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 2 – Oct 28 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Sep 9 – Oct 14 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Aug 19 – Sep 30 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 22 – Aug 19 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jun 10 – Jul 1 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 29 – Aug 26 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 13 | — | Oct 14 – Nov 25 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 30 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 19 – Oct 21 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 22 – Aug 19 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 10 | Oct 14 – Dec 23 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 19 – Nov 25 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 23 – Oct 28 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Oct 7 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jun 3 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Aug 26 – Nov 11 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Aug 19 – Sep 30 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 23 – Nov 25 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Nov 25 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 2 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Aug 26 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 13 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 7 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 29 – Aug 26 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 19 – Oct 28 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Oct 28 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 13 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 1 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 13 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 13 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 7 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 22 – Aug 19 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Aug 26 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Oct 7 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 2 – Oct 28 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 10 | Sep 30 – Nov 25 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Oct 28 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 13 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Oct 28 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Apr 1 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 22 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Lander County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Lander County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 17 | Sep 16 – Dec 30 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 17 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 17 | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 17 | Sep 9 – Oct 21 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 17 | Sep 16 – Dec 30 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Lander County
38 herbs that grow well in Zone 6b with planting dates for Lander County.
Show all 38 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 20 | Aug 19 – Nov 4 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Nov 18 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 20 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 20 | Sep 2 – Nov 4 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Jun 3 | Oct 7 – Dec 16 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Nov 18 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Oct 14 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Dec 16 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Oct 14 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Oct 14 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Oct 14 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Jun 3 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 22 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Oct 14 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Jun 3 | Oct 7 – Dec 16 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Nov 18 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Lander County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Lander County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Lander County, NV?
Lander County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. 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 Lander County, NV?
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Lander County falls around May 27. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between May 6 and June 17 — a 42-day window of variability. Use June 17 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Lander County, NV?
The median first fall frost in Lander County arrives around September 22. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 4; in mild years as late as October 8. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Lander County?
Lander County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 118 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 longer by about 1.23 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Lander County for gardening?
Lander County has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 6.8–8.4 and Excessively Drained drainage. The native soil conditions make raised beds a particularly good investment here — they let you control drainage and fertility independent of the ground soil.
What is grown commercially in Lander County?
Lander County has commercial agriculture that includes Cattle, Hay, Cotton. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Lander County a good location for home gardening?
Lander County scores 24/100 (Challenging) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Gardening here benefits from close attention to frost timing and season extension due to the challenging microclimate factors.
Your Lander County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Lander County (Zone 6b). 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