Bowman County, ND — Planting Guide
Bowman County is in USDA Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 15 and the first fall frost is September 24, giving you a growing season of approximately 132 days.
At an elevation of 753 ft, Bowman County receives approximately 25.8 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 81°F with winter lows around 4°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 28 days year to year — ranging from May 4 in warm years to June 2 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 3.33 days per decade. Bowman County scores 55/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4a (-30°F to -25°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 15
🍂 First Frost
September 24
📅 Growing Season
132 days
⛰️ Elevation
753 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
25.8 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 | 2 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.1 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.5 in | 6 days | 1.8 in | High |
| May | 3.2 in | 8 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 1.9 in | 5 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Jul | 2.3 in | 5 days | 2 in | High |
| Aug | 2.6 in | 7 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Sep | 2.1 in | 6 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Oct | 2.1 in | 6 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Nov | 2.1 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.6 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 25.9 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.
Bowman 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) | Jun 2 | Oct 11 | 131 days |
| Cautious | May 21 | Oct 3 | 135 days |
| Average year | May 15 | Sep 24 | 132 days |
| Optimistic | May 12 | Sep 20 | 131 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 4 | Sep 12 | 131 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±28 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 3.3 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Bowman County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Bowman 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 Bowman County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Bowman County North Dakota State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 701-231-8944
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 Bowman County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Bowman County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Bowman 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 Bowman County ND" or "garden center Bowman 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 Bowman County ND" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Bowman County Gardeners" or "North Dakota 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
15.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.4 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 | 8.8 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.1 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.8 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.5 hr | 10.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.2 hr | 10.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 14 hr | 9.4 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.2 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.4 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 15°F | 25°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 14°F | 24°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 24°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 39°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 54°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 65°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 72°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 72°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 65°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 51°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 39°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 23°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 Bowman 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 | 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 Bowman 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 24 | Jul 23 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 17 | Jul 23 | ✓ 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 28 | Aug 27 | — | 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 3 | May 1 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 6 | Apr 24 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 27 | Apr 24 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 4 | Apr 24 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 22 | Apr 24 | — | 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: 12 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
8.6/10
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 (190 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
12,908 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
7 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,500 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, Jun, 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 25.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 12,908 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Jun, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Bowman 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: 5.5/10
Moderate drought pressure. Drip irrigation and mulching are highly recommended to maintain soil moisture through summer.
Season Tips
132-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 Bowman County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Bowman County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 23 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 29 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Sep 4 – Oct 9 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 29 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 9 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 29 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | May 29 – Jun 19 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 8 | — | Oct 9 – Oct 2 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 29 | — | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 29 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 29 | Oct 2 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 18 – Oct 23 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 2 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 29 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 29 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 8 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 2 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 23 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 8 | — | Jun 5 – Jun 26 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 8 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 2 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 20 | May 22 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 29 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 2 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 28 – Oct 23 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 29 | Sep 18 – Oct 23 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 29 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 8 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 29 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Bowman County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Bowman County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Nov 6 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 12 | Aug 21 – Sep 25 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 12 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 12 | Sep 4 – Oct 16 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Nov 6 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Bowman County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Bowman County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 20 | May 22 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 22 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 22 | Sep 25 – Oct 16 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 22 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 22 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 22 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 22 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 22 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 20 | May 22 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 22 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 22 | Sep 25 – Oct 16 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 22 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Bowman County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Bowman County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Bowman County, ND?
Bowman County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4a. 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 Bowman County, ND?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Bowman County falls around May 15. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between May 4 and June 2 — a 28-day window of variability. Use June 2 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Bowman County, ND?
The median first fall frost in Bowman County arrives around September 24. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 12; in mild years as late as October 11. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Bowman County?
Bowman County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 132 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 3.33 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Bowman County for gardening?
Bowman 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 Bowman County?
Bowman County has commercial agriculture that includes Wheat, Corn, Soybeans, Sunflowers. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Bowman County a good location for home gardening?
Bowman County scores 55/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Bowman County gardeners in Zone 4a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.
